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Top 21 Calmest Dog Breeds for a Peaceful Home

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 26, 2024

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When adding a dog to your family, choosing a breed with a calm and gentle temperament is crucial, especially if you’re aiming for a peaceful home environment. While every dog has its unique personality, some breeds are naturally more relaxed and easygoing, making them ideal companions for those who prefer a low-energy, affectionate pet. These breeds are known for their gentle demeanor, are great with children, and adapt well to indoor living. They are perfect for households that prioritize tranquillity and a stress-free atmosphere.

Basset Hound

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The Basset Hound is known for its relaxed demeanor and laid-back personality. These dogs are slow-moving and prefer lounging around the house to engaging in high-energy activities. With their droopy eyes and long ears, Basset Hounds have a calm, almost melancholic expression that matches their temperament. They are patient, making them great companions for families with children or people who enjoy a quiet lifestyle. Despite their calm nature, Basset Hounds still enjoy daily walks and have a strong sense of smell, which keeps them interested in exploring their surroundings.

Clumber Spaniel

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The Clumber Spaniel is one of the lesser-known calm dog breeds, but their peaceful nature makes them an excellent choice for a tranquil home. Clumbers are gentle, easygoing dogs happy to relax with their family. They enjoy moderate exercise but are not overly energetic, making them ideal for households looking for a dog that won’t constantly run around. Their calm demeanor makes them particularly good with children and the elderly. Although they have a strong hunting background, Clumber Spaniels are more interested in companionship than high-energy activities.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm and gentle nature. These dogs are affectionate and loyal, making them wonderful family pets. Bernese Mountain Dogs are typically very patient and laid-back, enjoying peaceful moments with their family members. They are particularly good with children due to their gentle and tolerant disposition. While they do require regular exercise, they are not overly hyper and are content to relax after a walk or playtime. Their calm nature and protective instincts make them ideal for families seeking a gentle giant.

Great Pyrenees

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The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed that is both calm and protective. Known for their loyalty and patience, these dogs have been used for centuries as livestock guardians, but their gentle nature also makes them wonderful companions in the home. The Great Pyrenees is calm and composed, rarely getting overly excited or stressed. They are especially good with children and are known to be very patient with young kids. Although they are large dogs, their calm presence brings a sense of peace to any home.

English Mastiff

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English Mastiffs may be large and powerful, but they are also incredibly calm and gentle. These dogs are known for their quiet demeanor and are often called “gentle giants.” English Mastiffs enjoy being close to their family but are not overly demanding of attention. They are patient and good-natured, making them great companions for children and families. Mastiffs are content to lounge around the house, and their low-energy lifestyle makes them a great fit for a peaceful home. Despite their calm nature, they are protective and will keep an eye on their loved ones.

Cocker Spaniel

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The Cocker Spaniel is a small to medium dog with a calm and affectionate personality. These dogs are incredibly gentle and thrive on companionship, making them perfect for families or individuals who want a low-energy, loving pet. Cockers are content to relax on the couch or snuggle up with their owners, and they don’t require excessive exercise to stay happy. Their calm nature makes them great companions for people who enjoy a quiet lifestyle. Cocker Spaniels are also known for their friendly demeanor and ability to get along with other pets, adding to their overall peaceful nature.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, affectionate, and calm personalities. These small dogs are incredibly loyal and love being around their family members. Shih Tzus are content to spend most of their day relaxing indoors, making them ideal for apartment living or homes with limited outdoor space. Despite their small size, they are confident and rarely get overly anxious or hyper. Shih Tzus enjoy moderate playtime but are just as happy lounging around the house, making them perfect for people who want a peaceful, low-energy dog that still enjoys companionship.

Irish Wolfhound

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The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, but their calm demeanor makes them gentle giants. Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly laid-back and have a peaceful nature. They are patient, good-natured dogs that are content to relax with their family members. Irish Wolfhounds require regular exercise, but their overall demeanor is calm and quiet, making them a great fit for families who want a large but gentle dog. Their friendly nature and calm disposition make them excellent companions for people who want a low-energy, peaceful dog.

Japanese Chin

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The Japanese Chin is a lesser-known breed that excels at being calm and affectionate. These small dogs are known for their quiet and composed nature, making them ideal companions for those seeking a peaceful home. Japanese Chins enjoy being close to their owners and are content to spend most of their time indoors, lounging in their favorite spots. While they do enjoy playtime, they are not overly energetic and prefer a calm and serene environment. Their easygoing temperament and low-maintenance lifestyle make them a great fit for families or individuals looking for a tranquil companion.

Greyhound

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Despite being known for their speed and athleticism, Greyhounds are actually one of the calmest dog breeds once they are indoors. These dogs are often called “couch potatoes” because they love to lounge and relax after a short burst of activity. Greyhounds enjoy a peaceful environment and are content to spend most of the day napping or quietly observing their surroundings. While they need regular exercise, their calm demeanor makes them excellent pets for those who want a peaceful dog that doesn’t require constant attention or stimulation.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are gentle giants renowned for their calm and patient nature. This breed is typically very affectionate and enjoys spending time with their families. Their laid-back demeanor makes them great for families with children, as they are known to be incredibly tolerant and gentle. Newfoundlands also possess a natural instinct to protect their loved ones, further adding to their serene presence in the home. Regular exercise is essential, but they are not overly energetic, making them suitable for quieter lifestyles. Their love for water and gentle temperament make them fantastic family pets that promote a peaceful environment.

Bulldog

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Bulldogs are known for their relaxed disposition and gentle nature. These dogs typically enjoy lounging around and are not prone to hyperactivity, making them perfect for a calm home. They are loyal and affectionate companions who form strong bonds with their families. Bulldogs are also relatively low-energy dogs, requiring only moderate exercise, which suits a more laid-back lifestyle. Their unique physical characteristics and lovable personalities endear to many, and their calm presence can create a soothing atmosphere in the home.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate, friendly, and known for their gentle temperament. They thrive on human companionship and are typically very calm, making them excellent lap dogs. These small dogs enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners, which adds to their calming presence. Although they enjoy playtime, they do not require excessive exercise, making them suitable for a peaceful environment. Their sweet nature and ability to adapt to various living situations make them a favorite among families and individuals looking for a loving companion.

Great Dane

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Great Danes may be large, but they have a surprisingly calm demeanor that often belies their size. Known as “gentle giants,” they are friendly, affectionate, and typically very patient. Great Danes are known to be laid-back and enjoy lounging around the house with their families. While they do require regular exercise, they are not overly energetic and are usually content to relax indoors. Their calm presence and loving nature make them excellent companions, providing a peaceful atmosphere in any home.

Irish Setter

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Irish Setters are energetic dogs known for their friendly and gentle demeanor. Despite their playful nature, they can also be calm, especially when properly exercised. They are incredibly affectionate and enjoy being with their families, making them great companions. Irish Setters are known to be eager to please, which can make training easier and contribute to a well-mannered dog in the home. They can be calm and relaxed when provided with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, creating a harmonious living environment.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inus are known for their spirited personality, but they also have a calm side. Once they are comfortable in their environment, they tend to be relatively quiet and independent. This breed is clean and often has a natural instinct to keep their living space tidy. Shiba Inus enjoy spending time with their families but also appreciate their alone time. Their calm demeanor, loyalty, and affection make them ideal for families and individuals seeking a peaceful companion.

Whippet

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Whippets are gentle and calm dogs that are known for their loving nature. Although they are considered a sighthound breed, they are less energetic than other hounds. Whippets are typically laid-back and enjoy lounging around the house, making them great companions for a peaceful home. They are also affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. Regular exercise is necessary, but they tend to be couch potatoes when not in play mode. Their calm demeanor and sweet disposition make them a wonderful addition to any household.

Pekingese

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Pekingese dogs are small, affectionate, and known for their calm nature. They thrive on human companionship and prefer to be near their owners. While they can be spirited, they are generally not hyperactive and enjoy lounging around the house. Pekingese are also known to protect their families, making them good companions in a peaceful environment. Their charming personalities and low exercise requirements make them suitable for apartment living, allowing them to adapt well to various living situations.

Basenji

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Basenjis are known as “barkless dogs” due to their unique vocalizations, which can contribute to a quieter household. This breed tends to be calm and independent, making them relatively low-maintenance. Basenjis are clean dogs and often groom themselves, which adds to their appeal to families seeking a serene environment. While they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation, they are not overly demanding. Their calm nature and low noise levels make them a suitable choice for apartment living and a peaceful atmosphere.

Maltese

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Maltese dogs are small and affectionate and known for their gentle temperament. They are often calm and content to cuddle with their owners, making them excellent companions for a peaceful home. While they do enjoy playtime, Maltese dogs are not hyperactive and typically require minimal exercise. Their loving and friendly nature makes them suitable for families and individuals alike. With proper training and socialization, Maltese dogs can adapt well to various living situations, ensuring they remain calm and happy household members.

Chinese Shar-Pei

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Chinese Shar-Pei dogs are well-regarded for their calm and relaxed personalities. This breed is known for its distinctive wrinkled skin and unique appearance, but their serene nature makes them truly special. Shar-Peis tend to be very loyal to their families and can be quite affectionate. They are typically easygoing and adaptable, thriving in various living environments. While they enjoy moderate exercise, they are not overly energetic, making them perfect companions for those who appreciate a peaceful home atmosphere. Their calm demeanor and loyal and protective instincts make them an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking a laid-back companion.

Bringing Calm and Comfort Home

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With their gentle and laid-back temperaments, these dog breeds are ideal for fostering a peaceful home atmosphere. Whether you prefer a large, protective dog or a small, affectionate companion, these dog breeds provide calmness and comfort, enhancing the tranquillity of your household. Their relaxed nature makes them easy to live with, ensuring that life with them is serene and filled with joy and companionship. For families seeking a stress-free environment, these dogs will make excellent, harmonious additions to the home.