If you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, several dog breeds perfectly suit low-energy households. These “lazy” dogs don’t need long hours of exercise and are happiest when they can relax and lounge alongside their owners. Whether you live in a small apartment, have a busy schedule, or simply prefer a calm and easy-going companion, plenty of dog breeds thrive in relaxed environments. With one of these low-energy dogs, you can enjoy peaceful companionship without needing constant activity.
Bulldog
The Bulldog is a breed that thrives on relaxation. With their stocky build and laid-back temperament, Bulldogs are perfectly happy lounging on the couch for most of the day. They are known for their calm demeanor and low energy levels, preferring short walks to long runs. While they can be playful when they want to, Bulldogs are generally content with a slow pace and plenty of nap time. Their loving and loyal nature makes them great companions for relaxed owners who enjoy a quiet life.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are one of the laziest dog breeds you’ll ever meet. These dogs are natural-born couch potatoes With droopy eyes and long ears. Bred for tracking, they have an incredible sense of smell but surprisingly low energy levels. Basset Hounds are known for their slow, methodical nature and would rather nap than engage in vigorous activities. They’re gentle, laid-back, and enjoy lounging around the house, making them the perfect companion for anyone who prefers a more relaxed pace in life.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, sturdy dogs with a lot of personality but also incredibly lazy. These dogs are known for their love of lounging and can easily spend hours napping at their owner’s side. While they enjoy the occasional play session, French Bulldogs don’t require a lot of exercise to stay happy. Their compact size and calm demeanor make them great apartment dogs, and they are perfectly content with short walks and lots of relaxation. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, low-energy dog, the French Bulldog is a top contender.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are another breed known for their laid-back nature. These small, fluffy dogs enjoy just lounging on a cozy cushion or cuddling in their owner’s lap. While they can be playful, Shih Tzus are generally calm and enjoy a slower pace of life. They don’t need much exercise; their primary focus is on spending quality time with their humans. If you’re looking for a small dog that is more interested in napping than running around, the Shih Tzu is a great option.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese breed bred to be a companion for royalty. As such, they have mastered the art of relaxation. Pekingese are known for their independent yet laid-back personalities, and they don’t require a lot of physical activity to stay happy. They are perfectly content lounging around the house and enjoy being pampered by their owners. With their regal demeanor and love for relaxation, Pekingese are ideal for anyone seeking a calm, low-energy dog that enjoys the finer things in life.
Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are one of the laziest dog breeds you’ll find in the sporting group. These dogs have a calm, easy-going temperament and are known for their love of lounging. While they were originally bred for hunting, Clumber Spaniels are much more interested in napping than chasing after birds these days. They are slow-moving, affectionate, and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. Clumber Spaniels don’t need a lot of exercise, and they are perfectly happy with a few short walks each day, making them an excellent choice for more sedentary owners.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow may look like a fluffy lion, but they have the personality of a cat—independent and fond of relaxation. These dogs are known for their low energy levels and can be quite lazy regarding physical activity. Chow Chows are content with short walks and are perfectly happy lounging around the house for most of the day. While they may have an aloof demeanor, they are loyal to their families and enjoy peaceful environments. Their calm nature makes them a great fit for owners who prefer a more tranquil companion.
English Mastiff
English Mastiffs are gentle giants with a reputation for being one of the laziest dog breeds. Despite their massive size, Mastiffs are incredibly mellow and prefer to spend their days lounging around the house. They have low energy levels and don’t require a lot of exercise, making them ideal for owners who want a relaxed, low-maintenance dog. English Mastiffs are affectionate, loyal, and protective of their families, but they are perfectly content with a slow-paced lifestyle that involves plenty of naps and minimal activity.
Greyhound
Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are surprisingly lazy. While they are capable of incredible bursts of speed, Greyhounds are actually quite low-energy when they’re off the track. Known as “40-mile-per-hour couch potatoes,” Greyhounds are content with a few short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest. These dogs are gentle and quiet and enjoy lounging around the house. If you’re looking for a dog that’s happy with short walks and lots of relaxation, a Greyhound could be the perfect fit.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a small, elegant breed known for its calm and relaxed nature. These dogs were bred as companions for royalty, and they certainly knew how to enjoy a life of luxury. Japanese Chins are quiet, low-energy dogs that enjoy lounging on soft cushions and being pampered by their owners. They don’t require much exercise and are perfectly happy with a few short walks or play sessions daily. Their easy-going temperament and love of relaxation make them ideal for owners who enjoy a peaceful, low-key lifestyle.
Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is a lesser-known breed, but it is one of the laziest dogs in the spaniel group. These dogs have a calm, easy-going personality and are perfectly content with a slow-paced lifestyle. While they were originally bred for hunting, Sussex Spaniels are now more interested in lounging than chasing after game. They are affectionate and love spending time with their families, but they don’t require a lot of physical activity to stay happy. For owners looking for a low-energy dog that enjoys relaxation, the Sussex Spaniel is a fantastic choice.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is perfect for owners looking for a laid-back, easygoing dog. Known for their affectionate and calm demeanor, these dogs enjoy lounging around and spending quality time with their human companions. While they are happy to go for a walk, they are just as content curling up on the couch. Their adaptable nature and moderate energy level make them ideal for apartment living and for owners who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. Their sweet temperament and minimal exercise needs make them one of the laziest breeds.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are known for their large size and equally large hearts, but they are also one of the laziest dog breeds. Despite their powerful build, Saint Bernards are content to relax around the house for most of the day. They are gentle giants who prefer a calm environment and enjoy spending their time lounging with their owners. While they need regular walks to maintain their health, they are far from high-energy dogs. Saint Bernards thrive in homes where they can relax and enjoy the company of their human family members.
Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhounds are large, elegant dogs with a surprisingly low energy level. Despite their history as hunting dogs, Deerhounds are known for their calm and relaxed demeanor. They enjoy a good run in open spaces but are equally happy spending the rest of their day lounging indoors. Their easygoing nature makes them a great fit for relaxed owners who prefer a more sedentary lifestyle. While they need space to stretch their legs occasionally, they are generally very low-maintenance regarding exercise, making them one of the lazier breeds.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, affectionate dog breed that is perfect for owners seeking a laid-back companion. Known for their friendly and social nature, Havanese dogs enjoy spending time with their owners but don’t require intense physical activity. While they do enjoy playtime and short walks, they are just as happy relaxing indoors, making them an excellent choice for those who want a low-energy dog. Their adaptable and easygoing temperament makes them ideal for apartment dwellers or individuals looking for a more relaxed dog breed.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them one of the lazier large dog breeds. While they enjoy spending time outdoors, they are generally relaxed and easygoing inside the home. Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate and love lounging with their families. They are not high-energy dogs and do well with moderate exercise, making them a great choice for owners who prefer a more relaxed pace. Their calm temperament and laid-back nature make them ideal for families looking for a gentle, low-energy dog.
Pug
Pugs are small, affectionate dogs that are known for their laid-back nature. While they are playful and social, Pugs are notorious for their love of lounging around the house. Their low-energy lifestyle makes them perfect for relaxed owners who prefer dogs that don’t require extensive physical activity. Pugs enjoy short walks and play sessions, but they are more than happy to spend the rest of their day snoozing on the couch. Their charming personalities and low exercise needs make them an ideal companion for owners looking for a lazy dog breed.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are small dogs with a calm and independent personality, making them a great choice for owners seeking a low-energy companion. Known for their dignified demeanor, Lhasa Apsos enjoy spending time with their families but don’t require a lot of physical activity. They are perfectly content lounging around the house and are relatively low-maintenance regarding exercise. Their easygoing nature makes them ideal for apartment living and owners who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back dog breed.
Great Dane
Great Danes may be one of the largest dog breeds, but they are surprisingly lazy. These gentle giants are known for their calm and laid-back nature, preferring to spend much of their time relaxing indoors. While they do need space to stretch their legs, Great Danes are not high-energy dogs and are content with moderate exercise. Their affectionate and easygoing temperament makes them excellent companions for relaxed owners who want a large dog without high energy demands. Great Danes are known for their quiet, low-maintenance nature despite their size.
Maltese
The Maltese is a small, fluffy breed that is perfect for relaxed owners. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, Maltese dogs are low-energy and enjoy snuggling with their owners. While they do enjoy playtime and short walks, Maltese are not overly active and prefer a calm, quiet environment. Their small size and low exercise needs make them ideal for apartment living or for owners who prefer a dog that doesn’t require a lot of physical activity. The Maltese’s easygoing personality makes them a great choice for a laid-back lifestyle.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are large, powerful dogs that are known for their calm and lazy demeanor. Despite their imposing appearance, Bullmastiffs are low-energy dogs that enjoy lounging around the house. They are gentle and affectionate with their families and are perfectly content with moderate exercise. Bullmastiffs are not overly active and prefer a relaxed environment where they can rest. Their easygoing nature and minimal exercise needs make them a great choice for owners who want a large, lazy dog that is also a loyal and protective companion.
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels are small dogs known for their calm and independent nature. While they are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners, they do not require a lot of physical activity and are content with short walks and play sessions. Tibetan Spaniels are known for their ability to relax for long periods, making them an excellent choice for relaxed owners who prefer a low-maintenance dog. Their easygoing temperament and low energy levels make them ideal for apartment living or those seeking a more laid-back companion.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large, muscular dog with a surprisingly lazy personality. Despite their powerful build, Dogue de Bordeaux is calm and laid-back, preferring to relax indoors most of the day. They are affectionate and loyal to their families, but they do not require extensive exercise. While they enjoy short walks, they are perfectly content with a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of downtime. Their calm demeanor and minimal exercise needs make them a great choice for owners looking for a lazy, low-maintenance dog.
A Perfect Match for Relaxed Owners
If you enjoy a slower pace of life, these dog breeds are perfect companions. Whether you’re after a small, cuddly lapdog or a large, laid-back giant, these lazy breeds thrive on short walks, plenty of rest, and lots of cuddle time. They’re content with minimal exercise and are happiest when lounging by your side. If you value relaxation, these breeds will seamlessly fit into your calm and easy-going lifestyle, offering the perfect balance of companionship without the need for constant activity.