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The 26 Most Sleepy Dog Breeds On Earth

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 20, 2024

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Dogs, like humans, have different energy levels. While some love staying active, others prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. Certain breeds are known for their love of sleep and enjoyment of lounging throughout the day. These sleepy dogs make excellent companions for those who prefer a calm, relaxed environment. Whether it’s their size, temperament, or natural disposition, these breeds are happiest when taking it easy and snoozing the day away, making them perfect for owners seeking a quieter, more peaceful companion.

Basset Hound

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The Basset Hound is well-known for its laid-back and sleepy nature. With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds exude a calm and relaxed demeanor. They are often content with a few short walks before taking a long nap. Bred as scent hounds, Bassets have excellent tracking abilities, but their low energy levels mean they don’t need much exercise. Their short legs and heavy bodies also make them more inclined to rest after a brief period of activity. This breed enjoys lounging around the house and is happy to snooze for hours on end.

Bulldog

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Bulldogs, particularly English Bulldogs, are notorious for their love of sleep. With their stocky build and brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, Bulldogs are prone to breathing difficulties, which makes them tire easily. This, combined with their calm temperament, means Bulldogs are happiest when relaxing. They often enjoy lounging on the couch and are not particularly fond of strenuous activity. Bulldogs are known for their ability to sleep in the most unusual positions, and they can often be found snoring loudly during their long naps. The Bulldog is a perfect match for owners who prefer a calm, quiet companion.

Shih Tzu

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The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed with a relaxed lifestyle. While they do have bursts of energy, Shih Tzus are more than happy to curl up in their owner’s lap for a long nap. Their name, which means “lion dog” in Mandarin, may suggest a fierce nature, but in reality, Shih Tzus are gentle and content to spend much of their time resting. They thrive on companionship and will often follow their owners around the house before settling down for a peaceful snooze. Their calm demeanor makes them a popular choice for those seeking a low-energy pet.

Mastiff

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Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds, and their massive size contributes to their need for extended rest. These gentle giants are known for their calm and quiet temperament, preferring to conserve their energy for short bursts of activity. Mastiffs often enjoy lying down and sleeping for long stretches, especially after a short walk or play session. Their sheer size makes it easier for them to tire out quickly, and they are perfectly content with spending most of the day resting. Despite their imposing appearance, Mastiffs are incredibly affectionate and enjoy snoozing near their families.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are another large breed that loves to sleep. Bred as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are known for their gentle nature and calm demeanor. While they can perform heroic rescues in snowy conditions, Saint Bernards are generally laid-back and enjoy lounging around the house. Their large size and thick coats mean they tire easily, especially in warm climates, leading them to seek out cool, shady spots for naps. Saint Bernards are affectionate and gentle, making them great family pets for those who prefer a slower pace of life.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are known for their lion-like mane and independent personalities. These dogs are not overly energetic and tend to be quite reserved, often resting and observing their surroundings for long periods. Chow Chows are not particularly playful, and while they enjoy short walks, they are more content with relaxing indoors. Their thick coat can make them prone to overheating, so they often prefer to stay cool and take frequent naps. Chow Chows are loyal and protective but do not require constant attention, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more relaxed companion.

Greyhound

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Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are surprisingly lazy and love to sleep. Once retired from the track, Greyhounds become couch potatoes, enjoying long naps and lounging around the house. Their slender build and high-speed bursts during races may suggest a need for constant activity, but in reality, Greyhounds are content with a few short walks before settling down for a snooze. They are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for those who enjoy a quiet, relaxed lifestyle. Greyhounds can sleep up to 18 hours daily, earning them a spot among the sleepiest breeds.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, affectionate dogs that love being close to their owners. While they enjoy playing and going for walks, Cavaliers are equally content curling up on the couch for a long nap. Their gentle and loving nature makes them a perfect companion for those who want a low-energy dog that enjoys a relaxed pace of life. Cavaliers are known for their adaptability, and they can easily shift from being playful to cuddly and sleepy, making them one of the most versatile and sleepy breeds. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy resting in their owner’s lap.

Lhasa Apso

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Lhasa Apsos are independent yet affectionate dogs that enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. Originally bred as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are known for their calm demeanor and ability to rest for long periods. While they can be playful and energetic, Lhasa Apsos are also content with spending time lounging around the house. Their small size and low exercise requirements make them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more sedentary dog. Lhasa Apsos are affectionate and loyal to their families but do not demand constant attention, making them ideal for owners who appreciate a calm, sleepy companion.

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds, known for their affectionate and sleepy nature. These small, sturdy dogs love to lounge around and are often seen resting on their owner’s lap or curled up in a cozy spot. French Bulldogs have a calm temperament and do not require a lot of exercise, making them prone to taking frequent naps throughout the day. Their short snouts can lead to breathing difficulties, contributing to their need for rest. French Bulldogs are excellent companions for those looking for a dog that enjoys a slower, more relaxed pace of life.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are large, gentle dogs known for their calm and sleepy nature. Despite their size, Newfoundlands are not particularly active and prefer to spend their time lounging around the house. Bred for water rescues, these dogs are strong swimmers, but their energy levels are relatively low when not working. Newfoundlands are incredibly affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families, often resting by their owner’s side. Their calm demeanor and love of sleep make them perfect for families seeking a gentle, low-energy dog that is happy to relax throughout the day.

Pekingese

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Pekingese are small, regal dogs known for their independent and sleepy nature. Bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Pekingese enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and prefer to spend their time resting in comfortable spots around the house. While they can be playful and affectionate, Pekingese are not particularly active and happy to take long naps throughout the day. Their small size and low energy levels make them ideal for apartment living or for owners who prefer a quieter, more laid-back dog. Pekingese are loyal and loving but do not require constant attention, making them great companions for those who enjoy a more sedentary lifestyle.

Great Dane

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Despite their towering size, Great Danes are known to be among the sleepiest dog breeds. These gentle giants are often content to laze around for long hours, requiring much less exercise than their size might suggest. Great Danes are famously low-energy when indoors and have no problem spending most of the day lounging on a couch or stretching out on a bed. Their laid-back nature and relaxed temperament make them perfect napping companions, and they often act like big, sleepy babies who prefer snoozing to anything too physically demanding.

Pug

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Pugs may be small, but they’re also incredibly lazy, often preferring to curl up for naps throughout the day. These dogs are notorious for their love of lounging around and are content to snooze on the couch for hours. With their short noses and tendency toward breathing issues, pugs aren’t built for high-energy activities, which only adds to their sleepy nature. They thrive on being pampered and enjoying downtime with their humans. Pugs are happy to cuddle, snore, and nap their way through the day, making them one of the sleepiest small dog breeds.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Despite their working heritage, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being quite laid-back and sleepy, especially indoors. While they have the stamina for outdoor activities like hiking or playing in the snow, these large dogs are surprisingly content to spend hours napping once they’re back home. Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle and relaxed, making them perfect companions for those who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Their calm demeanor means they won’t be bouncing off the walls—they’d rather curl up next to their owner and take a long, peaceful nap after a short burst of activity.

Clumber Spaniel

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Clumber Spaniels are one of the most relaxed spaniel breeds, known for their sleepy, easy-going nature. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they’re now more likely to be found lounging at home than chasing game. Clumbers love to nap, often curling up in cozy spots and dozing off for long periods. Their calm and composed temperament makes them perfect for anyone seeking a low-energy, sleepy companion. Their heavy build and laid-back personality make Clumber Spaniels content with a few short walks before settling in for a long snooze.

Tibetan Mastiff

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The Tibetan Mastiff is a giant, ancient breed known for its calm and independent personality. While they can be protective and alert when needed, these dogs are incredibly relaxed and enjoy their downtime. They’re often described as aloof, with an air of dignity that suits their penchant for long naps. Tibetan Mastiffs are low-energy indoors and prefer to spend their time lounging around the house or yard. Their thick coats and heavy build make them naturally inclined to conserve energy, making them one of the sleepy giant breeds.

English Setter

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English Setters are gentle, calm dogs that love lounging just as much as they enjoy outdoor activities. While they can be energetic when hunting or playing, these dogs are also more than happy to take long naps between their bursts of energy. English Setters are known for their laid-back and friendly demeanor, making them great companions for those who want a dog that enjoys relaxation. After a short walk or a play session, they’ll happily curl up and snooze for the rest of the day, proving that even active dogs can be pretty sleepy.

Cocker Spaniel

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While known for their cheerful and playful demeanor, Cocker Spaniels are also prone to long naps and relaxation. These affectionate dogs are happiest when cuddling with their humans or snoozing in a cozy spot. Cocker Spaniels are moderate-energy dogs who enjoy short bursts of play followed by plenty of downtime. Their love for companionship and snuggling makes them perfect for families who appreciate a dog that can be both playful and calm. Cocker Spaniels will eagerly join you for a nap on the couch after some activity, making them an excellent choice for a sleepy breed.

Irish Wolfhound

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Despite their history as hunting dogs, Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly calm and laid-back. Known for their gentle giant status, these dogs enjoy a slow, relaxed pace and are perfectly content to take long naps throughout the day. While they require regular exercise to stay healthy, Irish Wolfhounds are not overly energetic and usually nap after short periods of activity. Their quiet and easy-going demeanor makes them an ideal breed for those looking for a large, sleepy companion. Irish Wolfhounds are happy to sprawl out and enjoy a restful nap after a leisurely walk.

Havanese

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Havanese dogs are known for their playful personalities but are also incredibly content to nap and relax for long stretches of the day. These small, fluffy companions love being around their humans and will happily curl up on a lap or pillow for hours of snoozing. While they enjoy short bursts of playtime, Havanese are just as happy lounging around and napping in between activities. Their affectionate nature means they love cuddling, making them a great choice for people who want a calm, relaxed dog that loves to sleep.

Scottish Deerhound

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Scottish Deerhounds, much like their Irish cousins, are laid-back and enjoy a quiet, restful lifestyle. Though historically bred for hunting, these tall and elegant dogs are surprisingly low-energy when not in pursuit of game. Scottish Deerhounds are gentle, calm, and perfectly content to spend most of their time napping around the house. They have a quiet dignity and enjoy a good snooze after minimal exercise. While they need regular walks, Deerhounds are known for being particularly sleepy and relaxed indoors, making them a perfect giant, laid-back companion.

Bloodhound

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Bloodhounds may be known for their incredible scent-tracking abilities, but when they’re off the clock, these dogs are champions of napping. With their wrinkly faces and long ears, Bloodhounds are perfectly content to lounge around after a good sniffing session. They’re relaxed, easy-going dogs that enjoy plenty of downtime, often curling up in a cozy corner for a long rest. Bloodhounds are calm and patient, making them ideal for families who want dogs that don’t require constant activity. After a short walk or scrework, they’ll be more than happy to sleep for hours.

Pyrenean Mastiff

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The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large, calm dog breed known for its peaceful and relaxed nature. Bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains, these dogs are used to conserving energy while watching their surroundings. Pyrenean Mastiffs are incredibly lazy when not working and prefer to spend their days lounging around. Their massive size doesn’t stop them from being gentle and affectionate with their families, and they love nothing more than taking long naps in a cozy spot. Pyrenean Mastiffs are the perfect example of a giant breed that is more interested in sleep than strenuous activity.

Dogo Argentino

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Despite their muscular build and athletic history, Dogo Argentinos are surprisingly relaxed and love to sleep. While these dogs can perform high-energy activities like hunting, they are equally content to spend the day lounging with their owners. Dogo Argentinos are calm and affectionate, enjoying downtime just as much as they enjoy outdoor adventures. Their balanced energy levels make them an ideal breed for those who want a dog that can go from a vigorous walk to a long, peaceful nap. Dogo Argentinos may look tough, but they’re big babies at heart when it comes to relaxing.

Boerboel

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Boerboels are powerful and protective dogs but are also incredibly laid-back when not on duty. These South African mastiff-type dogs love relaxing and napping around the house, especially with their family. Boerboels are calm and confident, preferring a peaceful environment to rest and recharge. Despite their strong build and working background, Boerboels are happy with a few short walks followed by long snoozing sessions. Their affectionate nature and love for downtime make them one of the most relaxed and sleepy giant dog breeds.

Snooze-Worthy Companions

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These sleepy dog breeds are perfect for those who prefer a calm, relaxed lifestyle. Whether it’s due to their size, temperament, or natural disposition, these dogs are happy to spend most of their day lounging and resting. While they enjoy short bursts of activity, their love of sleep makes them ideal companions for those who appreciate a quieter, more laid-back pet. From large breeds like Saint Bernard and Mastiff to smaller companions like the Pekingese and Shih Tzu, these dogs bring peace and tranquillity to any household.