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The 10 Best Breeds for Laid Back People

Written by: Scott H
Scott Haiduc is the Director of Publishing for iHeartDogs, iHeartCats and The Hero Company. When not working, Scott spends his time on the farm, taking care of his animals and crops.Read more
| Published on June 17, 2014

Are you a “go with the flow” kind of person? Looking for a dog to match your breezy, stress-free lifestyle? These dogs are all individuals, but tend to have traits that are great for those who live in the moment. Your dog should be a source of joy in your life and a way to wind down when the world gets a little too real – these breeds will fit the bill when all you need is a little fuzz-therapy and a friend.

#1 – Basset Hound

Basset Hounds were bred to hunt and track, but one daily walk is fairly sufficient for a Basset. These dogs are really fantastic couch potatoes, and are happy to snuggle up with you for a quiet night in. They also make good guests for a dog-friendly day out. Don’t let those big, adorable, sad eyes fool you – they’re friendly, outgoing dogs that are happy socializing with people, other pets, and even children.

#2 – Bichon Frise

Bichons are one of the most popular breeds, partly because they are such incredible apartment dwellers! Not only are they just too cute, they require minimal exercise and really just love being your lap dog. These dogs are cheerful, happy pups in almost any situation. Out for brunch? This dog loves meeting new people. Day at the beach? Your Bichon loves water! These energetic pups are up for whatever comes – they’re the ultimate “go with the flow” kind of dog.

#3 – Bullmastiff

Despite their large size, nearly all of the mastiff breeds require relatively little exercise. Of course, all dogs need to get out, but Mastiffs are particularly lazy for large dogs. Bullmastiffs are excellent apartment roommates – their looks can deter pretty much any bad guy, but really they’re as sweet as can be! These dogs are also super easy to keep groomed. Their short coats shed very little and are good to go with a quick bath and brush.

#4 – Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers may be the friendliest dogs there are. They are incredible family dogs that love all people and animals. Aggression and shyness and not at all typical of this breed. Sure, they need regular exercise and frequent grooming, but they’re also very easy going and happy to be by your side no matter where you go. This breed was bred to sit for hours quietly on hunting trips waiting to retrieve waterfowl, but that same trait makes them great snuggle-buddies for movie night.

#5 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is described as an “adaptable” dog – and he really is! If you want to be a couch potato one day and spend the next taking a nice, long walk, your Cavi is going to be right there with you, ready for anything and happy to do it! This breed can transform from lapdog to athlete and back again at the drop of a hat. These dogs are eager to please, social, and love people and animals of all kinds. That gorgeous coat will need weekly brushing, but he’ll cheerfully curl up in your lap and let you handle it.

#6 – English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are a wonderful breed that are known for their lack of enthusiasm for outings. Bulldogs do need exercise and stimulation (and have a lot of fun at it once they’re convinced), but they also love the sport of sleeping – anytime, anywhere. Your Bulldog will make new friends easily and though they may not take to training as quickly as other dogs, he’ll work like crazy when it’s playtime!

 

#7 – Great Dane

This big breed may look like he’s going to need all the exercise, but really, these dogs do well with just a daily walk, and owners are advised not to over exercise their Great Danes. Commonly known as the “Gentle Giant” breed, these dogs are happy with a full bowl of food, a soft bed, and a good friend. Their love of human affection has earned them another nickname: “The World’s Largest Lapdog!”

#8 – Greyhound

Greyhounds are actually known to be one of the laziest breeds around. It seems surprising given their racing and lure coursing genetics. They do require sufficient exercise, but  they’re calm dogs, and they’ll be content to sleep on your couch until you get home from work. The muzzles they wear during races might give the appearance that they’re aggressive, but they’re much more likely to be aloof with people they don’t know.

#9 – Havanese

Havanese are great companion dogs that love to snuggle up on the couch. They are not a very active breed and do great in small apartments without yards, so long as they do get their daily walk. They’re smart dogs that pick up training easily, and training done early in life tends to stick with them in later years. The Havanese is easy to please – if you’ve got two free hands and some love to give, they’ll take it all and live in bliss.

#10 – Pug

Is there really anything to complain about with Pugs? They’re up and ready to go whenever you need them to be; but more often than not, you can hear them snoring away across the room! They’re known to be incredibly intuitive dogs, and can pick up easily on an owner’s mood. So whether you need a snuggle or a laugh, your Pug will know and will adapt in a flash!

 

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