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When finding a dog that fits a laid-back lifestyle, some breeds are naturally more relaxed than others. These dogs embody calmness, love to lounge around, and have an easygoing demeanor, making them ideal companions for a stress-free life. Whether you’re seeking a buddy to cuddle with on the couch or a dog that won’t be bouncing off the walls with energy, these breeds are known for their chill attitudes, providing comfort and relaxation to anyone looking for a peaceful, low-maintenance companion.
Basset Hound
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The Basset Hound is the epitome of relaxation. These dogs are incredibly laid-back, known for their droopy ears and long bodies. While they have a sharp sense of smell and enjoy a good sniffing adventure, they are most content when lounging around the house. Basset Hounds are affectionate and gentle, making them excellent companions for those who enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle. They are perfectly happy to spend hours napping or just calmly watching the world go by, proving that they’re the true masters of relaxation.
English Bulldog
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English Bulldogs are famous for their wrinkled faces and stocky builds, but they’re equally well-known for their relaxed temperament. These dogs are not in a hurry to do anything and are happiest when they can take it easy. Bulldogs are low-energy dogs that love to snooze and can easily adapt to apartment living. Their calm, friendly nature makes them perfect for families or individuals looking for a dog that doesn’t require constant activity. With their love of lounging and occasional bursts of playful energy, Bulldogs define laid-back charm.
Shih Tzu
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The Shih Tzu is a small, fluffy dog with a big heart and an easygoing attitude. While they enjoy attention and affection, Shih Tzus are perfectly content to relax at home, curled up on a cozy pillow or in their owner’s lap. They have a low activity level and don’t require much exercise, making them ideal for people who prefer a more sedentary lifestyle. Shih Tzus are affectionate and loyal, but they certainly aren’t high-energy, preferring a calm and tranquil environment over chaos and activity.
Great Dane
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Despite their massive size, Great Danes are surprisingly calm and relaxed dogs. Known as “gentle giants,” they are affectionate and easygoing, often choosing to nap rather than engage in high-energy activities. Great Danes are gentle with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Their relaxed temperament means they don’t need constant stimulation or exercise, and they’re happy to chill at home, sprawled out on the floor (or taking up the entire couch). For such a large dog, they are remarkably laid-back and content with a peaceful, cozy environment.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their sweet, loving nature and ability to adapt to their owner’s lifestyle. While they enjoy playtime and walks, they are just as happy to relax on the couch with their family. These dogs are affectionate and calm, making them ideal companions for those who enjoy quiet, relaxed activities. Their gentle demeanor and love for snuggling make them a perfect match for anyone looking for a low-key, devoted companion. They thrive on human companionship but aren’t demanding energy or activity.
Greyhound
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Although Greyhounds are known for their speed on the racetrack, they are surprisingly one of the most relaxed dog breeds. Often referred to as “45-mph couch potatoes,” Greyhounds love to sprint for short bursts, but after that, they are more than happy to lounge around for the rest of the day. These dogs are gentle, calm, and quiet, making them great pets for those who want a relaxed dog that doesn’t need constant exercise. Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are content with a few short walks and plenty of downtime.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, fluffy dogs with a calm and gentle disposition. Despite their size, they are incredibly affectionate and easygoing, often preferring to be near their family rather than engaging in high-energy activities. Bernese Mountain Dogs are great for families or individuals looking for a relaxed dog that is also loving and loyal. They enjoy outdoor time but don’t require excessive exercise, making them a great fit for those who enjoy a slower pace. Their calm nature makes them ideal companions for anyone looking for a peaceful, laid-back dog.
French Bulldog
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French Bulldogs are small, muscular dogs with big personalities, but they are incredibly laid-back when it comes to energy levels. Frenchies are known for their calm demeanor and love of lounging, whether snuggling on the couch or basking in the sun. They don’t need a lot of exercise and are content with short walks and plenty of downtime. French Bulldogs are excellent companions for city dwellers or those living in apartments, as their relaxed temperament makes them adaptable to various living situations.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands, or “Newfies,” are large, fluffy dogs known for their gentle, calm nature. These dogs are often called “gentle giants” due to their size and sweet temperament. Newfies are incredibly loyal and affectionate, always eager to be near their family. They are patient and calm, making them excellent companions for children and pets. Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are not high-energy dogs, and they’re perfectly content to relax at home, enjoying the simple pleasures of life like napping or quietly observing their surroundings.
Pekingese
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Pekingese dogs are small, fluffy companions with an air of royalty, and they certainly enjoy living a relaxed, pampered lifestyle. These dogs were bred as companion animals for Chinese royalty, and their calm demeanor reflects that heritage. Pekingese are independent yet affectionate, often preferring to spend their time lounging around and receiving attention from their owners. They are low-energy dogs that don’t require much exercise, making them perfect for people who enjoy a peaceful, slow-paced environment. A Pekingese will happily spend hours cuddling up, enjoying a soft bed or a cozy lap.
Clumber Spaniel
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Clumber Spaniels are among the most relaxed and easygoing of all the spaniel breeds. These dogs are known for their calm, quiet demeanor and love of lounging. While they enjoy a good walk or outdoor adventure, they are equally content to rest at home. Clumber Spaniels are affectionate and loyal, forming strong bonds with their family. They aren’t prone to hyperactivity and are generally low-maintenance regarding exercise. Their laid-back nature makes them perfect for anyone looking for a gentle, relaxed companion.
Saint Bernard
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The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant known for its calm, easygoing demeanor. Despite their large size, they are incredibly relaxed and patient, making them ideal companions for those seeking a laid-back dog. Originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are not overly energetic and are more than happy to spend their days lounging around the house. They are affectionate and loyal, forming deep bonds with their families, but they don’t demand constant attention. Their relaxed nature, combined with their protective instincts, makes them one of the most laid-back dog breeds on earth.
Lhasa Apso
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Lhasa Apsos are independent and calm dogs, making them one of the most relaxed breeds. Known for their quiet demeanor, these small dogs were originally bred as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries. Despite their watchdog origins, Lhasa Apsos are content with a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. They don’t require a lot of exercise and are happy to spend their time lounging indoors. While they can be reserved with strangers, they are affectionate with their families, offering a calm presence without being overly demanding. Their low-energy nature and preference for indoor living make them an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed dog.
Scottish Deerhound
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Scottish Deerhounds are large, graceful dogs with a surprisingly calm and laid-back personality. Despite their hunting background, these dogs are content with a slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle. Scottish Deerhounds are known for their gentle and quiet nature, making them perfect companions for those who prefer a peaceful household. They enjoy lounging around the house and don’t require a lot of exercise, although they do appreciate the occasional run in a safe, open space. Their calm demeanor and affectionate personality make them one of the most relaxed dog breeds, particularly for those who enjoy the company of a large but gentle dog.
Whippet
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Whippets are known for their speed and agility, but when they’re not sprinting, they’re some of the most relaxed dogs you’ll meet. This breed enjoys bursts of energy but is equally content with lounging around for most of the day. Whippets are quiet, gentle, and affectionate dogs that love spending time with their families in a calm environment. They don’t require extensive exercise and are happy with a few short walks and plenty of napping time. Their easygoing and peaceful temperament makes them ideal for people looking for a low-maintenance, relaxed companion.
Maltese
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The Maltese may be small, but they have a calm and gentle disposition that makes them one of the most relaxed dog breeds. Known for their affectionate and loyal nature, Maltese dogs are content with spending their days curled up on their owner’s lap or lounging around the house. They don’t require a lot of exercise and are perfectly happy with short daily walks and indoor playtime. Their calm nature and love for relaxation make them ideal for people who prefer a quiet, laid-back lifestyle. Despite their small size, the Maltese is a big-hearted companion that thrives in peaceful environments.
Bullmastiff
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Bullmastiffs are large, powerful dogs with a surprisingly calm and gentle nature. Despite their imposing appearance, they are incredibly laid-back and affectionate with their families. Bullmastiffs are known for their protective instincts, but they don’t require a lot of exercise and are happy to spend their time lounging indoors. They are patient and tolerant, making them excellent companions for families looking for a relaxed, low-energy dog. Bullmastiffs are content with short walks and moderate playtime, making them ideal for those who want a calm and relaxed breed without the need for extensive activity.
Havanese
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The Havanese is a small, cheerful dog with a calm and relaxed personality. Known for their affectionate and friendly nature, Havanese dogs are content with moderate exercise and plenty of indoor relaxation. They enjoy spending time with their families and are perfectly happy lounging on the couch or snuggling up for a quiet afternoon. Their adaptable nature makes them a great fit for apartment living, and they don’t require a lot of space or high-energy activities. Havanese dogs are perfect for those seeking a laid-back, easygoing companion who thrives in a peaceful home environment.
Irish Wolfhound
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Despite their massive size, Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm and gentle demeanor. These dogs have a quiet and relaxed personality, making them one of the most laid-back breeds. Irish Wolfhounds enjoy spending time with their families, but they are not overly demanding of attention or exercise. They are content with short walks and plenty of lounging time indoors. Their calm, patient nature makes them excellent companions for those who appreciate a peaceful, low-energy dog. Irish Wolfhounds are affectionate and loyal, offering a relaxed presence in any home.
Chinese Shar-Pei
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The Chinese Shar-Pei is a calm and independent breed known for its laid-back personality. Shar-Peis are reserved and quiet dogs that don’t require constant attention, making them perfect for people who prefer a more relaxed companion. They are content with moderate exercise and enjoy spending time lounging at home. Their independent nature means they don’t need a lot of stimulation or activity, but they are loyal and protective of their families. Shar-Peis is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, relaxed dog that enjoys peaceful surroundings.
Tibetan Mastiff
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Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their calm and independent nature. Despite their large size and protective instincts, they are incredibly relaxed dogs that enjoy a quiet, peaceful lifestyle. Tibetan Mastiffs are not overly energetic and are content with short walks and plenty of time spent indoors. They are independent thinkers, which means they are perfectly happy entertaining themselves without demanding constant attention from their owners. Their calm and dignified demeanor makes them an excellent choice for people who appreciate a large, relaxed dog that enjoys a peaceful environment.
Pug
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Pugs are affectionate and laid-back dogs that thrive in calm environments. Known for their love of lounging, Pugs are perfectly content with short bursts of energy followed by long periods of relaxation. They are small, easygoing dogs that don’t require a lot of exercise, making them ideal for people who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. Pugs are also highly adaptable, making them great companions for apartment living or smaller homes. Their affectionate and calm nature makes them a perfect choice for those looking for a low-energy, relaxed dog breed.
Cocker Spaniel
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Cocker Spaniels are gentle and affectionate dogs known for their calm demeanor. While they do enjoy moderate exercise, they are equally happy spending time relaxing at home with their families. Cocker Spaniels have a sweet and easygoing personality, making them ideal companions for people who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. They are loyal and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their low-energy nature and adaptable temperament make them a great fit for those seeking a relaxed, easy-to-care-for dog breed.
Leonberger
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The Leonberger is a giant, gentle breed known for their calm and laid-back personality. Despite their large size, they are incredibly patient and affectionate, making them ideal for families or individuals seeking a relaxed companion. Leonbergers enjoy spending time with their families, but they are not overly energetic and are content with moderate exercise and plenty of lounging time. Their calm and tolerant nature makes them an excellent choice for people who appreciate a large, relaxed dog that enjoys a peaceful home environment.
When Your Dog Is More Chill Than You Are
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These relaxed dog breeds are masters of the art of chilling out. Whether they’re lounging on the couch, napping in a sunbeam, or just enjoying a stroll, these dogs know how to take life easy. Living with one of these mellow breeds means you’ll never have to worry about keeping up with a high-energy dog—they’ve got the whole relaxation thing down pat. Next time you feel stressed out, look at your calm, relaxed dog, and remember: they’re living their best life, and maybe it’s time to follow their lead!
Toledo, United States.
