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We Countdown The Top 15 Calmest Breeds

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| November 14, 2024

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Calm and laid-back dog breeds add a soothing energy to any home, making them perfect for individuals or families who appreciate a quieter lifestyle. These mellow companions love their downtime and don’t need constant activity to stay happy, making them ideal for first-time dog owners, city dwellers, or anyone who prefers a low-key pet. While each dog has its unique charm, certain breeds are especially known for their gentle, relaxed temperaments, bringing a peaceful presence and steady companionship into daily life.

Basset Hound

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Basset Hounds are known for their low-energy lifestyle and relaxed demeanor, making them a top choice for those seeking a calm companion. With their droopy eyes and long ears, Bassets look perpetually easygoing—and they are. They’re content with moderate exercise, such as leisurely walks and sniffing around, but they’re also happy to lounge on the couch for hours. Despite their stubborn streak, they’re incredibly affectionate and gentle with their families. Basset Hounds bring a comforting, unhurried presence, making them one of the calmest breeds around.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle, affectionate dogs known for their adaptability and calm personalities. These little dogs enjoy being around people and are happiest when they can curl up on a lap or stay close by. Cavaliers don’t require excessive exercise, and their friendly disposition makes them excellent with children and other pets. They’re low-maintenance in terms of energy but high in love and loyalty, making them a soothing and steadfast companion for anyone seeking a peaceful dog.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, friendly giants with a calm and laid-back nature. Known for their gentle temperament, they’re wonderful with children and often form strong bonds with their families. Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are content with moderate exercise and are perfectly happy to relax at home once their exercise needs are met. Their patience and loyalty make them ideal companions for those who appreciate a big dog with a big heart. This calm, dependable breed is both affectionate and steady, creating a comforting presence in any household.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus may be small, but they’re known for their calm and easygoing nature. Originally bred as lap dogs, Shih Tzus thrive on companionship and are happy to lounge around the house with their owners. They have moderate energy levels and don’t require strenuous exercise; a short daily walk or indoor playtime usually satisfies them. Shih Tzus are affectionate, gentle, and patient, making them ideal for families or individuals who want a relaxed, low-energy pet. With their peaceful personality and love of cuddles, Shih Tzus adds a calm charm to any home.

Clumber Spaniel

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Clumber Spaniels are known for their slow-paced, relaxed approach to life. These dogs have a gentle temperament and are often more interested in lounging than in high-energy activities. Clumber Spaniels are good-natured, easygoing, and happy with moderate exercise, making them excellent companions for quieter households. They enjoy spending time with their families but don’t demand constant attention. With their steady and calm personality, Clumber Spaniels bring a sense of tranquility wherever they go, making them perfect for those looking for a laid-back breed.

Great Dane

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Great Danes may be one of the largest dog breeds, but they’re surprisingly calm and gentle. Known as “gentle giants,” these dogs are friendly and patient, making them wonderful family pets. Despite their size, Great Danes are content with moderate exercise and are happy to relax at home with their people. They’re known for their loyalty and can be protective, but their overall demeanor is calm and gentle. A Great Dane’s serene presence brings a sense of peace, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a large yet relaxed companion.

English Bulldog

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English Bulldogs are known for their laid-back personalities and low energy levels, making them one of the calmest breeds around. With their wrinkled faces and stocky build, Bulldogs are content with short walks and lots of lounging. They’re very loyal and affectionate, enjoying the company of their family without being overly active. Bulldogs are well-suited for apartment living and don’t need a lot of space or exercise to be happy. Their relaxed attitude and easygoing nature make them wonderful companions for those who want a mellow, friendly dog.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants with a calm and dignified demeanor. These large dogs are known for their friendly and peaceful nature, rarely displaying aggression. Although they’re big, they have a moderate energy level and are content with a daily walk. Irish Wolfhounds are loyal and patient, making them great with children and other pets. Their laid-back attitude and noble presence make them excellent companions for people who appreciate a dog with a calm and gentle spirit.

Greyhound

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Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are incredibly calm and relaxed at home. Known as “couch potatoes,” Greyhounds are content with a couple of short runs or walks each day, followed by plenty of lounging time. They’re gentle, quiet, and easygoing, often enjoying life at a slow pace when they’re not running. Greyhounds adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, and their calm, sweet nature makes them ideal companions for those who enjoy a peaceful home environment.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are known for their calm, gentle nature and are often described as patient and easygoing. These large dogs are fantastic with children and bring a sense of peace wherever they go. Saint Bernards require moderate exercise but are generally content to relax at home with their families. Their loyal and affectionate personality makes them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. With their calm demeanor and friendly disposition, Saint Bernards bring a warm, reassuring presence to any household.

Pekingese

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Pekingese are small dogs with a surprisingly calm and independent nature. Bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Pekingese are dignified and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. They’re content with a low level of activity and are often happy to stay indoors with minimal exercise. Pekingese are loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent lap dogs. Their calm and regal demeanor makes them perfect for people seeking a small, easygoing pet that doesn’t need constant stimulation.

Havanese

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Havanese are known for their gentle, easygoing personalities and are well-suited to both active and relaxed lifestyles. These small dogs are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families, whether it’s playtime or snuggling on the couch. Havanese are calm and adapt well to different environments, making them perfect for city or apartment living. They have moderate energy levels, so short walks and indoor playtime are usually enough to keep them happy. Their adaptable nature and calm disposition make Havanese an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful, low-key companion.

Japanese Chin

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Japanese Chins are small, calm dogs with dignified and graceful personalities. Known for their independent yet affectionate nature, they’re content to spend time relaxing with their families. Japanese Chins have a low energy level and are well-suited for people who enjoy a quiet, relaxed lifestyle. They don’t require much exercise beyond short daily walks and playtime. Japanese Chins are gentle and don’t need constant attention, making them a low-maintenance and calm breed for those looking for a tranquil companion.

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises are cheerful, gentle dogs with a calm and adaptable nature. Known for their friendly personalities, they enjoy spending time with their families but don’t require excessive exercise. Bichons are happy to relax indoors and adapt well to various living environments, including apartments. Their calm demeanor and affectionate nature make them wonderful pets for people who want a dog with a peaceful personality. Bichon Frises bring joy and tranquility to their homes, creating a harmonious and loving environment.

Scottish Deerhound

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Scottish Deerhounds are large, elegant dogs with a calm and laid-back attitude. These gentle giants are known for their patience and friendly disposition, rarely displaying aggressive behavior. Scottish Deerhounds are content with moderate exercise and are often happy to spend the rest of the day lounging at home. Their calm, quiet nature makes them suitable for people who enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle. Scottish Deerhounds bring a sense of grace and tranquility to any home, making them perfect for those seeking a calm, loyal companion.

Chill Champions Of The Canine World

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These dog breeds are true champions of calmness. They bring a sense of peace, comfort, and loyalty that makes every day a little easier and every home a little warmer. With their relaxed attitudes, these laid-back pups know how to kick back and enjoy life’s quieter moments. So, if you’re seeking a companion who brings a touch of serenity with every wag and cuddle, look no further—these calm breeds are here to keep you company, one snooze at a time!

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