Are you dreaming of canine companionship without the high-octane energy that comes with many popular breeds? Whether you live in a cozy apartment, have a busy work schedule, or simply prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, low energy dog breeds might be the perfect match for your home and heart.
Not every dog needs miles of daily running or constant entertainment. In fact, many breeds are naturally inclined to take it easy, preferring a good snooze on the couch to a strenuous hike. These calm canine companions still offer all the love and companionship you could want—just with a more relaxed approach to life.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore seven of the best low energy dog that combine affection with a slower pace of life. We’ll also dive into what makes low energy dog breeds special, how to care for these relaxed companions, and how to match the right lazy pup to your specific living situation.
Understanding Low Energy Dog Breeds: What Makes a Dog “Lazy”?
Before we jump into our list of lovable loungers, let’s clarify what we mean by “low energy dog” or “lazy” dog breeds. These terms don’t mean these dogs are unhealthy, unmotivated, or lacking personality. Rather, they refer to dogs who naturally require less physical exercise and stimulation than their more active counterparts.
Most low energy dog breeds typically share some common characteristics:
- Lower exercise requirements: 30-60 minutes of daily activity is often sufficient, compared to the 2+ hours high-energy breeds might need
- Calmer indoor behavior: Less likely to pace, become destructive, or develop anxiety when not exercised extensively
- Longer rest periods: Naturally inclined to nap and relax throughout the day
- Less intense play sessions: Enjoy gentle games rather than vigorous activities
- Adaptable to smaller living spaces: Generally comfortable in apartments or homes without large yards
It’s important to note that even the most laid-back dogs still need some exercise, mental stimulation, and of course, plenty of love and attention. The difference is simply in the intensity and duration of activity required to keep them happy and healthy.
7 Best Low Energy Dogs for a Relaxed Lifestyle
Let’s meet seven wonderful low maintenance dog breeds that prove you don’t need a high-energy canine to enjoy all the benefits of dog ownership.
1. Bulldog: The Iconic Couch Potato
When most people picture a lazy dog breed, the Bulldog often comes to mind—and for good reason!
Energy Level: Very Low Size: Medium (40-50 pounds) Temperament: Gentle, friendly, determined Grooming Needs: Moderate
The sturdy Bulldog, with their distinctive wrinkled face and stocky build, epitomizes laid-back living. These lovable companions are perfectly content with short daily walks and plenty of naptime. Their exercise needs are minimal, making them ideal for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space.
Bulldogs form strong bonds with their families and are generally patient with children. While they might have a stubborn streak, they’re primarily known for their easygoing nature. They’ll happily snooze next to you while you work or watch a movie, making them perfect companions for homebodies.
It’s worth noting that Bulldogs do have some specific health considerations, including sensitivity to heat and potential breathing issues due to their flat faces. Their facial wrinkles also require regular cleaning to prevent skin infections. However, many owners find that these care requirements are a small price to pay for such a loving, low-key companion.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle Royalty
For those seeking a smaller package of calm canine companionship, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel offers royal relaxation in a compact size.
Energy Level: Low to Moderate Size: Small (13-18 pounds) Temperament: Sweet, gentle, affectionate Grooming Needs: Moderate to High
These elegant small low energy dog breeds combine the playfulness of a toy breed with a remarkably adaptable nature. Cavaliers are just as happy taking a leisurely stroll as they are curled up on your lap. They typically need about 30 minutes of exercise daily, which can be broken into short, easy walks.
Cavaliers are renowned for their loving, gentle disposition. They excel at adapting to their owner’s lifestyle—energetic enough to join in family activities but content to relax when that’s what’s on the agenda. This makes them one of the best low energy family dogs for households with varying activity levels.
With their silky coats and expressive eyes, Cavaliers do require regular grooming, including brushing several times a week to prevent mats. Their people-oriented nature also means they don’t do well with extended time alone. However, their affectionate temperament and moderate exercise needs make them ideal companions for seniors or families seeking a devoted, manageable pet.
3. Basset Hound: Long, Low, and Laid-Back
Few breeds embody the concept of low activity dog breeds quite like the charming Basset Hound.
Energy Level: Low Size: Medium (40-65 pounds) Temperament: Patient, friendly, independent Grooming Needs: Moderate
With their distinctive long ears, soulful eyes, and short legs, Basset Hounds are as recognizable as they are relaxed. These dogs were bred for endurance rather than speed, meaning they enjoy leisurely walks where they can follow interesting scents, but they’re not built for high-intensity exercise.
Bassets are known for their amiable, patient demeanor. They tend to be good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. While they can be somewhat independent and occasionally stubborn (especially during training), their gentle nature makes them easy to live with.
These hounds do have a few special considerations: their long ears require regular cleaning to prevent infections, and they can be prone to obesity if their food intake isn’t carefully monitored. Bassets also have a remarkable vocal range—from baying to howling—making them less suitable for noise-sensitive living situations. However, for those looking for a medium-sized dog with minimal exercise requirements and a healthy dose of character, the Basset Hound is hard to beat.
4. Shih Tzu: The Little Lion Dog with a Lazy Heart
Originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus have perfected the art of leisurely living over thousands of years.
Energy Level: Low Size: Small (9-16 pounds) Temperament: Affectionate, playful, outgoing Grooming Needs: High
These adorable small low energy dog breeds combine playfulness with a remarkably low exercise requirement. Short daily walks and occasional indoor play sessions are usually sufficient to keep a Shih Tzu content. Their small size makes them one of the best calm dog breeds for apartments, as they don’t need much space to stretch their legs.
Shih Tzus are the definition of lap dogs—they adore human companionship and are typically friendly with everyone they meet. Their cheerful disposition and minimal exercise needs make them excellent companions for seniors, busy professionals, or anyone seeking a devoted but undemanding pet.
The most significant consideration with Shih Tzus is their grooming requirements. Their long, flowing coat needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent mats and keep them looking their best. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance more manageable. Despite this grooming commitment, the Shih Tzu’s loving nature and low energy level make them a popular choice for those seeking a small, affectionate companion with minimal exercise needs.
5. Newfoundland: The Gentle Giant
For those who prefer larger dogs but still want a calm companion, the Newfoundland proves that size and energy level don’t always correlate.
Energy Level: Low to Moderate Size: Large to Giant (100-150 pounds) Temperament: Sweet, patient, devotedGrooming Needs: High
These magnificent large low energy dog breeds combine impressive size with a remarkably gentle disposition. Despite their massive build, Newfoundlands (or “Newfies” as enthusiasts call them) are known for their docile nature and moderate exercise needs. They enjoy swimming and short walks but are equally happy lounging around the house with their family.
Newfoundlands are legendary for their sweet temperament, especially with children—earning them the nickname “nanny dogs.” Their patient, protective nature makes them excellent family companions, particularly in homes with adequate space to accommodate their size.
Potential owners should be aware of a few considerations: Newfoundlands drool considerably, shed heavily (especially seasonally), and require regular grooming to prevent their thick double coat from matting. Their size also means they take up significant space, even when they’re just relaxing. However, for those with room to spare, few dogs combine the impressive presence of a giant breed with the laid-back personality of a true low energy dog breed like the Newfoundland.
6. French Bulldog: Compact Companion with Character
The French Bulldog has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, largely thanks to their adaptable energy level and charming personality.
Energy Level: Low Size: Small to Medium (16-28 pounds) Temperament: Playful, alert, adaptable Grooming Needs: Low
With their distinctive bat-like ears and compact build, “Frenchies” epitomize urban-friendly dog ownership. These quiet dog breeds for apartments require minimal exercise—short walks and brief play sessions are usually sufficient to keep them happy. Their small size and low activity level make them ideal for city living or homes without yards.
French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate nature and comical personality. They form strong bonds with their owners and are typically good with children and other pets. While they enjoy playtime, they’re equally content relaxing on the sofa, making them perfect companions for various lifestyles.
Like their English Bulldog cousins, Frenchies can experience breathing difficulties due to their flat faces, especially in hot or humid weather. They also aren’t strong swimmers due to their body structure. However, their minimal grooming needs (just occasional brushing and facial fold cleaning) and naturally low energy level make them one of the most popular low maintenance dog breeds for apartments and smaller homes.
7. Greyhound: The Surprising Couch Potato
Despite their racing reputation, retired Greyhounds are actually among the most laid-back low energy dog breeds you can adopt.
Energy Level: Low (with short bursts of high energy) Size: Large (60-70 pounds) Temperament: Gentle, quiet, independent Grooming Needs: Very Low
It might seem counterintuitive that one of the fastest dog breeds on earth would make our list of lazy dogs, but Greyhounds truly are “45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes.” While they enjoy short bursts of running (ideally in a safely enclosed area), they spend most of their day relaxing. Their exercise needs can typically be met with a couple of 20-30 minute walks daily, plus occasional opportunities to sprint.
Greyhounds are generally quiet, gentle dogs who adapt well to apartment living despite their size. They’re typically calm indoors, rarely bark, and are usually good with respectful children. Their independent nature means they’re often content to relax while you’re busy with other activities.
These elegant dogs have incredibly low grooming needs—their short coat requires minimal brushing and they tend to be naturally clean with little “dog odor.” One consideration is their strong prey drive, which means they usually need to be leashed in unfenced areas and may not be suitable for homes with small pets like cats (though individual dogs vary). For those looking for a larger low energy dog breed with minimal maintenance requirements, the Greyhound offers an elegant solution.
Honorable Mentions: More Low Energy Canine Companions
While our featured seven represent some of the best low energy dog breeds, many other wonderful laid-back canines deserve mention:
- Pekingese: These dignified little dogs were bred as companions for Chinese royalty and prefer lounging to exercise.
- Pug: Playful but not high-energy, pugs are content with short walks and lots of nap time.
- Great Dane: Despite their enormous size, these gentle giants have relatively modest exercise needs and adapt well to indoor living.
- Chow Chow: Independent and cat-like in many ways, Chows typically prefer relaxing to running around.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Though they enjoy outdoor time, these beautiful dogs have a calm indoor presence and moderate exercise needs.
- Chinese Crested: Whether hairless or powderpuff variety, these small dogs are known for their affectionate, relaxed nature.
- Italian Greyhound: The miniature version of the Greyhound shares its larger cousin’s love of lounging.
- English Toy Spaniel: Similar to the Cavalier but typically even more laid-back.
- Clumber Spaniel: The heaviest of the spaniels, these dogs have much lower energy than their springer and cocker cousins.
- Saint Bernard: These massive rescue dogs have surprisingly modest exercise requirements.
Special Considerations: Low Energy Hypoallergenic Dogs
For allergy sufferers who also prefer a relaxed canine companion, several low energy hypoallergenic dogs combine minimal shedding with laid-back personalities:
- Bichon Frise: These cheerful little dogs have moderate exercise needs and non-shedding coats.
- Maltese: Tiny and elegant, Maltese are classic lap dogs with minimal exercise requirements.
- Shih Tzu: As mentioned earlier, these royal companions combine low energy with allergy-friendly coats.
- Lhasa Apso: Originally Tibetan temple guards, these dogs now prefer guarding the couch.
- Coton de Tulear: Known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” these cotton-like dogs have moderate exercise needs.
- Portuguese Water Dog: While more energetic than some on this list, they’re among the more relaxed water dog breeds.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Less energetic than many terriers, Wheatens combine hypoallergenic coats with moderate exercise needs.
It’s important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, but these breeds typically produce fewer allergens and may be better tolerated by those with mild to moderate dog allergies.
Finding the Perfect Low Energy Dog for Your Lifestyle
While all the breeds we’ve discussed share a relatively laid-back approach to life, each has unique characteristics that might make them more or less suitable for your specific situation. Consider these factors when choosing the perfect low energy dog breed for your home:
Best Dogs for Seniors
Older adults often benefit from canine companionship without the demands of a high-energy dog. The best dogs for seniors typically combine small to medium size with minimal exercise requirements and an affectionate nature:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle, adaptable, and moderately sized
- Shih Tzu: Small, loving, and requires only short walks
- French Bulldog: Minimal exercise needs and manageable size
- Pekingese: Tiny and dignified with very low exercise requirements
- Maltese: Lightweight, loving, and requires minimal walking
For seniors, factors like the dog’s weight (for ease of handling), grooming needs (considering mobility issues), and temperament (calm and trainable) are particularly important considerations.
Apartment-Friendly Low Energy Dogs
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy dog ownership, especially with these calm dog breeds for apartments and quiet dog breeds for apartments:
- French Bulldog: Minimal barking and exercise needs
- Shih Tzu: Small size and indoor-oriented lifestyle
- Greyhound: Despite their size, they’re quiet and calm indoors
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Adaptable to small spaces and not typically barkers
- Bulldog: Minimal exercise requirements and generally quiet
For apartment living, consider factors like noise level (barking tendencies), size relative to your space, and whether the breed is naturally active indoors.
Family-Friendly Low Energy Breeds
For households with children seeking low energy family dogs, these breeds typically combine patience with a gentle nature:
- Newfoundland: Naturally protective and incredibly patient with children
- Bulldog: Sturdy enough for play yet calm enough for family life
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle and adaptable to family activities
- Basset Hound: Patient and generally good with kids of all ages
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Calm indoor presence and tolerance for children
For families, consider the dog’s tolerance for noise and activity, sturdiness (especially with younger children), and general temperament around people of all ages.
Caring for Your Low Energy Dog: Special Considerations
While low maintenance dog breeds generally require less exercise than their more active counterparts, they still have specific needs to keep them healthy and happy:
Weight Management
Many low energy breeds are prone to weight gain due to their reduced calorie requirements and sometimes hearty appetites. Obesity can lead to serious health problems and further decrease energy levels. Consider these strategies:
- Feed measured portions rather than free-feeding
- Choose quality dog food formulated for less active dogs
- Account for treats in daily calorie calculations (treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories)
- Weigh your dog regularly to catch weight gain early
- Consult your veterinarian about appropriate weight and portion sizes
Mental Stimulation
Even laid-back dogs need mental exercise to prevent boredom and the behavioral issues that can result. Try these low-intensity mental activities:
- Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys
- Gentle training sessions (5-10 minutes a few times daily)
- Scent games that allow for natural sniffing behaviors
- Rotating toys to maintain interest
- Calm socialization opportunities with people and other dogs
Appropriate Exercise
While these breeds need less exercise than high-energy dogs, they still benefit from appropriate activity:
- Short, leisurely walks (often 15-30 minutes, 1-2 times daily)
- Gentle play sessions adjusted to their energy level
- Swimming for breeds that enjoy water (excellent low-impact exercise)
- Adjusting exercise to age, weight, and health conditions
- Monitoring for signs of overexertion, especially in flat-faced breeds
Health Monitoring
Some low energy breeds have health considerations that require vigilance:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds need careful monitoring in heat and during exercise
- Large, deep-chested breeds may be prone to bloat (avoid exercise right after eating)
- Breeds with long backs need protection from jumping that could cause injury
- All dogs need regular veterinary check-ups, with special attention to issues common in their breed
Adopting vs. Buying: Finding Your Perfect Lazy Companion
Whether you’re considering a puppy from a reputable breeder or adopting an adult dog, there are wonderful low energy dogs available through various channels:
Breed-Specific Rescue Organizations
Many of the breeds mentioned have dedicated rescue organizations that specialize in finding homes for these specific dogs. These groups often have adult dogs whose energy levels and personalities are already well-established, making it easier to find a perfect match for your lifestyle.
Senior Dog Adoption
Older dogs of many breeds tend to have lower energy levels than their younger counterparts. Adopting a senior dog can be incredibly rewarding and often provides a calm companion without the demands of puppy training.
Mixed Breeds and Shelter Dogs
Many wonderful low-energy mixed breeds are waiting in shelters. When considering a shelter dog, spend time with the dog before adopting and ask staff about energy level, previous living situations, and compatibility with your lifestyle.
Responsible Breeders
If you’re seeking a puppy of a specific breed, research breeders who prioritize health and temperament. Be prepared to wait for the right puppy and ask about the energy levels typical in their breeding lines.
Conclusion: Embracing the Joy of Lazy Dog Ownership
Living with a low energy dog breed offers a special kind of joy—all the love, companionship, and devotion of dog ownership without the high-intensity exercise requirements or constant activity that some breeds demand.
Whether you choose a tiny Shih Tzu, a sturdy Bulldog, an elegant Greyhound, or any of the other wonderful laid-back breeds we’ve discussed, you’ll find that these canine companions fit beautifully into a more relaxed lifestyle. They remind us to slow down, enjoy quiet moments, and appreciate the simple pleasure of having a loving friend by your side.
The perfect low energy dog is out there waiting for you—ready to share your couch, warm your lap, and bring their special brand of calm companionship into your home. With thoughtful selection based on your specific living situation and lifestyle needs, you can find the ideal lazy pup to complete your relaxed home.
FAQs About Low Energy Dog Breeds
Q: Do low energy dogs still need daily walks? A: Yes, most low energy dogs still benefit from at least one daily walk, though the duration may be shorter (15-30 minutes) than what higher energy breeds require. Regular, gentle exercise helps maintain health, provides mental stimulation, and prevents weight gain.
Q: Are low energy dogs easier to train? A: Not necessarily. Training ease depends more on breed characteristics like intelligence and motivation than energy level. Some low energy breeds (like Bulldogs) can be stubborn, while others (like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels) tend to be eager to please. Consistent, positive reinforcement training works best regardless of energy level.
Q: Do apartment dwellers need to choose small low energy breeds? A: Not always. Some larger breeds like Greyhounds and Great Danes can actually be excellent apartment dogs due to their calm indoor behavior. Size alone doesn’t determine apartment suitability—noise level, activity type, and temperament are equally important factors.
Q: Are certain low energy breeds better with children? A: Yes, some low energy breeds are particularly good with children, including Newfoundlands, Bulldogs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. These breeds tend to combine patience with a gentle nature. However, individual temperament varies, and proper supervision is always necessary.
Q: Do low energy dogs have fewer health problems? A: Not necessarily. Health concerns are more related to breed characteristics than energy level. Some low energy breeds (particularly brachycephalic dogs like Bulldogs and French Bulldogs) may have specific health challenges. Research breed-specific health concerns and work with reputable breeders or rescue organizations focused on health and temperament.
