When deciding which pup is best for you, there’s a lot to consider. Are you looking for a jogging partner, or a pooch who can play fetch until the sun goes down? How about a mellow, easygoing dog that loves an afternoon nap?
Folks looking for a laid-back, calm pup to add to their family—look no further. If you’re wondering what “calm” means in a dog, we’ve made it easy for you to understand by crafting a list of 25 calm dog breeds. Ranging from large, small, fluffy, and scruffy, there’s sure to be a chilled-out option for every dog lover.
Yes, it’s incredibly true that all dogs need affection and exercise. But there are some breeds that are much more comfortable curling up with you on the couch than they are romping around in the yard. This list of 25 calm dog breeds is designed to assist you in your search to find the perfect pooch to cuddle with at the end of a long, busy day.
Calm Dog Breeds
1. Saint Bernard
In the ancient days, Saint Bernards helped hospice monks locate lost travelers in the snow-covered Alps. Although large in stature, they are relatively docile and calm-mannered. With proper training and lots of love, these gentle giants make a great laid-back family dog.
2. Basset Hound
Originating in Europe, these short-legged dogs have proven to be very independent yet loyal to their owners. Their independence might make them difficult to train, but with a few basic commands, this lovable pup will remain by your side. They tend to prefer a nap on the couch rather than a long walk in the park.
3. Irish Wolfhound
The gigantic Irish Wolfhound is a historically recognized breed. In the 15th century, they protected the Irish countryside from being overrun by wolves. They’re incredibly intelligent and are sensitive to their owner’s emotions, making them fantastic therapy dogs.
4. Boerboel
While Boerboels aren’t recommended for newer dog owners, they’re known to be great around children. Their origins date back to the European settlers of South Africa in the 1600s. Known as the “farmer’s dog”, Boerboels protected their homestead and are thus renowned for their loyalty.
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5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
It’s easy to see that these lapdogs love a good cuddle! Their big, soulful eyes seem to beg you for pets and their friendly disposition makes them a fantastic companion for any family. While they love a game of fetch like any other dog, you’re more likely to find the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel curled up next to their owner.
6. French Bulldog
Calm and cuddly, French bulldogs are known to be perfect companions for seniors, kids, and apartment dwellers. They’re easygoing, small, and have some pretty cute ears. After all, they are the American Kennel Club’s second most popular dog breed in the U.S.
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7. Great Dane
Lanky and lazy are two words that best describe this enormous breed. They do well with other dogs and pets and don’t require much exercise. However, be sure to give them plenty of space to stretch their long legs (you probably won’t find a kennel large enough for them to truly stretch).
8. Bergamasco
While their grooming can be extensive, Bergamascos are a generally low-maintenance breed. They prefer a walk over a jog, and thoroughly enjoy spending time with their family. These small dogs aren’t overly aggressive, so don’t expect a watchdog.
9. Clumber Spaniel
Just one look at this giant furball will have you wanting to cuddle them all day. Known to greet even burglars with a tail wag and lick, the Clumber Spaniel is a non-aggressive couch potato. Give them a good brushing and minimal exercise and you’re sure to have one happy pup.
10. Pug
Pugs could very well be one of the goofiest of dog breeds. They’re playful, good-natured, and all-around silly. While their need to please often makes them stubborn, they are considerably calm and even-tempered.
11. Bolognese
A rarer breed in the United States, the Bolognese is more laid back and calm than their Bichon Frise relatives. They do need daily exercise, but also genuinely enjoy spending most afternoons napping in the sun. They’re also considered to be less yappy than other small dogs.
12. Shih Tzu
Although known to be yappy, Shih Tzus are a very calm and loyal breed. Whether you're out running errands or working from home, they prefer to be glued to your side. Shih Tzus are mild-tempered around adults and children, but watch out for those youngins that might mistake them for a teddy bear.
13. Japanese Chin
Maxing out at 7 pounds, these tiny pups could very well be the smallest of calm dog breeds. They’re sensitive, sweet, and willing to please. Be sure to note—they’re also known as the “Velcro” dog, as they are rarely comfortable being away from their owner.
14. Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex is probably the calmest member of the Spaniel family. They aren’t particular about their living space, as long as there’s plenty of love and a place to nap. Like most dogs, they require daily exercise (but only in the form of a short walk or a lap around the yard).
15. Bulldog
Don’t let that built-in frown fool you—bulldogs are generally happy and content in most environments. They can’t handle hot weather or extensive playtime, as a short walk will do. While bulldogs love their sleep, they do tend to snore or wheeze due to their brachycephalic head.
16. Greyhound
Greyhounds are known as “the world’s fastest couch potato” for a reason, so of course, we had to add them to this list of calm dog breeds. They’re the best of both worlds; they love to chase anything small that moves, but also enjoy curling up next to their human. Although known for their timid and sensitive nature, Greyhounds are still very loyal and eager to please.
17. Golden Retriever
The easy-going temperament of a Golden Retriever is what makes them such good service and therapy dogs. They can be extra playful out in the yard and super snuggly on the couch. Because they’re eager to please, this calm breed does well with training and makes a great pet for first-time owners.
18. ChowChow
These giant fluff balls with blue-black tongues are as cuddly as they look, since this calm dog breed loves lounging around the house. They are known for having laid-back, aloof temperaments and enjoy chilling on the couch m0re than running around the dog park or going on long walks.
19. Leonbergers
If you’re not familiar with the Leonberger, think of a Newfoundland—but much, much larger. Their size might fool you, but this 170-pound fluffer is one of the largest calm dog breeds there is. Everything about the Leonberger is supersized, including the amount of love and affection they give their owners.
20. Newfoundland
Smaller than the Leonberger with just as much love and affection to give. Newfoundlands, or Newfies, are happy to spend hours relaxing at your feet. While they still need exercise, they make great house dogs and prefer to stay indoors when it’s hot out.
21. Irish Setter
Rolling over for belly scratches, loving on their owners, and showing off their shiny copper coats is what Irish Setters do best—that's why they're one of the best calm dog breeds you can adopt.
22. Great Pyrenees
Another giant fluff ball, the Great Pyrenees as independent as they come. At the dog park, you’ll find them off on their own basking in the sun. They’re a devoted family guardian with a zen-like manner. Not to mention, their lush coat will have the kids fighting over whose bed they sleep in.
23. Border Terrier
Here’s an exception to the usual hyper terrier group rule. Border Terriers aren’t as stubborn as some of their relatives, and they’re known to have a whole lot of love to give. They’re also on the smaller side so they make wonderful lap dogs.
24. Whippet
They adore their family, do well around kids, and rarely meet a stranger. Whippets are natural-born runners, but with enough exercise will gladly spend the rest of the day lounging.
25. Pekingese
Of Chinese descent, the Pekingese is one of the smaller calm dog breeds. They’re certified lap dogs with long, lavish coats. Be ready to take this pooch on your errands, as they’re rarely found without their owner.
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