Not every dog owner is looking for an energetic pup that needs constant activity. For those with a more relaxed lifestyle, low energy dog breeds can be the perfect fit. These dogs are known for their calm and laid-back personalities, needing less exercise and attention than more active breeds. Whether you live in an apartment, have a busy schedule, or just enjoy a more peaceful pace of life, a low energy dog might be the ideal companion.
What Are Low Energy Dog Breeds?
Low energy dog breeds are dogs that are naturally more relaxed and calm. They don't require hours of exercise or mental stimulation each day, making them perfect for people who want a more calm and relaxed pet. However, it's important to note that low energy doesn't mean no energy. These dogs still need regular walks and playtime, but they are generally content with shorter and less frequent activity.
Let’s dive into some of the most popular low energy dog breeds and what makes them special.
1. Bulldog
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| Bulldog |
Bulldogs are one of the most iconic low energy dog breeds. Known for their wrinkled faces and stocky builds, Bulldogs are calm, friendly, and love to lounge around. They are perfect for apartment living or homes with a small yard, as they don’t need much space to be happy.
Key traits:
- Size: Medium (40-50 pounds)
- Temperament: Friendly, stubborn, and calm
- Best suited for: Families, apartment dwellers, and those who want a low-maintenance pet
Why they’re great: Bulldogs are incredibly affectionate and make a good companions for people of all ages. They enjoy short walks but are also content to nap for most of the day. Their calm nature makes them great for homes with children or other pets.
2. Basset Hound
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| Basset Hound |
Basset Hounds are known for their long ears, droopy eyes, and slow pace. These dogs are incredibly calm and love to relax with their families. Basset Hounds are happy with a few short walks each day and enjoy spending the rest of their time resting around.
Key traits:
- Size: Medium (40-65 pounds)
- Temperament: Gentle, loyal, and calm
- Best suited for: Families or individuals who want a dog that is easy to care for
Why they’re great: Basset Hounds are calm, loving dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They are great for people who prefer a quieter home, and their low exercise needs make them ideal for those with limited time for long walks.
3. Shih Tzu
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| Shih tzu |
Shih Tzus are small, fluffy dogs that are known for their friendly and easygoing nature. They are great for apartment living and don’t require a lot of exercise. A few short walks and some playtime indoors are usually enough to keep a Shih Tzu happy.
Key traits:
- Size: Small (9-16 pounds)
- Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, and calm
- Best suited for: Apartment dwellers or those looking for a small, low-energy companion with an easy going nature.
Why they’re great: Shih Tzus are wonderful companions for people of all ages. They are affectionate and love to cuddle, making them perfect for individuals or families looking for a loving pet that doesn’t need constant activity.
4. Chow Chow
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| Chow Chow |
Chow Chows are known for their lion-like appearance and independent nature. These dogs are calm, quiet, and often prefer to spend their time relaxing rather than running around. Chow Chows are also known for being loyal and protective, making them great watchdogs in time of danger.
Key traits:
- Size: Medium to large (40-70 pounds)
- Temperament: Independent, calm, and loyal
- Best suited for: Experienced dog owners who want a quiet, low-energy pet
Why they’re great: Chow Chows are perfect for people who want a dog that is happy to relax at home. They are independent and don’t require constant attention or exercise. Their calm nature makes them ideal for quiet households.
5. Great Dane
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| Great Dane |
Despite their massive size, Great Danes are still part of low-energy dogs. These gentle giants are calm, patient, and love to lounge around the house. While they do need regular walks due to their size, they are generally low-maintenance when it comes to exercise.
Key traits:
- Size: Giant (100-200 pounds)
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and affectionate
- Best suited for: Families with enough space for a large but low-energy dog
Why they’re great: Great Danes are affectionate and gentle, making them great family pets. They don’t require as much exercise as you might expect from such a large dog, and their calm demeanor makes them perfect for people who want a big but relaxed companion.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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| Cavalier king Charles spaniel |
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, affectionate dogs that love to be with their owners. They can easily adapt and can be both active and calm, depending on their environment. While they enjoy walks and playtime, they are also happy to relax on the couch with their owners.
Key traits:
- Size: Small (13-18 pounds)
- Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and calm
- Best suited for: Families, individuals, or seniors looking for a small, loving companion
Why they’re great: These dogs are easygoing and adapt well to different lifestyles. They enjoy short walks but are also content to relax indoors. Their friendly and affectionate nature makes them great for families or individuals who want a low-maintenance but loving dog.
7. Mastiff
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| Mastiff |
Mastiffs are large, powerful dogs with a calm and laid-back temperament. Despite their size, they are known for being gentle giants. Mastiffs don’t require a lot of exercise and are happy with a couple of short walks each day.
Key traits:
- Size: Giant (120-230 pounds)
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and protective
- Best suited for: Families with enough space for a large, low-energy dog
Why they’re great: Mastiffs are very loyal and protective of their families. They don’t need a lot of activity and are content to relax at home. Their calm nature and low exercise needs make them ideal for people who want a big, loving companion without the need for constant activity.
8. Pekingese
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| Pekingese |
Pekingese are small dogs with a royal history. They were originally bred as companion animals for Chinese royalty, and they still carry themselves with a dignified and calm demeanor. Pekingese don’t need much exercise and are happy to relax at home with their owners.
Key traits:
- Size: Small (7-14 pounds)
- Temperament: Independent, calm, and affectionate
- Best suited for: Apartment dwellers or individuals who want a low-maintenance pet
Why they’re great: Pekingese are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners, but they are also independent and don’t require constant attention. Their calm and relaxed lifestyle makes them great for people who want a small dog that is easy to care for.
9. Greyhound
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| Greyhound |
Greyhounds might seem like an unlikely candidate for a low energy dog breed, given their speed and racing history. However, Greyhounds are often referred to as "couch potatoes" because they love to relax. While they enjoy short bursts of energy, they are content to sleep for most of the day.
Key traits:
- Size: Large (60-70 pounds)
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and friendly
- Best suited for: Families or individuals who want a large but low-energy dog
Why they’re great: Greyhounds are gentle and friendly dogs that don’t require much exercise despite their athletic ability. They enjoy a good sprint but are happy to relax at home for the rest of the day. Their calm and laid-back nature makes them perfect for people who want a large dog that doesn’t need constant activity.
How to Care for Low Energy Dogs
Even though low energy dogs don’t require as much exercise to be satisfied, they still need daily walks and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Regular short walks and interactive toys can help keep your low energy dog engaged without over-exercising them.
Here are a few tips for caring for low energy dogs:
- Daily walks: Even low energy dogs need some exercise. Short, easy walks are usually enough to keep them happy.
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys can help keep your dog’s mind engaged without requiring too much physical activity.
- Quality time: Low energy dogs often enjoy cuddling and spending time with their owners. Be sure to give them plenty of attention and affection which helps to create a bond between the owner and the dog.
- Grooming: Many low energy dog breeds, like the Bulldog and Shih Tzu, require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy.
Which Low Energy Dog Breed Is Right for You?
Choosing a low energy dog can be a great decision if you have a relaxed lifestyle or live in a smaller space. Whether you’re looking for a small, affectionate companion like the Shih Tzu or a gentle giant like the Mastiff, there’s a low energy dog breed for every family.
Which low energy dog breed do you think would be the perfect fit for your home? Have you owned a low energy dog before? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below—we will love to hear from you!
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