Calmest Dog Breeds Guaranteed to Make You Calmer
If you like spending time with calm, collected people, you’ll probably want the same from your dog. Just like people, every dog has its own personality. But certain breeds are definitely safer bets than others if you’re looking for a placid dog.
A big part of what sets one dog breed apart from the others is its temperament or personality. Generally, a dog with a calm personality can be expected to stay composed under certain circumstances, responding to potentially stressful situations without charging or growling. Calm dog breeds are also widely considered to make great therapy dogs and get on well with children.
These chill dog breeds have all the potential to be a calming character in your life.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The American Kennel Club says the sweet-faced, sweet-natured Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the calmest dog breeds. In fact, it’s so gentle, it makes a great therapy dog and is perfect for families with young children or people who need emotional support.
While the Cav enjoys being active, they will also relish curling up on your lap whenever you need some downtime.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Graceful
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
* All breed information is sourced from theAmerican Kennel Club.
Irish Setter
Although the Irish Setter may bark when alarmed, it’s generally a quiet, good-natured breed.
It may have a stubborn streak, but it’s also a calming influence in any home, with a lovable personality that’s always eager to please.
Irish Setter Summary
Temperament: Courageous, Spirited, Determined
Height: 24.5-26 inches (male), 22.5-24 inches (female)
Weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Maltese
If you’re looking for a calm dog breed that’s fairly low maintenance, the little Maltese won’t disappoint. It needs minimal exercise (a short daily walk will suffice) and loves nothing more than snuggling with its owner.
It’s important to note that the Maltese is prone to separation anxiety, so it may get stressed if left alone for long periods of time. But if you have enough time for it, it will repay you with endless love and affection.
Maltese Summary
Temperament: Sweet, Playful, Adaptable
Height: 7-9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Leonberger
Don’t be put off by a large dog — sometimes the calmest canines come in big packages. Take the Leonberger, for instance. Although it can weigh up to 200 pounds, it has a soft heart and will be devoted to its human family.
The Leonberger is also even-tempered, easy to train and protective of its owners.
Leonberger Summary
Temperament: Friendly, Gentle, Playful
Height: 28-31.5 inches (male), 25.5-29.5 inches (female)
Weight: 110-170 pounds (male), 90-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9 years
Akita
Another breed that’s imposing in stature, the Akita is a peaceful presence in the home. In fact, this naturally silent dog is so unlikely to bark, you know something’s wrong when it does!
The American Kennel Club says the Akita thrives on human companionship, and although it can be wary of strangers, it has an endearing silly side that comes out with those it loves and trusts.
Akita Summary
Temperament: Courageous, Dignified, Loyal
Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 100-130 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Greyhound
Although it’s best known for its racing ability, the Greyhound has a truly sweet, gentle nature. It’s no surprise the breed has enthralled artists, poets and kinds for thousands of years.
Although the Greyhound needs regular exercise, it’s equally happy to relax at home for hours on end.
Greyhound Summary
Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Noble
Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)
Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Sussex Spaniel
Spaniels aren’t known for being particularly calm, but the Sussex is probably the calmest of the lot.
It does have a tendency to be pretty vocal, barking and howling when it has something to say. Nonetheless, it’s calm and placid on the inside.
Sussex Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Friendly, Merry, Even-tempered
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 35-45 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Another quiet breed is the Rhodesian Ridgeback, which seldom barks — and it often doesn’t snore either, which is a plus if you’re looking for a dog that won’t disturb your nighttime calm.
However, it doesn’t have a strong prey drive and can be domineering, so a firm hand is required to guide it from puppyhood.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Dignified, Even-tempered
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: Around 10 years
Boerboel
The bulky Boerboel is known for being calm with children and is a loyal, confident, intelligent breed that makes an extremely rewarding pet for the owner who is dedicated to early socialization and training.
Above all else, the Boerboel is a devoted companion and protector, always keen to spend time with its human family.
Boerboel Summary
Temperament: Confident, Intelligent, Calm
Height: 24-27 inches (male), 22-25 inches (female)
Weight: 150-200 pounds
Life Expectancy: 9-11 years
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is often referred to as the gentle giant, and it’s as calm and patient as it is gentle. Like many large dog breeds, it's particularly good with children.
According to the Newfie breed standard, a sweet temperament is the “most important single characteristic of the breed.”
Newfoundland Summary
Temperament: Patient, Noble, Trusting
Height: 28 inches (male), 26 inches (female)
Weight: 130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
Borzoi
The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is an aristocratic breed with a well-deserved reputation for being exceptionally calm and gentle. This makes it an excellent family dog.
Aside from its agreeable nature, the Borzoi is a sight to behold — large and elegant with a silky coat.
Borzoi Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Dignified
Height: 28 inches-plus (male), 26 inches-plus (female)
Weight: 75-105 pounds (male), 60-85 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9-14 years
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Hundreds of years ago, the Bergamasco Sheepdog was used to guide people across the rocky ground of the Italian Alps. This breed is every bit as bright, loyal and protective as it was then, and it’s also a solid choice for prospective owners seeking a calm pooch.
The Bergamasco is also fairly low maintenance, as it’s quick to train and requires little grooming.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Summary
Temperament: Independent, Sociable, Intelligent
Height: 23.5 inches (male), 22 inches (female)
Weight: 70-84 pounds (male), 57-71 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Collie
Arguably the most famous on-screen dog in history, Lassie put the Collie on the map. And while most Collies might not be as smart as Lassie, there’s no doubt that this breed is loyal, dignified and strong of character.
It’s also known to be good with children and is generally a calm, quiet addition to the home.
Collie Summary
Temperament: Devoted, Graceful, Proud
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)
Weight: 60-75 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels, aka Tibbies, were originally bred to be devoted watchdogs for Buddhist monks. Over the centuries, they’ve become known — and loved – for their calm temperament.
But they have many more appealing traits — independence, intelligence, playfulness and a willingness to please.
Tibetan Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Playful, Bright, Self-confident
Height: 10 inches
Weight: 9-15 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Irish Wolfhound
When large British dogs were bred with Middle Eastern hounds, the huge Irish Wolfhound was born. The breed is incredibly intelligent, quick to learn and very sensitive to its owners emotions and needs.
These traits, together with its calm nature, make it ideal as a therapy dog in a range of settings.
Irish Wolfhound Summary
Temperament: Courageous, Dignified, Calm
Height: 32 inches minimum (male), 30 inches minimum (female)
Weight: 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 6-8 years
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the calmest small dog breeds — a sweet, gentle dog that can be found by its owner’s side (or on their lap) at all times. Although it’s small, the breed standard is large-boned and muscular, making it an option for households with small children.
But whatever form its human family takes, the Shih Tzu will be an unfailingly devoted companion.
Shih Tzu Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing
Height: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound can be tricky to train due to its independent nature, so large doses of persistence and patience are needed. But training can lead to a wonderfully loyal relationship, and once trained, this breed can be a loyal, lovable pet.
Calm and quiet at heart, it’s likely to be found wherever you are — or snoozing on the sofa.
Basset Hound Summary
Temperament: Charming, Patient, Low-key
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Whippet
A cousin of the Greyhound, the sleek, graceful Whippet brings a sense of calm to its abode. This breed doesn’t typically make much noise at all — although it may bark during particularly excited playtimes or if left home alone for too long.
One of the Whippet’s defining characteristics is its calm nature. This is undoubtedly one gentle soul.
Whippet Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Calm
Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 25-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Japanese Chin
The tiny Japanese Chin has acquired the nickname “velcro dog” because it rarely strays from its owner’s heels. Devoted and sensitive, it’s one of the most emotionally astute breeds, which gives it an appealing air of serenity.
The Chin is also a friendly breed, although young children will need to be supervised due to their canine companion’s small stature.
Japanese Chin Summary
Temperament: Charming, Noble, Loving
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 7-11 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
French Bulldog
Hugely popular with modern dog lovers, the French Bulldog has a long history dating back to the mid-1800s. When small Bulldogs were bred with Pugs and Terriers, the Frenchie was born.
It’s an infrequent barker and has a calm demeanor that makes spending time with it a pleasure. As with all breeds, some Frenchies are real extroverts, meaning training is a must.
French Bulldog Summary
Temperament: Adaptable, Playful, Smart
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: under 28 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
English Bulldog
Despite its solid build and grouchy expression, the English Bulldog has a soft center. It might not look friendly, but it’s actually a placid, calm companion that never turns down the chance to have a cuddle.
It’s far from a lapdog, but it will try its hardest to climb into your lap for affection at every given opportunity.
English Bulldog Summary
Temperament: Friendly, Courageous, Calm
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Bolognese
A fairly rare breed in the U.S., the Italian-born Bolognese is believed to share genes with the Maltese, Bichon Frise and Coton de Tulear. It has a calm, laid-back personality and is also considerably less yappy than many other small breeds.
This companion breed is faithful, playful and easygoing — a true people-pleaser.
Bolognese Summary
Temperament: Playful, Easygoing, Devoted
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 5.5-9 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a quiet breed that rarely barks — if it does, that’s a sign something is wrong. Described by the American Kennel Club as a “one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog,” the Shar Pei is serene and supremely loyal to its human family.
However, it doesn’t take kindly to strangers it perceives as a threat, so early, consistent training and socialization are crucial.
Chinese Shar-Pei Summary
Temperament: Loyal, Independent, Calm
Height: 18-20 inches
Weight: 45-60 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-12 years
Glen of Imaal Terrier
You’ll barely hear a sound from a Glen of Imaal Terrier. This ultra-quiet, gentle pup was bred to be quiet while hunting, and they’ve basically remained silent ever since.
However, it’s still a terrier, so that inane high spirit and bravery is part of the territory.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Summary
Temperament: Gentle, Spirited, Bold
Height: 12.5-14 inches
Weight: 32-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Clumber Spaniel
As far as Sporting group breeds go, the Clumber Spaniel is one of the calmest. A reliable breed, the Clumber is thoughtful and affectionate as well as being 100 percent committed to every task it’s given.
It’s a heavy shedder and habitual drooler, but if you can cope with that, you have a sweet, smart, easygoing pet by your side.
Clumber Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Mellow, Amusing, Gentlemanly
Height: 18-20 inches (male), 17-19 inches (female)
Weight: 70-85 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees was originally bred to identify sheep-stealing wolves and other predators, which makes it watchful and protective.
However, it has a mellow nature. According to the American Kennel Club, it exhibits a “zen-like calm.”
Great Pyrenees Summary
Temperament: Smart, Patient, Calm
Height: 27-32 inches (male), 25-29 inches (female)
Weight: 100 pounds-plus (male), 85 pounds-plus (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Pekingese
It’s unlikely that the Pekingese was bred by Buddha, but the rumor in itself is enough to bestow a sense of calm wherever it calls home. The centuries-old breed is charismatic, outgoing and very loving.
It likes to build a strong bond with its owner, but it might be best suited to a home without children (although it will adapt to any family setup).
Pekingese Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Sophisticated
Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: up to 14 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Saluki
Another quiet dog breed is the Saluki, which makes sense when you know it’s related to the Greyhound. As dignified in nature as it is in appearance, the Saluki is a true gentleman (or lady).
And if you love a good chase, it will happily oblige — just don’t expect to catch it!
Saluki Summary
Temperament: Gentle, Dignified, Independent-minded
Height: 23-28 inches (male), considerably smaller (female)
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-17 years
Saint Bernard
The large, lumbering Saint Bernard has a gentle disposition that belies its size. This big-hearted breed is quick to train, obedient and friendly, and loves being with its owners more than anything else.
If you give it the time and affection it needs, it will give it back to you, ten-fold. The Saint is patient with kids, but some training is advisable simply due to its size.
Saint Bernard Summary
Temperament: Playful, Charming, Inquisitive
Height: 28-30 inches (males), 26-28 inches (female)
Weight: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Basenji
Africa’s “backless dog,” the Basenji is compact and sweet, with unlimited intelligence and grace.
Its tendency to make very little noise isn’t its only intriguing quality — it’s also big on personal hygiene and is known for grooming itself like a cat.
Basenji Summary
Temperament: Independent, Composed, Inquisitive
Height: 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female)
Weight: 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 13-14 years
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a fairly easy breed in general. It doesn’t drool, dig or snore, and it doesn’t even bark all that much.
This faithful, sensitive, somewhat aloof breed is agile and powerful under that famous flowing coat.
Afghan Hound Summary
Temperament: Dignified, Loyal, Aristocratic
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 50-60 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Great Dane
Although its size may intimidate a small child (it towers over most other breeds), the Great Dane is a safe bet as a family pet. Personality wise, it’s friendly, dependable and calm.
This people-pleaser wants to make friends wherever it goes, and there aren’t many who can resist its gentle charms.
Great Dane Summary
Temperament: Friendly, Reliable, Patient
Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)
Weight: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Scottish Deerhound
Another super-tall dog breed, the majestic Scottish Deerhound loves to run in the great outdoors — which is no surprise, considering it was bred to stalk deer. But once the chase is over and it moves indoors, it’s calm and laid back.
An interesting blend of independent and deeply sensitive, the Deerhound is guaranteed to keep its owner on their toes. It’s not a low-maintenance breed, requiring a moderate amount of daily exercise and regular brushing or combing, but the rewards more than make up for the effort.
Scottish Deerhound Summary
Temperament: Gentle, Dignified, Polite
Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28 inches-plus (female)
Weight: 85-110 pounds (male), 75-95 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-11 years
Border Terrier
Terrier breeds don’t exactly have a reputation for being mellow, but as long as it gets adequate mental and physical stimulation, the Border Terrier’s calm, easy-going nature will shine through.
Tough and up for anything when working, at home, it’s loving and even-tempered.
Border Terrier Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, Happy, Plucky
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 13-15.5 pounds (male), 11.5-14 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Xoloitzcuintli
One of the world’s oldest and rarest dog breeds, the Mexican Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the “Xolo,” is typically calm and tranquil — but also alert. Like some other breeds, its calm side comes out at home, while it enjoys playtime and long walks when outdoors.
It comes in three sizes — toy, miniature and standard — but regardless of its size, you can rely on it to be a serene companion.
Xoloitzcuintli Summary
Temperament: Loyal, Alert, Calm
Height: 10-14 inches (toy), 14-18 inches (miniature), 18-23 inches (standard)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (toy), 15-30 pounds (miniature), 30-55 pounds (standard)
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years