These Lazy Dog Breeds Require the Least Amount of Energy
How active a dog is or isn’t may not seem like a deal-breaker when choosing a pet, but if you get a dog whose energy level doesn’t match yours or your lifestyle, it could cause problems.
Maybe your job requires you to work long hours, or you live in a small place without access to any nearby parks. You’re not going to be able to give a high-energy dog all the exercise and attention they need. So, a low-energy dog breed may be a better fit for you.
After all, "low energy" doesn’t mean no energy at all. It can mean things like a calm personality or minimal exercise requirements. All dogs need some kind of exercise daily, but a low-energy dog doesn’t need a 90-minute hike to stay healthy. These lazy dog breeds come in all shapes, sizes and temperaments, but they all have the ability to be there when you need them — especially if that’s on the couch.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds have an air about them as if to say they’ve done it all, and what they’d like is a nice nap. They may not be overly demonstrative, but they show they’re 100 percent committed to their humans when it’s important.
Basset Hounds are laid-back, gentle, and they don’t have high exercise requirements. Give your Basset Hound a daily walk with lots of opportunities to stop and smell things, and they’re good to go.
Basset Hound Summary
Temperament: Charming in a very low-key way and patient
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Bergamasco Sheepdog
These multi-colored shaggy pups are friendly and eager to please. Their fur may be eye-catching, but it’s their tolerance and kindness with children and other animals that makes them special. Whether it’s being with people or hanging out on their own, these dogs know how to enjoy their time.
They don’t need as much exercise as might be expected for a dog of this size. Daily walks of 30 minutes to an hour mixed with some active playtime works well for them.
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
While their size may make you think of a bouncer at a club, these gentle giants are big softies. Bernese Mountain dogs are the whole package with their striking good looks and their sweet personalities. Don’t be fooled, though — while they tend to be low-key, they still know how to have fun.
They don’t need a lot of exercise to be happy, but on the other hand, they’re good with joining you for a walk on the beach or a hike on a mountain trail if that’s what you’re doing.
Bernese Mountain Dog Summary
Temperament: Good-natured and calm
Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)
Weight: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is one of the most popular lazy dog breeds because of its small size and teddy bear looks. Bichons are, admittedly, playful and energetic as puppies. As they age, however, they mellow into soft, snuggly, lazy lap dogs.
They're generally friendly with kids and other dogs, but older Bichons can get snippy if handled too roughly. They adapt well to living in small spaces and they're super easy to train. The only thing to keep in mind before getting a Bichon is that they hate being left alone. If you work long hours away from the house, doggy daycare is a must.
Bichon Frise Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, gentle
Height: 9-12 inches
Weight: 11-22 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Bolognese
Bolognese dogs are companion dogs, so being with people is their life’s vocation, and they love it.They like to kick back and hang loose at home rather than take on other more active endeavors.
Bolognese dogs aren’t completely inactive, though their exercise needs are low. Since they’re small dogs and fairly low-energy, they only need two short walks of approximately 20 minutes a day.
Bolognese Summary
Temperament: Easy-going, smart, playful
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 5.5-9 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Brussels Griffon
Their bodies may run on the small side, but their personalities are huge. They want to be near you as much as possible. There’s not much that gets past a Brussels Griffon, as they’re always on the alert. They’re known to have the sensitive nature of an artist, so roughhousing or shouting will cause them anxiety.
After they’ve had some basic training to offset their more energetic side, they only need about 30 minutes of exercise a day, including playing fetch inside the house.
Brussels Griffon Summary
Temperament: Loyal, alert, curious
Height: 7-10 inches
Weight: 8-10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Bullmastiff
They’re the sweetest, most affable dog around — unless their family is threatened, then their focus becomes protecting them. Bullmastiff dogs aren’t pushovers, and if they think something is amiss or that someone is shady, they’ll be ready to react.
They’re a terrific family dog and one that doesn’t need a ton of exercise or playtime to feel content. A couple of short walks a day is fine to keep them healthy and hearty.
Bullmastiff Summary
Temperament: Brave, affectionate, loyal
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 100-130 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-9 years
Bulldog
For the most part, Bulldogs are dependable, predictable and docile unless an unfamiliar dog comes along, and then they can get aggressive. But when it’s just the Bulldog and you, don’t be surprised if they try to get into your lap — all 50 pounds of them!
Bulldogs are solidly built, squat and are known for having low exercise requirements. Since they’re a flat-faced, brachycephalic (short-headed) breed, they’re at an increased risk for respiratory problems, so be mindful that they don’t get overexerted especially in hot weather.
Bulldog Summary
Temperament: Friendly, courageous, laid-back
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The social skills of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can’t be beaten. They’re friendly, polite and peaceful with other dogs and cats. They need companionship with humans and dogs, and if left alone for too long, will whine, bark obsessively or chew whatever they can get their paws on.
They’re known for being extremely adaptable. If they have super busy or less active owners, they’re satisfied with a daily walk and a bunch of cuddles and kisses. Don’t tell anyone, but they love to be showered with love and affection.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, graceful
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-19 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested has a unique look with ears that look like pigtails, pink spotted skin, and feet and calves that look like furry socks. But it’s their affectionate and loving nature that makes them special.
Chinese Crested dogs don’t make for good jogging companions, as they only have minimal activity needs, which can be met by playing in the yard or an open room. Since they’re very intelligent, it’s easy to teach them how to fetch or catch, and they might even do well on a Flyball team.
Chinese Crested Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, lively, alert
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
Chow Chow
Chow Chows aren’t the breed you choose when you’re getting a dog for the first time. They’re an ancient breed with a dignified air. They’re clever but also obstinate and may need extra patience when it comes to socialization and training.
Chow Chows have moderate exercise needs that can be satisfied by daily walks and playing with toys, but anything high impact or too rough isn’t a good fit for them. They’re also sensitive to extreme weather, so keep them inside when it gets too hot or too cold.
Chow Chow Summary
Temperament: Serious-minded, loyal, bright
Height: 17-20 inches
Weight:45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-12 years
Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are your funny best friend but in canine form. They have an aristocratic past, as they were hunting companions of kings. They tend not to bark and make better friends than watchdogs.
Not one for roughing it, Clumber Spaniels prefer to do their sleeping indoors and get their exercise from playing fetch, running around an enclosed yard or taking a refreshing dip in the pool.
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
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Boreaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is one of the gentlest giants around. They're highly affectionate with their family members, but they do require diligent training and strong leadership.
That's not to say that French Mastiffs need to be trained with a rough approach. Instead, they need firm, consistent training to help them develop a bond of trust and respect with their owner. Owners who are up to the task will enjoy one of the most affectionate, calm and, yes, lazy dog breeds around.
Dogue de Bordeaux Summary
Temperament: Loyal, even-tempered, attentive
Height: 23-36 inches
Weight: 120-140 pounds
Life Expectancy: 5-8 years
English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel is a close cousin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They were bred to be the companions of royalty, with the personality of cuddly lapdogs in a mini, spaniel-sized package. Their snub-noses and chubby cheeks are often what attracts prospective dog owners to the breed, but their affectionate and bright personality is their real selling point.
They're easy to train and highly devoted to their favorite humans. Yes, they can be stubborn, but with consistent, loving training, they melt into the best, laziest lapdogs ever.
English Toy Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, reserved
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 8-14 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
French Bulldog
One of the most popular small dog breeds, the French Bulldog is a chill pup that can fit in your lap and be perfectly happy. They don’t feel the need to bark to get their way, for they’re charming, bright and amusing to anyone who has the privilege to know them.
These lazy dog breeds don’t need much outdoor exercise either, and the exercise they do get should be monitored to make sure they don’t get overheated or overexerted.
French Bulldog Summary
Temperament: Playful, charming, smart
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: Under 28 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Golden Retriever
Few breeds are as beloved as the golden retriever. They first appeared in the records of gamekeepers in the 1830s, when the breed's development was tracked. Goldens were bred to be gaming dogs, but their people-pleasing, affectionate personalities turned them into one of America's favorite family dogs.
While goldens are a large, active breed, they function better in small spaces than most large breeds. They have endless energy as puppies, but they become well-mannered and mellow as they mature.
Golden Retriever Summary
Temperament: Reliable, friendly, gentle
Height: 20-24 inches
Weight: 55-75 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Great Dane
They may look intimidating as they are one of the largest dog breeds, but they’re also one of the sweetest. They’re good with kids, and they make an excellent family dog if you can accommodate their large appetites and need for space.
They have minimal exercise requirements, especially once they begin to age. Besides walking, activities such as playing games, going to the dog park, short hikes, swimming and agility sports help keep them mentally and physically fit.
Great Dane Summary
Temperament: Friendly, patient, dependable
Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)
Weight: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Great Pyrenees
While they used to guard sheep against wolves and other predators, these days, the Pyr is happy just to kick back at home and hang out with the fam. This isn’t to say that they’re not still protecting their people — they are, just in a more laid-back way.
Great Pyrenees only need about 20 or 30 minutes of exercise per day to keep them fit, and that’s not a lot when you consider their size.
Great Pyrenees Summary
Temperament: Smart, patient, calm
Height: 27-32 inches (male), 25-29 inches (female)
Weight: 100 pounds & up (male), 85 pounds & up (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Greyhound
The Greyhound’s perfect day is when they spend most of their time indoors lounging with their owner or knowing that their person is in the house with them. Greyhounds don’t do well being left alone, so make sure you block out some time in your schedule to snuggle with them.
You may be asking yourself how a greyhound could be on a list of low-energy dogs. The surprising fact is that, while they run fast, they run in short bursts. They do need about an hour of exercise a day, but that can be running around in the backyard.
Greyhound Summary
Temperament: Noble, gentle, independent
Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)
Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Irish Wolfhound
Serene and amiable aren’t words usually used to describe dogs, but they fit Irish Wolfhounds. These big guys may remind you of a kind grandparent or favorite family member who’s always there when you need them. These dogs thrive being around people to the extent they’ll suffer from separation anxiety if left too much on their own.
They don’t have excessive exercise requirements; they only need to exercise approximately 40 minutes a day and room to stretch out.
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
Japanese Chin
We know that there are self-described dog people who, when getting a cat for the first time, look for a cat with doglike qualities, so there must be cat people who look for catlike dogs. The Japanese Chin is one of those dogs, as they love sitting in laps just like a cat.
These lazy dogs would much rather have cuddles than lots of extensive daily walks, especially since they don’t do well in hot weather. However, they can keep up if you want to take them out for a small adventure.
Japanese Chin Summary
Temperament: Charming, noble, loving
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 7-11 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Leonberger
It might seem strange for a dog in the working class to be called a lazy dog breed, but the Leonberger can actually become quite the couch potato.
The Leonberger's first defining characteristic is its massive size. The average Leonberger dog weighs as much as an average person, but their size is nothing to be scared of. Leonbergers are known for being extraordinarily patient and gentle, so they're excellent candidates for families with kids.
The only downsides? They shed like mad, and they have a relatively short life expectancy. If you're OK with loving a big, furry goofball for just a few years, the Leonberger is worth considering.
Leonberger Summary
Temperament: Loyal, obedient, loving
Height: 26-31 inches
Weight: 90-160 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-9 years
Lhasa Apso
While Lhasa Apsos keep their family entertained with their antics, they can be somewhat aloof and cold to strangers. They’re also not super tolerant of children either. It takes a special person to unlock the loving, playful and humorous side of them.
Since they’re very adaptable, they don’t need a strict regime of long, multiple walks, but if you want to take them on an extended walk on occasion, that’s OK, too.
Lhasa Apso Summary
Temperament: Confident, smart, funny
Height:10-11 (male), and the female is slightly smaller
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Mastiff
As physically imposing as these dogs are with their big-boned and heavy bodies, they tend to have docile, loyal and loving personalities, as long as no one is threatening the safety of their family.
These dogs may be enormous, but they’re not known for having exhausting exercise requirements or much endurance.
Mastiff Summary
Temperament: Courageous, dignified, good-Natured
Height: 30 inches & up (male), 27.5 & up (female)
Weight: 160-230 pounds (male), 120-170 (female)
Life Expectancy: 6-10 years
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff teaches us once again not to judge something or someone by the way they look. Their appearance is intimidating, which is why they’ve been a guard dog since Roman times. However, their favorite thing to do isn’t attacking but cuddling with their family.
Their exercise needs are low for a big dog — one short walk, fast or slow-moving every day, is good for them.
Neapolitan Mastiff Summary
Temperament: Loyal, dignified, watchful
Height: 26-31 inches (male), 24-29 inches (female)
Weight: 150 pounds (male), 110 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-9 years
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for being great nannies for children because of their sweet temperament and patient personality. An example of a Newfoundland’s talent for watching children is Nana, the beloved guardian dog from “Peter Pan.”
If it were up to them, a Newfoundland would be quite content chilling at home. However, they do need a daily walk or occasional swim to keep them in tip-top shape.
Newfoundland Summary
Temperament: Sweet, patient, devoted
Height: 28 inches (male), 26 inches (female)
Weight: 130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are devoted to their family, but they aren’t clingy or overly dependent. They can be stubborn, and while they won’t start a conflict, they won’t walk away from one either. They can be playful with adults but don’t enjoy rough games with children.
Exercise isn’t a Pekingese dog’s thing — they tend to be fairly low-energy and adapt well to living in smaller spaces such as apartments or tiny houses. On occasion, they’ll enjoy a low-key walk around the neighborhood, as long as the weather is mild and they don’t overexert themselves.
Pekingese Summary
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, regal
Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: Up to 14 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Pug
Pugs have very expressive faces, and you can learn a lot about one just from the expressions they make. People who have Pugs say that they’re the perfect house dog, as they get along with almost everybody and are happy wherever their food, water and people are.
Pugs are playful but not known for having a high exercise requirement. However, like most dogs, they do need a daily walk in pleasant weather or some playtime in the backyard.
Pug Summary
Temperament: Charming, mischievous, loving
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are wonderful companions as they’re loyal, easy-going and gentle. The only drawback to owning a Saint Bernard is that they’re huge, slobbering, droolers. If you can get past their waterworks, you’ll have one of the most beloved dogs around.
Their physical needs are moderate — they enjoy a daily walk or playtime in the yard. Since they’re prone to heat stroke and heat exhaustion, it’s best to exercise them in the coolest parts of the day. Hot weather really isn’t their friend.
Saint Bernard Summary
Temperament: Playful, inquisitive, affectionate
Height: 28-30 inches (male), 26-28 inches (female)
Weight: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Scottish Deerhound.
If you want a dog that stands out from the crowd, the Scottish Deerhound fits the bill. A large Scottish Deerhound is about as tall as a kindergartener, standing up to 32 inches at the shoulder.
They're reserved and noble in both appearance and personality, resembling a massive, furry greyhound. They're happy to lounge around for most of the day, and they're affectionate and friendly. That said, they're so laidback that training them can be a challenge.
Not because they're too stubborn to listen, but because they're too lazy to care. With a little encouragement and a treat or two, however, they'll happily play along.
Scottish Deerhound Summary
Temperament: Friendly, gentle, dignified
Height: 30-32 inches
Weight: 85-110 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-11 years
Shih Tzu
The petite shih tzu is one of the original lap dogs. Its long, flowing coat requires a lot of TLC, and the rest of the pampered pup does, too. Shih tzus thrive with lots of attention, and they tend to get spoiled if doting affection isn't balanced with obedience training.
Shih tzus like walks, but they're no athletes. Instead of going on hikes, they strongly prefer to lounge around on top of their favorite person for a movie marathon.
Shih Tzu Summary
Temperament: Loyal, friendly, intelligent
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-16 years
Skye Terrier
These long-haired, low-energy pups are all about pleasing their humans. Grooming is important with the Skye Terrier, and they do need to be brushed daily, but you can do that by relaxing on the couch together watching your favorite dog movies.
For both energy levels and activity needs, the Skye Terrier rates three out of five stars. Although they have a moderate exercise level and are quiet indoors, they do need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Skye Terrier Summary
Temperament: Courageous, good attitude, ingenious
Height: 10 inches (male), 9.5 inches (female)
Weight: 35-45 pounds for males and slightly lighter for females
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel looks like a cross between a dachshund and a Brittany spaniel. Their lush, chocolate brown fur almost hits the floor, as their short legs are only a few inches long.
They're cheerful in personality and crave attention 24/7. As long as you're home a lot, Sussex Spaniels are perfect lazy dogs for apartment living and other small spaces.
Sussex Spaniel Summary
Temperament: Social, friendly, loving
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 35-45 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
West Highland White Terrier
Westies depart slightly from the typical lazy-dog profile. They tend to be quiet, confident and independent, but they're simultaneously very affectionate and outgoing.
While they prefer more exercise than some lazy dog breeds, they make great companions and calm down with age. They can easily learn tricks with proper training, and their independent nature makes them an excellent choice for dog owners who have to leave the house for work.
West Highland White Terrier Summary
Temperament: Friendly, alert, hardy
Height: 9-12 inches
Weight: 13-22 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, better known as the Xolo or Mexican hairless dog, is a whole different lazy dog breed beast. The Xolo has very little hair to protect its skin, so it needs sunscreen applied before every walk! They can also develop acne, and unlike other dogs, the Xolo sweats just like people do.
If you can get used to the extra skincare requirements, Xolo's have a lot of advantages as a breed. They don't shed, so they're great for people with allergies. They're also even-tempered and love to cuddle. They make superb lazy dog companions as long as you don't live in a cold climate; if you do, make sure to bundle them up with a warm sweater in winter months!
Xoloitzcuintli Summary
Temperament: Intelligent, alert, cheerful
Height: 18-23 inches
Weight: 30-50 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
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