Not every dog needs constant adventure, miles of running, or endless playtime. For many pet parents, the ideal companion is one who is content to snooze on the couch, enjoys short walks, and thrives in a calm household. These lazy dog breeds are often referred to as “couch potatoes” because they prefer relaxing with their owners to engaging in nonstop activity.
While every dog has its own personality, some dog breeds are primarily known for their laid-back, easygoing nature.
Every dog is an individual, but here we explore some of the breeds considered to be the laziest, their personalities, and what makes them perfect for those seeking a low-energy dog. Whether you live in an apartment, want a lap dog, or prefer one of the gentle giants, you’ll find a breed to match your lifestyle.
Why Do Lazy Dog Breeds Appeal to Some Pet Parents?
Life today can be busy, and not everyone has time for several hours of hiking or running each day. For many dog owners, breeds with low exercise needs make wonderful companions. A daily walk, mental enrichment, and occasional play sessions are usually enough to keep these pups healthy.
In addition to being more low-maintenance, these dogs are ideal for apartment living, older adults, or first-time owners who might not be ready for the demands of a high-energy working breed.
However, “lazy” doesn’t mean neglect. Even the most couch-potato pup still requires regular exercise and attention to prevent obesity and keep their mind sharp.
What are the Characteristics of the Laziest Dog Breeds?
Lazy dog breeds typically share a few traits:
- Low energy levels: They are content with short walks or gentle play sessions.
- Calm demeanor: They enjoy lounging, snoozing, and snuggling more than chasing balls for hours.
- Affectionate nature: Many are loyal companions and thrive as lap dogs.
- Low-maintenance care: Some breeds need less grooming and activity compared to others.
Still, “lazy” varies depending on size, age, and health. A large dog like a Great Dane might seem relaxed, but still needs a fair amount of daily exercise to stay healthy.
Are There Lazy Dog Breeds for Every Lifestyle?
Below are some of the best-known docile dog breeds recognized by the AKC as calm dog breeds and beloved by pet parents everywhere.
Basset Hound
Few dogs embody the word couch potato like the Basset Hound. With droopy ears and soulful eyes, these dogs are famously laid-back and adore lounging. They are content with short walks but can be surprisingly stubborn if they catch a scent. Basset Hounds are a great choice for families seeking a low-maintenance companion.
Pug
The charming Pug is a small, flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed that loves people as much as it loves snoozing. Known for their clownish personalities, pugs are among the best dog breeds for apartment living. Because they tire quickly, they don’t require a lot of exercise; however, regular walks help prevent obesity.
English Bulldog
When it comes to lazy dog breeds, the English Bulldog is a classic. These stocky, wrinkled dogs are gentle, calm, and loyal. They’re also brachycephalic, which makes strenuous activity risky. Instead, they thrive on short walks and long nap sessions. Bulldogs are especially appealing for first-time owners.
French Bulldog (Frenchies)
Like their larger cousins, French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, are among the best dog breeds for apartment living. They require little physical activity beyond regular walks, and their compact size makes them perfect lap dogs. Their quirky personalities and affectionate nature make them a favorite among dog owners.
Great Dane
Despite their towering height, Great Danes are known as gentle giants. They’re calm, affectionate, and often more interested in leaning against their owner than running around. While their exercise needs include daily walks, they don’t require nearly as much as many other large dog breeds. Their laid-back nature makes them surprisingly good for apartment living, as long as space is manageable.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant, affectionate and fluffy, who loves being with his family. They enjoy regular walks but are not particularly demanding in terms of physical activity. Their easygoing personalities and love of snuggling make them a popular family companion, though they do shed heavily.
Newfoundland (Newfie)
Another of the gentle giants, the Newfoundland, or Newfie, is famous for their sweet, laid-back temperament. Despite their size, they’re a low-energy dog compared to retrievers or other high-energy working breeds. Newfies are devoted family dogs who thrive on moderate daily exercise and lots of affection.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is another classic, gentle giant with a relaxed attitude. These dogs were once guard dogs and rescue animals in the Swiss Alps, but at home, they’re calm, loving, and happy to lounge. Their exercise needs are minimal; short walks and play sessions are usually enough.
Bullmastiff
Originally bred as a guard dog, the Bullmastiff has an impressively calm and steady temperament. They are content with a daily walk and are known to be very affectionate with their families. This breed’s low-maintenance lifestyle appeals to many pet parents looking for a protective yet easygoing companion.
Greyhound
Surprisingly, Greyhounds, known for their racing abilities, are actually one of the laziest dog breeds at home. After short bursts of speed, they are more than happy to curl up on the couch for hours. Their low-energy personalities (outside of sprinting) make them perfect for apartment living. Regular walks are still necessary, but they don’t require a lot of physical exertion.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a classic lap dog, bred for royalty and companionship. These small breeds are playful but don’t require high levels of exercise. A daily walk and time spent snoozing by their owner’s side keep them happy. Their sweet, laid-back nature makes them one of the best dog breeds for families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This elegant breed is affectionate, loyal, and makes an excellent lap dog. While Cavaliers enjoy play sessions, they are equally satisfied curling up for cuddles. Their easygoing personality makes them great for first-time owners or those in smaller spaces.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dignified, independent breed with relatively low energy levels. While they still require regular exercise, they don’t demand constant attention or excessive exercise. Their calm nature makes them a more low-maintenance choice for experienced dog owners.
Pekingese
Once bred as companions for Chinese nobility, the Pekingese is a classic lap dog with a strong personality. These small dog breeds enjoy lounging and require minimal daily exercise. Their long coats require grooming, but their low-energy personalities make them well-suited to apartment living.
Maltese
The Maltese is another small dog that thrives as a companion. Playful yet laid-back, this breed enjoys snuggling and relaxing with their humans. They do well with short walks and are ideal for people looking for a low-maintenance pup that’s also affectionate.
Havanese
The Havanese is a cheerful and adaptable breed, thriving in both family settings and with individuals. Although playful, their energy levels are lower than those of many small breeds, making them excellent lap dogs. They’re among the best dog breeds for apartment living due to their modest exercise needs.
How Do You Balance Relaxation with Responsibility?
Even the laziest dog breeds require daily exercise, mental stimulation, and proper nutrition. Pet parents should avoid mistaking “lazy” for “no care required.” A low-energy dog still needs:
- Regular walks for health and bonding
- Play sessions to prevent boredom
- A watchful eye on obesity, especially in brachycephalic breeds
- Grooming routines, which vary from short-haired breeds to long-coated dogs like the Shih Tzu or Maltese
Some breeds, particularly flat-faced dogs like the pug, English Bulldog, or French Bulldog, need careful attention to prevent breathing problems.
What are the Requirements for Lazy Dog Breeds vs. High-Energy Breeds?
Compared to retrievers, herding dogs, or terriers, the breeds listed above require far less physical activity. High-energy breeds demand constant regular exercise, intense play sessions, and thrive with a job or task.
For many dog owners, such breeds can be overwhelming without the right time and space. Lazy breeds, on the other hand, adapt better to apartment living and busy lifestyles. That said, even the calmest breeds benefit from consistent routines and affection.
How Do You Choose the Right Lazy Dog Breed?
When selecting a dog, consider:
- Size: Do you want a large dog, like a Saint Bernard, or a small dog, like a Pekingese?
- Lifestyle: Can you provide regular walks and basic grooming?
- Experience: Some breeds, like the Chow Chow, may be better suited for experienced dog owners, while others, like the Frenchie or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are perfect for first-time pet parents.
- Living space: Many lazy breeds are among the best dog breeds for apartment living, but gentle giants still require room to move around comfortably.
Final Thoughts
The laziest dog breeds are far from boring; they’re loyal companions who bring comfort, affection, and joy into homes. From the Basset Hound and Pug to the Great Dane and Newfie, these dogs show that sometimes the best moments are shared while snoozing together on the couch.
For pet parents seeking a laid-back, easygoing, and low-maintenance companion, these lazy dog breeds prove that the right dog doesn’t have to be a marathon runner to be the perfect fit. With proper care, daily walks, and plenty of love, they’ll happily be your couch potato partner for life.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.
Citations
Hite, Jilly. 2023. “Calmest Dog Breeds: Top 5 Docile Pups Most Recommended by Experts.” Study Finds. September 25, 2023. https://studyfinds.org/calmest-dog-breeds/.
Dec 11, Jessika Zachary, 2019 | 4 Minutes Dec 11, and 2019 | 4 Minutes. n.d. “9 Calm Dog Breeds: Easygoing & Even-Tempered Canine Companions.” American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/calm-dog-breeds/.
Ives, Brian. 2024. “Greyhounds Are the World’s Fastest Couch Potatoes: Consider Adopting One.” 105.7 WROR. July 22, 2024. https://wror.com/2024/07/22/greyhounds-fastest-adopt-one/.
Pongrácz, Péter, and Petra Dobos. 2024. “Behavioural Differences and Similarities between Dog Breeds: Proposing an Ecologically Valid Approach for Canine Behavioural Research.” Biological Reviews/Biological Reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society 100 (1). https://doi.org/10.1111/brv.13128.
