Low energy dog breeds

Last Updated on March 17, 2024 by Aftab Tariq

Low energy dog breeds don’t need as much exercise as other dogs. All dogs need to get some exercise and attention every day. Dogs are social animals who enjoy spending time with people and playing. But some breeds can run around and play less than others. Dr. Martin Haulena says,

“Low energy dog breeds bring a sense of tranquillity to any home, offering companionship without the constant need for vigorous exercise.”

Having a dog that doesn’t need a lot of exercise can be helpful in certain situations. If you reside in a compact flat, have trouble moving around easily, are older, or have to leave your dog alone daily, a low energy dog might be a good choice.

They’re also great for people who want a more relaxed companion. In this article we will discuss what is the lowest energy dog breed, what’s the best dog for a lazy person?, low-energy dog breeds large and low energy dogs for first-time owners.

Are Any Dog Breeds Truly “Lazy?”

Some dogs are known as “low energy dog breeds,” which means they don’t need a lot of activity. But before choosing a dog, it’s essential to think carefully. Ask yourself if getting a dog is the best decision for you and your family if you are still determining whether you can devote much time and effort to a dog with a lot of energy. Depriving a dog of the company for extended periods is not fair to the dog.

Consider getting a smaller pet, like a cat, if you’re looking for companionship but have yet to be ready to walk a dog. Every dog is special in its own way, even though some are stereotyped as sluggish. No matter how little activity they require, they all require care and attention. Grooming, training, socializing, and stimulating cerebral activity are essential for dogs.

Finding a certain breed of sluggish dog could prove to be a challenge. Before bringing a dog into your home, it is crucial to conduct research. Unfortunately, many dogs wind up in shelters due to owners who need to recognize the extent of their care requirements. In the United States, almost 3.1 million dogs end up in shelters yearly.

Adopting A Low Energy Dog

Thinking of adopting a low energy dog? Even if you choose a breed known for being calm, the puppy you bring home might surprise you. They could be energetic, needing more walks and playtime than expected. Regardless of breed, puppies need training, socializing, and potty training. Without it, they may develop behaviour problems like anxiety or being destructive out of boredom.

Adopting an adult or senior dog can be a great option. The foster family can tell you about their energy levels and needs if they’ve been in foster care. Senior dogs often need less exercise and are happy with short walks and a cosy resting spot. They often stay in shelters longer than younger dogs. Adopting a senior dog allows them to enjoy retirement in a loving home.

Best low energy dog breeds

Selecting one of these breeds does not ensure that you will have a dog that will be satisfied to spend all day on the couch, that it will be the ideal companion for a busy family home or any of these things. Here is the list of best Low energy dog breeds.

1: Basset Hounds Dog

Basset Hounds are a type of dog that’s often seen as a bit lazy. They’re usually calm and relaxed, and they don’t need a lot of exercise. A gentle walk each day, where they can sniff around, is usually enough for them. Sometimes, they can be stubborn, so training them might take extra effort, using rewards to help.

Because of their long, floppy ears, Basset Hounds can have more problems with their ears. And because they have long bodies and short legs, they might have back and joint issues. Ensuring they stay manageable is important, as that can worsen these problems.

2: Greyhound Dog

Greyhounds are a kind of dog breed. They might seem like they have lots of energy because they can run fast and are big. But actually, they are quite lazy. Even though they can run super fast, they only do it for short times.

Most of the time, Greyhounds prefer to chill out on the couch with their owners. They enjoy going for a quick walk every day, but then they’re happy to relax inside. Even though they’re big, they’re low energy dog breeds for apartments.

Greyhounds like being around people, so leaving them alone for too long is not good. Also, they tend to chase small animals, so they might not get along well with cats.

This means that there are a lot of Greyhounds in rescue because they are frequently dumped at the conclusion of their brief racing careers. Thus, this can be a great option if you desire the benefits of owning a breed that is typically calm, kind, and little maintenance.

3: Great Danes Dog

Great Danes are really big dogs, but they don’t need tons of exercise like you might think. Even though they’re huge, they can still be playful and silly. It’s important to keep them entertained at home. They’re often great with families, including kids and other pets.

But it’s important to know that they don’t usually live as long as smaller dogs. So, you might have to say goodbye to them earlier. Also, they eat a lot, and because of this, your food budget will be larger than it would be if you had a smaller dog.

4: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for adapting well to different lifestyles. If their owners are less active, they’re okay with just one good daily walk and lots of snuggles. But they’re also up for longer walks and adventures if their owners are.

Compared to Cocker Spaniels, they’re usually less hyper. They’re gentle and loving dogs, often chosen as great family pets. They love getting attention and are good at following commands when they’re being trained.

Like many purebred dogs, Cavaliers can have health issues passed down through their genes. Some of these can be serious, so finding a trustworthy breeder is important if you’re not adopting from a shelter.

5: Bulldog

Bulldogs, also known as English Bulldogs, are easy to spot because of their looks and don’t need much exercise. This is because of how they’re built. They’re short and sturdy, with a flat face, so it’s important not to make them work too hard, especially when it’s hot outside.

They’re usually relaxed and have a friendly personality, but they can also be stubborn sometimes.

Bulldogs often have health issues like breathing, eyes, and issues with their bones and muscles. So, it’s smart to get one from a good breeder and think about getting pet insurance for them.

6: Pugs Dog Breeds

Pugs have become popular lately. They have special personalities, sometimes loving and sometimes naughty, and unique appearances. You often see Pugs in movies, ads, and social media because they’re so cute and funny.

Even though they love to play, Pugs don’t need a lot of exercise. Like Bulldogs, their flat faces mean they must be careful not to get too hot when they’re active.

Because of their flat faces, Pugs can have problems with their breathing and eyes. They also tend to have issues with their skin and allergies. It’s easy for them to gain weight, so watching what they eat is important. Pugs are best medium-sized low energy dog breeds.

7: French Bulldog Dog

French Bulldogs have become popular lately; in 2021, they rank as the US’s second most beloved breed. Their amiable dispositions and endearing appearances make them beloved by many.

They delight in being in the company of others and are full of personality, which makes them awesome family pets. However, they’re also prone to some health issues.

Finding a breeder who checks the parents’ health is important to avoid these problems. Frenchies can have skin, breathing, and eye issues because of their flat faces.Like other flat faced breeds, they need extra care in hot weather to ensure they don’t overheat too quickly.

8: Chow Chow Dog

The Chow Chow is a unique breed uncommon and well known for its tranquillity and loyalty. They don’t need a lot of exercise, but there might be better choices for new dog owners.

Chows are smart but can be stubborn and protective. They might not get along well with other dogs or strangers, so they might need extra help with training and getting used to new people and pets.

If you are looking for a dog that is hyper focused on being noticed, you should look for one. One possibility is that there are more suitable alternatives than the Chow. While devoted to their family, they can also be independent and distant. Chows have thick fur that needs a lot of grooming to stay healthy and free of tangles.

9: Shih Tzus Dog

Shih Tzus is often a top pick for families and older folks. They’re friendly, getting along well with kids and other dogs, and pretty smart.

They don’t need much activity, but people should exercise cautiously in hot temperatures like other flat faced breeds. They aren’t sluggish puppies; they love going on walks and are often very energetic.

Their fur needs much care to keep it from getting tangled and uncomfortable. Some owners choose to trim it short to avoid this hassle. In addition to the common problems seen in dogs with flat faces, Shih Tzus often experience troubles with their backs and eyes.

10: Pekingese Dog

The Pekingese is a small and loving dog that doesn’t need a lot of activity. They’re affectionate, loyal, and smart but can be stubborn, so using rewards in training is helpful. Because of their long coats, Pekingese dogs need regular grooming to prevent tangles.

Like other flat faced breeds, it’s important not to over exercise them, especially in hot weather, to avoid health issues related to their face shape.

11: Whippet Dog

The Whippet is a cheerful and friendly dog that’s great for families. They’re quiet, easy to get along with, and usually like other dogs.

While they might run around a lot during walks, they’re happy to relax at home afterwards. Whippets can adapt to low energy and high energy households as long as they get attention.

They enjoy longer walks but are content as long as they exercise enough. They love being around people and don’t like being alone for too long. Also, they might chase small animals when outside.

12: Irish Wolfhound Dog

The Irish Wolfhound is a big Sighthound known for being calm, loving, and great with kids. They don’t need too much exercise.

However, they have a strong instinct to chase small animals, so be careful around pets like cats or rabbits. They love being around people and might feel anxious if left alone for too long.

They’re also prone to health issues common in large breeds, like bloat and joint problems. Feeding them can also cost more because of their size.

13: Mastiff Dog

The English Mastiff is a huge dog, but surprisingly, they don’t need a lot of exercises. They’re often seen as lazy, even though they’re enormous.

Despite their size, they’re incredibly loyal and loving to their family. However, if they need to be trained and socialized properly, they might show territorial or protective behaviour, which can be challenging to manage because of their strength.

English Mastiffs can be quite drooly, so if you like a spotless house, they might not be the best fit. It’s important not to let them get too lazy or overweight.

Because of their size, they don’t usually live as long as smaller dogs. They also love to chew, so it’s important to provide them with strong toys to keep them entertained. American Mastiffs are similar in energy levels to English Mastiffs but are sometimes seen as a mix of breeds.

14: Japanese Chin Dog

The Japanese Chin is an old breed of smart, calm, and affectionate dog. They like to be close to their owners and don’t need a lot of exercise. They’re okay with short walks but might prefer cuddling on the couch. However, they can handle longer walks if you want.

Be careful in hot weather because they have a short nose and can struggle to breathe. They don’t need too much grooming even though they have long fur. They’re healthy dogs, but they might sometimes have issues with their eyes and joints.

15: Lhasa Apso Dog

The Lhasa Apso is a small, loving dog breed similar to the Shih Tzu. They’re playful and can adapt to different situations easily.

They don’t need a lot of exercise, but they still enjoy going for longer walks. However, they might not be the best choice for families with young children because they’re not always patient with them and can be noisy sometimes.

Although smart, they can also be stubborn so that training might take time and patience. They also need extra grooming attention with regular haircuts or frequent brushing to prevent tangling.

16: Saint Bernard Dog

The Saint Bernard is a big, friendly dog known for affection and loyalty. They’re usually great with kids, but because they’re large, they need careful handling. They need some exercise, like decent walks, but they’re less demanding than other big dogs.

They can get too hot quickly in hot weather, so keeping them cool is important. They’re also known for slobbering, so having a drool bib handy can be helpful! They shed a lot, too, so regularly using a good de shedding tool can help manage their coat.

17: Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese mountain dog is similar to the Saint Bernard and is known for being a friendly giant and great with families. They don’t need much exercise but are up for longer hikes if you’re in the mood.

They don’t drool as much as Saint Bernards but might still slobber. Be ready for lots of grooming to manage their shedding fur.

Unfortunately, they’re prone to cancer, so it’s important to find a trustworthy breeder. Bernedoodles are a mix of Bernese and Poodle, having a bit more energy due to the Poodle’s liveliness.

18: Shar Pei Dog

The Shar Pei is a breed of dog recognized for having a low energy level. They do not require lengthy daily walks to be happy, but there are better options for people just starting with dog ownership.

They tend to distance themselves from other dogs, to be stubborn, and to be unfriendly at times. As a result of overbreeding in the past, they frequently suffer from various health problems.

19: Bolognese Dog

The Bolognese could be more active but still needs some playtime. They’re playful and clever, so keeping them mentally stimulated at home is good.

They’re very loving, relaxed, and friendly and usually get along with other dogs. However, they need regular grooming, and because they’re so attached to their owners, they might feel anxious when left alone.

20: Shiba Inu Dog

Because of its friendly and self assured personality, the Shiba Inu has become a popular dog breed in Japan. New dog breeds, such as the Corgi Inu, are regularly created by crossing these with other breeds.

Even though they’re usually on the run, a nice walk and some playfulness might put them at ease at home. As long as they receive enough physical and mental stimulation, they should be fine living in an apartment.

However, if they’re not kept busy, they might start causing trouble or feeling anxious when left alone too much. Training them can take time because they’re independent but smart, so patience pays off.

21: Beagle Dog

Beagles can be autonomous and low maintenance as long as you can divert their ever curious nose. Thanks to their single coat and easygoing nature, they will be curled up with their owner without needing to be always groomed. Beagles can be left alone for reasonable lengths if given the right training.

22: Boston Mastiff Dog

The Boston Mastiff often called “America’s Gentleman,” lives up to its name with its gentle and friendly demeanour. This breed is particularly well suited for children due to its low energy levels and calm nature.

Their quiet disposition makes Boston Mastiffs excellent companions for families seeking a relaxed pet. Additionally, their single coat requires less grooming than breeds with double coats, making them an attractive choice for easy maintenance.

Conclusion

Remember that every dog is an individual, even though some breeds are more mild mannered than others. Consistent exercise, mental stimulation, social interaction, and training are essential for all dogs, regardless of their energy levels.

Fostering a senior dog’s life from a shelter can be a great way to find a less energetic companion and give them a loving, forever home. Mixed breed dogs are also a good option if you’re looking for a dog with lower energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Laziest Calmest Dog?

The Irish wolfhound is the laziest, calmest dog.

Which Breed Is The Lazy Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone?

The greyhound is the greatest dog breed in terms of long term separation tolerance. Greyhounds are among the greatest breeds for those who must leave their dog at home alone for extended periods because of their independent personality and suitability for living alone.

Source

Lazy dog breeds that make the perfect low maintenance pets

Top Laziest Dog Breeds