Are you looking for a calm, mellow canine companion that doesn’t require endless exercise and stimulation? Then considering getting one of the many low energy dog breeds perfect for relaxed owners.
While some dogs seem to have boundless endurance and intensity, certain breeds are known for their more easygoing temperament and modest activity needs.
In this article, we’ll highlight 10 of the best low energy dog breeds and discuss their typical traits and care requirements. Read on to find your perfect laidback furry friend!
What Makes a Low Energy Dog?
Before we dive into specific breeds, let’s overview the general qualities that make a dog low energy:
- Lower exercise needs – Typically 30 minutes a day or less of walking meets their activity quota.
- Intrinsic calmness – They have a naturally mellow, peaceful personality and temperament.
- Minimal demanding behaviors – Less prone to boredom, anxiety, destructiveness, and neuroticism.
- Handles alone time – Content to relax and snooze without constant engagement or interaction.
- Goes with the flow – Adaptable to different routines and environments without stress.
- Moderated appetite – Doesn’t “live to eat” and become overweight.
Keep these traits in mind as we explore ideal options for low-key living.
10 Top Low Energy Dog Breeds
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel tops many lists of low energy breeds. They require only moderate daily walks and some playtime. Sweet, gentle, and eager to please, they thrive when close to their owners. They adapt well to apartment living.
2. Basset Hound
Originally bred as a scent hound, the Basset Hound is happy going on leisurely ambles or napping on the couch. Their charming, droopy faces and peaceful temperament make them an ideal companion for relaxed owners. Just expect some stubbornness during training.
3. Bulldog
Despite their tough appearance, Bulldogs are total couch potatoes at heart. They don’t require much exercise beyond potty walks and some indoor play. Their easygoing personality and companionship toward owners adds to their appeal as low energy pets.
4. Shih Tzu
Small but sturdy, the Shih Tzu bred as a lapdog and doesn’t need much space or activity. A short daily walk and some indoor play keeps them content. They thrive on love and attention from their owners. Just watch out for stubbornness during training.
5. Greyhound
It may surprise some that racing Greyhounds actually have relatively low energy needs outside quick sprints. In the home, they are gentle and extremely laidback. A short daily leash walk and soft dog bed suit them perfectly.
6. Pug
The comical, squished-face Pug typically clocks out after 30 minutes of exercise per day. They prefer lounging on laps or chairs over running around outside. Their affectionate and charming personality adds to their appeal as low-key companions.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
Surprisingly laidback for a herding breed, the soft-natured Bernese Mountain Dog doesn’t require intense activity. They thrive with moderate exercise and lots of quality time with their owners. Gentle and eager to please, they make ideal companions.
8. Chow Chow
While some Chow Chows can be independent, most are quite low energy and mellow indoors. Their luxurious coats make them heat-sensitive, so they are happy lounging in cool spots. Loyal and quiet companions, they thrive in calm homes.
9. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a popular breed option for apartment living due to their low activity requirements. They don’t need much outdoor time beyond short walks. Playful and humorous indoors, the Frenchie loves lounging with their owners most of all.
10. Saint Bernard
Despite their giant size, St. Bernards are total gentle giants with modest exercise needs. Forty-five minutes of daily walking generally meets their quota. Calm and patient, they enjoy lounging around homes and rarely get rambunctious.
As you can see, low energy dogs come in all shapes and sizes! Be sure to also consider individual variability within a breed when adopting.
Tips for Living with Low Energy Dogs
To help a laidback dog thrive:
- Keep walks short – Long hikes aren’t necessary. Brief 10-20 minute outings a few times daily work well.
- Provide chew toys – Chewing is a calming outlet for pent-up energy. Rotate a variety of safe, durable options.
- Consider doggy daycare – Even low energy dogs benefit from some socialization and play with other canines.
- Train with positive reinforcement – Avoid harsh methods that can stress out sensitive dispositions.
- Monitor diet – Their low activity level can lead to weight gain if overfed. Use measured meals.
- Respect their rest – Let sleeping dogs lie! Excessive doting and stimulation stresses them.
Adopting the right easygoing breed and adhering to their modest needs sets you both up for happy times ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions about selecting a low energy dog? Here are answers to some common queries:
How much exercise do low energy dogs need daily?
Most only require around 30 minutes of lead walking plus some free playtime. More active short sessions are better than one long period. Mental stimulation also helps.
Are low energy dogs good for apartments?
Yes, their minimal exercise needs and lower activity level indoors make them well-suited to small living spaces, provided you can meet walk requirements.
Do low energy dogs shed less?
Not necessarily. Some breeds like Greyhounds have short coats that don’t shed much. But breeds like Berners have thick double coats that do shed seasonally. Grooming needs vary.
Are low energy dogs good for seniors?
Often yes. Their modest exercise and stimulation needs match lower activity levels of many seniors. Just be sure to consider healthcare and grooming requirements too.
Can I have a low energy dog with high energy dogs?
It’s possible but will require vigilance. Make sure each dog gets walked and played with appropriately. Give the low energy dog their own rest space. Expect some conflicts.
The right low energy dog can make an excellent companion for those seeking a more tranquil household. Just be sure to select the breed carefully based on your lifestyle. Let us know if you have any other questions!
