22 Dog Breeds With The Most Relaxed And Peaceful Personalities

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Two dogs sitting on sofa
Real Natures Food/Unsplash

Some dogs are bursting with energy, while others prefer a mellow lifestyle. If you’re looking for a furry friend who enjoys lounging around and soaking up peaceful moments, you’re in the right place. Certain breeds are naturally more relaxed, making them perfect for those who prefer a low-key companion. Whether you’re looking for a couch buddy or a pup who won’t be bouncing off the walls, these laid-back breeds might be exactly what you need. Here’s a look at 22 dog breeds with the most peaceful and easygoing personalities.

1. Basset Hound

Basset Hound
Jawestad/Pixabay

Basset Hounds are famous for their droopy ears and soulful eyes, but they’re also one of the most relaxed dog breeds out there. Secondly, they love lounging around and taking it easy, though they’ll happily join you for a slow stroll. Because of their laid-back nature, they’re great companions for people who enjoy a quiet and peaceful home. However, their affectionate personality makes them fantastic cuddle buddies. Though a bit stubborn, their relaxed nature makes them great for low-maintenance owners.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

cavalier king spaniel stretching
Fran • @mallorcadogphotography/Pixabay

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the definition of lap dogs. They adore snuggling with their humans and are happiest when they’re curled up beside you. While they enjoy playtime, they’re not overly energetic and are just as content relaxing on the couch. Because of their adaptable nature, they fit well into both busy and quiet households. These sweet pups are also known for being friendly with everyone they meet, making them great companions for families or anyone looking for a loving and calm furry friend.

3. Great Dane

great dane dog lying down
trwirth/Pixabay

Despite their massive size, Great Danes are gentle giants. They’re surprisingly calm and patient, often lounging around like oversized lap dogs. While they need daily walks, they’re not overly energetic and tend to be quite mellow indoors. Plus, their affectionate nature makes them excellent family pets. Because of their size, they may take up a lot of space, but their relaxed attitude makes up for it. If you want a big dog with a calm and loving personality, the Great Dane might be a perfect match.

4. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu
Sarah  Chai/pexels

Shih Tzus were bred to be royal lap dogs, and they still carry that relaxed and easygoing personality today. These small pups love spending time with their owners, whether it’s lounging on the couch or following you around the house. While they enjoy short bursts of play, they’re not overly active, making them great for apartment living. Furthermore, their friendly nature means they get along well with people and other pets. If you want a loyal and laid-back companion, the Shih Tzu is a perfect choice.

5. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog
Dagakla/Pixabay

Bernese Mountain Dogs may be large, but they’re incredibly gentle and laid-back. They’re known for their sweet, affectionate nature and love spending time with their families. While they enjoy outdoor adventures, they’re also content relaxing at home. Even though they have a thick coat that requires some grooming, their friendly and peaceful demeanor makes them worth the effort. If you’re looking for a big dog with a calm and loving personality, the Bernese is a great fit.

6. Newfoundland

Newfoundland at the swimming pool
tidbits_and_bytes/Reddit

Newfoundlands are often called “gentle giants” because of their massive size and sweet nature. They’re incredibly patient and calm, making them great companions for families and kids. While they do enjoy swimming and outdoor activities, they’re not overly energetic indoors. Because of their relaxed attitude, they’re a great fit for homes that want a big dog without high energy levels. Additionally, their affectionate personality helps them form strong bonds with their owners, and they love spending quiet moments by their side.

7. Bulldog

french bulldog
Freepik

Bulldogs may have a tough-looking face, but they are actually some of the most easygoing dogs out there. Because of this, they prefer lounging over running and are perfectly content with a few short walks each day. Their friendly nature makes them great companions, and they love being around people. Furthermore, since they’re not high-energy, they do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Even though they can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, their relaxed personality makes up for it.

8. Greyhound

Adorable greyhound dog at home on the couch
freepik/Freepik

Greyhounds may be known for their speed, but they’re surprisingly calm when they’re not racing. Once they get their exercise in, they’re happy to spend the rest of the day lounging. With their independent yet affectionate nature, they’re perfect for those who want a dog that enjoys both relaxing and occasional activity. Moreover, their gentle and quiet personality makes them excellent companions for peaceful households. A Greyhound is a great choice for a dog that sprints one moment and naps the next.

9. Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel
jacksonrebecca/Reddit

Clumber Spaniels are one of the most laid-back spaniel breeds. They enjoy a good walk but are just as happy spending the rest of the day napping at your feet. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them ideal for families, seniors, and anyone looking for a peaceful companion. In addition, their gentle demeanor means they get along well with other pets. While they do require some grooming because of their thick coat, their easygoing attitude makes them a joy to have around.

10. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound
Large_Big1660/Reddit

Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the largest dog breeds, but they have a soft and gentle heart. They are incredibly patient and rarely show aggression, making them great family pets. Despite their size, they don’t require intense exercise and are more than happy with a daily walk and some relaxation time. On top of that, they form strong bonds with their owners and love companionship. If you want a dog that is both majestic and mellow, the Irish Wolfhound is an excellent option.

11. Pekingese

Pekingese dog
Pixabay

Pekingese dogs were bred for royalty, and they still carry themselves with a calm and dignified attitude. They love spending time with their owners and prefer a peaceful environment over a chaotic one. Since they are small, they don’t need much space or exercise, making them great for apartment living. Furthermore, their affectionate personality makes them excellent lap dogs. While they can be a bit independent at times, their loving and calm nature more than makes up for it.

12. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard
Ilona Krijgsman/Pixabay

Saint Bernards are massive, but their personality is as gentle as it gets. They’re patient, loving, and great with children, making them a wonderful family pet. While they enjoy the outdoors, they don’t require excessive exercise and are content spending time relaxing at home. Additionally, their calm demeanor makes them well-suited for households looking for a low-energy yet affectionate dog. If you have the space for a big, lovable companion, a Saint Bernard is a perfect choice.

13. Havanese

Havanese dog
Lindsey Duncan/Unsplash

Havanese dogs are small, sweet, and always happy to be by their owner’s side. While they enjoy playtime, they aren’t overly energetic and are just as content snuggling on the couch. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them great for families, singles, or seniors. Additionally, they’re known for being easy to train and adaptable to different living environments. The Havanese is a wonderful companion, known for its affectionate and laid-back nature that thrives on companionship and loves to relax with its owner.

14. Tibetan Spaniel

Brown Spaniel Puppy in Close-Up Photography
Alexas Fotos/Pexels

Tibetan Spaniels may be small, but they have a big love for relaxation. They enjoy lounging in sunny spots and spending time with their owners without needing constant activity. Because they’re independent yet affectionate, they’re great for people who want a dog that enjoys both companionship and quiet moments. Moreover, their adaptable personality means they do well in both apartments and larger homes. If you’re looking for a peaceful pup with a loving nature, the Tibetan Spaniel is a fantastic option.

15. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso
Mabel Amber/pexels

Lhasa Apsos are known for their long, luxurious coats, but their personality is just as lovely. They are naturally calm and independent, enjoying both playtime and relaxation. As they were bred as companion dogs, they love spending time with their owners without being overly demanding. Additionally, their alert but gentle nature makes them great for homes that want a peaceful yet protective pet. Last but not least, their balanced temperament makes them a wonderful addition to any household.

16. Maltese

Maltese dog Sitting
Katya Wolf/Pexels

Maltese dogs may be small, but they have a big heart and a calm nature. They love nothing more than being close to their owners and are perfectly content with a relaxed lifestyle. While they enjoy short walks and playtime, they don’t require much exercise. In addition, their friendly and affectionate personality makes them great companions for people of all ages. If you’re looking for a small dog with a peaceful demeanor, the Maltese is a wonderful choice.

17. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise
Andrew Te/Unsplash

Bichon Frises are known for their fluffy coats and cheerful personalities. While they enjoy playtime, they’re not overly hyper and are just as happy curling up for a nap. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them great for different types of households. In addition, they’re easy to train and love being around people. Also, this breed is perfect for those seeking a fun-loving yet relaxed companion. With their affectionate nature, they quickly become a beloved part of the family.

18. Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhound
laresaperlman/pixabay

Scottish Deerhounds are elegant, quiet, and incredibly gentle. They enjoy outdoor activities but are equally happy resting at home. Since they have a naturally calm and independent nature, they don’t demand constant attention. Furthermore, their friendly personality makes them a great fit for families and individuals alike. Their combination of elegance and tranquility makes them a wonderful companion. With their affectionate yet low-maintenance nature, they easily adapt to a relaxed lifestyle.

19. Papillon

Papillon
Alan Quirván/Pexels

Papillons may be small and lively, but they also know how to relax. They enjoy being close to their owners and are happy with both playtime and quiet moments. Because of their intelligence and affectionate nature, they’re easy to train and bond closely with their families. However, their adaptability means they can thrive in various living situations. Their charming personality makes them a delightful companion for any home. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, this little dog will bring comfort into your life.

20. Chow Chow

Chow Chow breed lying on the ground.
Marius-Kristensen/Pixabay

Chow Chows are known for their fluffy coats and calm, independent nature. While they enjoy their alone time, they also form strong bonds with their owners. Since they’re naturally reserved and quiet, they make great pets for those who prefer a peaceful home environment. Furthermore, their loyal personality makes them excellent companions. Their combination of serenity and confidence makes them a unique breed. With proper socialization, they develop into affectionate and devoted companions.

21. Whippet

whippet
leeloothefirst/pexels

Whippets are often compared to Greyhounds because of their sleek build and relaxed nature. While they love short bursts of running, they’re more than happy to spend the rest of the day lounging. Their quiet and affectionate nature makes them great indoor pets. As a result, their ability to balance playfulness with calmness makes them a wonderful companion. Whether they are sprinting outside or curling up on the couch, the Whippet is always content and adaptable.

22. Keeshond

Keeshond dog
Томасина/Wikipedia

Keeshonds are friendly, affectionate, and naturally calm. They enjoy companionship but don’t require excessive exercise. Because they’re incredibly social, they bond closely with their families. Additionally, their laid-back nature makes them a joy to have at home. Their cheerful personality makes them great for families and individuals alike. With their loving and gentle demeanor, the Keeshond is a wonderful companion for any home. Plus, their thick, fluffy coats give them an irresistibly huggable appearance.

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