Whether they are playful, funny, comforting, or snuggly, who does not love dogs? No matter what their personality is, dogs are undoubtably a human's best friend and you will adore them no matter what. But it can also be a good idea to try to match your own personal vibe to the ideal dog breed. For instance, if you are searching for a lap dog who will be content to sit with you while you watch your favorite movie, then a chill dog could be a good fit for you. Or, if you simply want a dog that is not active 24/7, then a calm dog breed might be right up your alley.

Calm dogs also tend to be ideal family dogs because they are great around young children. They will stay unruffled when those little hands are just learning to be gentle themselves. Additionally, if you are getting older and want a dog who can match your slower pace, a calm canine could be exactly what you are looking for.


BASSET HOUND

Basset hounds are basically laid-back and peaceful, with droopy ears and an equally droopy, cute, face. They have proven to be very independent and because of this, may be tricky to train. These hounds have been praised for following scents without any sense of distraction and remaining calm while doing so. This breed can develop a loyal partnership with their owners through training, but this will take persistence and patience. Once they are trained, these lovable dogs will accomplish your needs and remain by your side, often content to snooze on the sofa. These low-energy dogs are not very athletic, so do not expect them to excel at sports! Their best asset, besides being an amazing companion, is their nose, which can sniff out just about anything. But Bassets do have a booming bark and bay, so this breed may not be your best option if you treasure peace and quiet.





FRENCH BULLDOG

Hot on the paws of Labrador retrievers are the adorable and snuggly French bulldogs - American Kennel Club's (AKC) second most popular dog breed in the U.S. Considered to be easygoing best friends for seniors, children, and apartment dwellers, they are goofy, smart, devoted, and crave attention from their hoomans. Oh, and those ears! Although they are known for having energy as young pups, after turning two or three, you will see that your Frenchie has become a calm, even-keeled dog. In fact, once they are adults, Frenchies are often considered to be one of the calmest dog breeds around.





WHIPPET

While very mellow most of the time, you will also see whippets do occasional bursts of running, or zoomies. Whippets are fast, but that energy does not last long. If you give them space to expend short bursts of energy exercising, they are content to lounge around the rest of the time. These sensitive pups love a calm, quiet home as much as you do, so they are the perfect match for a low-key family without younger children or lots of noise. With proper exercise, whippets love spending the day as couch potatoes. Whippets are born to run - they are one of the fastest dog breeds, after all, so having an enclosed area where they can stretch their legs is ideal.





STANDARD POODLE

Standard poodles generally have very chill demeanors, but as most little puppies are, they can be pretty energetic when they are young. Would there be as many "oodle" crossbreeds if not for all the charming characteristics of the standard poodle? Intelligent, mellow, affectionate, playful, and somewhat hypoallergenic - as much as any pooch can be, anyway!, the poodle loves to learn and is often eager to please. He might need a little more exercise than other calm dog breeds to live his best life.





GREAT PYRENEES

No canine silliness here! Great Pyrenees pups are gentle giants who are thought of as serious doggos who are easy to train and have great manners. They can be a bit stubborn at times, but we will give them a pass on that. After all, they are a devoted guardian of the family. They tend to be a laid-back dog that is quiet and not very active when in the home. They are great with kids, but due to their size, need to be closely supervised to prevent their sheer mass from overwhelming children.





IRISH WOLFHOUND

The Irish Wolfhound has a long and fascinating history dating back several centuries. An earlier version of this dog was likely present on the British islands around Roman times, but it was not until around the Middle Ages that a true Irish Wolfhound emerged. The original purpose of this breed was to protect against and even hunt wolves. Their valor and loyalty earned them a place in an Irish tale called "Gelert, the Faithful Hound." Frequently described as "dignified," these dogs with the wiry gray coats love to be at their owners' sides. Due to their incredible intelligence, Irish Wolfhounds learn quickly. They are both calm and sensitive to the emotions of humans, making them qualified for a wide range of therapy work.





SAINT BERNARD

These big, lovable, gentle giants originated in the frigid, snow-covered Alps of the 11th century, where they helped monks locate missing travelers. With such a sweet attitude and a high tolerance for adverse circumstances, this breed has a big heart to match its big size. However, do not let its sweet personality trick you into neglecting this dog's socialization and training as a puppy. With their big bodies, Saint Bernard needs to understand the proper boundaries and limits of its social and physical environment. Because of their tendency to accidentally knock over younger children, careful supervision is necessary. Saint Bernards benefit tremendously from training classes as these dogs can knock people over, especially children. Kind, with big hearts, Saints will learn quickly to respond to commands and obey their humans. These gentle giants would fit best with families that can devote a lot of time to them, as they love being with their owners.





PEKINGESE

If you and your family prefer snuggling up on the couch over anything else, a Pekingese is likely a great fit. Calm and quiet, they love nothing more than to relax and stretch out somewhere soft. The regal Pekingese comes from China and is even said by some to have been created by Buddha. Outgoing and friendly, Pekes are extremely loving and have the personality to show it. Pekes build strong bonds with their owners, but can also be very independent. It is important to note that Pekes would do well in a home without children, as they will adapt to children, but may not prefer them. For those that earn the respect of this loyal breed, the Pekingese is one of the more calm, affectionate, and kind of all canine companions.








A D V E R T I S E M E N T










CLUMBER SPANIEL

Easygoing and very loving, children are sure to enjoy spending time with a Clumber Spaniel. Being members of the upper crest of society and originating through the aid of royals, Clumbers are esteemed housemates. This breed is reliable and loves to think thoroughly through any decisions. Like any breed, they would thrive from training, but they are very affectionate and have a strong sense of dedication to their work.





ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL

Gentle and super affectionate, these pups are smart, loyal, and very laid-back. You might not think that an English cocker spaniel that is bred to flush and retrieve game birds would be content being inside and curled up next to the family, but it is. That is not to say it won't be excited to go for an inquisitive walk or retrieve stuffed toy ducks in the yard, but this sporting breed has the "work hard, play hard" mantra nailed.





BICHON FRISE

These bright-white pups are like glue with their humans. Plus, they are friendly and relaxed around new people. Though they do tend to bark, plenty of positive reinforcement training can help your Bichon learn more desirable behaviors and have fun doing it. Bichons tend to be super social and love people, so they do not get too anxious when properly introduced to new friends. They enjoy being around people. Originating in the Mediterranean, these dogs were favored by European nobility and were favored as companion animals. Their soft, hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to maintain its iconic appearance.





BOERBOEL

Boers were originally dedicated to protecting the homestead and large guard dogs like bull and mastiff types often stood by their side. Interbreeding of the two larger groups resulted in the Boerboel or "farmer's dog." These protectors had to establish friend versus foe and became known for their calm disposition with children. While this loyal and intelligent breed does well with younger individuals, it is important to note that Boerboels are not recommended for newer dog owners. While their calm temperament is great for families, they are better suited for older kids and adults. Consistent socialization and positive reinforcement training are vital for these pups, as they can be skeptical with new people and pets at first.





BERGAMASCO SHEEPDOG

Centuries ago, they were used to help expertly maneuver across rocky terrain in the Italian Alps. On these mountain excursions, the Bergamasco was bright, loyal, and protective. These traits still ring true, as this breed is among the more calm dog breeds. However, they may take some warming up around strangers. They are extremely intelligent and want to understand why they are instructed to perform a task. In their past on the rocky slopes of the Italian Alps, Bergamasco Sheepdogs helped protect their handlers from dangerous predators. The recognizable “flocked” coat of the Bergamasco requires surprisingly little grooming, making them a good low-maintenance breed.





BULL MASTIFF

Although these dogs are commonly used as guard dogs thanks to their huge size and weight, if nothing is happening they can be one of the laziest dog breeds around! These naturally quiet, calm and lazy dogs are more than happy to spend their time napping or chilling on the sofa, and as they do not require too much daily exercise, despite their size, they are great big dogs for those looking for a calmer breed. They do, however, have a tendency to drool a lot, so not so great for those looking to keep their homes clean! Although this dog breed is large and muscly in appearance, Bullmastiffs often think they are little lapdogs! This quiet dog breed is extremely loyal but they do not like to be left alone, so it is not a good idea to consider a Bullmastiff if you spend a lot of time away from home.





BULLDOG

Although on the outside they appear tough and strong, on the inside they are soft and mellow. It is arguably one of the most lazy dog breeds, and are more likely to stay sitting on the sofa than getting anxious at a loud noise or if you leave the house. This makes these calm dogs hugely reliable and straightforward with what to expect from them. They are also pretty friendly towards other dogs, people and strangers. The English bulldog is a great pup not only because he is a roly-poly blob of love, but also because he really does not bark unless absolutely necessary. Good news for apartment residents who want a silly but chill dog breed who may or may not share the couch, 'cause it's one of his favorite places. Uber kid-friendly, bring out his best with early training and make sure to wash his face!





CHOW CHOW

A descendant of China, this breed is a standout with its large build and masses of fur. They started as working dogs, meaning they are easy to train and are loyal to their owners. Nowadays, they are more commonly show dogs or friendly companions, and a great addition to any family looking for a larger, but calmer, pooch. They are very popular large lazy dogs that are also sensitive to heat, meaning they prefer chilling indoors than running like crazy outside. Though often known as a strong, independent breed, Chow Chows are also calm dogs when sufficiently trained. Chows require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they become well-adjusted and well-behaved companions. They are known for their low activity level and prefer short, leisurely walks over rigorous exercise. When properly raised and cared for, Chow Chows are known to be devoted and loving to their owners, forming strong bonds that can last a lifetime.





BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

Need a social but laid back dog? The Bernese Mountain Dog is great for anyone who is looking for a calm companion. Bernese Mountain Dogs generally have a placid nature but do need more exercise than some other breeds on this list, with some Bernese Mountain Dogs needing as much as 1.5-2 hours of exercise daily. However, they are also excellent cuddling companions and chances are that they will never say no to some down time next to their favourite humans. These majestic, large dogs from Switzerland possess a serene and even-tempered nature that endears them to many. Their calmness is one of the Bernese Mountain Dog's most prominent traits, making them excellent family pets. Rarely displaying hyperactive behavior, these dogs have a calming influence and often get along well with other dogs as well. Despite the Bernese Mountain Dog's calm demeanor, it's essential to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep these "gentle giants" happy and healthy.





PUG

And the pug is so easygoing it won't play favorites - just as long as someone is lavishing attention on it. Yet they are not just selfishly soaking up long cuddle sessions all day. Calm dog breeds like the pug still like to be the center of attention once in a while and entertain the family with their playful and happy-go-lucky antics. The pug has a proven track record of being a calm, well adjusted and easygoing family pup. Since pugs can have a mischievous side, many would not consider them as one of the best calm dog breed choices. But quick-witted pugs adore their people, and expect to be showered with the same level of affection. When this happens, these playful pups are full of mellow appeal, snuggles, and friendliness. They shed a bit, though, so have your grooming brush ready.





GREAT DANE

It is no secret that Great Danes are huge at an average of 140 pounds, but as big as they are, they are equally calm, cool, and cuddly. The giant Great Dane is one of the calmest dog breeds. Their gentle, quiet nature makes them good family dogs, but they do need plenty of space to live and play. Great Danes also need long walks regularly, and their calm demeanor helps make that a generally hassle-free process when encountering other dogs and new people.





SHIH TZU

A lover of cuddles and snuggles, the Shih Tzu can be great for someone who prefers a more laid-back lifestyle. Although they can be more active during their puppy years, most Shih Tzus will calm down considerably as they become adults. Remember that a little bit of training can go a long way in making sure they easily adapt to a calmer environment.





BIEVER TERRIER

Calm dog breeds and dogs from the terrier group generally do not go hand in hand, but this one does. Pronounced "Beaver," this adorable little nugget looks more like a Yorkie than a beaver. At just under a foot tall and around eight pounds, the mellow pooch is ultra-portable, with the sweetest disposition that just melts your heart. Though they look super dainty, they are actually quite athletic and an energetic walker, hiker or competitor in the agility ring.





WELSH CORGI

Both the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are two calm dog breeds that share similar characteristics. The two most important: They love people, and they are happiest when spending time with their people. And you won't find another dog with a unique physique like the corgi. While it is true that they have short legs, what they do match is a family that is searching for a friendly homebody that likes to chill and play inside the house.





TIBETAN SPANIEL

Tibetan Spaniels were historic companions of Buddhist monks. The breed was a watchdog and worked atop Tibetan monasteries. Tibbies also provided warmth during frigid nights in the Himalayan Mountains. From its origin, this calm dog breed was expected to portray a gentle demeanor. Through the centuries, standard traits grew to include easiness-to-please, independence, and intelligence. You won't find a better apartment dog than a Tibetan Spaniel. Known for their happy, playful attitude, the breed makes a devoted companion that loves their humans. Tibetan Spaniels can be unsure around strangers, so it is vital to facilitate slow, gentle introductions with new people and other pets to keep them calm.





NEWFOUNDLAND

As one of the biggest breeds around (they average a whopping 130 pounds!), Newfies are also incredibly calm and unruffled. Newfoundlands are a giant and gentle breed known for their incredible strength, sweet temperament, and excellent swimming abilities. As their name suggests, these dogs originated in Newfoundland, Canada, where they were initially bred to work alongside fishermen, helping haul nets and rescuing people from the water. The calm, stoic demeanor necessary for such work has carried through to their modern descendants, and they are still known for being excellent swimmers.





IRISH SETTER

When they advance beyond their puppy years, Irish Settlers go from being rowdy and energetic to peaceful and composed. The Irish Setter is a high-spirited gundog known for their gorgeous red coat, grace, and sweet temperament. These outgoing and friendly dogs are great with people and other canines, though they may not be well suited for homes with small house pets. Irish Setters are fun-loving, playful, and affectionate, though they can sometimes be impulsive and flighty. They are calm enough to get along great with kids but do love a good game of fetch with their tiny humans.





BORDER TERRIER

Here is another exception to the rule when it comes to calm dog breeds of the terrier group. Terriers as a whole tend to have a love of energy and tenacity, but the Border terrier, in my experience, can be less intense while still having that bouncy energy that many terrier owners enjoy. This adorable, scruffy and sturdy terrier is not as stubborn or independent as some of his terrier relatives and is pretty mellow and affectionate in the home.





LEONBERGER

Everything is super-sized on one of the largest calm dog breeds there is. There is the big ole heart that loves everyone and that includes people, other dogs and animals. Not to mention the tremendous amount of patience and heaps of affection and devoted companionship it readily gives. Leonbergers are relatively mellow and calm family dogs. The Leonberger is a gorgeous, lush-coated dog with a gentle nature and serene patience. They are calm and quiet and love spending as much time as they can with their human family members. Leonbergers are bolder and more athletic than many other giant breeds, enjoying sports like swimming, agility, and tracking. Although they are great with kids, they should not be left alone with small children because of their size. These large pups can tip the scales at 170 pounds, so they must be supervised around kids and other family pets.





COTON de TULEAR

Coton de Tulears are small dogs that are usually calm and adaptable to various living situations. Hailing from Madagascar, Cotons are often described as sociable and affectionate companions that don't get easily overwhelmed. They eagerly forming strong bonds with their human families, offering a happy-go-lucky disposition and gentle demeanor that works well with both children and older individuals. Cotons are also remarkably adaptable, fitting well into a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes.





LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personality, intelligence, and versatility. Labs excel as family pets, working dogs, and service animals. They have a short, water-resistant coat and come in three standard colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. While both Golden and Labrador Retrievers are known for their energy, they can also be calm and well-behaved when appropriately trained and exercised. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personality, intelligence, and versatility. Labs excel as family pets, working dogs, and service animals. They have a short, water-resistant coat and come in three standard colors: black, yellow, and chocolate.





GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Golden Retrievers are admired for their friendly and gentle temperament. They are often described as enthusiastic, intelligent, and highly trainable. These dogs have a beautiful golden coat that is water-repellent, making them excellent swimmers. They are known for their loyalty and make excellent family pets and therapy dogs. With sunny personalities to match their lovely coats, golden retrievers never seem to have a bad day. Seriously, how many dogs do you know who would sing along with windchimes? The smart and sweet-natured golden considers herself an important part of your family, and loves cats, other dogs, bunnies, the Amazon delivery person, the neighbor two doors down …you get it.





BOLOGNESE

These little white dogs like to stick to their owners like Velcro, famed for their tranquil personalities that are a good match with elderly owners. A small companion breed originating in Italy, the Bolognese is a calm, faithful dog with a long, fluffy pure-white coat. They are very playful, easy-going and love people. The Bolognese is small, stocky, and squarely built. He is rather serene and inactive, and devoted to his master and his people.





XOLOITZCUINTLI

One of the advantages of the beautiful Xoloitzcuintli, pronounced show-low-itz-QUEENT-ly or Xolo (show-low) for short, is that she is either hairless or has a short flat coat, so you save time and money clearing away fur. This Mexican native is a quiet and attentive pup with a low allergen level and long lifespan who loves daily jaunts, a little fetch, and a lot of your attention.





ENGLISH BULLDOG

Not only are English Bulldogs calm—they tend to be downright sleepy, and will absolutely love cuddling up with you and taking naps. While napping is one of the English Bulldog's favorite activities, they also need to get outside for a walk and some playtime each day to stay happy and healthy. Besides their small stature, short snout, and wrinkly face, is their calm, chill, and friendly behavior, burnished a bit by a silly streak. They do differ in one important respect, however: their body size.





GREYHOUND

When you think of Greyhounds, you may picture them on a racetrack. But they are surprisingly mellow, calm, and distinguished, and since they are so graceful, you do not need to worry that they will run amok in your house. The Greyhound Club of America describes them as "even-tempered, quiet dogs that are gentle around people." However, be wary of bringing a Greyhound that is trained to chase into a home with other pets, as it can be challenging to curb their prey drive around cats and other small animals. A fenced yard is ideal for the same reason.





CAVALIER KING

CHARLES SPANIEL

Known to be calm, affectionate, and good with other dogs and cats, this regal breed is a lot more than simply adorable. Due to their welcoming disposition, the Cavalier makes a great therapy dog. Enrolling your Cavalier in socialization and training classes will allow for a well-mannered companion that does well in a variety of social situations. This breed does well in a home with children or multiple family members. Cavaliers love being lap dogs, but they do enjoy exercise, owing in part to their shared heritage with Sporting spaniels.