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TOP 10 LOW ENERGY DOG BREEDS
Every dog is known for its unique personality. While personalities and temperament when searching for your newest furry companion are important, understanding their energy level is also essential. Some dogs can be found zipping around your home with loads of energy, while others are complete couch potatoes.
Depending on your lifestyle and location, finding a dog whose energy is a good fit for you is definitely something to take into consideration. As a pet parent, you assume full responsibility for your dog including essential care and how much exercise they receive.
High-energy dogs tend to be ideal for families that stay active in ways such as going on long walks, runs, and seeking full-time companionship. Low-energy dog breeds make great additions to owners that are able to provide occasional walks or have smaller living quarters with not as much room to move around.
While many people assume energy levels correspond to size, i.e. the bigger the dog the more energy they have, this is not the case. Low-energy breeds exist in small and large dog breeds alike. With a host of their own unique characteristics, these low-energy dogs are the perfect furry companions that won’t wear you out.
Larger Low-Energy Dogs
Saint Bernard – If you don’t mind having a consistent cuddle buddy, Saint Bernards may be the dog for you. Don’t be surprised if cuddling up alongside these abundantly fluffy dogs brings out the lazy side in you. Lovingly referred to as the “nanny dog”, they’ll choose hanging around with their owners over the opportunity to play fetch.
Dogue de Bordeaux – This French breed of dog is not only courageous, but loyal, affectionate, and protective. As they require less exercise than most breeds, Dogues de Bordeaux are one of the most laid back family dogs out there. Though they are low energy, they make for great guard dogs to any family they are a part of.
Bullmastiff– On most days, you can find you bullmastiff spending their time napping.
These 100-pound gentle giants are a lot of dog, with a lot of laze! The good news is that because they don’t suffer from separation anxiety, long periods spent away from your dog to nap is hardly frowned upon.
Great Pyrenees – Considered one of the lowest energy dog breeds, Great Pyrenees are fluffy beyond compare but ultimately lazy. Perfect for condominiums and apartments, these dogs don’t need a lot of yard to be happy. As long as they have moderate walks and potty breaks, these dogs are happiest napping or taking long car rides.
Newfoundland – For some dogs, while their low energy is an attractive quality for some owners, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a healthy trait. When it comes to Newfoundland or ‘Newfies,’ this breed requires regular exercise to stay healthy. When given the chance, they likely would prefer to lounge around the yard or go for a leisurely swim rather than take a hike. To get these 100-pound dogs up and moving, extra love, encouragement, and strength go a long way.
Smaller Low-Energy Dogs
English Bulldog – One of the gentlest (but laziest) dog breeds are bulldogs. Thanks to their stocky build, their cardio is often limited, fitting the stereotype of one of the lowest energy dog breeds. Don’t be surprised when you hear some of the loudest snores coming from their adorably smushed faces. While English bulldogs are surprisingly known to love skateboarding, they also love nothing more than a good snooze session.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – If you’re searching for a dog with a healthy combination of lazy and energetic, King Charles spaniel is the best of both worlds. They can be athletic and sporty as they zip around the yard or running on the beach, but were bred specifically to sit at the feet of royalty. They are excellent lap dogs for their obedience and moderate exercise needs.
Basset Hound– Basset hounds were bred for hunting, but when they’re not chasing after the latest scent, you can expect them to be cuddled up alongside their family. And who can resist their stubby legs, their wrinkled-up brows, or their droopy ears. After a moderate play session or walk, they’ll go straight for a hearty nap to wind down.
Shih Tzu– Much like the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, these little dogs pack a punch of energy, with a whole lot of laze. If you hate exercise, then Shih Tzus may be the dog for you! If a walk becomes too long for them, they’re known for plopping down from sheer laziness. They’re loyal, outgoing, and affectionate, but if you plan on taking them on an elongated walk, chances are you’ll be carrying them before the end of your journey. But with their laziness comes their innate ability to curl up in a perfect ball of cuddles alongside their owner.
Pekingese– One of the most independent and stubborn dog breeds is the Pekingese. While they are loyal to their owner and loveable to strangers and other animals, they much prefer the quiet, calm indoors. With the occasional burst of playfulness, Pekingese are happiest when they can marvel at the world from the comforts of their cushy couch.