9 Chill Dog Breeds That Keep It Low Energy

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Not every dog dreams of chasing tennis balls or sprinting through agility courses. Some are perfectly content embracing the slower side of life—more nap time, less go time. These mellow breeds excel at relaxation, happily lounging for hours and offering quiet companionship that’s low-maintenance but full of love. With gentle temperaments and minimal exercise needs, they’re ideal for calm households, apartment living, or anyone who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle. If your idea of quality time involves blankets, snacks, and zero urgency, these dogs will fit right into your peaceful routine.

Basset Hound

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The Basset Hound’s long ears, droopy eyes, and slow-motion stroll are a dead giveaway—this breed is in no rush to do anything. Bred for scent tracking, Bassets may love a sniffy walk, but they’re otherwise calm, relaxed, and gloriously lazy. These dogs excel at napping and are more likely to be found lounging than leaping. They’re affectionate and loyal but don’t demand much in terms of activity. Bassets are the perfect blend of lovable and low-energy, like the sleepy coworker you can’t help but adore.

Bulldog

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Bulldogs are built like short, muscular beanbags and have the energy levels to match. Known for their calm demeanor and love of lounging, Bulldogs prefer short walks and long naps—preferably in air conditioning. They get tired easily and are not fans of excessive exercise, making them ideal for more relaxed households. Bulldogs thrive on companionship and affection, but don’t need to be on the go to feel content. If your life motto is “less hustle, more snuggle,” the Bulldog is right there with you.

Great Dane

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Great Danes may be massive, but they’re surprisingly gentle giants with a calm and chill personality. While they need room to stretch out, they’re more likely to be curled up on a soft surface than running laps around the yard. Danes are affectionate and loving, but have very low energy levels indoors. They’re happy with a daily stroll and plenty of naptime, making them ideal for people who love dogs with presence, but not constant motion. Basically, they’re oversized lap dogs who enjoy slow living and oversized furniture.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavaliers are dainty, affectionate dogs who excel in the art of relaxation. They’re happiest cuddled up next to their humans, whether it’s on the couch, bed, or your lap. While they enjoy short bursts of play, they’re incredibly adaptable to their owner’s lifestyle and don’t need a lot of exercise to stay happy. Cavaliers are content being calm companions and bring a soothing energy to any home. Think of them as tiny therapists with a tail and an excellent sense of when to nap.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are little emperors of chill. Originally bred to be royal lap dogs, these pups haven’t forgotten their roots. They thrive on snuggles, soft pillows, and a predictable daily routine. While they’re playful in short spurts, they prefer lounging to long walks and are perfectly happy with a relaxed pace. Shih Tzus are social, affectionate, and unapologetically fond of doing absolutely nothing. Their motto? “Why run when you can nap in velvet?”

French Bulldog

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Frenchies are compact, charming, and supremely laid-back. These bat-eared charmers love being around their humans, but they don’t need a ton of activity to be content. They’re more about couch hangs and cozy cuddle sessions than long hikes or vigorous games. French Bulldogs are prone to overheating, so their low-energy lifestyle suits them just fine. They’re the perfect pet for people who want big personality in a low-maintenance, chill package—snorts and all.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows have the face of a lion and the energy of a very dignified sloth. These independent and aloof dogs aren’t ones for hyperactivity or high drama. They enjoy short walks, quiet environments, and minimal fuss. While not overly affectionate, Chows bond deeply with their people and prefer calm, predictable routines. They’re the kind of dog that says, “I love you—but let’s not run about it.”

Pekingese

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The Pekingese is a lap dog with a royal pedigree and a strong appreciation for rest. These little fluffballs are confident and calm, preferring to lounge in regal style over chasing tennis balls. Pekingese enjoy short walks and human companionship, but they’re content spending most of their day in relaxation mode. They thrive in peaceful homes and are perfect for people who want a dog that can nap as professionally as a cat. If you’re a fan of dramatic floof and zero drama, this is your dog.

Clumber Spaniel

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Clumber Spaniels are heavy-set, droopy-eyed dogs that move at a deliberate pace, and they’re in no hurry to get anywhere fast. These spaniels are among the most laid-back of the sporting breeds and have a sweet, gentle nature. They enjoy a good sniff around the yard, followed by an equally satisfying nap in a sunbeam. Clumbers are affectionate but not clingy, quiet but not aloof, and excellent at reminding you that rest is productive. They’re like the cozy cardigan of the dog world: soft, slow, and always welcome.

Olympic Napping Champions With Fur

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While some dogs thrive on speed, sprints, and endless games of fetch, these laid-back pups have chosen a different path—one paved with naps, cuddles, and the occasional slow stroll. They prove that life doesn’t always need to be lived in the fast lane. With a calm demeanor and a deep appreciation for comfort, these breeds are content skipping the early-morning workouts and savoring life one cozy moment at a time. Their motto? Why run when you can nap, and why fetch when you can snuggle? Slow and steady never looked so adorable.