Are you searching for a dog breed that’s calm, relaxed, and easy to live with? Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking for a companion that fits into a low-key lifestyle, choosing a calm dog breed can make all the difference. Many breeds are known for their laid-back personalities, making them perfect for households that value peace and quiet. Let’s explore eight calm dog breeds that might be the perfect match for you.

🐾 1. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are famous for their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and relaxed demeanor. These medium-sized dogs are gentle, friendly, and love lounging around the house. While they enjoy daily walks, they’re not overly energetic and are content with moderate exercise.

Despite their calm nature, Basset Hounds are scent hounds, meaning they may follow their nose if they catch an interesting scent. Keeping them on a leash during walks is a must.

• Average weight: 40–65 pounds
• Known for: Patient and easygoing temperament
• Best for: Families or individuals seeking a low-energy companion

🐕 2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed with a big heart. These dogs are affectionate, friendly, and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both families and individuals. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their gentle and calm behavior.

While they enjoy playing, Cavaliers are just as happy cuddling on the couch. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their silky coat.

• Average weight: 13–18 pounds
• Known for: Loving and sociable personality
• Best for: Apartment dwellers or families with children

🐶 3. Great Dane

Despite their massive size, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants.” These dogs are calm, friendly, and loyal. They’re excellent with children and make wonderful family pets, provided you have enough space to accommodate their size.

Great Danes require daily walks to stay healthy but are generally low-energy indoors. Their short coat makes grooming relatively simple.

• Average weight: 110–175 pounds
• Known for: Gentle and affectionate nature
• Best for: Families with large homes or yards

🐕‍🦺 4. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, fluffy dogs with a calm and friendly temperament. Originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, they are strong yet gentle, making them a favorite among families.

While Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy outdoor activities, they’re not overly energetic and are content relaxing at home. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

• Average weight: 70–115 pounds
• Known for: Calm and affectionate personality
• Best for: Active families or those in cooler climates

🐩 5. Greyhound

Known for their incredible speed, Greyhounds might surprise you with their calm and lazy nature when off the racetrack. These dogs are true couch potatoes, spending most of their time lounging around the house.

Greyhounds require short bursts of exercise, such as a quick sprint in a fenced area, but are otherwise low-maintenance. Their short coat also makes grooming easy.

• Average weight: 50–70 pounds
• Known for: Relaxed and quiet demeanor
• Best for: Individuals or families looking for a low-energy companion

🐕 6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that love being around people. Their calm and friendly nature makes them ideal for apartment living or homes with limited space. They’re also great with children and other pets.

Regular grooming is necessary to keep their long coat healthy, but their overall care needs are minimal. Shih Tzus are happiest when they’re close to their owners.

• Average weight: 9–16 pounds
• Known for: Affectionate and adaptable personality
• Best for: Seniors, families, or apartment dwellers

🐾 7. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are large, gentle dogs known for their calm and patient temperament. Often called “nanny dogs,” they’re great with children and make excellent family pets. These dogs are also strong swimmers and enjoy water activities.

Newfoundlands require regular grooming due to their thick, water-resistant coat. They thrive in homes with plenty of space to move around.

• Average weight: 100–150 pounds
• Known for: Gentle and protective nature
• Best for: Families with large homes or active lifestyles

🐕‍🦺 8. Bulldog

Bulldogs are iconic for their wrinkled faces and stocky build, but they’re also one of the calmest dog breeds. These dogs are incredibly laid-back, making them perfect for a relaxed household. They’re great with kids and adapt well to apartment living.

While Bulldogs don’t require much exercise, it’s important to watch their diet to prevent obesity. Their short coat is easy to maintain, but regular cleaning of their facial folds is essential.

• Average weight: 40–50 pounds
• Known for: Easygoing and friendly temperament
• Best for: Individuals, families, or apartment dwellers

FAQs

Q: Are calm dog breeds good for first-time owners?

A: Yes, calm dog breeds are often ideal for first-time owners because they’re easier to manage and train. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Shih Tzu are particularly beginner-friendly.

Q: Do calm dog breeds need exercise?

A: Even calm dogs need daily exercise to stay healthy. However, their energy levels are usually lower, so moderate walks and playtime are sufficient.

Q: Can calm dog breeds live in apartments?

A: Absolutely! Many calm dog breeds, such as Bulldogs and Shih Tzus, adapt well to apartment living as long as they get regular exercise and mental stimulation.

References

• AKC – Basset Hound
• AKC – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• PetMD – Great Dane
• AKC – Bernese Mountain Dog
• PetMD – Greyhound
• AKC – Shih Tzu
• AKC – Newfoundland
• AKC – Bulldog

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