13 Most Relaxed and Calm Dog Breeds for a Peaceful Home

If you’re looking to bring a sense of calm and tranquility to your home, a relaxed dog breed can make all the difference. Certain breeds are naturally laid-back and easygoing, making them ideal companions for individuals and families seeking a peaceful environment. In this guide, we’ll explore the 13 most relaxed and calm dog breeds that thrive in serene settings.

These dogs are known for their gentle personalities, loyalty, and low energy levels, making them perfect for cozy evenings and quiet weekends. From the famously lazy Bulldog to the gentle Saint Bernard, these breeds are not only lovable but also well-suited to harmonious homes. Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a yard, these calm dog breeds will blend seamlessly into your life, bringing a sense of peace and companionship.

1. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is known for its laid-back, mellow nature, making it one of the calmest dog breeds. Originating in France, this breed was initially developed for hunting due to its incredible scent-tracking abilities. Despite its hunting background, the Basset Hound is a calm and low-energy dog that prefers lounging over vigorous play. Their short legs and large, droopy ears give them a unique and lovable appearance that matches their easy-going temperament. Basset Hounds are generally friendly with strangers and are gentle with children, making them ideal for families or individuals looking for a low-maintenance, calm dog. They enjoy leisurely walks and are content to relax at home for the remainder of the day.

Basset Hounds are also low-barking dogs, which adds to the serene atmosphere they bring into a household. Though they can be a bit stubborn, they respond well to gentle, positive reinforcement training methods. Their moderate exercise needs are easily met with daily walks, and they are usually not demanding when it comes to playtime. However, they can be prone to obesity, so monitoring their diet and ensuring they get regular, short bursts of activity is essential. Overall, the Basset Hound is an affectionate and easygoing companion, perfect for a peaceful and quiet home.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often called a “lap dog” for a reason. This breed is naturally calm, gentle, and highly adaptable, making it a perfect companion for people seeking a relaxed and affectionate dog. Cavaliers are known for their silky, flowing coats and expressive eyes that radiate warmth and affection. Their small size and friendly disposition make them ideal for apartment living or homes with limited space. While they enjoy short walks and the occasional play session, Cavaliers are happiest when curled up beside their owners, basking in their company.

These dogs are excellent with children and get along well with other pets, including cats, due to their mild temperament. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels thrive on human interaction and are known to be highly sensitive to their owners’ moods, often providing comfort and companionship during tough times. However, because of their attachment to people, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This breed is also highly trainable and responds well to positive reinforcement, making it easy for even first-time dog owners to manage. If you’re looking for a gentle, calm dog that will happily spend its days by your side, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a wonderful choice.

3. Great Dane

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their calm and friendly nature. These dogs have a relaxed temperament, and while they may be large, they are often content with a moderate amount of exercise. Great Danes are known for their affectionate, loyal nature and form strong bonds with their human families. Their size and gentle nature make them excellent protectors, but they are not typically aggressive and usually only bark to alert their owners. This calm demeanor makes them a great choice for households looking for a big dog with a gentle personality.

Great Danes do require some space due to their size, but they are relatively low-energy dogs indoors and are happy to lounge around for most of the day. They are well-suited to homes with backyards, but they can also adapt to apartment living if given sufficient exercise. Although they have a short coat that requires minimal grooming, they do need regular health check-ups due to their susceptibility to certain breed-specific health conditions. With a Great Dane, you get a calm, loving companion that brings both peace and a sense of security to any home.

4. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is another large breed that exudes calmness and patience. Known for their gentle demeanor, Newfoundlands are incredibly loyal and are particularly great with children, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs.” These dogs have a natural affinity for water and are powerful swimmers, which reflects their history as rescue dogs. Despite their strength and endurance, Newfoundlands are quiet and laid-back, preferring to spend time lounging with their families rather than engaging in high-energy activities. Their thick, fluffy coats add to their calm, teddy bear-like appearance, which matches their loving personality.

Newfoundlands require regular grooming due to their dense coats, but they are otherwise low-maintenance when it comes to activity levels. They enjoy leisurely walks and occasional swims, but they are generally not demanding in terms of exercise. This breed is incredibly patient and rarely shows aggression, making them suitable for families, even those with young children. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, and they often excel in obedience training. If you’re looking for a large, affectionate dog that will bring peace and love into your home, the Newfoundland is an excellent choice.

5. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle, calm disposition and their loyalty to family members. Originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, they have a natural tendency to be calm and composed, especially when indoors. Bernese Mountain Dogs are large but gentle, and they thrive in family environments where they can spend plenty of time with their loved ones. They are exceptionally good with children and get along well with other pets, making them one of the best choices for families seeking a relaxed and tolerant dog breed.

Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy outdoor activities but are content with moderate daily exercise, such as a couple of walks or some playtime in the yard. They have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming, especially during shedding season. This breed is also known for its loyalty and protectiveness, but it’s rare for them to show aggression. Instead, they are more likely to calmly observe strangers rather than react. If you want a large, gentle dog that brings both serenity and companionship to your household, the Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent pick.

6. Bulldog

The Bulldog, with its stocky build and wrinkled face, is one of the calmest and most laid-back dog breeds around. Originally bred for bull-baiting, Bulldogs have since evolved into affectionate and mellow companions who are happiest when lounging with their family. Known for their stubborn yet loving nature, Bulldogs are a perfect fit for those looking for a relaxed, low-energy pet. They are great with children, tolerant of other pets, and require minimal exercise, making them a good choice for apartment living or homes without a backyard.

Although Bulldogs don’t need a lot of physical activity, regular short walks are beneficial to keep them in good health. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but their wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent infection. Bulldogs are incredibly loyal and enjoy spending time with their families, often following their owners around the house just to be close. While they might not be the most athletic breed, Bulldogs more than make up for it with their endearing personalities and affectionate nature. If you’re looking for a calm, gentle dog that’s as happy to relax at home as you are, the Bulldog is an excellent choice.

7. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, friendly breed known for its calm and easygoing personality. Originating from China and Tibet, Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs for royalty, and they carry this history in their dignified and gentle demeanor. These dogs are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, including apartments and houses. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are known for their resilience and confidence, often handling new situations with a calm attitude.

Shih Tzus have a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming, but they don’t need much exercise beyond short daily walks and some indoor playtime. They are gentle with children and get along well with other pets, making them ideal for families or seniors. This breed is particularly affectionate and loves being close to its owners, often curling up on laps or beside them on the couch. If you’re searching for a low-maintenance, calm dog that enjoys a peaceful environment, the Shih Tzu is a wonderful companion.

8. Greyhound

While Greyhounds are known for their racing speed, they are surprisingly calm and relaxed when at home, earning them the nickname “40-mph couch potatoes.” These dogs are incredibly gentle and affectionate with their families, and despite their athletic build, they are quite content to lounge around for most of the day. Greyhounds require a few short bursts of exercise, such as a brisk walk or a quick sprint in a fenced area, but they’re generally low-energy indoors and enjoy a quiet, peaceful environment.

Greyhounds are sensitive and respond well to positive reinforcement training, making them easy to handle even for first-time dog owners. They have short coats that require minimal grooming and are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to care. Known for their gentle and calm nature, Greyhounds are also great with children and get along well with other dogs. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate dog with a unique look, the Greyhound is an excellent choice for a peaceful home.

9. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds and also one of the calmest. These gentle giants are known for their serene and friendly nature, making them a great choice for families or individuals seeking a peaceful canine companion. Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are remarkably gentle and have a patient disposition that makes them excellent with children. They have a laid-back nature and are usually content with moderate exercise, such as a daily walk or some time in a secure yard.

Irish Wolfhounds are low-barking dogs, which adds to the tranquility they bring to a household. They have a thick, wiry coat that requires regular brushing but is otherwise low-maintenance. While they do have a shorter lifespan compared to some smaller breeds, their calm and affectionate nature makes every moment with them memorable. If you have the space and are looking for a relaxed, loyal companion, the Irish Wolfhound is a great choice.

10. Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniels are known for their calm and easygoing temperament. Originally bred as hunting dogs, Clumber Spaniels have a relaxed demeanor and enjoy spending time lounging with their family members. They are friendly, gentle, and highly tolerant, making them ideal for families with children or other pets. While they enjoy the occasional outdoor activity, Clumber Spaniels are generally low-energy indoors and prefer a slower-paced lifestyle.

This breed requires regular grooming due to its thick, dense coat, but they are otherwise low-maintenance. Clumber Spaniels are known for their intelligence and are quick learners, making training a straightforward process. They are naturally friendly with strangers but aren’t overly excitable, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere they bring to a home. If you’re looking for a calm, patient dog with a touch of elegance, the Clumber Spaniel is a wonderful addition to any household.

11. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small breed known for its charming personality and calm nature. These dogs are incredibly affectionate with their families and are known for their ability to adapt to various living environments, from city apartments to suburban homes. French Bulldogs require minimal exercise and are usually content with a short daily walk or some indoor play. Their compact size and laid-back attitude make them one of the best breeds for apartment living.

French Bulldogs are social and love being around people, often forming close bonds with their owners. They have a short coat that is easy to care for, and they don’t bark much, making them ideal for a peaceful home environment. While they may have occasional bursts of energy, French Bulldogs are generally calm and enjoy spending most of their time relaxing. If you’re looking for a small, affectionate, and low-maintenance dog, the French Bulldog is an excellent choice.

12. English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is another giant breed known for its calm and gentle nature. Despite their large size, Mastiffs are very affectionate and are often described as “gentle giants.” They are low-energy dogs that don’t require much exercise beyond daily walks, making them surprisingly suitable for indoor living. Mastiffs are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, and while they may be reserved around strangers, they are incredibly loving with their families.

Mastiffs are generally low-barking dogs, which helps maintain a peaceful home environment. Their short coat is easy to groom, and they are typically low-maintenance when it comes to care. English Mastiffs are known for their patience and tolerance, especially with children, which makes them great family pets. If you have the space and are looking for a calm, affectionate giant, the English Mastiff is a fantastic choice.

13. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, relaxed nature, making them one of the calmest dog breeds around. Originally bred for mountain rescues in Switzerland, Saint Bernards have a calm and tolerant temperament that makes them excellent family pets. These dogs are incredibly patient and gentle with children, and their friendly disposition means they get along well with other pets. Saint Bernards are affectionate and enjoy being close to their families, often following them around the house.

Saint Bernards require moderate exercise but are generally low-energy indoors, where they are content to lounge and relax. Their thick, fluffy coat requires regular grooming, but they are otherwise low-maintenance. Known for their loyalty and devotion, Saint Bernards are also known to be highly trainable, responding well to gentle and positive reinforcement methods. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate dog with a loving personality, the Saint Bernard is an excellent choice for a peaceful and family-friendly home.

Conclusion

Choosing a calm and relaxed dog breed can bring endless joy and a tranquil presence to your home. From affectionate lap dogs to gentle giants, each breed on this list offers its unique charm and a soothing disposition. These easygoing dogs are not only low-maintenance but also incredibly loyal and loving. By choosing one of these relaxed breeds, you’re investing in a peaceful, rewarding bond that enhances the calmness in your everyday life.

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