Top 11 Lazy Dog Breeds with Low Energy

MD Mustakim Jabir
Read Time 5 Min

If you’re like me, there’s nothing better than coming home to a warm, loving lazy dog that’s ready to snuggle up with you on the couch. But not all of us have the time—or the energy—for high-maintenance, high-energy dogs. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to lazy dog breeds with low energy. Whether you live in a small apartment or just want a companion that matches your laid-back lifestyle, these lazy dog breeds might just be your perfect match.

Small Low-Energy Toy Dog Breeds

1. Chihuahua

Dog Size: 2-6 lbs
Personality Traits: Loyal, alert, and surprisingly protective for their size.
Grooming Requirements: Minimal; occasional brushing for short coats, more frequent for long-haired types.
Activity Level: Low, though they do enjoy short bursts of play.
Ease of Training: Can be stubborn but trainable with patience.
Barking Tendencies: High; they often bark at strangers or unusual sounds.

Chihuahuas are small dogs with big personalities. Though they enjoy short walks, they are perfectly content lounging around the house. They do well in small spaces and can be your personal lap warmer all day long. However, consistent training is necessary to manage their barking tendencies.

2. Pomeranian

Dog Size: 3-7 lbs
Personality Traits: Bold, playful, and very affectionate.
Grooming Requirements: High; requires frequent brushing to maintain their fluffy coat.
Activity Level: Moderate, though they are easily worn out with light play.
Ease of Training: Intelligent but can be independent.
Barking Tendencies: High; known to be vocal.

Pomeranians are tiny fluff balls that look like mini lions. They are playful but have low endurance, so they’re perfect for apartment living. Just a few short walks and some playtime indoors will keep them happy.

3. Maltese

Dog Size: 4-7 lbs
Personality Traits: Gentle, playful, and loving.
Grooming Requirements: High; daily brushing to prevent matting.
Activity Level: Low; short walks or indoor play are sufficient.
Ease of Training: Very trainable; eager to please.
Barking Tendencies: Moderate; can bark at new people or animals.

Maltese dogs are known for their beautiful white coats and sweet dispositions. They’re perfect companions if you love grooming or if you just want a dog that’s happy to sit on your lap while you work or watch TV.

Small Low-Energy Dog Breeds

1. Brussels Griffon

Dog Size: 8-12 lbs
Personality Traits: Affectionate, sensitive, and a little quirky.
Grooming Requirements: Moderate; regular brushing is needed.
Activity Level: Low; they’re content with brief walks and indoor play.
Ease of Training: Fairly easy; responsive to positive reinforcement.
Barking Tendencies: Moderate; tends to bark at strangers.

Brussels Griffons are known for their almost human-like expressions. They’re sensitive dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. With low exercise needs, they’re an ideal choice for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Dog Size: 13-18 lbs
Personality Traits: Gentle, friendly, and eager to please.
Grooming Requirements: Moderate; regular brushing is required.
Activity Level: Low; enjoys short walks and lounging around.
Ease of Training: Highly trainable; loves to learn.
Barking Tendencies: Low; usually quiet.

This breed is known for its sweet and gentle nature. Cavaliers are happiest when they’re with you, whether it’s on a walk or snuggled on the couch. They adapt well to apartment life and don’t require extensive exercise.

Medium-Sized Low-Energy Dog Breeds

1. Basset Hound

Dog Size: 40-65 lbs
Personality Traits: Laid-back, loyal, and a bit stubborn.
Grooming Requirements: Low; occasional brushing needed.
Activity Level: Low; they’re happy with short, slow walks.
Ease of Training: Stubborn but trainable with patience.
Barking Tendencies: Moderate; can be vocal when excited.

Basset Hounds are known for their long ears and soulful eyes. They’re not very active and love to nap. Despite their stubbornness, they’re affectionate and enjoy spending time with their family.

2. Chow Chow

Dog Size: 45-70 lbs
Personality Traits: Independent, reserved, and protective.
Grooming Requirements: High; regular brushing due to their thick double coat.
Activity Level: Low; they prefer light exercise and lounging.
Ease of Training: Requires an experienced owner due to their independent nature.
Barking Tendencies: Low; generally quiet.

Chow Chows are like little lions with their mane-like fur. They are dignified and aloof, often described as cat-like in their independence. They’re perfect for those who prefer a dog that isn’t overly needy.

Large Low-Energy Dog Breeds

1. Clumber Spaniel

Dog Size: 55-85 lbs
Personality Traits: Calm, gentle, and friendly.
Grooming Requirements: Moderate; regular brushing is needed.
Activity Level: Low; enjoys leisurely walks.
Ease of Training: Easy; intelligent and willing to please.
Barking Tendencies: Low; generally quiet.

Clumber Spaniels are calm, gentle giants. They love a good nap and are perfectly content with a slow, short walk. Their easygoing nature makes them excellent companions for those who prefer a relaxed lifestyle.

2. Greyhound

Dog Size: 60-70 lbs
Personality Traits: Gentle, reserved, and affectionate.
Grooming Requirements: Low; occasional brushing needed.
Activity Level: Surprisingly low; enjoys short bursts of activity followed by long naps.
Ease of Training: Fairly easy; responds well to gentle guidance.
Barking Tendencies: Low; usually quiet.

Though Greyhounds are known for their racing speed, they are true couch potatoes at heart. They love lounging around and are quite content with a couple of short walks a day. Their calm and gentle nature makes them great companions.

Extra Large Low-Energy Dog Breeds

1. Bernese Mountain Dog

Dog Size: 70-115 lbs
Personality Traits: Affectionate, calm, and loyal.
Grooming Requirements: High; requires regular brushing due to their thick coat.
Activity Level: Low; enjoys light exercise.
Ease of Training: Easy; eager to please.
Barking Tendencies: Low; generally quiet.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are big, lovable fluff balls. Despite their size, they are gentle and calm, making them excellent companions for those with enough space for their large frames.

2. Great Dane

Dog Size: 110-175 lbs
Personality Traits: Gentle, affectionate, and a bit of a lapdog in a giant body.
Grooming Requirements: Low; occasional brushing needed.
Activity Level: Low; enjoys light exercise and long naps.
Ease of Training: Fairly easy; responds well to positive reinforcement.
Barking Tendencies: Low; usually quiet.

Great Danes are often called the “gentle giants” of the dog world. They may be huge, but they are laid-back, friendly, and surprisingly low-energy. They’re happiest when lounging with their favorite human.

Health Concerns Related to Low Energy in Dogs

It’s important to note that while these breeds are naturally low-energy, lethargy in any dog can sometimes be a sign of health issues like hypothyroidism, arthritis, or heart disease. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice a sudden change in your dog’s energy levels. Regular vet check-ups are crucial in keeping your lazy companion healthy and happy.

Best Low Maintenance Dogs for Small Apartments

When living in a small space, consider breeds that don’t require a lot of exercise or have demanding grooming needs. The breeds listed above are perfect for apartment living because they are content with little exercise and are generally quiet, making them excellent neighbours.

For those of us who value a low-key lifestyle, these lazy dog breeds provide the perfect companionship without the demands of a high-energy dog. They’ll happily spend their days lounging by your side, giving you all the love and relaxation you need.