26 Easygoing Dog Breeds Perfect for Laid-Back Owners

Breeds
By Jonas Becker

Finding the perfect dog that matches a laid-back lifestyle can bring immense joy and companionship without overwhelming demands. For individuals or families who prefer a calm and relaxed atmosphere, certain breeds are naturally more easygoing, content with lounging around and enjoying the simpler pleasures of life. In this post, we’ll explore 26 dog breeds known for their calm demeanor and suitability for laid-back owners. These breeds offer the perfect balance of companionship and low-maintenance care, making them ideal choices for those seeking a relaxed pet experience.

Basset Hound

© bassethoundsbegan

The Basset Hound is a breed known for its laid-back nature, making it an excellent companion for relaxed owners. With its distinctive droopy ears and soulful eyes, this breed exudes calmness. Basset Hounds are gentle, affectionate, and enjoy lounging around their home environment. While they may sometimes display stubbornness, their loyalty and love are unwavering. Regular short walks and some mental stimulation keep them happy, but they’re just as content snoozing in a sunny spot. They thrive in a peaceful household, forming strong bonds with their families while maintaining a relaxed demeanor.

Bulldog

© austin_bulldog_rescue

Bulldogs are quintessential easygoing companions, known for their relaxed and gentle nature. With a stocky build and a distinctive wrinkly face, they are both endearing and calm. Bulldogs enjoy short walks followed by long naps, often being characterized as couch potatoes. They are excellent for apartment living, as they don’t require extensive exercise. Their friendly disposition makes them great with kids and other pets. Despite their sometimes stubborn streak, Bulldogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. A relaxed home environment suits this breed perfectly, allowing their easygoing nature to shine.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

© wiseanimalrescue

Cavaliers are affectionate, gentle, and perfectly suited for those seeking a calm canine companion. Known for their beautiful silky coats and gentle expressions, these dogs are both charming and easygoing. Cavaliers enjoy spending time with their humans, whether it involves short play sessions or simply lounging around. They are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to homes with yards. Their social nature means they enjoy company, including kids and other pets, making them a harmonious addition to most families. Cavaliers are the epitome of a laid-back, loving pet.

Chihuahua

© saveapetanimalrescue

Chihuahuas, despite their small size, are big on personality and love to relax with their owners. While they can be alert and protective, they are also known for their companionship and affection. A Chihuahua relishes lap time and can adapt to a leisurely pace of life, especially in a cozy home environment. Their petite size makes them suitable for apartment living, and they require minimal exercise, preferring short, playful bursts of activity. Chihuahuas can be sensitive, so gentle interaction enhances their comfort and happiness, making them perfect for those who appreciate a devoted, easygoing pet.

Greyhound

© kitten.fosters

Greyhounds are surprisingly relaxed companions, despite their reputation for speed. Known as “couch potatoes” at heart, they love lounging around the house. With a serene and gentle nature, Greyhounds bond deeply with their owners, enjoying calm companionship. Their exercise needs are moderate—a brisk walk or a quick run suffices, after which they are content to rest for the remainder of the day. Greyhounds’ reserved nature makes them ideal for a peaceful household, and their elegant appearance only adds to their charm. For a laid-back owner, a Greyhound provides sophisticated, low-maintenance companionship.

Mastiff

© azmastiffrescue

Mastiffs are gentle giants, known for their calm and relaxed demeanor. Despite their imposing size, they are affectionate and thrive in a serene environment. Mastiffs enjoy simple pleasures, like lounging around and spending quiet time with their owners. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent companions for families with children. Mastiffs require minimal exercise—short walks and playtimes suffice to keep them healthy and happy. Their loyalty and devotion are boundless, forming deep bonds with their families. A Mastiff’s peaceful nature suits laid-back owners looking for a loving and easygoing pet.

Pekingese

© thedogist

The Pekingese, with its regal coat and dignified demeanor, is a breed that values tranquility. Known for their independence and affection, Pekingese enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, often content in their own company or lounging with their humans. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living, and they require minimal exercise—short walks and gentle play suffice. Pekingese are known for their loyalty and form strong bonds with their families, offering companionship without demanding too much activity. Their calm nature and endearing presence make them a perfect match for serene households seeking a loving pet.

Pug

© pacificpugs

Pugs are beloved for their cheerful personalities and relaxed attitudes, making them excellent companions for laid-back owners. With their curly tails and expressive faces, Pugs are both charming and sociable. They enjoy short bursts of play but are equally content relaxing at home. Their compact size and low exercise needs make them suitable for apartment living. Pugs thrive on human companionship and are known for their affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families, always eager to provide love and entertainment. A Pug’s quirky charm and easygoing nature make it a delightful, low-maintenance pet.

Shih Tzu

© tzuzoorescue

Shih Tzus are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect for relaxed living environments. With their long, flowing coats and cheerful faces, they bring joy and serenity to their homes. Shih Tzus love spending time with their families, whether it’s through gentle play or quiet companionship. They are well-suited for apartment living, requiring only moderate exercise like short walks and indoor play. This breed’s affectionate nature ensures they bond closely with their owners. A Shih Tzu’s calm disposition and loving character make it an excellent choice for those seeking an easygoing, devoted pet.

Whippet

© whippetsunleashed

Whippets, with their sleek bodies and gentle expressions, are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They enjoy a good sprint but are otherwise content to relax at home, making them ideal for laid-back owners. Whippets are low-maintenance and adapt well to both apartment and house living. Their exercise needs are moderate—a short run followed by restful lounging suits them perfectly. Known for their affectionate demeanor, Whippets form strong bonds with their families and are great with children. Their peaceful nature and loving companionship make Whippets a wonderful choice for those seeking a gentle, relaxed pet.

French Bulldog

© nycstreetdogs

French Bulldogs are known for their playful yet relaxed demeanor, making them ideal companions for laid-back owners. With their compact build and bat-like ears, they are both adorable and sociable. French Bulldogs love spending time with their humans, whether it’s through short play sessions or cozy cuddles. They thrive in apartment settings due to their minimal exercise needs, requiring only occasional walks and indoor play. Their friendly and affectionate nature ensures they bond closely with their families. A French Bulldog’s charming personality and easygoing nature make it a delightful, low-maintenance pet for serene living.

Bernese Mountain Dog

© allianceoftherapydogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them perfect for relaxed households. With their stunning tri-colored coats and calm demeanor, they are both striking and loving companions. Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy outdoor activities but equally appreciate lounging with their families. They require moderate exercise, such as walks and playtime, to keep them healthy and happy. Their friendly disposition makes them great with children and other pets, forming strong bonds in family settings. A Bernese Mountain Dog’s calm and loving character makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a serene, loyal pet.

Saint Bernard

© puppiesnloveaz

Saint Bernards are gentle giants, known for their calm demeanor and affectionate nature. Despite their large size, they are incredibly gentle, making them perfect companions for families with space for them to relax. Saint Bernards enjoy leisurely walks and lounging around the house. Their exercise needs are moderate, requiring regular walks to maintain their health. Saint Bernards are known for their loyalty and form deep bonds with their families, offering protection without being overly demanding. Their serene presence and loving nature make them a wonderful addition to any laid-back household seeking a devoted, easygoing pet.

Newfoundland

© thedogist

Newfoundlands are gentle and loving companions, ideally suited for relaxed environments. Known for their large size and calm demeanor, they are often described as gentle giants. Newfoundlands enjoy spending time with their families, whether it’s through gentle play or quiet companionship. They require moderate exercise to stay healthy, such as walks and swimming sessions. Their friendly and patient nature makes them great with children and other pets. Newfoundlands form strong bonds with their families, offering both protection and affection. Their serene presence and loving character make Newfoundlands a perfect fit for laid-back owners.

Great Dane

© strayrescuestl

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are known for their gentle and laid-back nature. Often referred to as “gentle giants,” they are affectionate companions who enjoy relaxing with their families. Great Danes require moderate exercise, like daily walks, but are also content to lounge around the house. Their calm presence and protective instincts make them excellent family pets. Great Danes bond closely with their owners, offering loyalty and companionship without being overly demanding. For those with space to accommodate them, a Great Dane’s serene nature makes it a wonderful choice for a relaxed living environment.

Collie

© worthydogrescue

Collies are known for their intelligence and gentle demeanor, making them ideal companions for relaxed households. With their long, flowing coats and expressive eyes, they are both beautiful and affectionate. Collies enjoy spending time with their families, whether it involves outdoor activities or quiet companionship. They require regular exercise, like walks and playtime, to maintain their health and happiness. Their friendly nature makes them excellent with children and other pets, forming strong bonds within the family. A Collie’s calm and loving character makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a serene, loyal pet.

Irish Wolfhound

© thedogist

Irish Wolfhounds, despite their large size, are known for their gentle and calm nature. These noble dogs love a relaxed lifestyle, enjoying leisurely walks or simply lounging with their owners. Due to their impressive stature, they need ample space to move comfortably. Irish Wolfhounds bond deeply with their families, offering loyalty and affection without being demanding. Their exercise needs are moderate, focusing on regular walks to maintain their well-being. With their serene presence and majestic appearance, Irish Wolfhounds make perfect companions for those seeking a gentle, easygoing pet in a tranquil setting.

Old English Sheepdog

© wallace.the.sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is a breed known for its friendly and relaxed nature, making it a joy for laid-back owners. With its shaggy coat and endearing personality, this breed is both lovable and easygoing. Sheepdogs enjoy moderate exercise, like walks and play, but also love to relax at home. They are excellent with children and other pets, forming strong bonds within the family. Their calm demeanor and affectionate nature ensure they are wonderful companions. An Old English Sheepdog’s playful yet serene disposition makes it an ideal choice for families seeking a loyal, relaxed pet.

Lhasa Apso

© protectorsofanimals

Lhasa Apsos are known for their independence and calm demeanor, making them ideal for relaxed households. With their luxurious coats and alert expressions, they are both elegant and affectionate companions. Lhasas enjoy quiet companionship, often content to lounge with their families. They require minimal exercise, with short walks and indoor play sufficing to keep them happy. Lhasa Apsos form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty and affection without being overly demanding. Their serene presence and loving nature make them perfect for those seeking a devoted, easygoing pet in a tranquil home environment.

Clumber Spaniel

© Chewy.com

Clumber Spaniels are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them ideal companions for laid-back owners. With their stocky build and soulful eyes, they are both charming and affectionate. Clumbers enjoy leisurely walks but are just as happy to relax at home. They thrive in peaceful households, forming strong bonds with their families. Their exercise needs are moderate, focusing on regular walks to maintain their health and happiness. Clumber Spaniels’ friendly and relaxed demeanor ensures they are wonderful companions, offering loyalty and affection without demanding too much activity. They are perfect for a serene lifestyle.

Keeshond

© koreanpawsrescue

Keeshonds are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions for laid-back owners. With their fluffy coats and ever-smiling expressions, they are both charming and affectionate. Keeshonds thrive in family settings, enjoying both playtime and relaxation. Their exercise needs are moderate, requiring regular walks to maintain their health and well-being. Keeshonds form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty and companionship without demanding too much. Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them perfect for those seeking a loving, easygoing pet in a relaxed environment.

Japanese Chin

© roadogs

Japanese Chins are known for their elegant and laid-back nature, making them perfect companions for tranquil households. With their delicate features and flowing coats, they are both beautiful and affectionate. Japanese Chins enjoy spending quiet time with their families, often content to lounge and observe. They require minimal exercise, with short walks and gentle play sufficing to keep them happy. Japanese Chins form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty and affection without being demanding. Their serene presence and loving character make them excellent pets for those seeking a devoted, easygoing companion in a calm home.

Tibetan Terrier

© coloradocorgisandfriends

Tibetan Terriers are known for their cheerful and relaxed demeanor, making them ideal companions for laid-back environments. With their fluffy coats and joyful expressions, they bring happiness and serenity to their homes. Tibetan Terriers enjoy moderate exercise, like walks and playtime, but also love to relax with their families. Their friendly nature ensures they bond closely with their owners, offering affection and loyalty. Tibetan Terriers thrive in peaceful settings, adapting well to various living environments. Their calm presence and loving character make them a wonderful choice for those seeking a joyful, easygoing pet.

Basenji

© theherorescue

Basenjis are known for their independent and calm nature, making them excellent companions for relaxed households. With their sleek bodies and alert expressions, they are both elegant and affectionate. Basenjis enjoy leisurely activities and are often content to relax with their families. Their exercise needs are moderate, focusing on regular walks to maintain their health and happiness. Basenjis form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty and companionship without being overly demanding. Their serene presence and unique character make them perfect for those seeking a devoted, easygoing pet in a tranquil home.

Scottish Deerhound

© auroracoanimalshelter

Scottish Deerhounds, with their graceful stature and gentle demeanor, are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They enjoy leisurely walks and are content to lounge with their families, making them perfect for laid-back owners. Deerhounds require moderate exercise, with regular walks sufficing to keep them healthy and happy. They bond deeply with their families, offering loyalty and companionship. Their serene presence and elegant appearance make them a wonderful addition to any peaceful household. A Scottish Deerhound’s loving character and relaxed nature make it an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle, easygoing pet.

Alaskan Malamute

© novamal_alaskanmalamutes

Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for relaxed environments. With their thick coats and strong builds, they are both striking and affectionate. Malamutes enjoy spending time outdoors but are also content to relax with their families. They require moderate exercise, such as walks or playtime, to maintain their health and well-being. Malamutes form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty and companionship. Their calm demeanor and loving nature make them perfect for those seeking a devoted, easygoing pet in a serene setting.