Almost everyone loves dogs, but not everyone has a lifestyle cut out for an energetic pup. For those with a less active routine or not enough time, low energy dogs are the perfect solution.
Many dogs fit this description. However, we’ll go over the breeds that are most likely to be laid-back additions to the family.
Why Energy Levels Matter
One of the best things you can do for your dog is to provide adequate exercise. Doing so will help you avoid obstacles like chewing and destructiveness, psychological problems, and behavioral issues.
Not everyone can provide the exercise and entertainment demanded by a high-energy dog. Huskies, for example, are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity and will become very destructive and challenging if they don’t get it.
If you don’t have the time or energy to exercise a dog like a husky, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a happy pup in your home. Luckily for us, the large variety of dog breeds means a broad range of exercise needs.
Large Size Doesn’t Mean High Energy
Don’t mistake a large dog for one that needs a lot of exercises. The Great Dane is a prime example that huge doesn’t equal hyper. These gentle giants tend to be laid back and even on the lazy side. The reverse can also be true: small breeds can sometimes be very high energy.
10 Most Low Energy Dog Breeds
Low energy dog breeds and medium energy dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. It’s crucial to note that every dog is different, and there are exceptions to the rule. However, in general, the following breeds are on the low to low-medium scale when it comes to energy.
- Great Danes - As mentioned earlier, these giant breed dogs are very laid back and are content with lazing around. They have a sweet nature but are large enough to be effective guard dogs. Great Danes are on the low end when it comes to dog life expectancy.
- French Bulldogs - This adorable breed is perfect for city and apartment dwellers. They’re quiet, not easily excited, and happy with spending half of the day snoozing. The short hair is a plus if you’re concerned with shedding.
- Pugs - A delightfully wrinkly breed, the pug is a true couch-potato who would usually rather be inside. Their ”flat” faces make it harder for them to breathe in cold and hot weather, making them the perfect homebody. They can have some health issues as a result, so pug owners should look into dog insurance companies.
- Chinese Crested - You probably know this dog as the breed with little to no hair. It’s a good thing they don’t want to be outdoors frequently because that lack of fur can make cold weather very uncomfortable. They’re better off inside and like to cuddle the humans closest to them.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - This small breed can do fine with or without exercise. They will enjoy a walk in the park but don’t need one to feel content. They’re one of the best low energy small dogs if you like outdoor activities but don’t always have time.
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Corgis are fantastic with kids and will play with them - but they will also snooze on the couch with you all day. They’re gentle, loyal, and love attention.
- Shih Tzus - This toy breed is the perfect lap dog and popular amongst the elderly or retirees. They’re the ideal size to take with you almost anywhere, which they tend to prefer over hikes or dog parks. Separation anxiety in dogs is prevalent among this and other small breeds.
- Greyhounds - A Greyhound might be known for their speed, but they don’t have to run off excess energy to be happy. Given space, they might choose to go on a wild tear, but they will also gladly sit quietly indoors or nap instead.
- Sussex Spaniels - They’re similar to their Cavalier cousins in that they have low energy demands. They are slightly more laid back and usually prefer curling up with you, wherever that may be.
- Newfoundland - Also known as “Newfies,” this breed is large but mellow. They’re one of the best low energy dogs for kids - big enough to scare off strangers, but predictable and sweet around those they know.
