Calm Dog Breeds: 20 Quiet, Gentle, and Low-Energy Dogs Perfect for Relaxed Homes
Many people love dogs but prefer a companion with a calm and relaxed temperament. While some breeds are energetic and constantly on the move, others are naturally gentle, quiet, and content to relax with their families. Calm dog breeds are often excellent choices for apartment living, seniors, first-time dog owners, and households that prefer a peaceful environment.
Calm dogs typically have easygoing personalities and moderate exercise needs. While all dogs require daily activity and mental stimulation, these breeds are generally satisfied with shorter walks, gentle play, and plenty of time spent close to their owners.
It’s important to remember that every dog is an individual, and training, socialization, and lifestyle all play a role in shaping behavior. However, certain breeds have earned a reputation for their relaxed and affectionate nature.
Below are some of the best calm dog breeds known for their gentle temperaments and ability to thrive in quieter homes. Dog breeds like these are naturally calmer than others, making them ideal for quiet homes, apartments, seniors, and families looking for relaxed companions.
What Makes a Dog Breed Calm?
Several factors contribute to a dog’s calm temperament. Breed genetics, energy levels, and original working purpose all influence how active or relaxed a dog may be.
Many calm dog breeds were originally developed as companions or as working dogs that required patience and steadiness rather than high energy. Others simply have lower activity levels and enjoy spending time resting near their families.
Common traits seen in calm dog breeds include:
• A relaxed and patient temperament
• Moderate or low exercise requirements
• Strong bonding with family members
• Quiet behavior indoors
• Gentle and affectionate personalities
Calm dogs still enjoy regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation, but they are generally less demanding than high-energy breeds.
Best Calm Dog Breeds
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is famous for its laid-back personality and easygoing nature. Originally bred as scent hounds, these dogs move at a relaxed pace and tend to enjoy a slower lifestyle. Basset Hounds are affectionate, loyal companions that often prefer lounging comfortably near their families.
While they do enjoy walks and exploring scents outdoors, Basset Hounds are usually calm and relaxed indoors. Their patient temperament also makes them wonderful companions for families and seniors.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most affectionate and gentle companion breeds. Known for its sweet personality and calm demeanor, this breed thrives on human companionship and enjoys relaxing beside its owners.
Cavaliers adapt well to many living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive regular walks and attention. Their loving nature makes them especially popular among families and older adults.
Great Dane
Despite their enormous size, Great Danes are often called “gentle giants.” These dogs are typically calm, affectionate, and surprisingly relaxed indoors. Many Great Danes enjoy lounging comfortably for much of the day.
Although they require daily walks and space to stretch their legs, Great Danes are generally quiet and easygoing companions when properly trained and socialized.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are famous for their speed on the racetrack, but many people are surprised to learn how calm and relaxed they are at home. Often described as “40-mile-per-hour couch potatoes,” Greyhounds love short bursts of activity followed by long naps.
Their quiet and gentle temperament makes them excellent companions for peaceful households.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its calm and affectionate personality. These gentle giants form strong bonds with their families and often have a patient, steady temperament.
While they enjoy outdoor activity, Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally calm indoors and enjoy relaxing near their people.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a small companion breed known for its gentle personality and calm demeanor. Originally bred as a lap dog for Japanese nobility, this charming breed enjoys quiet environments and close companionship with its owners.
Japanese Chins are affectionate and intelligent, often forming strong bonds with their families. While they enjoy short play sessions, they are generally relaxed dogs that thrive in peaceful households.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small but confident dog known for its calm and composed personality. Originally bred in Tibetan monasteries as a watchdog and companion, this breed tends to be independent yet affectionate with its family.
Although Lhasa Apsos are alert and protective, they are typically relaxed indoors and enjoy spending time resting near their owners.
Whippet
The Whippet shares many personality traits with the Greyhound, including a calm and affectionate nature. While they enjoy short bursts of running, Whippets are famously relaxed indoors and often spend much of the day resting.
Their gentle temperament and quiet behavior make them excellent companions for calm households.
English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel is a sweet and affectionate companion breed known for its calm and loving nature. These small dogs thrive on human companionship and are happiest when spending time close to their families.
Because of their gentle temperament and moderate activity needs, English Toy Spaniels adapt well to apartment living and relaxed households.
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is one of the calmest of the spaniel breeds. Known for its thoughtful and easygoing personality, this breed tends to be slower-paced and relaxed compared to many other sporting dogs.
Clumbers are affectionate companions that enjoy moderate exercise and plenty of time with their families.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large, gentle dogs known for their calm and patient personalities. Often referred to as “gentle giants,” they are famously good with children and have a natural protective instinct.
Their relaxed temperament and affectionate nature make them wonderful family companions.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are famous for their calm demeanor and steady temperament. Originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are patient, affectionate, and devoted to their families.
Despite their size, Saint Bernards are typically relaxed indoors and enjoy quiet time with their owners.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are well known for their relaxed personalities and love of lounging. These dogs are affectionate, loyal companions that enjoy spending time with their families.
While they still require regular exercise, Bulldogs are generally calm and easygoing dogs that thrive in quieter homes.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was originally bred as a companion dog, and its personality reflects that history. These small dogs are affectionate, gentle, and content to spend time relaxing with their owners.
Shih Tzus adapt well to apartment living and are often described as loving lap dogs.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are large, powerful dogs with remarkably calm personalities. These gentle giants tend to be quiet and affectionate companions that form strong bonds with their families.
Although they require early training and socialization, Mastiffs are often relaxed and easygoing dogs in the home.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, yet it is widely known for its calm and gentle temperament. Despite their impressive size, these dogs are affectionate, patient, and often surprisingly relaxed indoors.
Irish Wolfhounds are deeply loyal to their families and tend to have a quiet, dignified nature. While they do require space and regular exercise, they are generally calm companions that enjoy spending time resting near their owners.
Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small companion breed known for its calm personality and affectionate nature. Originally bred by Tibetan monks as companion dogs, these charming little dogs thrive on close relationships with their families.
Tibetan Spaniels are alert and intelligent but generally relaxed indoors. They enjoy moderate activity but are equally happy relaxing on a comfortable lap or watching the world from a favorite perch.
Havanese
The Havanese is a friendly and affectionate companion breed that often has a calm and adaptable temperament. These small dogs form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their people.
While playful and cheerful, Havanese dogs are not typically hyperactive and adapt well to apartment living. Their gentle personality and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners.
Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound shares many personality traits with the Greyhound, including a calm and gentle temperament. These graceful dogs are known for their quiet demeanor and affectionate loyalty.
Although Deerhounds enjoy outdoor exercise, they are often relaxed indoors and appreciate a peaceful environment. Their patient and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for owners who appreciate large but calm dogs.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a historic companion breed that has long been valued for its calm and dignified personality. These small dogs were originally bred for Chinese royalty and are known for their loyal and affectionate nature.
Pekingese are typically relaxed and independent but enjoy spending time with their families. Their calm personality makes them well suited for quieter households.
Frequently Asked Questions About Calm Dog Breeds
What is the calmest dog breed?
Several breeds are known for exceptionally calm temperaments. Popular examples include the Basset Hound, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Great Dane, Greyhound, and Newfoundland. These breeds are often relaxed indoors and enjoy spending time quietly with their families.
Are calm dog breeds good for first-time owners?
Many calm dog breeds are excellent choices for first-time dog owners because they are typically easier to manage than high-energy breeds. Dogs with relaxed temperaments often adapt well to household routines and may require less intensive exercise.
Are calm dogs good for apartments?
Yes. Many calm dog breeds adapt well to apartment living, especially smaller companion breeds such as the Shih Tzu, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Havanese. Larger calm breeds like Greyhounds and Great Danes can also adapt well when they receive regular exercise.
Do calm dog breeds still need exercise?
All dogs require daily exercise and mental stimulation, even calm breeds. However, relaxed dog breeds are usually satisfied with moderate walks, gentle playtime, and regular interaction with their families.
Are calm dogs good with children?
Many calm dog breeds are known for their patience and gentle personalities, making them excellent companions for families with children. Proper training and supervision are always important when introducing dogs and young children.
Choosing the Right Calm Dog Breed
While calm dog breeds are often easier to manage than high-energy dogs, it is still important to consider factors such as size, grooming needs, health concerns, and compatibility with your lifestyle.
Potential dog owners should research each breed carefully and consider their living situation, activity level, and ability to provide proper care and training.
Choosing a dog that matches your lifestyle is one of the most important steps in creating a happy and successful lifelong relationship. Many senior calm breeds make excellent companions for older adults. Many calm breeds are ideal for older adults—see our full list of the best dog breeds for seniors.
Many people searching for relaxed companions are also interested in low-shedding dog breeds that are easier to manage around the home.
You can read our guide to caring for senior dogs for information about keeping your aging dog in good health.
Final Thoughts
Calm dog breeds offer wonderful companionship for people who appreciate a relaxed and affectionate canine friend. Whether large or small, these dogs often bring a peaceful presence into the home and form strong bonds with their families.
With proper care, training, and socialization, calm dogs can thrive in a wide variety of homes and provide years of loyal companionship.
Related Dog Breed Guides
• Best Dog Breeds for Families
• Best Apartment Dog Breeds
• Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
• Best Dogs for Seniors
• The Dog Owner’s Library contains links to many informative dog breed topics
• Wondering if a dog breed’s temperament a good match for your lifestyle? Explore our Dog Breed Temperament Guide for the answers.
All of the dog breeds on this page are breeds that are recognized by the AKC.
This guide was written by Lisa Puskas, a lifelong dog expert with over 50 years of hands-on experience in dog care, training, and breed research.