For many people, the ideal companion is one who enjoys leisurely walks and is happy to curl up on the couch for a relaxing evening. If your lifestyle is more laid-back, finding the right calm dog breed is the key to a happy partnership for you and your pet.

A calmer dog is better for your lifestyle if you’re laid back and like spending time indoors. A high-energy dog in a low-energy home can lead to frustration and destructive behaviors. However, a calm dog breed thrives in a relaxed environment and is content with a slower pace of life, making them a perfect fit for many individuals and families.

Every dog is an individual, but these safe dog breeds are well-known for their generally mellow and easygoing temperaments.

Famous for their long ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are champions of lounging. They’re good-natured and low-key, preferring a long nap to a long run.

Bred for companionship, the Cavalier is a quintessential lapdog. These tiny, gentle, loving and adaptable pets are just happy to be wherever their people are.

Frequently called gentle giants, Great Danes are low-energy dogs. They’re patient and sweet-tempered, but they do require plenty of space to stretch out.

While famous for their racing speed, Greyhound dogs are legendary couch potatoes in a home environment, enjoying a good sprint in a fenced yard, followed by hours of napping.

The dignified and hefty Clumber Spaniel is one of the calmest dog breeds. Loyal, affectionate and perfectly content with moderate daily walks, you can count on this dog to be a lower energy canine companion. 

A dog’s temperament is largely influenced by what it was originally bred to do. Many calm breeds were developed for either companionship or for jobs that required patience, not constant motion. 

A calm demeanor doesn’t make a dog immune to health problems or mean they live longer. For example, a Basset Hound can still develop an ear infection, and a Great Dane is at a higher risk for joint issues. Investing in a pet insurance policy is a smart way to prepare for unexpected veterinary bills, allowing you to provide the best care for your companion without financial stress.

Do Calmer Dog Breeds Make Good Apartment Dogs? 

Often, yes. Their lower exercise needs and quieter nature can make calm dogs the best for apartment life. However, you must also consider their size. A Great Dane may be calm, but they need significant space to live comfortably.

Do I Need to Exercise My Calmer Dog? 

Absolutely. All dogs require daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. The difference is that a calm breed’s needs might be met with a 30-minute walk instead of running for miles.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Anxiety? 

Some plans may cover anxiety. For example, the Healthy Paws plan covers diagnostic visits and treatments for newly diagnosed behavioral conditions, including anxiety. 

Why Are Bigger Dogs so Calm?

Not all large dogs are calm. Temperament and exercise needs are more determined by breed and parentage than by size.

Guest Author

Guest authors for the Healthy Paws blog contribute content based on their research and expertise.