Relaxed Dogs for Relaxed People: The Best Companion Pups for Calm Households | Pupford

Not every pup parent is looking for a hiking buddy or a high-energy jogging partner. For many individuals or families, a calm, low-key companion is the perfect addition to their lifestyle. Whether you’re retired, live in a smaller space, work from home, or simply enjoy a more laid-back routine, there are dog breeds that are well-suited to your pace.

But before bringing home any pup — even a mellow one — it’s essential to prepare. That’s why Pupford’s New Puppy Starter Course is such a valuable resource. Whether you’ve just welcomed a puppy or are still in the “thinking about it” phase, this free course helps you build the right foundation, even if you’ve never raised a dog before. It’s perfect for first-time pup parents and families who want to do it right from day one — without feeling overwhelmed.

In this post, we’ll explore dog breeds known for their lower energy levels, calm temperaments, and manageable needs, making them great fits for less active households.

Table of Contents:

1. What Makes a Dog “Low Energy”?
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
3. Basset Hound
4. Shih Tzu
5. English Bulldog
6. Great Dane
7. Chow Chow
8. Pekingese 
9. Clumber Spaniel
10. Maltese
11. Why Low-Energy Doesn’t Mean “No Training”

What Makes a Dog “Low Energy”?

Before jumping into breed recommendations, it’s helpful to understand what we mean by low energy. A low-energy dog:

• Does not require intense physical exercise (like long runs or multiple-hour walks)
• Is content with short walks, indoor play, or lounging most of the day
• Tends to be mentally relaxed, not overly stimulated by noise, new people, or activity
• Can thrive in apartment or small home settings
• Has a temperament that aligns with a calm home environment

ALL dogs need some daily activity and enrichment. But low-energy breeds tend to be content with much less than their high-energy counterparts. 

That said, every dog is an individual. Genetics, early experiences, and personality all play a role. Even within mellow breeds, you may find dogs with more energy than expected.

Let’s explore some dog breed options for a chill lifestyle.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Gentle, affectionate, and adorably regal, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a favorite for good reason.

These small, silky-coated dogs love curling up next to their humans and are typically happy with one or two short walks per day and some light indoor play. They bond deeply with their families and adapt well to apartment living.

Pros:

• Low to moderate exercise needs
• Friendly with kids, seniors, and other pets
• Easy to train and affectionate

Ideal For:

Families, retirees, or apartment dwellers looking for a companion dog that thrives on cuddles and companionship without needing much outdoor time

Basset Hound

Known for their long ears, droopy expressions, and calm demeanor, Basset Hounds are true couch potatoes.

Though they were originally bred for scent tracking, modern Bassets are more interested in lounging than chasing. A leisurely sniff-filled walk and plenty of nap time make them a perfect match for laid-back pup parents.

Pros:

• Calm, slow-moving, and low-energy
• Independent but loving
• Great with families

Ideal For:

Those who enjoy leisurely strolls and want a relaxed, low-maintenance companion with a quirky, lovable personality.

Shih Tzu

This toy breed was bred to be a lap dog, and they haven’t forgotten it. Shih Tzus are happy spending the day snoozing near you, making them ideal for people who work from home or prefer a quiet lifestyle.

They do enjoy playtime and walks, but they don’t need much to be satisfied.

Pros:

• Content with short walks and indoor play
• Excellent for apartment living
• Friendly and social with humans

Ideal For:

People who don’t mind the additional grooming needs and are looking for a low-energy yet social dog that doesn’t require a big backyard or lots of space.

English Bulldog

English Bulldogs may look tough, but they’re actually gentle, affectionate, and can be downright lazy. Their short bursts of energy are often followed by long naps, making them a great choice for less active households.

They do need daily short walks for health reasons but are otherwise more than happy to chill on the couch.

Pros:

• Low energy
• Loyal and emotionally in tune with their family
• Doesn’t need much space

Ideal For:

City dwellers or families seeking a relaxed, dependable dog that enjoys lounging and doesn’t need long walks or energetic play.

Great Dane

Despite their massive size, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” for a reason.

They don’t have the high exercise demands of other large breeds. Many Danes are content with a couple of walks and lots of rest. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them ideal for homes with space, but not necessarily high activity levels.

Pros:

• Surprisingly low energy
• Very gentle and family-friendly
• Calm and well-mannered indoors

Ideal For:

Families or individuals with room for a large dog but without the desire for a high-energy companion. 

Chow Chow

Independent and dignified, Chow Chows are low-key dogs who value their space. They’re not overly affectionate or playful, but they are loyal and well-suited to calm households.

They enjoy daily walks but don’t demand intense interaction, making them ideal for solo owners or retirees.

Pros:

• Doesn’t require constant attention
• Low to moderate exercise needs
• Naturally calm indoors, making them excellent for peaceful, low-activity homes

Ideal For:

Individuals who appreciate independence in a dog, and who want a pup that’s calm, composed, and requires minimal physical activity.

Pekingese

Originally bred for Chinese royalty, the Pekingese is another small companion dog with very modest activity needs.

These little pups love to observe their surroundings and receive affection on their own terms. They don’t need much physical activity, making them excellent for low-energy homes.

Pros:

• Small and easy to manage
• Low exercise needs
• Bond closely with their humans

Ideal For:

Quiet households, seniors, or small apartment dwellers who want a dignified yet loyal lapdog with a unique personality.

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel might not be a household name, but they’re a hidden gem for anyone seeking a calm, easygoing companion. These medium-sized spaniels are sturdy, affectionate, and surprisingly low-energy, especially compared to other sporting breeds.

Clumbers are happy with a couple of moderate walks and love lounging around the house with their humans. Their gentle nature makes them great with kids, seniors, and other pets.

Pros:

• Mellow and laid-back indoors
• Affectionate and people-oriented
• Great for quieter households

Ideal For:

Families with children, or individuals seeking a gentle, medium-sized dog that doesn’t demand constant activity or high stimulation.

Maltese

Maltese dogs are small, elegant, and known for their gentle nature. They enjoy moderate play and short walks but are generally content relaxing indoors with their favorite humans.

They thrive in apartments and smaller homes, and their friendly personalities make them a joy for families and singles alike.

Pros:

• Low to moderate energy
• Good for indoor living
• Friendly and sociable

Ideal For:

People who want a small, gentle companion that balances playfulness with a relaxed attitude.

Why Low-Energy Doesn’t Mean “No Training”

Even though these breeds are less physically demanding, that doesn’t mean you can skip training, mental enrichment, or routine. In fact, low-energy dogs can develop problem behaviors if they’re bored, under-stimulated, or improperly socialized just as easily as high-energy breeds.

That’s why it’s so important to start with the right information, especially if this is your first dog or your first time raising a puppy. We are here to help you at every stage of your pup parent journey.

Our New Puppy Starter Course is:

✅ 100% free

✅ Designed for people who just got or are about to get a puppy

✅ Helps you prepare for your puppy by covering expenses, supplies, and lifestyle change

✅ Guides you in building routines and choosing a breed that fits your lifestyle—even if you live in an apartment or have a busy schedule

Recap: Choosing the Right Dog for Your Lifestyle

The best dog breed for you isn’t about what’s trendy, it’s about what fits your daily life, energy level, and goals. If you’re not looking for a marathon runner, that’s okay. There are so many calm, relaxed dog breeds out there who are just as loving, loyal, and rewarding.

When matched with the right pup and the right training tools, even first-time or low-activity pup parents can raise well-behaved, happy companions.

Check out Pupford’s New Puppy Starter Course today to build your confidence, get expert-led guidance, and make your pup’s early days successful, no matter what breed of pup you decide is best for you.