Top 20 Best Low-Energy Dog Breeds (2023)

Low-Energy Dog Breeds – Are you in search of a calm dog companion that doesn’t require excessive exercise and activity? Here is a compilation of the best low-energy dog breeds that will make an ideal companion for you.

A canine that aligns with your activity and energy level is truly a fortunate match.

Dogs are those creatures that are always filled with enthusiasm and energy. Breeds, such as Siberian Huskies, Belgian Malinois and Australian Shepherds, are known for their activeness, and therefore, they are classified as high-energy breeds. In order to thrive, they demand both physical and mental activities. 

There are several dog breeds that don’t like extensive levels of activity or exercise. Therefore, they are classified as low-energy breeds. 

If you belong to that category of people who don’t like long hikes, daily runs or walks on weekends, then low-energy breeds are the perfect choice for you. These low-energy dog breeds are available in various sizes, such as small, medium and large. These lazy dogs are very low-maintenance and will become great couch companions. In this way, both of you will be able to live happily. 

In this article, we will let you know about low-energy dog breeds, which will be a plus to all those families who have super busy people or elders. So, without any further delay, let’s dive into this post–

#1 Greyhound 

Temperament – Laid back, noble, and independent. 

Average Weight – Female (60-65 pounds) and Male (65-70 pounds)

Average Height – Female (27-28 inches) and Male (29-30 inches)

Greyhound is a low-energy dog breed. Even after their impressive breeds and large size, they enjoy taking a break with their owners and usually live up to 13 years. These canines are not advisable for those households that have other pets also, such as cats, because of their high prey drive. 

#2 Basset Hounds 

Temperament – Patient and low-key

Average Weight – 40-65 pounds

Average Height – Up to 15 inches 

These canines are very popular for their lazy and gentle nature. They are not high maintenance; that is, they don’t demand extensive activities or exercise, and only a regular walk along with playtime is enough for them. 

Basset Hounds usually live up to 13 years and suffer from various health issues such as back problems, obesity and joint pains. Therefore, regular veterinary consultations and a proper diet are very important. 

#3 Great Danes 

Temperament – Dependable, friendly and protective.  

Average Weight – Female (110-140 pounds) and Male (140-175 pounds)

Average Height – Female (28-30 inches) and Male (30-32 inches)

Great Danes are the world’s largest breed of dog but still come under the category of low-energy breed dogs. They don’t like extensive training or exercise but are also very playful and goofy. Great Danes usually live up to 10 years and will become a very good companion of yours. 

These canines are very good with other pets and children, hence making them an ideal choice. 

#4 Bulldog 

Temperament – Laid back, friendly and courageous   

Average Weight – Female (40 pounds) and Male (50 pounds)

Average Height – 14-15 inches 

Bulldog, also referred to as English Bulldog, is a very popular low-energy dog breed. They are squat and stocky canines, having unique characteristics such as pointy ears and flat faces. 

They have a calming nature and are very friendly, who want to spend time with their owners. However, they suffer from various health problems, such as musculoskeletal conditions, respiratory issues and eye problems. 

#5 Shih Tzu 

Temperament – Friendly, affectionate and smart 

Average Weight – 9-16 pounds

Average Height – 8-11 inches 

Shih Tzu is the most popular low-energy dog breed in America. They are very low maintenance and highly playful and friendly. This intelligent pooch usually lives up to 10-15 years. 

Shih Tzu possesses unique features and appearances, such as curly coats, demanding high maintenance. They are prone to various diseases, such as back difficulties and dry eyes. 

#6 French Bulldog 

Temperament – Charming, playful and intelligent  

Average Weight – Under 28 pounds

Average Height – 11-13 inches 

French Bulldogs were the second most popular canine breed in the U.S. in 2021. With their friendly personality and lovable appearance, they can make every individual develop affection towards them. Along with low-energy dog breeds, they also suffer from various health conditions such as eye, breathing, and skin problems. 

#7 Pug 

Temperament – Charming, loyal and mischievous  

Average Weight – 14-18 pounds

Average Height – 10-13 inches

These medium-sized and low-energy dog breeds are gaining extraordinary popularity. They are loving and sometimes considered mischievous. They don’t like extensive exercises or activities and are therefore very low maintenance.

However, they suffer from various medical issues due to their flat face. And that is the reason they are prone to multiple health problems, such as eye and respiratory conditions. Therefore, regular veterinary visits and a proper diet are very important. 

#8 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Temperament – Gentle and affectionate   

Average Weight – 13-19 pounds

Average Height – 12-13 inches

Searching for a low-breed energy dog that is adaptable, too? If so, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent choice for you. All they want is one decent regular walk and cuddles. They are affectionate, gentle, and therefore considered an ideal low-energy breed dog. 

#9 Chow Chow 

Temperament – Lazy, happy and loyal    

Average Weight – 45-70 pounds

Average Height – 17-20 inches

If you are searching for a low-energy dog breed – medium to large size, then Chow Chow is the perfect choice. They don’t like extensive exercise or activities and are affectionate, loyal and calm. This adorable dog is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners who may not always be comfortable with other dogs or strangers. As a result, these dogs require additional support, attention and training. 

#10 Irish Wolfhound

Temperament – Brave, intelligent and calm   

Average Weight – Female (105 pounds) and Male (120 pounds)

Average Height – Female (min. 30 inches) and Male (min. 32 inches)

Irish Wolfhound is another laid-back and calm dog breed. They also don’t like extensive exercise or activities and are very low maintenance. They are good with children, affectionate and usually have a lifespan of 6-8 years. Wolfhounds are typically prone to separation anxiety. 

#11 Mastiff 

Temperament – Dignified, courageous and good-natured    

Average Weight – Female (120-170 pounds) and Male (160-230 pounds)

Average Height – Female (min. 27.5 inches) and Male (min. 30 inches)

If you are searching for a low-energy dog breed of considerable size, then Mastiff is an excellent choice for you. They also don’t like extensive exercise or activities and are well-known for their laziness. They are loving and loyal and like to cuddle alongside their owners. 

These dogs demand proper training or socialization because of their exceptionally possessive nature. 

#12 Pekingese 

Temperament – Affectionate, regal and loyal    

Average Weight – Max. 14 pounds

Average Height – 6-9 inches

Pekingese is known for its loyal and affectionate nature. Sometimes, they are stubborn but still will not abandon their master in any situation. They usually have a lifespan of 14 years and demand timely maintenance and grooming. 

#13 Whippet 

Temperament – Calm, friendly and gentle     

Average Weight – 20-40 pounds

Average Height – 19-21 inches

The Whippet is another medium-sized, low-energy dog breed considered an absolute couch potato. They are ideal as indoor family pets as they are good with other animals and kids. Along with this, they are quiet, friendly and happy-go-lucky who love cuddling alongside their owner. If they are left alone for quite a long duration, there are possibilities that they might experience separation anxiety. 

#14 Japanese Chin 

Temperament – Happy, friendly and loving      

Average Weight – 7-11 pounds

Average Height – 8-11 inches 

Japanese Chin is noble, laid back, smart and an ideal low-energy dog breed. They are also known as lap dogs because they like to cuddle with their owners instead of daily walks. These canines are brachycephalic breeds, and therefore, they demand extra care and attention. They demand grooming at regular intervals due to their long coats. 

#15 Lhasa Apso 

Temperament – Funny, smart and confident       

Average Weight – 12-18 pounds

Average Height – 10-11 inches 

Lhasa Apso doesn’t like extensive exercise or activities; therefore, they are considered low-energy breed dogs. They are adorable, playful, loving and usually have a lifespan of 12-15 years. These canines are a vocal breed not advisable for those households having young children. 

Lhasa Apso demands frequent clipping and brushing. Yet they are intelligent, but still, you should behave calmly during their training. 

#16 Shiba Inu 

Temperament – Loyal, alert and lively        

Average Weight – 17-23 pounds

Average Height – 13.5-16.5 inches 

The Shiba Inu ranks among the most favoured canine breeds in Japan. They are brave, independent, confident and an ideal choice for living in an apartment or small homes. When you provide them with decent regular play and walk time, they will remain happy and healthy. 

#17 Shar Pei 

Temperament – Reserved, affectionate and devoted         

Average Weight – 35-44 pounds

Average Height – 17-20 inches 

Are you looking for a gentle and peaceful breed that doesn’t like extensive exercise or activities? If so, Shar Pei is a perfect option. They are known for their devoted and willful temperament. They are prone to numerous health problems and have a lifespan of 9-11 years. 

#18 Bolognese 

Temperament – Playful, easygoing and smart          

Average Weight – 5.5-9 pounds

Average Height – 10-12 inches 

Bolognese canines are another low-energy dog breed that doesn’t like extensive exercise and activities. They are calm, loving, playful and will become a good companion of yours for up to 14 years. They are also good with other animals and kids. Bolognese sheds extensively and demands timely grooming, so better be prepared with a vacuum cleaner. 

#19 Bernese Mountain Dog

Temperament – good-natured and calm    

Average Weight – Female (70-95 pounds) and Male (80-115 pounds)

Average Height – Female (23-26 inches) and Male (25-27.5 inches)

The Bernese Mountain Dog stands out as one of the renowned canine breeds today. This large-sized canine breed has traits resembling the Saint Bernard breed. It is a laid-back and calm canine breed that excels as an option for a family dog. They don’t like extensive exercise or activities but will accompany you on an extended hiking adventure. 

The lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog is up to 10 years, and they demand extensive grooming. They are susceptible to developing cancer; therefore, it is essential to monitor their health. 

#20 Brussels Griffon

Temperament – Friendly, alert and curious           

Average Weight – 8-10 pounds

Average Height – 7-10 inches 

Brussels Griffon is a small-sized, low-energy dog breed and is very popular. These dogs prefer to remain close to their owners, so they are prone to separation anxiety when left alone for an extended duration. With the help of approximately half an hour of exercise and some basic training, they are an excellent choice for family canines. 

Conclusion 

So, this was all about low-energy dog breeds. Several breeds are there who don’t like extensive training and activities in comparison to others. But keep in mind that they still demand proper training, company and regular walks. 

If you’re seeking a canine with low energy requirements, it is advisable to go for senior dogs rather than puppies. Nowadays, several mixed and pure breeds can be found, all with similar needs and varying sizes (small, medium or large).

Therefore, pick any dog breed with low energy from the above-mentioned list and have fun with a great companion. 

FAQs

Which is the best low-energy dog breed?

Bulldogs, as you need to be cautious regarding their susceptibility to overheating during physical exercise. They do not demand extensive activities in order to make them happy. Moreover, owing to their short legs, they prefer leisurely strolls. 

Which dog breeds can be left by themselves for 10 hours?

• French Bulldog
• Chihuahua
• Pugs
• Chow Chow
• Basset Hound
• Chow Chow
• Akita Inu and many more. 

Which canine breed is very gentle?

Labs are the most high-energy, friendly and outgoing dogs. They certainly uphold their reputation for being gentle and loyal companions, making them an excellent choice around children. Beagles might have been bred for hunting, but their joyful and affectionate characteristics say otherwise.