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Low Energy Dogs – 17 Awesome Lazy Dog Breeds

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Looking for a dog that makes a perfect couch companion? This list of low energy dogs will help you find the perfect pup to fit your lifestyle!

Everyone will tell you that dogs take a lot of time and commitment – and they do – but just because you’re not the most active or energetic person doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get one.

In fact, there are plenty of options when it comes to lazy dog breeds. Which is perfect if you don’t have the time, ability or energy for non-stop dog craziness.

We’ve rounded up 17 low-energy dog breeds perfect for a lackadaisical lifestyle.

What Are Low Energy Dogs?

All dogs require a good amount of care and attention. It’s just that some require much more than others. Like my Labrador, Toby, who spent 10 hours playing at doggy daycare and still needed an hour-long game of fetch with us when he got home.

These low energy dogs are better suited to someone who’d rather go on a short walk than a run or throw a ball around a bit before relaxing. These dogs tend to be better suited for cities & apartments and those that don’t have the energy to tire out an active dog.

Note that energy will vary some between individual pups, and you can also consider adopting an older dog rather than getting a puppy.

The low energy dogs on the list below are great if you’re what we affectionately call a lazy dog lover.

1. Pug

pug laying down

The Pug is a brachycephaly breed, meaning it has a broad, short skull that leads to breathing issues. With this build, they can only handle short walks, so a little exercise goes a very long way with this adorable dog!

As another benefit for lazy dog owners, the Pug’s short coat requires very little grooming.

Even though the Pug is considered quite the couch potato, they can be mischevious at times and will always keep you laughing. Sure, they’re low on energy, but they make up for it with personality plus.

Learn more about the Pug breed

2. Pekingese

Pekingese dog breed

The Pekingese is definitely not a fan of exercise. And with their short, bowlegged stature, do you blame them?

The Pekingese makes for a chill, loving lapdog with a deep sense of loyalty. They’re also one of the healthiest dog breeds out there, so you’ll spend less time (and money!) at the vet.

3. Basset Hound

basset hound breed

The Basset Hound just looks lazy, doesn’t it? The droopy eyes, the wrinkly skin, the slow walk.

This breed loves to lounge around and cuddle up with you. Exercise is definitely required, but with their slow-moving bodies, you won’t exactly break a sweat walking alongside them.

4. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff breed

Don’t let their large size fool you. The Bullmastiff is actually a lazy lapdog – that is if they can fit on your lap.

Surprisingly, this gigantic breed requires little exercise. And little grooming. So if you have the room, the Bullmastiff is a low-key and calm canine.

5. Greyhound

greyhound breed

No, this isn’t a mistake. Despite their running prowess, the Greyhound is a pretty chill dog. Yes, they can run at extremely fast speeds but that’s only for a short distance. These speedy jaunts wear them out quickly, leaving them tired, exhausted and ready for snuggling.

6. Chihuahua

Chihuahua breed

The smallest of all the dog breeds, the Chihuahua needs little in terms of exercise and grooming. They do like to play, but at this size, a little bit goes a long way.

With their low-maintenance persona and small size, it’s no wonder the Chihuahua is a popular choice for the elderly and people living in apartments.

Learn more about the Chihuahua breed

7. Havanese

Havanese breed

Hailing from Cuba, the Havanese was bred to be the perfect companion dog, and it shows. They want nothing more than to curl up with you and snuggle.

As far as exercise goes, the Havanese just needs short, slow-moving walks and a tiny bit of playtime. Nothing too crazy.

8. Dachshund

Dachsund on grass

The Dachshund’s short, stubby legs and elongated bodies don’t exactly lend themselves well to exercise, which is why this breed makes quite a docile dog. An indoor game of fetch is all they need to burn some energy.

Learn more about the Dachshund.

9. Maltese

maltese breed

The Maltese is one of the most adorable breeds out there, and lucky for us they are also social, easy-to-entertain creatures.

Like others on this list, the Maltese needs pretty minimal exercise each day. I know firsthand after spending time with my brother’s Maltipoo. He snuggles 99% of the time, gets up and does a few laps around the couch, and then goes back to chill mode.

Learn more about the Maltese breed

10. Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier breed

Friendly, bright and highly adaptable, the Boston Terrier has quickly risen in popularity in recent years, and we think we know why.

First off, their cute, scrunched face and pointy ears are hard to resist. Then there’s the charming, sweet personality. And finally, and importantly, they only need short walks and a tiny bit of grooming.

11. English Bulldog

English Bulldog breed

The English Bulldog loves to lie around and spend time with their family. It’s no wonder they’re considered a fabulous family dog.

Like the Pug, this breed is brachycephalic, so arduous exercise is out of the question. Just a brief walk will do.

Learn more about the Bulldog

12. French Bulldog

French Bulldog breed

Another brachycephalic breed, the French Bulldog only needs a walk around the block before they get pooped out. With their adaptable, outgoing personality and low exercise and grooming needs, this breed is a great choice for both solo dog owners and those with families alike.

Fun fact: According to the AKC, the French Bulldog is currently the 6th most popular dog breed in the United States!

Learn more about the French Bulldog

13. Pomeranian

Pomeranian breed

If you live alone and don’t have a ton of extra time but still want a dog, don’t worry, there’s a breed for you: the Pomeranian.

My aunt Connie lives alone and has a busy schedule, so she is a big fan of this breed. They don’t need much exercise and are very independent – although they do have a fierce loyalty to their owner.

The only downside is that they like to bark. A lot. And don’t always get along with others. But they always seem to have a lot of love for their mama.

14. Chow Chow

chow chow breed

Chow Chows are big fluffy dogs that are pretty independent, but don’t need much exercise. These dogs aren’t the most affectionate (often compared to cats) so you’ll need to make sure to socialize them well with strangers to make them feel comfortable.

15. Great Dane

great dane with girl - child

Great Danes are giant, friendly and loyal. They love to cuddle and lounge around the house and are good with children. Their large size requires you have enough space for them to be comfortable, but it also means they don’t require intense exercise.

16. Shih Tzu

shih tzu breed

Shih Tzu’s are friendly and depend on companionship with their owner. They don’t need too much exercise and prefer to stay out of hot weather. They have long but low shedding coats that require some maintenance, but can be trimmed for less shedding.

Learn more about the Shih Tzu

17. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are playful but quiet and gentle. They are very friendly and only need light exercise like a daily walk or some playtime. They do well with active owners as well as homebodies.

Looking for More Dog Breeds?

If you’re looking to research even more dog breeds check out our dog breed search where you can search by breed traits & compare breeds.

Check out more articles about: Dog Breeds

1 Comment

  1. Denise gendrea

    No dog breed is truly Hy allergenic. Like us, dogs shed hair and skin cells. Even hairless dogs shed skin cells. This is the allergen. Low shedding dogs still have skin under the only truly hypoallergenic pet is a stuffed one.

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