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(iStock)There are several factors to consider when picking which puppy is right for you. Are you looking for a jogging buddy or a dog to play fetch with till the sun sets? What about a laid-back, amiable dog who enjoys an afternoon nap?
Look no further if you're searching for a laid-back, placid dog to join your family. If you're not sure what "calm" means in a dog, we've put up a list of 25 calm dog breeds to help you figure it out. There's a relaxed option for every dog lover, with sizes ranging from huge to little, fluffy to scruffy.
All dogs, it is undeniably true, require affection and exercise. However, there are some breeds who would rather be curled up on the couch with you than running around in the yard. This list of 25 calm dog breeds is designed to assist you in your search to find the perfect pooch to cuddle with at the end of a long, busy day.
Calm Dog Breeds
1. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards once assisted hospice monks in locating missing pilgrims in the snow-covered Alps. They are relatively placid and calm-mannered, despite their size. These gentle giants make a fantastic laid-back family dog with proper training and lots of love.
2. Basset Hound
These short-legged dogs, which originated in Europe, have shown to be quite autonomous while remaining devoted to their owners. Because of their independence, they can be tough to teach, but with a few simple commands, this adorable pup will stay by your side. They would rather take a nap on the couch than go for a long walk in the park.
3. Irish Wolfhound
The massive Irish Wolfhound is a breed with a long history. They helped to safeguard the Irish countryside from wolves in the 15th century. They're extremely bright and sensitive to their owners' feelings, which makes them ideal therapy dogs.
4. Boerboel
While Boerboels aren't suggested for first-time dog owners, they have a reputation for being excellent with youngsters. Their origins can be traced back to the 1600s in South Africa, when European immigrants arrived. Boerboels, often known as "farmer's dogs," guarded their homestead and are known for their loyalty.
Related: 25 Best Apartment Dogs
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
It's clear that these lapdogs like a good cuddling! Their huge, soulful eyes appear to beg for pets, and their sociable demeanour makes them an excellent family companion. While they enjoy fetching like any other dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is more likely to be found snuggled up next to their person.
6. French Bulldog
French bulldogs are regarded for being calm and cuddly, making them ideal companions for seniors, children, and apartment dwellers. They're laid-back, petite, and have some adorable ears. After all, they are the second most popular dog breed in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.
Related: 30 Teddy Bear Dog Breeds
7. Great Dane
Two characteristics that best describe this large breed are lanky and sluggish. They get along with other dogs and pets and don't need a lot of activity. However, make sure they have enough room to stretch their long legs (you won't be able to find a kennel large enough for them to stretch fully).
8. Bergamasco
Bergamascos are a relatively low-maintenance breed, despite their intensive grooming. They prefer walking to jogging and love spending time with their family. Don't expect a watchdog from these small dogs because they aren't particularly aggressive.
9. Clumber Spaniel
One glance at this colossal furball is enough to make you want to cuddle them all day. The Clumber Spaniel is a non-aggressive couch potato who is known to greet even robbers with a tail wag and lick. Give them a good brushing and some light exercise, and you'll have a very happy dog.
10. Pug
Pugs may be one of the silliest dog breeds around. They're jovial, good-natured, and a little goofy. While their desire to please sometimes drive them to be obstinate, they are generally calm and even-tempered.
11. Bolognese
The Bolognese, a less common breed in the United States, is more laid-back and peaceful than their Bichon Frise ancestors. They require regular exercise but also like spending the most of their afternoons resting in the sun. They're also thought to be calmer than other little dogs.
12. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, despite their reputation for being yappy, are a placid and devoted breed. They prefer to be by your side whether you're out running errands or working from home. Shih Tzus are calm among adults and children, but keep an eye out for children who mistake them for a teddy bear.
13. Japanese Chin
With a maximum weight of 7 pounds, these little pups may be the tiniest of calm dog breeds. They're empathetic, sweet, and eager to please. It's worth noting that they're also known as the "Velcro" dog because they can't live without their owner.
14. Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is the calmest of the Spaniel breeds. They don't care where they live as long as they have enough of love and a place to slumber. They, like all dogs, require daily exercise (but only in the form of a short walk or a lap around the yard).
15. Bulldog
Bulldogs are generally cheerful and pleased in most circumstances, despite their built-in frown. They can't withstand hot temperatures or a lot of fun, but they can handle a short walk. While bulldogs enjoy sleeping, their brachycephalic heads cause them to snore or wheeze.
16. Greyhound
Greyhounds are dubbed "the world's fastest couch potato" for a reason, therefore they had to be included in this list of peaceful dog breeds. They have the best of both worlds: they enjoy chasing anything small and moving, as well as snuggling up next to their human. Greyhounds, despite their cautious and sensitive disposition, are extremely loyal and eager to please.
17. Golden Retriever
The easy-going temperament of a Golden Retriever is what makes them such good service and therapy dogs. They can be extra playful out in the yard and super snuggly on the couch. Because they’re eager to please, this calm breed does well with training and makes a great pet for first-time owners.
18. ChowChow
These giant fluff balls with blue-black tongues are as cuddly as they look, since this calm dog breed loves lounging around the house. They are known for having laid-back, aloof temperaments and enjoy chilling on the couch m0re than running around the dog park or going on long walks.
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19. Leonbergers
If you’re not familiar with the Leonberger, think of a Newfoundland—but much, much larger. Their size might fool you, but this 170-pound fluffer is one of the largest calm dog breeds there is. Everything about the Leonberger is supersized, including the amount of love and affection they give their owners.
20. Newfoundland
Smaller than the Leonberger with just as much love and affection to give. Newfoundlands, or Newfies, are happy to spend hours relaxing at your feet. While they still need exercise, they make great house dogs and prefer to stay indoors when it’s hot out.
21. Irish Setter
Rolling over for belly scratches, loving on their owners, and showing off their shiny copper coats is what Irish Setters do best—that’s why they’re one of the best calm dog breeds you can adopt.
22. Great Pyrenees
Another giant fluff ball, the Great Pyrenees as independent as they come. At the dog park, you’ll find them off on their own basking in the sun. They’re a devoted family guardian with a zen-like manner. Not to mention, their lush coat will have the kids fighting over whose bed they sleep in.
23. Border Terrier
Here’s an exception to the usual hyper terrier group rule. Border Terriers aren’t as stubborn as some of their relatives, and they’re known to have a whole lot of love to give. They’re also on the smaller side so they make wonderful lap dogs.
24. Whippet
They adore their family, do well around kids, and rarely meet a stranger. Whippets are natural-born runners, but with enough exercise will gladly spend the rest of the day lounging.
25. Pekingese
Of Chinese descent, the Pekingese is one of the smaller calm dog breeds. They’re certified lap dogs with long, lavish coats. Be ready to take this pooch on your errands, as they’re rarely found without their owner.
For more adorable dog breed types, check out… 30 Toy Dog Breeds 30 Cutest Dog Breeds 25 Best Family Dogs
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