Some dogs are known for their high energy and need to run and play all the time. All that energy can become destructive if it’s not channeled and released. So for some people, a more relaxed, even lazy dog breed might be more the right speed.
The dogs on this list are happy with moderate exercise for some of the day, but they’re mostly content to be couch potatoes and sit around with their humans in the house.
Did your dog’s breed make our list of great couch potato dogs? Then DogTime recommends that you pick up this squeaker rope toy to help keep your low energy pup active!
Here are seven of the best low-energy dog breeds around.
7. Basset Hound
It may seem strange that a hunting dog has a tendency to be so relaxed, but the Basset Hound was bred to have stumpy legs to allow hunters to keep up with them.
They were also bred as pack dogs, so they love being around their families inside their homes and are very content to lie around. They eat a lot, too, so it’s important to exercise Basset Hounds so they don’t become unhealthy.
Despite their general laziness, they have a lot of endurance and can go for long walks.
6. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is, on average, the tallest breed of dog in the world, but they’re also one of the laziest.
They enjoy being couch potatoes and spending time with their families. It’s important to take them for a long walk each day to maintain that big body’s health, but one a day will generally do for the Irish Wolfhound.
But don’t expect them to be good guard dogs, as they aren’t known for barking or being too concerned when someone comes to the front door.
5. Bulldog
You know a Bulldog when you see one. They have a distinct short muzzle, sturdy body, and lots of wrinkles.
Like many brachycephalic — or short-muzzled — dogs, the Bulldog often has respiratory problems, so short exercises are better. It’s important to get these snoring beauties out of their doggy beds for a walk to fight off obesity.
However, most of the day, you’ll find the Bulldog lounging around, catching z’s next to a human companion.
4. Chow Chow
The dignified Chow Chow is a bit more aloof than other breeds and won’t spend a lot of time curled up on the couch waiting to get pets. But that doesn’t mean these dogs spend their days out and about either.
Their thick fur can make them overheat in hot weather, so don’t spend too much time outside with them if the temperature goes up. A couple of 15-minute walks a day will keep them happy and healthy.
Otherwise, they’re pretty content to lie around and let you know when a stranger comes anywhere near the house. If that happens, look out for a bark storm.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was bred to be a royal companion, and that’s about it. No hunting or guarding for this little breed. They’re lap-warmers, through and through.
The Shih Tzu’s short snout makes any kind of exercise difficult, and heat stroke is a possibility because air coming through their nose doesn’t have as much of a chance to cool due to the shape of their faces.
They’re mostly happy being what they were bred to be — royal lapdogs.
2. Chinese Shar-Pei
Another short-nosed dog, the Chinese Shar-Pei is prone to overheating and would probably prefer short walks to vigorous exercise. They tend to snore and wheeze, and they don’t like to jog or run for very long.
They can be aloof, but when it comes to protecting their homes, they never take the job lying down. Chinese Shar-Peis will immediately bark and let you know if someone new is coming close, which makes them great guard dogs.
1. Bullmastiff
If you’re fine with a bit of drool, the Bullmastiff may be the dog for you. Even though they have low energy, they can be trained to compete in all kinds of skill competitions.
Generally they’re pretty happy with a couple of short walks per day, though they love human interaction and will want to spend plenty of time around you.
They may not be big barkers, but if strangers come to a Bullmastiff’s home, they’ll find their way blocked by 130 pounds of protective pooch.
Remember you can adopt just about any kind of dog from a shelter or rescue, even the breeds on this list. So check out DogTime’s adoption page to search for adoptable dogs by breed and zip code. Adopt! Don’t shop!
Did your pup’s breed make our list of couch potato dogs? Would you prefer a high- or low-energy dog? Let us know in the comments below!
