Calm Dog Breeds of All Shapes & Sizes

Calmness in dogs can vary from individual to individual. That said, some breeds are particularly well-known for their calm and laid-back temperament. And contrary to popular belief, "calm dogs" don't just come in the form of gentle giants. Breeds that are regarded for their peaceful temperaments and behavior come in all shapes and sizes.

Keep in mind that a dog's behavior is also influenced by factors such as training, socialization, and the environment in which they are raised. But if you're looking for a pal that prefers a relaxing stroll to vigorous playtime or who doesn't react strongly to stimuli that makes others bark nonstop, it's time to get acquainted with dog breeds that are often considered calm.

15 of the calmest dog breeds

When it comes to calm canines, unruffled temperaments come in many different packages. Small, large, and in-between, these dogs may be more likely to be easygoing than others. 

1. English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are known for their gentle and easygoing nature. Despite their somewhat imposing appearance with their wrinkled faces and muscular build, they are often incredibly gentle and affectionate dogs. They are not very naturally active and tend to enjoy lounging around.

The Bulldog's calm and easygoing nature makes them excellent choices for families, singles, and seniors alike. While they may appear somewhat stoic, bulldogs often have a playful and silly side, delighting their loved ones with comical antics.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often referred to simply as the Cavalier, is a small and elegant breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature. Aside from being calm, well-mannered dogs, Cavaliers are characterized by their beautiful, silky coats and expressive, soulful eyes.

Cavaliers are social and thrive on human companionship, making them excellent family pets. They are gentle, playful, and well-suited to both active households and those seeking a more relaxed companion. Despite their petite size, these dogs are known for their big hearts and are sure to melt anyone's heart with their loving disposition.

3. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are primarily known for their solemn expressions and droopy faces. They are not very high-energy and enjoy lounging. But despite being dogs of leisure in the modern day, this breed got its big break as a hunting dog used for tracking. The Basset is renowned for its exceptional sense of smell — with over 220 smell receptors, it is second only to the Bloodhound.

Despite their hunting lineage, Basset Hounds tend to be calm canine companions, preferring leisurely strolls over vigorous exercise. Their love for food and their unique appearance make them endearing and lovable family pets, known for their loyalty and devotion to pet owners.

4. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small dogs with a naturally calm and friendly personality. They make excellent lap dogs and are great for families. Nevertheless, proper socialization is recommended early in a Shih Tzu's life to ensure they get along well with other dogs and new people.

Originating in Tibet with a history dating back over a thousand years, Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs to royalty and members of the noble class. Aside from their calm, regal demeanors, these lovable dogs are characterized by their distinctive pushed-in faces and expressive, dark eyes. 

5. Great Dane

Despite their large size, Great Danes are often described as gentle souls. They are generally calm and well-behaved, seldom getting worked up over loud or vigorous stimuli. They are also typically affectionate and enjoy being around their human family members. Great Danes are known to be good with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age. While they make excellent companions, they also serve as effective guard dogs due to their imposing presence.

6. Newfoundland

Commonly referred to as "Newfies," Newfoundlands are a giant and gentle breed known for their incredible strength, sweet temperament, and excellent swimming abilities. As their name suggests, these dogs originated in Newfoundland, Canada, where they were initially bred to work alongside fishermen, helping haul nets and rescuing people from the water. The calm, stoic demeanor necessary for such work has carried through to their modern descendants, and they are still known for being excellent swimmers.

7. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a majestic and giant breed known for its imposing size and gentle demeanor. These dogs have a rich history in Ireland, where they were originally bred for hunting wolves and other large game. Despite their imposing stature, Irish Wolfhounds are "gentle giants" known for their calm and friendly nature. They do require proper socialization and a spacious environment due to their large size, but their loving and noble presence is quick to win hearts over.

8. Retrievers (Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever)

While both Golden and Labrador Retrievers are known for their energy, they can also be calm and well-behaved when appropriately trained and exercised. Some key points to remember about each type of Retriever include:

• Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personality, intelligence, and versatility. Labs excel as family pets, working dogs, and service animals. They have a short, water-resistant coat and come in three standard colors: black, yellow, and chocolate.
• Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers are admired for their friendly and gentle temperament. They are often described as enthusiastic, intelligent, and highly trainable. These dogs have a beautiful golden coat that is water-repellent, making them excellent swimmers. They are known for their loyalty and make excellent family pets and therapy dogs.

9. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for their affectionate and gentle temperament and often make good family dogs. They come in two varieties: American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels, both of which share a friendly and affectionate nature. According to the American Kennel Club, the two types started as the same breed but gradually developed some genetic differences due to mixing with other Spaniels (the English Cocker Spaniel was recognized as separate in 1936).

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Cockers are known for their excellent sense of smell and agility in the field. Today, they are cherished as loyal family pets with high adaptability and intelligence. Along with expressive, soulful eyes and a wagging tail, Cockers are known for their enthusiasm for play and their ability to form strong bonds with their human companions.

10. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are small, cheerful dogs that are characterized as sociable, calm, and friendly. They enjoy being around people. Originating in the Mediterranean, these dogs were favored by European nobility and were favored as companion animals. Their soft, hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to maintain its iconic appearance.

Usually looking like they're smiling, these charming little dogs make excellent family pets due to their affectionate and playful nature. As many a Bichon Frise owner can attest, they are known for their love of human company and making friends wherever they go.

11. Pug

Pugs are known for their playful yet easygoing nature. While they may not be the calmest dog breed overall, Pugs make affectionate and charming companions who enjoy many long hours napping (often on laps). They are rarely hyperactive and prefer companionship over vigorous playtime.

Individual Pug temperament can vary, and some of these dogs may be calmer than others. It's always important to meet a potential Pug companion in person rather than adopting based on assumptions. Proper training and exercise can likewise help manage their energy levels and ensure they are well-behaved and content. 

12. Bernese Mountain Dog

These majestic, large dogs from Switzerland possess a serene and even-tempered nature that endears them to many. Their calmness is one of the Bernese Mountain Dog's most prominent traits, making them excellent family pets. Rarely displaying hyperactive behavior, these dogs have a calming influence and often get along well with other dogs as well.

Despite the Bernese Mountain Dog's calm demeanor, it's essential to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep these "gentle giants" happy and healthy.

13. Chow Chow

Originating from China, the Chow Chow is instantly recognizable with their lion-like mane and distinctive blue-black tongue. Though often known as a strong, independent breed, Chow Chows are also calm dogs when sufficiently trained. Chows require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they become well-adjusted and well-behaved companions. They are known for their low activity level and prefer short, leisurely walks over rigorous exercise. When properly raised and cared for, Chow Chows are known to be devoted and loving to their owners, forming strong bonds that can last a lifetime.

14. Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulears are small dogs that are usually calm and adaptable to various living situations. Hailing from Madagascar, Cotons are often described as sociable and affectionate companions that don't get easily overwhelmed. They eagerly forming strong bonds with their human families, offering a happy-go-lucky disposition and gentle demeanor that works well with both children and older individuals. Cotons are also remarkably adaptable, fitting well into a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes.

Is a calm dog right for your family?

Some families are always on the go. Whether they’re hiking, mountain biking, or shuttling kids to and from soccer practice, swim team, school, and karate, you’ll rarely find them at home. Families with active lifestyles may prefer active pets who don’t mind constant car rides. Plenty of dog breeds fit that bill.

However, many families start their dog journey in search of a different kind of dog. They want a calm dog. A lazy dog. A couch potato. A best friend who won’t cause a ruckus. And of course they want to be responsible, loving pet owners. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog breeds for these families, too.

Calm dog breeds still require patience

Remember that regardless of breed, it's essential to provide proper training, socialization, and exercise for your dog to ensure a well-balanced and calm temperament. Additionally, individual personalities can vary, so it's crucial to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your home to ensure their temperament matches your lifestyle and expectations.

Fortunately, just about any dog can be trained to settle down and be calm. A tired dog is a good dog. Ensure any dog you have gets plenty of exercise. Two 30-minute walks per day is a good start. No matter the breed, the dog will not start out calm. You’d never expect a toddler to be calm, and you shouldn’t expect a puppy to be calm. Calm can be learned, and calm comes with age.

Looking for more pups that love to chill? Here's a lineup of some of the laziest dog breeds known to man.