30 Dogs for People Who Want Company Without the Chaos

Finding the perfect canine companion doesn’t mean you have to deal with non-stop zoomies, constant barking, or a whirlwind of energy tearing through your living room. Not all dogs are built for high-octane play or daily marathon runs—some breeds are just as happy curling up next to you on the couch as they are going for a short stroll.

Whether you live in a cozy apartment, work from home, have a laid-back lifestyle, or simply value your peace and quiet, there are plenty of dogs that match your pace. These calm, easygoing breeds offer all the love, loyalty, and companionship you want—without turning your home into a canine obstacle course.

From gentle giants to pint-sized lapdogs, here are 30 low-energy dog breeds that are perfect for relaxed pet parents who believe downtime is the best time.

1. Basset Hound

Those droopy ears and soulful eyes aren’t just for show – Basset Hounds are naturally mellow companions who prefer snoozing to causing trouble. Their short legs don’t allow for much mischief-making anyway!

Originally bred for hunting, today’s Basset Hounds have traded their tracking instincts for couch-potato tendencies. They require moderate exercise but are perfectly content with a daily walk followed by lengthy nap sessions.

While they can be stubborn during training, their gentle temperament makes them excellent family dogs. Just be prepared for some amusing howling when they do get excited about something!

2. Shih Tzu

Royalty in small packages, Shih Tzus were bred specifically to be companions to Chinese emperors. Their name actually means ‘little lion,’ though their personalities couldn’t be further from fierce!

These affectionate little dogs thrive on human connection and don’t need much space to be happy. A daily brush to maintain their luxurious coat and short walks are all they require to stay content.

Despite their small size, Shih Tzus carry themselves with dignity and confidence. They adapt beautifully to apartment living and are known for getting along well with children and other pets.

3. Pekingese

Nicknamed ‘lion dogs’ for their impressive manes, Pekingese carry themselves with the confidence of creatures ten times their size. Ancient Chinese royalty treasured these dogs so much that stealing one was punishable by death!

Modern Pekingese maintain that regal attitude while being surprisingly low-energy housemates. Their flat faces mean they avoid strenuous exercise, preferring to rule their domain from the comfort of a soft pillow.

Independent yet loving, these dogs form strong bonds with their owners without demanding constant attention. Their moderate exercise needs make them ideal for less active households.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Silky-eared sweethearts with expressive eyes, Cavaliers balance gentle affection with remarkable adaptability. Named after King Charles II who adored them, these dogs carry royal heritage without any snobbish attitudes.

Cavaliers possess an uncanny ability to match their energy level to yours. Ready for a walk? They’ll happily join. Prefer to lounge around? They excel at cuddle time too.

Their moderate size (13-18 pounds) makes them substantial enough to join in family activities yet small enough for apartment living. Unlike some small breeds, Cavaliers rarely bark unnecessarily, making them wonderful neighbors.

5. Japanese Chin

Cat-like in their cleanliness and grace, Japanese Chins bring Eastern elegance to the canine world. These petite companions (usually under 10 pounds) practically tiptoe through life, rarely disturbing anything in their path.

Historical favorites of Japanese nobility, they’ve retained their dignified demeanor through centuries. Japanese Chins are naturally quiet, seldom barking unless truly necessary.

Their expressive faces showcase an almost human-like range of emotions, creating deep connections with their owners. Minimal exercise requirements and natural cleanliness make them ideal for apartment dwellers who appreciate a touch of refinement in their four-legged friends.

6. Lhasa Apso

Sentinels of Tibetan monasteries for over 4,000 years, Lhasa Apsos bring ancient wisdom to modern homes. Their flowing coats and alert expressions hint at their historical role as watchdogs for Buddhist monks.

Don’t let their small stature fool you – these dogs possess lion-sized confidence without the need for constant activity. Lhasas are naturally reserved with strangers but deeply devoted to their families.

Independence sets them apart from needier breeds; they’re content to occupy themselves while you’re busy. Their moderate exercise needs can be met with daily walks, making them suitable for both apartments and houses.

7. French Bulldog

Bat-eared charmers with perpetual smiles, Frenchies have mastered the art of being present without being demanding. Their compact, muscular bodies house surprisingly chill personalities that fit perfectly into urban lifestyles.

French Bulldogs communicate more through expressive eyes and amusing snorts than through barking. Their exercise needs are minimal – short walks and play sessions satisfy them completely.

Heat-sensitive due to their flat faces, they naturally prefer lounging indoors to running around outside. This makes them ideal companions for homebodies who want a dog that’s content to Netflix and chill rather than hike and chase.

8. Pug

Court jesters of the dog world, Pugs have been bringing smiles to faces since ancient Chinese times. Their wrinkled mugs and curly tails create an appearance that’s impossible to take too seriously.

Despite their comical looks, Pugs offer steadfast companionship without hyperactivity. They’re naturally sociable without being overly excitable, preferring to be near their humans rather than bouncing off walls.

Their exercise needs align perfectly with moderate lifestyles – a daily walk suffices to keep them healthy. Pugs excel at adapting to various living situations, from apartments to family homes, bringing their charming personalities wherever they go.

9. English Toy Spaniel

Aristocratic yet approachable, English Toy Spaniels carry themselves with quiet dignity. Often confused with their Cavalier cousins, these dogs have distinctive domed heads and flatter faces that give them a perpetually thoughtful expression.

Historical companions to royalty, they’ve maintained their gentle, undemanding nature through centuries. Their soft, silky coats require regular brushing, creating peaceful bonding moments between dog and owner.

English Toy Spaniels form deep attachments to their families while remaining naturally reserved around strangers. Their exercise requirements are modest – short walks and indoor play satisfy them completely, making them excellent apartment companions.

10. Maltese

Elegant white clouds floating through your home, Maltese dogs combine stunning looks with surprisingly sturdy personalities. Despite their delicate appearance, these ancient Mediterranean dogs possess confident temperaments wrapped in silky white packages.

Maltese form intense bonds with their humans, preferring to be where you are rather than causing trouble elsewhere. Their exercise needs are minimal – short play sessions and brief walks satisfy their physical requirements.

Naturally alert yet rarely yappy, they make excellent apartment dogs. Their intelligent eyes follow your movements with devoted attention, creating a sense of being truly seen and appreciated by your canine companion.

11. Bulldog (English)

Living embodiments of the phrase ‘strong, silent type,’ English Bulldogs bring muscular charm and minimal barking to the home front. Their distinctive pushed-in faces and rolling gaits make them instantly recognizable worldwide.

Despite their tough appearance, Bulldogs are notoriously gentle, especially with children. They prefer snoring on the sofa to strenuous activity, making them perfect for less active households.

Heat-sensitive and naturally low-energy, Bulldogs have zero interest in turning your living room into a racetrack. Their idea of a perfect day involves short walks, belly rubs, and lengthy nap sessions – preferably with their favorite humans nearby.

12. Clumber Spaniel

Gentle giants of the spaniel world, Clumbers move through life with deliberate calm that’s downright soothing to witness. Their heavy-boned bodies and thoughtful expressions give them a dignified presence that commands respect without demanding attention.

Historically favored by British royalty for hunting, modern Clumbers have traded field work for family life. They maintain their tracking intelligence while being notably less energetic than other sporting breeds.

Clumbers form deep bonds with their families but aren’t clingy or demanding. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks satisfy them completely. These cream-colored companions bring a peaceful presence to any home lucky enough to have them.

13. Cocker Spaniel

Silky-eared charmers with soulful eyes, Cocker Spaniels balance gentle energy with remarkable adaptability. Their moderate size (20-30 pounds) makes them substantial enough for active families yet manageable for smaller homes.

Unlike their hunting ancestors, today’s Cockers have embraced domestic life with enthusiasm. They’re naturally sociable without being overwhelming, content to follow you from room to room rather than demanding constant play.

Cockers respond beautifully to gentle training, eager to please their beloved humans. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks and occasional play sessions keep them physically and mentally satisfied without requiring marathon sessions at the dog park.

14. Chinese Shar-Pei

Wrinkled sentinels with ancient heritage, Shar-Peis bring quiet dignity and natural reserve to their families. Their unique blue-black tongues and distinctive wrinkled skin make them unlike any other breed.

Originally bred as guard dogs, modern Shar-Peis maintain their protective instincts without excessive barking or aggression. They’re naturally clean, almost cat-like in their personal habits, often grooming themselves.

Independent yet devoted, Shar-Peis form strong bonds with their families while maintaining a sense of self-sufficiency. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks satisfy them completely. Their calm demeanor inside the home makes them excellent apartment dogs despite their medium size.

15. Boston Terrier

Tuxedo-clad gentlemen in compact packages, Boston Terriers combine dapper looks with surprisingly mellow personalities. Their expressive eyes and perky ears communicate volumes without unnecessary barking.

Created in America as companion dogs, Bostons excel at their intended purpose. They’re naturally people-oriented without being clingy, happy to join family activities or entertain themselves as needed.

Boston Terriers adapt beautifully to various living situations, from apartments to family homes. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks and short play sessions satisfy them completely. Their natural politeness with strangers and other pets makes them wonderful community citizens.

16. Dachshund

Long-bodied charmers with surprising dignity, Dachshunds pack big personalities into small packages. Their unique silhouettes and soulful eyes have captivated dog lovers for centuries.

Standard Dachshunds (16-32 pounds) and Miniatures (under 11 pounds) share the same confident temperament and moderate energy levels. They’re naturally curious without being hyperactive, content to investigate their surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Back issues mean Dachshunds naturally avoid wild physical activity, preferring moderate walks and supervised play. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs without excessive barking. These “sausage dogs” bring entertainment and companionship without chaos.

17. Scottish Terrier

Dignified little dogs with old souls, Scotties approach life with measured consideration rather than frantic energy. Their distinctive beards and eyebrows give them permanently thoughtful expressions that match their contemplative natures.

Independent thinkers with strong personalities, Scotties form deep bonds with their people while maintaining their sense of self. They’re naturally reserved with strangers but fiercely loyal to their families.

Despite their terrier classification, Scotties typically display less of the frantic energy associated with the group. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks satisfy them completely. Their quiet confidence and minimal barking make them excellent apartment dogs.

18. Tibetan Spaniel

Ancient companions to Buddhist monks, Tibetan Spaniels bring centuries of serene wisdom to modern homes. Their lion-like manes and expressive faces reflect their historical importance as monastery dogs in the Himalayas.

Naturally alert yet remarkably quiet, these small dogs (10-14 pounds) observe their surroundings with thoughtful intelligence. They’re affectionate without being demanding, content to be near their humans without constant interaction.

Tibetan Spaniels adapt beautifully to various living situations, from apartments to family homes. Their exercise needs are modest – daily walks and occasional play sessions keep them satisfied. Their clean, cat-like habits and minimal shedding make them wonderful housemates.

19. Bolognese

Cotton-ball companions with ancient Italian heritage, Bolognese dogs bring Mediterranean charm and natural serenity to their families. Their fluffy white coats and expressive eyes create an impression of animated stuffed animals.

Rarely exceeding 12 pounds, these small dogs carry themselves with quiet confidence. Unlike many toy breeds, Bolognese dogs seldom bark unnecessarily, preferring to communicate through soulful gazes and gentle nudges.

Naturally attached to their humans, they’re content to follow you from room to room without demanding constant play. Their exercise needs are minimal – short walks and indoor games satisfy them completely, making them perfect for apartment living.

20. Skye Terrier

Flowing-coated aristocrats with ancient Scottish heritage, Skye Terriers combine remarkable loyalty with natural dignity. Their distinctive long hair and short legs create an unmistakable silhouette that’s remained unchanged for centuries.

Unlike many terriers, Skyes possess a remarkably calm indoor demeanor. They’re naturally reserved with strangers but form intense bonds with their chosen people, preferring to be near them rather than causing mischief elsewhere.

Skye Terriers adapt beautifully to apartment living, content with moderate daily exercise. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs without excessive barking. These rare, special dogs bring old-world dignity and steadfast companionship to the right homes.

21. Great Dane

Gentle giants with naturally serene dispositions, Great Danes defy expectations by being among the calmest large breeds. Their impressive size (often exceeding 100 pounds) contains surprisingly mellow personalities that fit beautifully into family life.

Nicknamed ‘Apollo of Dogs’ for their majestic appearance, Great Danes move through life with quiet dignity. They’re naturally people-oriented without being demanding, content to be near their humans without constant interaction.

Despite their size, Great Danes adapt well to apartment living provided they receive daily walks. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and their naturally quiet voices rarely disturb neighbors. These magnificent dogs bring peaceful majesty to their fortunate families.

22. Newfoundland

Sweet-natured water rescuers with hearts as big as their bodies, Newfoundlands bring gentle strength to family life. Their massive frames (often exceeding 100 pounds) house remarkably tender temperaments that have earned them the nickname ‘nanny dogs.’

Natural lifeguards with innate nurturing instincts, Newfoundlands approach life with tranquil confidence. They move deliberately rather than frantically, conserving energy for when it truly matters.

Despite their size, Newfoundlands adapt well to family homes provided they receive moderate daily exercise. Their naturally low indoor energy makes them surprisingly manageable housemates. These magnificent bears in dog form bring protective calm to their beloved families.

23. Bernese Mountain Dog

Tri-colored Swiss beauties with naturally peaceful temperaments, Bernese Mountain Dogs bring Alpine serenity to family life. Their striking markings and fluffy coats house gentle souls that blend perfectly into household routines.

Historically farm dogs, Berners maintain their working heritage through steadfast reliability rather than frantic energy. They’re naturally attentive to their families’ needs without being demanding or disruptive.

Despite their size (70-115 pounds), Bernese Mountain Dogs move through homes with surprising grace. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks and occasional play sessions satisfy them completely. Cold-weather lovers, they naturally conserve energy indoors, preferring to observe household activities from a comfortable spot.

24. Greyhound

Speed demons on the track but couch potatoes at home, Greyhounds perfectly exemplify the phrase ’45-mile-per-hour couch potato.’ Their sleek bodies and gentle eyes house surprisingly lazy souls that thrive in quiet households.

Racing backgrounds often mean retired Greyhounds deeply appreciate the simple comforts of home life. They’re naturally clean, rarely bark, and adapt beautifully to apartment living despite their size (60-70 pounds).

Greyhounds require short bursts of exercise followed by lengthy lounging sessions. Their thin coats and low body fat mean they naturally prefer cushy beds to outdoor adventures. These elegant athletes in retirement bring graceful tranquility to lucky adopters.

25. Irish Wolfhound

Ancient giants with poet’s souls, Irish Wolfhounds combine impressive stature with remarkably gentle temperaments. Often standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder, these historic sighthounds move through life with quiet dignity that belies their hunting heritage.

Natural aristocrats, Wolfhounds approach life with calm consideration rather than boundless energy. They form deep bonds with their families while maintaining a sense of independent thought.

Despite their size, Wolfhounds adapt well to family homes provided they receive moderate daily exercise. Their naturally low indoor energy makes them surprisingly manageable housemates. These magnificent dogs bring ancient wisdom and gentle companionship to their fortunate families.

26. Saint Bernard

Mountain rescuers with naturally nurturing souls, Saint Bernards bring gentle strength to family life. Their massive frames (often exceeding 120 pounds) house remarkably patient temperaments perfect for households seeking calm companionship.

Historical heroes of the Swiss Alps, modern Saints have traded mountain rescues for family devotion. They move deliberately rather than frantically, conserving energy and avoiding household chaos.

Despite their impressive size, Saints adapt well to family homes provided they receive moderate daily exercise. Cold-weather lovers, they naturally prefer relaxation to rowdiness, especially in warmer months. These magnificent gentle giants bring protective calm and a touch of drool to their beloved families.

27. Leonberger

Lion-like German nobility in canine form, Leonbergers combine impressive size with remarkable gentleness. Their magnificent manes and soulful expressions house naturally balanced temperaments that blend seamlessly into family life.

Created to resemble lions while maintaining sweet dispositions, Leonbergers achieve this balance beautifully. They’re naturally attentive to their families’ emotional needs without being demanding or disruptive.

Despite their size (90-170 pounds), Leonbergers move through homes with surprising grace. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks satisfy them completely. Water-loving and naturally calm indoors, these magnificent dogs bring peaceful majesty and gentle companionship to their fortunate families.

28. Mastiff

Ancient guardians with naturally protective calm, Mastiffs bring quiet strength to family life. Their massive frames (often exceeding 200 pounds) house surprisingly gentle souls that thrive in peaceful households.

Historical protectors dating back to ancient civilizations, modern Mastiffs maintain their guardian instincts through watchful presence rather than aggression or barking. They’re naturally attentive to their families while remaining unflappable in most situations.

Despite their intimidating size, Mastiffs are remarkably gentle with children and adapt well to family homes. Their exercise needs are minimal – short daily walks satisfy them completely. These magnificent gentle giants bring protective calm and ancient dignity to their beloved families.

29. Old English Sheepdog

Shaggy-coated charmers with naturally easygoing dispositions, Old English Sheepdogs bring gentle playfulness to family life. Their distinctive coats and bear-like appearance house surprisingly adaptable temperaments that fit beautifully into established routines.

Historical herders with strong work ethics, modern OES have traded sheep for sofas with enthusiasm. They maintain their intelligent problem-solving abilities while being notably less demanding than many herding breeds.

Old English Sheepdogs form deep bonds with their families without constant neediness. Their exercise requirements are moderate – daily walks and occasional play sessions satisfy them completely. These magnificent woolly companions bring peaceful strength and gentle humor to their fortunate families.

30. Komondor

Corded guardians with ancient Hungarian heritage, Komondors bring quiet vigilance and natural dignity to their families. Their distinctive dreadlock-like coats and powerful builds house surprisingly patient temperaments perfect for households seeking protective calm.

Historical livestock guardians, modern Komondors maintain their protective instincts through watchful presence rather than aggression. They’re naturally independent thinkers who form deep bonds with their families while maintaining healthy boundaries.

Despite their working heritage, mature Komondors are remarkably calm indoors, conserving energy for when it truly matters. Their exercise needs are moderate – daily walks satisfy them completely. These magnificent corded companions bring ancient wisdom and steadfast protection to the right homes.