Hate Vacuuming? These 20 Lazy Dogs Barely Shed

Let’s be honest—some of us dream of dog ownership without the fur-covered reality that comes with it.

You want the cuddles, the companionship, the goofy tail wags… just not the never-ending vacuuming or the morning jogs. If that sounds like your ideal lifestyle, you’re in the right place.

Not every dog is born to sprint marathons or leave a trail of tumbleweeds behind them. In fact, plenty of pups are just as content lounging beside you on the couch as you binge-watch your latest show.

And the best part? Some of these low-energy dogs also barely shed, meaning less cleaning and more relaxing for you.

Whether you’re in a cozy apartment, a full house, or just appreciate peace and quiet, there’s a perfect pup out there that matches your energy (or lack thereof).

These breeds are champions of the chill life—they nap like pros, enjoy short walks, and won’t trigger your inner neat freak every time they shake their coat.

Now, to be clear, “lazy” doesn’t mean boring or unhealthy—it just means they’re not about that high-octane, fetch-till-you-drop lifestyle. These dogs still love playtime and affection, but they also appreciate the art of doing absolutely nothing.

And they look great doing it, too. So if you’re after a lovable companion who’s low on energy and even lower on shedding, this list is for you.

From silky lap dogs to elegant, minimalist breeds, we’ve rounded up 20 four-legged friends who keep things mellow and mess-free.

1. Basset Hound

With their droopy ears, mournful eyes, and laid-back attitude, Basset Hounds are the kings of chill.

These pups were bred to track scents, not chase balls for hours. Their short legs and heavy build make them naturally slow movers, and they’re more likely to waddle over to the couch than sprint around the yard.

Their short, smooth coat does shed a little, but not excessively. A weekly brush is usually enough to keep stray hairs in check. What they lack in energy, they make up for in charm—and snuggles.

If your idea of exercise is a casual stroll around the block followed by a long nap, the Basset might just be your spirit animal.

2. French Bulldog

Frenchies are compact, clownish, and utterly content living life at a slow pace. They’re social butterflies indoors, but rarely have energy outbursts that require hours of playtime.

A quick daily walk and some indoor affection keep them happy—and they’re just as thrilled to spend the rest of the day napping in a sunbeam.

Their short coat barely sheds, especially compared to other breeds. You won’t be chasing furballs around the floor or pulling dog hair from your clothes every five minutes.

Plus, their easygoing nature and minimal grooming needs make them a great fit for apartments and busy lives.

3. Shih Tzu

Despite their luxurious locks, Shih Tzus shed surprisingly little. Their long hair can be kept trimmed for easier maintenance, and regular brushing helps keep it mat-free and clean.

If you’re willing to commit to a bit of grooming, you’ll be rewarded with a dog that doesn’t leave hair everywhere.

Energy-wise, these dogs are champions of relaxation. They love curling up in your lap, snoozing through the afternoon, and following you from room to room like a fluffy shadow.

They’re sweet, affectionate companions who don’t demand much—just some love, a brush, and a soft pillow to call their own.

4. Chow Chow

Chows may look like giant teddy bears, but don’t let the fluff fool you—they’re surprisingly clean and independent dogs.

While they do have seasonal shedding, their thick double coat doesn’t release a constant stream of fur. Regular grooming helps manage it, and in between blowouts, they keep things relatively tidy.

As far as energy goes, this breed is famously aloof and low-key. They’re not big on fetch or chaos—they prefer serene households where they can keep an eye on things from a comfortable corner.

Think of them as the strong, silent type… who naps a lot.

5. Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, cat-like dog with a calm demeanor and a surprising amount of independence. These little lions of the Himalayas are more into surveying the room from a windowsill than racing through it.

They adore cuddling but don’t demand constant attention or activity.

Their silky, medium-length coat sheds minimally, especially with regular brushing. Plus, their small size makes any shed hair much less noticeable.

They thrive in calm environments and love cozying up next to their humans—making them a great choice for lazy days and even lazier weekends.

6. Pekingese

Pekingese were bred to be royal lap dogs—and they still carry themselves like little emperors. With their stocky build and short legs, they’re not built for high-energy activities.

A leisurely walk and some cuddle time are more than enough to keep them content.

While their coat is long and fluffy, it doesn’t shed as much as you’d think. Regular grooming is essential to avoid matting, but you won’t find fur covering every corner of your house.

They’re perfect for low-energy households that enjoy pampering their pets like royalty.

7. Japanese Chin

Elegant and serene, the Japanese Chin is the epitome of graceful laziness. These compact dogs enjoy lounging on pillows, curling up in warm laps, and occasionally showing off their playful side—but only when the mood strikes.

They’re low-energy and low-drama.

Their fine, silky coat sheds minimally with weekly brushing. And since they’re small, any hair they do shed is barely noticeable. Japanese Chins tend to be quiet and clean, making them ideal companions for calm homes or apartment living.

8. Greyhound

Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are surprisingly lazy. Once off the track, they transform into professional nappers who love stretching out on soft beds and snoozing for hours.

A daily walk or short sprint is enough to meet their exercise needs.

Their sleek, short coat sheds very little and is incredibly easy to maintain. No brushing marathons or vacuum overload here. Greyhounds are gentle, affectionate, and practically built for low-effort dog ownership. They’re giant lap dogs in disguise.

9. Whippet

Whippets are essentially miniature Greyhounds, and they share the same chill attitude.

After a quick burst of zoomies or a short walk, they’re ready to spend the rest of the day snoozing. Their sensitive, affectionate personalities make them wonderful indoor companions.

Their coat is short, smooth, and barely sheds. A quick rub with a grooming glove now and then is usually enough. Whippets love blankets, quiet homes, and people who appreciate their calm presence. They’re the definition of “less is more.”

10. Chinese Crested

If you want a truly low-shedding dog, the Chinese Crested is a dream. The hairless variety has almost no fur to begin with, and even the powderpuff version sheds very little. Bonus: no fur-covered furniture or clothes.

They’re also famously lazy. While playful in short spurts, they prefer snuggling under blankets, basking in sunny spots, and following their favorite human from room to room.

These quirky, affectionate pups thrive on companionship, not cardio—and they’ll happily skip the hike for a nap.

11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Graceful, affectionate, and wonderfully low-maintenance, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a natural lap dog.

While they enjoy short bursts of play, they’re just as happy lounging beside you with big, adoring eyes. Their energy level is moderate, but their desire to chill is high.

Though they have longer coats, Cavaliers don’t shed much compared to other breeds with similar hair. A quick brush a few times a week helps keep things under control.

Add in their sweet temperament and small size, and you’ve got an ideal low-energy companion for relaxed living.

12. Maltese

Tiny but full of love, the Maltese is one of the best options for a lazy owner who still wants a little glamour. These dogs love to cuddle, nap, and follow their people from room to room without needing tons of stimulation or space.

Despite their flowing white coats, they shed very little—especially if you keep their hair trimmed short in a puppy cut. Regular brushing prevents tangles, but you won’t be battling tumbleweeds of fur around the house.

Their chill vibe and hypoallergenic reputation make them a favorite among apartment dwellers.

13. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso was once a monastery guard dog, but don’t expect them to patrol your house. These days, they prefer snoozing on your feet or curling up on the sofa. They’re independent and calm, with occasional bursts of playful energy.

Though their coat looks high-maintenance, Lhasas don’t shed much at all. Most owners opt for regular trims to keep grooming simple.

Their dignified yet lazy personality makes them great for people who want a no-drama dog with minimal mess.

14. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers may be compact and perky, but they’re also famously low-effort.

They enjoy short walks and play sessions, but are more than happy to spend the rest of the day napping beside you. Their cheerful personality makes them a joy to live with.

They have a sleek, short coat that barely sheds. You won’t need much more than an occasional brushing to keep them looking sharp. Bostons are well-suited for apartment living and love being the chill sidekick to your everyday routine.

15. Brussels Griffon

Don’t let their grumpy little faces fool you—Brussels Griffons are affectionate, funny, and surprisingly lazy.

They love to be close to their people and prefer cuddling or lounging over high-energy adventures. They do well in small spaces and are happy with minimal exercise.

Their wiry coat sheds very little and is easy to maintain with occasional grooming. These dogs thrive on attention but don’t require constant activity.

If you want a quirky, low-shedding companion who makes you laugh and lets you sleep in, this might be your match.

16. Havanese

The Havanese is often described as a velcro dog—they love sticking close to their humans, preferably while cuddling on the couch.

They’re playful in short bursts but overall pretty mellow and easygoing. Daily walks and indoor play are enough to keep them satisfied.

Their long, silky coat might look high-maintenance, but it doesn’t shed much. Most of their grooming needs come down to regular brushing to avoid tangles. Many owners opt for a shorter cut to make care even easier.

With their affectionate nature and low shedding, Havanese are a dream for relaxed homes.

17. Papillon

Papillons are lively in spirit but surprisingly laid-back in their daily habits. They’re happy with short play sessions and love being close to their humans, whether that means sitting on your lap or curling up beside you in bed.

Their fine, feathery coat doesn’t shed much at all, especially with regular grooming. Despite their fancy appearance, they’re not high-maintenance dogs.

Papillons are small, sweet, and smart—making them excellent companions for calm households that still appreciate a little spark of personality.

18. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are small, scruffy, and full of character—but they’re also wonderfully low-key. These dogs enjoy chilling out more than running around, and they’re totally fine skipping the dog park in favor of a lazy afternoon nap.

Their wiry coat doesn’t shed much, and occasional grooming is all they need to stay tidy.

Though they can be a little stubborn, Affenpinschers are incredibly loyal and love curling up in cozy spaces. They’re great for people who want a unique, low-effort companion with a touch of sass.

19. Italian Greyhound

Elegant, sensitive, and insanely good at relaxing, Italian Greyhounds are born loungers.

While they can sprint in short bursts, they’re more likely to spend the day wrapped in a blanket than chasing squirrels. They adore comfort and will seek out the softest spot in the house.

With their fine, short coat, shedding is almost non-existent. Grooming is as easy as a quick wipe-down now and then. These gentle souls do best in quiet homes where they can nap, snuggle, and soak up affection on their own terms.

20. Basenji

The Basenji is often called the “barkless dog,” but they could also be called the “low-maintenance chill master.” These independent pups love relaxing indoors and won’t beg for endless playtime.

They enjoy daily walks but are perfectly content with downtime.

Their short, fine coat sheds very little and requires virtually no grooming. They even groom themselves like cats—seriously.

If you want a dog that keeps to itself, doesn’t shed much, and won’t make a mess or noise, the Basenji might just be your ideal four-legged roommate.