Let’s face it, the energy levels of a Rhodesian Ridgeback — bred to hunt lions in Africa — is not for everyone. I’m more of a medium energy dog level, myself. So, what are the best dog breeds for lazy people?
Some dogs, like the Lhasa Apso, were bred specifically for companionship. The Greyhound, who I only picture running 40 mph laps around a track, loves to lounge.
When considering a dog suitable for a lazy person, I thought about the dog’s temperament, the purpose of their breed, and their need for exercise. The list expands from toy breeds to 130-pound working dogs.
Here are the 12 best dog breeds for lazy people:
- Greyhounds
- Maltese
- Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
- Bullmastiffs
- Newfoundlands
- Great Danes
- Saint Bernards
- Basset Hounds
- Cavalier King Charles
This article will describe each breed and why they make a great candidate for someone looking for less work and the same amount of love.
The 12 Best Dog Breeds For Lazy People.
Greyhounds
Greyhounds are a type of sighthound bred for coursing — a kind of hunting where the dog catches their prey by speed and sight, not by scent — and greyhound racing.
Why are Greyhounds great for lazy people?
The former world’s fastest dogs, Greyhounds are also some of the laziest. They can run over 40 miles per hour, but they would rather lounge around all day. Greyhounds are a loving breed that thrives in quiet environments. They sleep about 18 hours per day and don’t require much space, making them one of the best dog breeds for lazy people.
Maltese
The Maltese breed is in the toy group and is known to have originated in south-central Europe.
Why are Maltese great for lazy people?
Maltese is a friendly and loyal breed, one of the best breeds for lazy people. They are small, low-energy dogs that love to be with their people.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs, also known as English Bulldogs, are medium-sized breeds in the non-sporting group. A British breed, the Bulldog is a muscular, robust dog with a wrinkled face.
Why are Bulldogs great for lazy people?
Bulldogs are gentle and loving breeds. They don’t require much exercise and love to relax. Breeders have bred aggression out of Bulldogs and instead are stubborn but friendly and patient.
Pugs
Pugs are a small breed in the toy group. They were brought from China to Europe in the sixteenth century.
Why are Pugs great for lazy people?
Pugs are companion dogs known for their friendly and gentle temperament. The American Kennel Club describes the breed as “even-tempered and charming.” Pugs are one of the best dog breeds for lazy people since they don’t require much exercise and make excellent companions.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are a small breed in the toy group. Bred initially in Tibet, Shiz Tzu’s are easily adaptable, independent dogs.
Why are Shih Tzus great for lazy people?
Bred as companion dogs, Shih Tzus excel in that role. The Shih Tzu is a calm and friendly dog, fun and playful but small in stature.
Lhasa Apsos
The Lhasa Apso is a small breed in the non-sporting group bred in Tibet as watchdogs.
Why are Lhasa Apsos great for lazy people?
The Lhasa Apso is an active dog but great at self-exercise. They are funny, intelligent, and confident dogs.
Bullmastiffs
Bullmastiffs are a large breed in the working group. They were originally bred as gamekeepers’ dogs in England and weigh between 100 to 130 pounds.
Why are Bullmastiffs great for lazy people?
A cross between the English Mastiff and the Bulldog, Bullmastiffs were bred to be gentle giants. They are loyal, loving, and low-energy.
Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands are a large breed in the working group. They were bred as working dogs from Newfoundland, Canada, to help fishermen.
Why are Newfoundlands great for lazy people?
Newfoundlands make excellent companion animals. They are sweet with a mild nature, patient, and love being around people. Newfoundlands are wonderful with children and very loyal.
Great Danes
Great Danes are a large breed in the hunting group. They were bred for hunting bears, boar, and deer in Germany.
Why are Great Danes great for lazy people?
Gentle giants, Great Danes love physical affection with their people. Based on their overwhelming size, most would be surprised that the Great Dane is one of the best dog breeds for lazy people. But, they are low-maintenance dogs that don’t require a lot of exercise.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a member of the hound group. They were originally bred in France to hunt rabbits and other small game. Basset Hounds are best known for their long ears and short legs.
Why are Basset Hounds great for lazy people?
Basset Hounds make excellent companion animals and are low-maintenance dogs. Great with other pets and children, they are lazy dogs that occasionally follow a scent trail.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard is a large breed in the working group bred as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps.
Why are Saint Bernards great for lazy people?
A patient and gentle breed, Saint Bernards were bred as working companions. They have a calm, affectionate nature — a loyal, gentle giant.
Cavalier King Charles
The Cavalier King Charles is a small breed in the toy group bred in England as companion dogs.
Why are Cavalier King Charles great for lazy people?
Cavalier King Charles are loving, playful, gentle companions who love to please. They don’t need much exercise and love being with their people. They are also great with other pets and children.
How do you pick the right breed for you?
There are several factors to consider when choosing a breed. These breeds are excellent low-maintenance companions, but some need more exercise than others.
A few factors to consider are:
- Size
- Energy Level
- Temperament
- Maintenance (grooming, shedding)
Final thoughts.
What are the best dog breeds for lazy people?
Affectionate and loyal breeds that require minimum exercise are best for lazy people. The Greyhound, Maltese, Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Bullmastiffs, Newfoundlands, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Bassett Hounds, and Cavalier King Charles are excellent choices for the home-body who prefers to lounge.
Although these breeds can adapt well to smaller and more stationary lives, exercise is vital for dogs’ health. Without proper exercise dogs of all breeds can struggle with obesity, leading to serious health conditions.
Unlike cats, which can be left on their own, dogs need attention, affection, and activity in their life. Some breeds require hours of daily exercise; these breeds will suffice with a much more quiet lifestyle.
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