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It's no secret that life can get hectic, making it fair to want a laidback dog with a naturally calm demeanor if you're looking for a furry companion. These gentle pups can go with the flow and take things in stride, making them the perfect pet to have when you prefer things be a little more chill at home. To help you narrow down your choices, we gathered 7 of the calmest dog breeds that have a naturally peaceful presence, according to experts.
After all, certain dog breeds are more prone to have an easygoing nature than others. “A dog’s temperament is basically its personality or its disposition,” says Hilary Humm-Beatty, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. “Of course there are many factors that influence a dog’s temperament, but when we are talking about pure bred dogs, genetics are the major factor that influences a dog’s temperament.”
The good news is, these types of pups consist of mellow lap dogs and big gentle giants. “Some breeds may be more likely to be quiet, reserved, or relaxed in the home and people may experience those characteristics as calming,” says Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster. However, it's important not to confuse a “calm dog” as an “inactive dog” or as being an “easy" pet to care for. That's why it’s good to learn about an individual pet beyond their breed to figure out if they’re a good fit for you or not.
So, what are the calmest dog breeds? See which lovable canines experts recommend, below.
Related: 7 of the Prettiest Small Dog Breeds You Can’t Help But Love, According to Experts
7 Calmest Dog Breeds
This list of calm dog breeds is designed to help you find the perfect pooch that falls more on the zen side of the emotional spectrum.
Great Dane
According to Humm-Beatty, the Great Dane has a reputation for being a gentle giant.
While Great Danes are big, they tend to be chill and patient, lending them an overall calming vibe. They also love to spend time around their humans. “The Great Dane bonds closely with its family,” Humm-Beatty says. “While they need regular exercise, they can quickly relax and enjoy hanging out with you.”
With proper training and lots of love, these big pups make a great laid-back family dog and are one of the best calm dog breeds. Proving that a calm personality can be just as lovable as an outgoing one.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Friendly, patient, dependable
- Height: 28-32 inches
- Weight: 110-175 pounds
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
Pug
"Pugs are one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back thousands of years to China, and one of the calmest dog breeds s well", Humm-Beatty says. "They're the kind of dog that's happiest simply being by your side, bringing a quiet sense of comfort wherever they go."
Along with their sweet snub-nosed faces, these gentle dog breeds love spending time with their humans before settling in for a solid nap. Part of the reason they are such low-energy dogs is because they are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces and smaller airways. As a result, Pugs tend to be more relaxed than other canines.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, loving, mischievous
- Height: 10-13 inches
- Weight: 14-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
Newfoundland
You don’t need to stress about your Newfoundland getting constant zoomies because this big dog breed tends to move slowly. “Newfies are a dog breed with a calm temperament that was bred for slow, steady work,” Humm-Beatty explains. So if you're searching for a patient and kind pup to join your family, this one checks all the boxes.
Another plus? Newfoundlands love kids and are even known as a “nanny dog” for their watchful attitude and gentle nature toward little ones. And while they do need activity, you they also love to hang out. It's no wonder they are considered one of the calmest dog breeds.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Devoted, sweet, patient
- Height: 26-28 inches
- Weight: 100-150 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-10 years
Related: 7 Ways to Say “You’re Safe” to Your Dog So They Understand
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Even though their grooming requirements can be a little more extensive, Bergamascos are generally low-maintenance and have known as laid-back dog breeds. "They prefer relaxed environments and are watchful pets rather than frantic,” Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel notes.
Overall, if you're looking for a loyal companion who brings a quiet sense of calm to your home, the Bergamasco is hard to beat.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Independent, intelligent, sociable
- Height: 22-23.5 inches
- Weight: 57-84 pounds
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
Basset Hound
What dog breeds are naturally calm? Basset Hounds! “Their generally unhurried demeanor, low-slung appearance and famously expressive faces can give them a wonderfully relaxed presence,” Myers says.
But Myers warns against mistaking the Basset Hound’s steady attitude for being passive and having no opinions. “Bassets are scent hounds, and once that nose switches on, they can be remarkably determined,” she says.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, patient, low-key
- Height: Up to 15 inches
- Weight: 40-65 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-13 years
Clumber Spaniel
If you're looking for a dog that's just as happy lounging by your side as they are joining you for a leisurely stroll, the Clumber Spaniel may be the perfect fit. This chill breed has a calm, steady personality, but still enjoys regular walks to stay healthy and happy.
“Compared with some spaniels, they can be a little slower and more laid-back, which can feel very reassuring in a companion dog," Warner says.
Owners should still keep an eye on their weight, joints and fitness, though, as even calm dogs need regular movement. However, their relaxed, dependable nature can make your busiest days feel a little more peaceful with them in your life.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Mellow, amusing, gentlemanly
- Height: 17-20 inches
- Weight: 55-85 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
Tibetan Spaniel
For pet parents who appreciate a dog with a relaxed demeanor and a gentle soul, the Tibetan Spaniel brings is a great match. These thoughtful small dogs are often happiest staying close to their families while peacefully observing the world around them.
“Tibetan Spaniels are often described as calm or composed, but I think ‘observant’ may be an equally good description,” Myers says.
Whether they’re watching the world go by or resting beside their favorite person, Tibetan Spaniels have a way of making your life feel a little more peaceful.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Playful, bright, self-confident
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 9-15 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
Sources:
- Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel.
- Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster
- Hilary Humm-Beatty, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance.
- Tibetan Spaniel. American Kennel Club.
- Bergamasco Sheepdog. American Kennel Club.
- Great Dane. American Kennel Club.
- Pug. American Kennel Club.
- Newfoundland. American Kennel Club.
- Basset Hound. American Kennel Club.
- Clumber Spaniel. American Kennel Club.
