In 2024, many people are looking for low-energy, easygoing companions that fit into a laid-back lifestyle. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, a “couch dog” may be the perfect choice for those who prefer quiet evenings and little exercise. These breeds are known for their calm personalities, love to lounge around, and are content with short walks and lots of cuddles. They are ideal for busy people, seniors, or anyone who appreciates a laid-back canine companion. Here are the 12 best “couch dog” breeds of 2024, listed in descending order from the most energetic of them all to the laziest.
12. Shih Tzu Dog
Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their friendly nature and luxurious coat. They love to lounge around the house and are content with short, leisurely walks. Shih Tzus are perfect for those who want a loving companion that doesn’t require a lot of exercise. Their playful yet laid-back personalities make them great lap dogs, and they thrive on human companionship. Regular brushing is necessary to keep their long coats in good condition, but their overall grooming needs are minimal. Shih Tzus are ideal for apartment living and make great pets for seniors or anyone looking for a cute, low-energy dog.
11. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, playful dog known for its friendly and affectionate nature. Although they love to play, they are also happy to curl up on the couch with their owners. Bichons are moderately energetic and enjoy hiking and playing indoors. They are known for their hypoallergenic coat, which requires regular grooming to avoid tangles. The Bichon Frise is a sociable breed that enjoys being around people and other pets, making them great companions for families and individuals. Their playful yet calm temperament makes them great “couch” companions.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, elegant dogs known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are perfect for those looking for a calm and loving companion who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle. Cavaliers adapt well to and do well in a variety of living environments, including apartments. They are content with moderate exercise, such as daily walks and play, and they love to lounge and cuddle with their owners. Cavaliers are known for their loyalty and devotion, making them a great companion for those looking for a calm and loving dog who enjoys lounging around the house.
9. Pekingese
Pekingese are small, majestic dogs known for their dignified appearance and independence. Although they can sometimes be aloof, they are affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time relaxing at home. Pekingese are low-energy dogs who enjoy long walks and lounging around the house. Their long, flowing coats require regular grooming, but their calm and quiet nature makes them easy to care for. Pekingese are ideal for apartment living and make great companions for those looking for an easy-care, laid-back dog who enjoys a peaceful environment.
8. Bull Dog
Bulldogs are known for their distinctive appearance, with their stocky bodies, wrinkly faces and short muzzles. Despite their tough appearance, Bulldogs are gentle and affectionate, generally calm and relaxed. They are perfect for those looking for a low-energy dog that enjoys a quiet life. Bulldogs enjoy short walks and are generally good with children and other pets. They are loyal and devoted companions, often forming strong bonds with their families. Due to their short-headed nature, Bulldogs require a little extra care, especially in hot weather, but their loving and easygoing nature makes them well worth the effort.
7. Great Dane
Great Danes, despite their massive size, are known to be gentle giants with a calm and laid-back temperament. They make great companions for people who enjoy a quiet lifestyle and have the space to accommodate a large dog. Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly nature, often displaying a loving and affectionate demeanor. They require regular exercise but also enjoy lounging around the house. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them low-maintenance companions. Despite their large size, Great Danes are gentle and easygoing, making them the perfect choice for those looking for a calm and loving dog.
6. Hound
Greyhounds, often known for their horse racing history, are surprisingly calm and relaxed when not on the track. They are actually lazy dogs who enjoy napping and lounging around the house. Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate, making them great companions for a quiet home. They are calm and get along well with children and other pets. Greyhounds require little exercise compared to their running ability, making them ideal for people with less active lifestyles. Their short coats are easy to care for and their quiet nature makes them well suited to apartment living.
5. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are known for their large size and gentle temperament. These dogs are calm and affectionate, often loving and patient. Despite their large size, Saint Bernards are known for their calm and laid-back nature, making them great companions for a peaceful home. They require regular exercise but are generally low-energy indoors. Their thick coats require regular grooming, but their loving and easy-going nature makes them worth it. Saint Bernards are loyal and protective, making them great companions for families and individuals looking for a calm and loving dog.
4. Clumber Hound
The Clumber Spaniel is a large, sturdy dog breed known for its calm and gentle temperament. They are perfect for those looking for a laid-back companion who enjoys a quiet lifestyle. Clumber Spaniels are known for their affectionate nature and often form strong bonds with their families. They enjoy leisurely walks and are content with a relaxed indoor lifestyle. Clumber Spaniels are relatively low-energy and enjoy lounging around the house. Their thick coats require regular grooming, but their calm and loving nature makes them a great companion for those looking for a gentle and easygoing dog.
3. Pug
Pugs are small, affectionate dogs, known for their charming personalities and expressive faces. They love to lounge around the house and are content with short, leisurely walks. Pugs are perfect for those who want a loving companion that doesn’t require a lot of exercise. Their playful yet laid-back personalities make them great lap dogs and they thrive with human companionship. Pugs are known for their love of food and can easily become overweight, so a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential. Their short coats are easy to care for, making Pugs an ideal choice for those looking for a cute, low-maintenance companion.
2. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their long ears, droopy eyes, and distinctive howl. These dogs are laid-back and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, making them perfect for those looking for a calm, low-energy companion. Basset Hounds are gentle and affectionate, often exhibiting a loyal and loving demeanor. They enjoy short walks and enjoy lounging around the house. Basset Hounds are good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but their long ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Basset Hounds are ideal for those looking for a cute and easy-going dog.
1. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their impressive size and gentle nature. Despite their large size, they are extremely calm and affectionate, making them great companions for a peaceful home. Newfoundlands are known for their patience and gentle demeanor, often exhibiting a loving and nurturing nature. They are good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Newfoundlands require regular exercise and grooming due to their thick coats, but their loving and easygoing nature makes them worth it. They are loyal and protective, making them great companions for those looking for a calm and loving dog.
In conclusion, these 12 “lay” dog breeds are perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, low-energy lifestyle. Their calm and affectionate natures make them ideal companions for individuals, couples, or families looking for a peaceful and loving pet. Whether you prefer a small, cuddly companion or a gentle giant, these breeds offer a wide range of options to suit different living situations and preferences. With proper care, training, and love, these laid-back dogs can bring great joy and companionship to their owners, creating a harmonious and peaceful home environment.
