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20 Calm Dog Breeds To Keep You Company
Folks in the market for a calm dog breed need not look further than this comprehensive list. But first, let's define "calm." The American Kennel Club classifies a calm breed as one that doesn't have big, distressed reactions to stimuli. Meaning things like thunder, strangers, weird scents and new furniture probably won't send them into a frenzy. Breeds like Newfoundlands, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Basset Hounds know how to play it cool in almost any situation. Of course, all dogs are individuals and breed alone cannot predict how they'll react to people, environments or other animals. That being said, breeds known to be calm make ideal companions for families with kids and senior citizens. They're also excellent emotional support dogs.
Keep in mind, any dog, no matter the breed, can deviate from its breed standard. Trauma as a puppy (and even later in life!) can also change a dog's disposition. So, if a mellow pet is a must, don't focus solely on breed. Fostering a dog before officially adopting is a great way to get to know an animal's disposition and compatibility with your household.
Meet the Expert What breeds are non-hyper?Jamie Popper, a dog trainer with more than 10 years of experience in the dog training industry, says if you're looking for a low energy, non-hyper breed, it's important to choose one "whose primary role has been companionship."
Often, this includes toy dog breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, Shih Tzus and Malteses. "If you're looking for a breed that is a bit more robust, consider the French Bulldog or Basset Hound," Popper says.
If a calm dog breed is the goal, steer clear of dogs bred to perform specific jobs or who are known for their hard work. Popper says, "Herding breeds like Border Collies or working dogs like Belgian Malinois may require high levels of activity to remain content."
What breeds are non-needy?In all honesty, every single dog breed is needy in one way or another. In fact, some low-energy dog breeds might be more needy than high-energy breeds, because calm lap dogs were bred to be near their humans constantly. Leaving the house without your pup could result in a destructive pet with separation anxiety.
That being said, Popper credits exercise and enrichment as the keys to keeping dogs calm. "After meeting your dog's physical needs, provide mental stimulation with boredom-busting toys," she says. Training and obedience are also crucial to meeting a dog's needs (for real!).
"Teaching your dog the 'place' cue is an excellent way to encourage calm behavior," Popper says. "This command involves guiding your dog to a designated spot, such as an elevated dog bed, and having them remain there until released. The 'place' cue helps your dog develop impulse control and teaches them how to relax and self-soothe when there's no immediate source of entertainment."
Is it hard to train a calm dog breed?Just because you have a couch potato dog doesn't mean they don't want to learn skills (or can't). However, Popper says it might take a little more effort on your part.
"Low-energy dogs can learn new skills just as easily as high-energy dogs, but it may be more challenging to find rewards that motivate them," she says. "High-energy breeds may enthusiastically repeat obedience behaviors hundreds of times for a thrown tennis ball, while lower-energy dogs are typically more motivated by treats."
Have patience and find the reward your dog responds to best.
The Best Emotional Support Dogs for People with Anxiety, According to Experts
1. Cavalier King Charles SpanielWESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds
Personality: Affectionate, Friendly
Activity Level: Low to Moderate
Shedding Factor: Low to Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Trainability: trains well
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is super adaptable and agreeable. We're talking a low-maintenance, cat-friendly, kid-loving, senior-compatible breed—and one that remains cool as a cucumber to boot. The American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club says this toy breed started out as a companion animal for wealthy families in the 1400s, which means they've been keeping laps warm and hearts full for more than 600 years.
2. Irish WolfhoundMARICLICK PHOTOGRAPHY/GETTY IMAGES
Height: 30-35 inches
Weight: 115-180 pounds
Personality: Mellow, Loving
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 6-8 years
Trainability: may be difficult to train
They may look large and in charge, but these canines are sweet and serene to their very core. Still big, though. Just not aggressive or territorial. As puppies, the AKC notes these rascals can be destructive, so training should start early. But the Irish Wolfhound Club of America says that in adulthood, this Irish breed can definitely become lazy loungers, so make sure you nudge them outdoors for daily walks to keep them nimble.
3. St. BernardPurple Collar Pet Photography/Getty Images
Height: 26-30 inchesWeight: 120-180 pounds
Personality: Charming, Watchful
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Trainability: may be stubborn, train early
Fitting nicknames for the St. Bernard include Gentle Giant, Patient Pup and Cuddly Canine. The thing is, these are big, slobbery working dogs who definitely require firm training early on to ensure safe interactions with everyone, especially kids. Once they have commands down, these dogs are dedicated companions. After all, the Saint Bernard Club of America reminds us that this breed got its start rescuing travelers lost in the mountains. They do love people.
4. Bernese Mountain DogJill Lehmann Photography/Getty Imagse
Height: 23-28 inches
Weight: 70-115 pounds
Personality: Calm, Affectionate
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Trainability: easy to train
Don't let the Bernese Mountain Dog's strength fool you. They may have started out as farm dogs in Switzerland, according to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, but they're companion dogs at heart and prefer to be by their family members' sides as often as possible. Big softies with even tempers and cheerful natures, Bernies may choose to ignore strangers (though every Bernie I've met has been more than happy to roll over for a belly rub).
5. Italian GreyhoundMarvin Herrera/500px/Getty Images
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 7-14 pounds
Personality: playful, sweet
Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Factor: low
Life Expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Trainability: easy to train
The Italian Greyhound Club of America says these tiny hounds were bred as companions and became a sign of wealth in Renaissance Italy. They are sensitive creatures but respond well to positive reinforcement training. Don't expect to leave an Italian Greyhound alone for long stretches. Luckily, they fit nicely into a travel carrier or large purse! In cold weather, a jacket and booties are a must to keep them warm.
6. PekingeseCapuski/Getty Images
Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: < 14 pounds
Personality: proud, loyal
Activity Level: low
Shedding Factor: moderate
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Trainability: can be difficult to train
These pups prefer the calm, quiet life of homebodies and introverts to the hustle and bustle of family life. Think: silent sophistication. The AKC does mention the "opinionated" personality of a Pekingese, which can make training difficult. But these loving companions are stars at shows like Westminster, so appealing to their vanity might be a great place to start.
7. GreyhoundWESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES
Height: 27-30 inches
Weight: 60-70 pounds
Personality: Independent, Sweet
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Low
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Trainability: difficult to train
Greyhounds are gentle, albeit independent spirits, according to the Greyhound Club of America. They are sighthounds, which means they love to run and have high prey drives. At home, they are typically calm and content to lounge, but outdoors, they need to blow off steam. Adopting a retired racing Greyhound is a terrific way to give a hard-working dog some much needed love and relaxation.
8. Bergamasco SheepdogRosmarie Wirz/Getty Images
Height: 22-24 inches
Weight: 57-84 pounds
Personality: Independent, Mellow
Activity Level: Low
Shedding Factor: Non-shedding
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Trainability: train well with firm, consistent techniques
These stunning creatures enjoy peacefully watching over their family and learning commands. Though their coats may look high maintenance, the Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America says it's pretty hands-off after you help them rip their coats into mats around age one when their coarse fur comes in. Since this herding breed was designed to accompany humans in the mountains to watch over herds, they are loyal yet independent and require firm and engaging training techniques.
9. Maltese\Eva Blanco/EyeEm/Getty Images
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: 7 pounds or less
Personality: fearless, stubborn, playful
Activity Level: high
Shedding Factor: hypoallergenic
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Trainability: can be stubborn during training
Per Popper's recommendation, the Maltese is a solid choice if you want a calm dog breed. They also make great pets for allergy sufferers, as they are hypoallergenic. For centuries, these tiny white dogs have lived in laps and loved leaning on their humans. The AKC says a little bit of daily exercise is enough to keep them happy, despite their energetic nature.
10. Tibetan SpanielGlobal P/Getty Images
Height: 10 inches
Weight: 9-15 pounds
Personality: affectionate, protective
Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Factor: moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Trainability: can be tricky to train
Aside from daily walks, Tibetan Spaniels are known to thoroughly enjoy lounging on the couch with their favorite human(s). When it comes to training, the AKC says these smarties learn quickly, but may decide they don't want to follow your cues. So be persistent! It's no wonder Tibetan Spaniels are loyal watchdogs, given they were bred and raised by Buddhist monks to protect monasteries.
11. Great PyreneesXOSE CASAL PHOTOGRAPHY/GETTY IMAGES
Pensive, strong, patient and relaxed? Yes, we're describing the beautiful, regal Great Pyrenees. As a mountain dog bred to watch over livestock, these large white canines live to protect. The Great Pyrenees Club of America notes, "It is one of the most interesting qualities of a Great Pyrenees—the absolute intolerance of all predators, coupled with extraordinary patience and kindness to stock." Basically, they are patient, calm and gentle with those they love.
12. Great DaneImage by Erin Vey/Getty Images
Height: 28-32 inches
Weight: 110-175 pounds
Personality: Patient, Friendly
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Low
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Trainability: Moderate
Great Danes are imposing figures, though they'll only get aggressive if they feel their home and family is threatened. Otherwise, they're sweet and calm. As puppies, they should definitely be socialized and trained in commands that will serve them in adulthood when they are tall and lanky. A large dog breed like the Great Dane needs to know its manners, especially around kids!
13. French BulldogTetra Images - Jessica Peterson/Getty Images
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 17 to 28 pounds
Personality: playful, alert
Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Factor: moderate
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Trainability: can be stubborn during training
Popper recommends Frenchies as a more robust calm dog breed. Meaning, if you want adaptability, an even-temperament and goofy playfulness, go with the French Bulldog. They definitely have their fair share of health issues, but they've recently become the most popular dogs in America. Frenchies acclimate well to just about any environment, whether it's a city apartment or a country estate. Just keep an eye on them in very hot weather, as they may develop difficulty breathing when panting to keep cool.
14. BoerboelAfricaImages/Getty Images
Height: 22-27 inches
Weight: 150-200 pounds
Personality: Affectionate, Confident
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 9-11 years
Trainability: Moderate to High
Though calm and confident as an adult, Boerboel puppies must be trained early to know their limits. After that, it's smooth sailing. This African dog breed is strong and athletic. The American Boerboel Club says that since they form such strong bonds with their families, that athleticism could turn to destruction if they aren't included in outings and family activities.
15. Shih TzuVioletaStoimenova/Getty Images
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Personality: great with kids, charming, cuddly
Activity Level: low
Shedding Factor: hypoallergenic
Life Expectancy: 10 t0 18 pounds
Trainability: may be difficult to train
For this charming and outgoing breed, the AKC says, "A Shih Tzu's idea of fun is sitting in your lap acting adorable as you try to watch TV." Um, yes please. This tiny dog is known for being good with kids and ideal for those with allergies (their coat is hypoallergenic). Training a Shih Tzu may be an exercise in repetition and patience, as these little buggers will try to outsmart you to get their way.
16. Basset HoundMARCO STRIULI / EYEEM/GETTYIMAGE
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Personality: Mellow, Charismatic
Activity Level: low
Shedding Factor: low
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Trainability: difficult to train, very stubborn
As with all hounds, there's a risk the basset hound will sniff an irresistible scent when out on a walk and want to chase it. This is a hunting breed, after all. However, most of the time, these low-maintenance pups are not easily excitable. What they lack in hyperactivity, they make up for in stubbornness. Training a basset hound is like herding cats—annoying and probably very funny to watch from afar.
17. Clumber SpanielMazz Hannah / EyeEm/Getty Images
Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 55-85 pounds
Personality: mellow, gentlemanly
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Trainability: can be challenging to train
Described as a "mellow… gentlemanly" breed by the AKC, the Clumber Spaniel enjoys playing fetch and only resorts to barking as a last-ditch effort to express themselves. They require dedication when training because they grow bored easily, so keep at it with short sessions and positive reinforcement. An English dog breed, Clumbers were bred as bird dogs and came to the U.S. In the 1800s.
18. Cocker SpanielYULIA REZNIKOV/GETTY IMAGES
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds
Personality: Gentle, intelligent
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Trainability: easy to train
Cocker Spaniels are great with kids (they love to play) and with adults (they love to please). Another English dog breed, these loving pups are known for being excellent therapy and companion animals, especially for people with Autism. Growing up, a Cocker Spaniel named Stella who lived next door to my family wanted nothing more than to frolic outside with the neighborhood kids. Jane Lynch is also a huge fan.
19. NewfoundlandRZOZE19/GETTY IMAGES
Height: 26-28 inches
Weight: 100-150 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Loving, Patient
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Trainability: fairly easy to train
An absolute sweetheart, the Newfoundland is another gentle giant ideal for families with kids who need a patient pup. Newfies don't bark much and are incredibly sweet, though because of their size, training and socialization should start early. Good thing they love to learn! Bred in Canada as water dogs, they enjoy cold weather and would probably be grateful for a trip to the lake every now and then.
20. PugAlexandr Zhenzhirov/Getty Images
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Personality: adaptable, charming
Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Factor: high
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Trainability: easy to train
Pugs love to please and adapt well to a variety of households. Though the Pug Dog Club of America says life with these pups can be full of mischief, they are generally calm dogs who thrive in your company. Pugs get along well with other dogs, pets, kids and strangers. Be careful in extreme heat (as a brachycephalic breed they have trouble regulating their temperature and breathing) and keep them on strict diets so they don't over eat.
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Sophie Wessex Cuddles A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy During Visit To Autism Charity In Hampshire
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, seemed in her element as she cuddled a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy during a visit to a charity in Hampshire this morning.
On Tuesday, the royal, 60, arrived at the headquarters of Dogs for Autism in Alton, Hampshire, where she was welcomed by a contingent of excitable puppies and their partners, who shared the positive impact these assistance dogs have on their lives.
Founded in 2016, Dogs for Autism is the first charity in the UK to exclusively provide autism assistance dogs at no cost to their new owner.
The Duchess looked elegant in a navy blue suit from Alexander McQueen (estimated at £1,900) that she paired with a crisp white shirt, dainty gold necklace, and statement leaf earrings - which the pup she was holding seemed drawn to.
She fashioned her blonde tresses into an elegant updo and kept her makeup looking natural and dewy, having only lightly filled in her eyebrows and applied mascara to accentuate her pale blue eyes.
Sophie was a good sport as she posed for pictures with the nine-week old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy and giggled as he licked her fingers and face before going for her earrings.
As she listened to staff, trustees and volunteers at Dogs for Autism, Sophie let the puppy snuggle in her lap with a toy and a dog bed for good measure.
Coincidentally, the puppy who won Sophie's affection had a royal connection himself; it was later revealed that his name is Lord Louis of Spudringham.
Sophie paired her Ralph Lauren suit with a crisp white shirt, a dainty gold necklace and statement leaf earrings - which the pup she was holding seemed to take a liking to
While delighting in puppy cuddles from Louis, Sophie was informed that he was bred by a specialist cardiac vet, dedicated to eradicating the specific health challenges that can affect Cavaliers.
While Louis is the newest member of the Dogs for Autism team, his older sibling, Lexi, is already training there and the charity are delighted with her work.
In one sweet moment, Sophie planted a kiss on the pooch's tiny nose before saying goodbye to her new furry friend.
Her Royal Highness then visited the charity's Training Centre, where trainee assistance dogs Buddy, Jack, and Finn demonstrated their training.
At the end of her visit, Buddy surprised the Duchess with a woven basket containing a Cocker Spaniel plush.
The visit marks her first public appearance since celebrating her 60th birthday on January 20.
Sophie celebrated her birthday surrounded by family at her home in Bagshot Park, with her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh and their children Lady Louise and James, Earl of Wessex, along with their own cocker spaniel, Mole, black Labradors, Teal and Teasel, and tortoise named Marmite.
Senior members of the Royal Family took the opportunity to wish Sophie in heartfelt messages on social media, with the Prince and Princess of Wales' sharing their wish for her on X.
The Duchess of Edinburgh plants a kiss on the dog's tiny nose
With all the puppy love, Sophie was lucky she had chosen to keep her makeup to a minimum, having only lightly filled in her eyebrows and applied mascara to accentuate her pale blue eyes
As she listened to staff at Dogs for Autism, Sophie let Lord Louis of Spudringham snuggle in her lap with a toy and a dog bed for good measure
The Duchess meets an assistance dog at the training centre in Alton
The Duchess of Edinburgh and CEO of Dogs for Autism Hilary Armour watch a a display by assistance dog Finn
Assistance dog Buddy presents a gift basket to the Duchess of Edinburgh during a visit to Dogs for Autism in Alton
The Duchess holds the gift basket after visiting Dogs with Autism
'Wishing the Duchess of Edinburgh a very happy 60th birthday today!' the couple wrote.
Moments later, the Royal Family's X account also shared a birthday message for Sophie that read: 'Wishing the Duchess of Edinburgh a very happy 60th birthday today!'
To complete the tweet, there was also a sweet slideshow of images of the royal mother-of-two at various engagements.
The Royal Family also released a new portrait of Sophie to mark her milestone birthday.
The picture was taken this month in Bagshot, England with the mother-of-two putting on an elegant display in a monochrome ensemble.
Sophie sported a pleated cream maxi skirt with a black knitted jumper as she sat laughing while perched by a window.
She styled her glossy blonde tresses straight for the new portrait and opted for a casual makeup look.
It comes after the Duchess of Edinburgh has revealed that she was determined 'not to tread on toes' when she first joined the Royal Family.
The Prince and Princess of Wales shared a special birthday message for the Duchess of Edinburgh, who turns 60 today, alongside a new portrait of the royal (pictured)
Taking to X, Kate and William wrote: 'Wishing The Duchess of Edinburgh a very happy 60th birthday today!'
The birthday message on X from @RoyalFamily included a link to Sophie's page on the royal website
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, receives a cake ahead of her 60th birthday during a visit to The Company Shop on Wednesday
On Wednesday, Sophie visited L'Arche, a south London community of people with learning disabilities and their supporters and Community Shop Lambeth, a 'social supermarket' tackling food poverty.
It marked her last day of royal engagements as a 59-year-old, as Sophie celebrated her 60th birthday on Monday.
Sophie spoke to the Telegraph about why she was drawn to organisations that focus on disability and said: 'It goes back to when I first started to get involved with taking on patronages and engagements. I was trying to find, not a unique thing for myself, but a direction of travel I suppose.
'And, of course, inevitably every time I went down a route, I found a member of the family working very hard doing something and I retreated a bit and thought, "No not there, treading on toes."'
The Duchess said because she had a background of working in public relations before marrying Prince Edward and entering The Firm, she soon thought she would be best placed engaging with people directly.
Sophie said that the concept of how people engage with each other differently and the issues surrounding how to raise awareness of this led her to championing this cause.
She said that just because individuals are 'different' doesn't mean they don't have something to 'bring to the party'.
After speaking about how the world can adapt to help those with disabilities, the royal was asked about the moment she saw her children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex, alongside their cousins, Princes William and Harry standing vigil in Westminster Hall around the late Queen's coffin.
The Duchess has a few dogs of her own including Cocker Spaniel, Mole, black Labradors, Teal and Teasel
While Louis is the newest member of the Dogs for Autism team, his older sibling, Lexi (pictured), is already training there and the charity are delighted with her work
The Duchess of Edinburgh (2nd left) walks assistance dog Clover, alongside CEO of Dogs for Autism Hilary Armour (left) and Holly Butler (2nd right)
Founded in 2016, Dogs for Autism is the first charity in the UK to exclusively provide autism assistance dogs at no cost to their new owner
After peeling herself away from her new furry friend, Sophie is due to visit a school for children with physical disabilities
Sophie said she was 'so proud' of 'all of the cousins' for following protocol and the instructions well, adding: 'It was incredibly moving, and lovely to see her surrounded by them.'
She also said she wondered whether it would be 'appropriate' for James to do it, given that he was the youngest, and around 14 years old when Queen Elizabeth passed away.
However, Sophie said he was 'really keen' to get involved in his grandmother's send-off, along with Lady Louise.
But the Duchess could only recount what happened to a certain point before she appeared emotional and said she couldn't speak about it further.
Sophie is regularly hailed as the late Queen's 'favourite daughter-in-law', along with the monarchy's 'secret weapon' due to her 'down to earth' personality.
Royal biographer Ingrid Seward previously told Ok! Magazine: 'With the exception of her daughter Anne, the Queen was closer to Sophie than any of the other royal women,' says biographer Ingrid Seward.
'It really was a genuine closeness, and Elizabeth was always Sophie's biggest confidante.
'The Queen found her very down to earth, because she refused to have expensive security and things like that, and she loved her lack of airs and graces. I think she saw Sophie as a bit of a surrogate daughter, too.'
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