Top 20 Calm Dog Breeds For Your Home

Dog Breeds, Dogs

Last Updated - July 17, 2024

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Choosing a calm dog breed can significantly enhance your living environment, offering a serene and affectionate companion that fits well with families, seniors, and those with a quieter lifestyle. Calm dogs are recognized for their gentle temperament, low energy levels, and ability to adjust to diverse living environments. These calm dog breeds are less likely to engage in hyperactive behaviors, making them easier to manage and perfect for providing a stress-free atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a loyal friend for your children or a comforting presence for yourself, understanding the traits of these peaceful pups can help you find the ideal pet that will bring tranquility and joy to your home.

20 Calmest dog breeds for your home

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (1)

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a classic example of a serene dog breed celebrated for its gentle and loving temperament. These small, graceful dogs thrive on human interaction and are recognized for their amiable nature. They easily adjust to a range of living situations, whether in lively family settings or quieter, single-person households.

Cavaliers are well-known for their compatibility with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families. Their easy going personality means they are content lounging around the house and happy to join in on playful activities.

Basset Hound

Basset Hound (1)

The Basset Hound is a calm and loyal dog breed renowned for its gentle and patient temperament. Known for their distinctive long ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. They are recognized for their laid-back demeanor and enjoy lounging around the house, making them an ideal fit for a calm home environment. Thanks to their friendly and tolerant nature, Basset Hounds are also excellent with children and other pets. Despite their relaxed nature, Basset Hounds possess a keen sense of smell and relish leisurely walks.

Greyhound

Greyhound (1)

The Greyhound is a calm and elegant breed known for its gentle and laid-back demeanor. They are known primarily for their racing abilities, exhibit a surprisingly calm demeanor and delight in lounging indoors. They demonstrate affection and forge deep connections with their families, thus proving to be exceptional companions.

Indoors, Greyhounds maintain a low energy level and are satisfied with brief, daily walks. Their quiet and tranquil disposition makes them adaptable to different living spaces, such as apartments. In summary, Greyhounds are ideal for individuals seeking a serene, affectionate, and undemanding companion.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees (1)

The Great Pyrenees is renowned for its tranquil and majestic presence, characterized by a gentle and patient nature. Originally bred to guard livestock, they are incredibly loyal and protective, yet they exhibit a serene and composed temperament at home. These gentle giants have a remarkable affinity for children and other pets, making them delightful additions to any family.

Despite their substantial size, the Great Pyrenees are known for their calm demeanor indoors and preference for relaxed strolls outdoors. Their calm and nurturing nature and strong sense of duty make them an ideal choice for those seeking a loyal, gentle, and protective pet.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu (1)

The Shih Tzu is a gentle and affectionate breed, ideal for those looking for a calm companion. Known for their loving nature, Shih Tzus thrives on human interaction and enjoys being lap dogs. The Shih Tzu is a gentle and affectionate breed, ideal for those looking for a calm companion.

Shih Tzus are known for their friendly nature with children and other pets, making them adaptable additions to any family. Their long, luxurious coats necessitate regular grooming, yet they are generally low-maintenance otherwise. Their calm and steady temperament and devotion to their owners make the Shih Tzu a wonderful choice for those looking for a serene and loving pet.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever (1)

The Labrador Retriever is celebrated for its calm and friendly demeanor, gentle nature, and adaptability. Highly social, Labs thrive on human interaction, making them exceptional choices as family pets. They are patient and good with children and other animals.

Labradors are recognized for their intelligence and ease of training, making them adaptable companions suitable for diverse living environments, whether in lively households or quieter settings. Despite their active nature outdoors, they are calm and relaxed indoors, content with regular exercise. Their easygoing and loyal temperament makes the Labrador Retriever perfect for those seeking a loving and balanced companion.

Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Spaniel (1)

The Tibetan Spaniel is a calm and affectionate breed known for its serene and gentle demeanor. These small dogs are known for their exceptional loyalty and thrive in the company of humans. They enjoy lounging and watching their surroundings, often from a high perch like a windowsill.

Tibetan Spaniels are adaptable, making them well-suited for apartments and larger homes. They exhibit intelligence and independence while forming strong bonds with their families. Their calm nature makes them excellent companions for those seeking a low-energy, loving pet that is easy to care for and wonderful to have around.

Leonberger

Leonberger (1)

The Leonberger is recognized for its tranquil temperament and affectionate nature as a gentle giant. These large dogs are highly loyal and excel as family pets, particularly valued for their patience and gentle interactions with children.

Despite their imposing size, Leonbergers are known for their calm demeanor and adaptability, making them well-suited to various living environments. They are also recognized for their intelligence and eagerness to please, contributing to their ease of training. With a balanced temperament and loving nature, the Leonberger is ideal for those seeking a calm, dependable, and affectionate companion.

Pekingese

Pekingese (1)

The Pekingese is a calm and regal breed known for its serene and composed nature. These small dogs are known for their exceptional loyalty and strong bonds with their families. Despite their royal appearance, Pekingese are affectionate and enjoy lounging around the house. They thrive in apartment living thanks to their low energy levels and preference for a calm environment. Pekingese are also independent and confident, making them easy to care for. Their tranquil temperament and affectionate nature make them ideal companions for individuals seeking a gentle and devoted pet.

English Bulldog

English Bulldog (1)

The English Bulldog is recognized for its tranquil and affectionate nature, characterized by a gentle and relaxed demeanor. These sturdy dogs are incredibly loyal and make excellent companions, especially those seeking a low-energy pet.

Bulldogs require moderate exercise and appreciate relaxing indoors, making them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers or those with limited space. Their calm and tolerant temperament also makes them well-suited for living with children and other pets. Despite their sometimes gruff appearance, English Bulldogs are friendly and love human interaction. Their easy going temperament and loving disposition make them perfect for a calm and devoted companion.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound (1)

The Irish Wolfhound is renowned for its calm and gentle demeanor, characterized by a serene and amiable nature. Despite their substantial size, these dogs are exceptionally affectionate and forge strong connections with their families. Irish Wolfhounds exhibit patience and gentleness with children, making them excellent family companions. They enjoy lounging around the house and require moderate exercise, fitting well into various living environments.

The Irish Wolfhound's tranquil nature and affectionate temperament make them ideal companions for those looking for a gentle and devoted pet. Irish Wolfhounds are now cherished for their easygoing and friendly nature despite their historical background as hunters.

Japanese Chin

Japanese Chin (1)

The Japanese Chin is a calm and affectionate breed known for its cat-like demeanor and serene nature. These petite dogs are remarkably loyal and thrive on the companionship of their human families.

Japanese Chins are known for their gentle and quiet nature, making them well-suited for apartment living and serene households. They exhibit independence alongside affection, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their low energy levels mean they are content with minimal exercise and prefer lounging in cozy spots. The Japanese Chin's serene and affectionate nature makes them an ideal companion for those looking for a tranquil and devoted pet.

Saluki

Saluki (1)

The Saluki is a calm and elegant breed known for its aloof yet affectionate nature. Originally bred for hunting, Salukis possess a quiet and dignified demeanor, preferring peaceful and serene environments. These dogs exhibit exceptional loyalty to their families and establish profound connections with their owners. Despite their hunting heritage, Salukis are gentle and calm indoors, content with lounging in cozy spots. They need moderate exercise but are not excessively demanding. Their grace, loyalty, and tranquility make the Saluki an ideal companion for those seeking a serene and devoted pet.

Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhound (1)

The Scottish Deerhound is recognized for its calm and gentle temperament, characterized by a friendly and tranquil nature. These large dogs are deeply affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. Despite their size, Scottish Deerhounds are notably gentle and enjoy relaxing around the house.

Scottish Deerhounds are well-suited for families, displaying an excellent rapport with children and other pets. Their laid-back demeanor means they need moderate exercise without being excessively demanding. With their noble appearance and loving temperament, Scottish Deerhounds are perfect for those seeking a calm, gentle, and loyal pet.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland (1)

The Newfoundland is a tranquil and affectionate giant, celebrated for its calm temperament and gentle nature. These large dogs are exceptionally patient and excellent with children, making them perfect companions for families. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Newfoundlands often develop profound bonds with their owners.

Despite their imposing size, Newfoundlands are surprisingly low-energy and enjoy lounging around the house. They do need regular exercise and grooming, yet their relaxed temperament makes them delightful to care for. With its sweet and loving nature, Newfoundland is perfect for those seeking a calm, devoted, and family-friendly companion.

Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel (1)

The Clumber Spaniel is renowned for its calm and gentle demeanor, characterized by an easygoing and laid-back nature. These dogs are highly affectionate and form close bonds with their families, which makes them excellent companions. Clumber Spaniels are low-energy dogs that enjoy leisurely walks and lots of lounging time, fitting well into quiet households. Their patient and gentle demeanor makes them exceptionally well-suited for interacting with children and other pets.

Despite their somewhat reserved nature, clumsy Spaniels are loyal and love being around their human companions. Their calm and loving disposition makes them an ideal choice for individuals seeking a peaceful and devoted companion.

Whippet

Whippet (1)

The Whippet is a calm and gentle breed known for its relaxed and friendly nature. Despite their sleek, athletic physique, Whippets are remarkably relaxed and enjoy lounging around the house. They are affectionate and forge strong bonds with their families, making them exceptional companions.

Whippets are low-energy indoors but appreciate regular exercise and playtime. Their calm and relaxed nature makes them well-suited for a variety of living situations, such as apartments. With their combination of elegance and tranquility, Whippets are a perfect choice for those seeking a calm, loving, and low-maintenance pet.

French Bulldog

French Bulldog (1)

The French Bulldog is recognized for its gentle and affectionate nature, characterized by a relaxed and amiable demeanor. These small yet sturdy dogs are excellent companions, thriving on human interaction and bonding closely with their families.

French Bulldogs are low-energy and well-suited for apartment living, content with short walks and plenty of cuddle time. Their playful yet laid-back demeanor makes them excellent companions for children and other pets. French Bulldogs typically exhibit good behavior and are trainable, although they can sometimes be a bit stubborn. Their serene temperament and affectionate nature make them a perfect choice for anyone looking for a devoted and gentle pet.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever (1)

The golden retriever stands out as one of the friendliest and calmest dog breeds, celebrated for its gentle and patient demeanor. These lovable dogs are renowned for their unwavering loyalty, compatibility with other dogs, and ability to forge deep connections with their human families, rendering them exemplary companions.

Golden Retrievers are well-suited for families with children and other pets due to their friendly disposition and high tolerance level. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, contributing to their calm demeanor. Despite their playful energy, they have a balanced temperament that makes them perfect for both active and relaxed households. Due to their affectionate and laid-back temperament, they are widely cherished and sought-after, making them one of the most beloved and popular dog breeds.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog (1)

The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned as a gentle giant with a calm and friendly temperament. These sizable dogs are exceptionally affectionate and develop strong bonds with their families, making them superb companions.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their patient and gentle demeanor with children, making them an ideal choice for family environments. Thanks to their balanced energy levels, they are well-suited to both active outdoor activities and relaxed indoor living. Their loving and easygoing nature makes the Bernese Mountain Dog a perfect choice for those seeking a loyal and gentle pet.

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About the Author

Doctor of veterinary medicine with extensive experience in animal welfare with a strong interest in feline medicine and plans to pursue ABVP-Feline specialty board certification. A key member of many local veterinary associations and avid reader of animal related science journals and studies.