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Not every dog is a whirlwind of zoomies and endless energy. While plenty of breeds thrive on constant action, others are perfectly content living the slow life, especially indoors. Whether you’re looking for a companion for apartment living, a chill buddy for your work-from-home days, or simply a furry friend who matches your laid-back vibe, some breeds prioritize relaxation over relentless running. These low-energy dogs are happy to take a short stroll, have a little playtime, and then settle in for serious lounging.
Basset Hound
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Basset Hounds are known for their soulful eyes, droopy ears, and an energy level that can only be described as “strategically minimal.” Initially bred for endurance rather than speed, Bassets prefer sniffing leisurely along a trail to sprinting after a ball. Indoors, they are experts at sprawling on the couch or curling into a comfy ball on the floor. They love attention and cuddles, but don’t demand constant entertainment. If your idea of fun involves binge-watching TV with a snack buddy, the Basset Hound is your dream partner.
Bulldog
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Bulldogs are built like little tanks, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a breed more committed to conserving energy. They enjoy short walks and light play but are happiest when they’re napping in a sunbeam or snoring beside you on the couch. Bulldogs have a calm, steady presence and rarely get overexcited, making them excellent for quieter households. They thrive in indoor settings and aren’t fans of extreme temperatures or strenuous exercise anyway. Basically, Bulldogs live by the motto: “Why stand when you can sit—and why sit when you can nap?”
Great Dane
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It might surprise people that the giant Great Dane is a world-class lounger, but it’s absolutely true. Despite their massive size, Great Danes are known for their calm, gentle demeanor indoors. They enjoy a moderate daily walk and a bit of playtime but are perfectly content to snooze for hours afterward. Their love for sprawling across beds, couches, or entire living rooms is legendary. If you can handle the size, you’ll find a Great Dane to be a surprisingly chill and affectionate companion.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzu may look like a fancy little show dog, but they’re about as low-key as it gets. Bred initially as lap warmers for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus are more interested in cuddles and cozy corners than intense physical activity. They enjoy short walks and a few play sessions but prefer spending most of their time lounging close to their humans. Their cheerful, calm nature makes them great for apartment living or for anyone who believes in the power of an afternoon nap.
French Bulldog
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French Bulldogs have perfected the art of balancing short bursts of playful zoomies with extended periods of total relaxation. They require only moderate exercise and are usually satisfied with a short walk followed by a hefty nap. Frenchies are social, affectionate, and hilarious companions who don’t need constant stimulation to be happy. Indoors, they love curling up in weird, often hilariously awkward positions, ready to snooze until the next snack opportunity. Living with a Frenchie means having a loyal, compact, part-time comedian who takes napping very seriously.
Clumber Spaniel
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Clumber Spaniel is a hidden gem when it comes to low-energy breeds. They have a slow, deliberate way of moving that seems almost dignified—and sometimes a little bit lazy. Clumbers love short strolls, sniffing sessions, and, most importantly, long, luxurious naps. Their heavy-set bodies and mellow personalities make them happiest when life moves at an easy, unhurried pace. If you’re someone who prefers ambling through the park instead of sprinting, the Clumber Spaniel will think you’re a perfect match.
Chow Chow
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Chow Chows carry themselves with an air of calm dignity, and they often prefer quiet relaxation over rowdy play. They are naturally reserved and independent, content to lounge quietly in their favorite spot rather than constantly seeking attention. Short, regular walks are enough to keep a Chow Chow satisfied, and they’ll spend the rest of their day keeping watch—or more likely, snoozing through your Zoom calls. Their low-key approach to life makes them ideal for owners who value peace, quiet, and a bit of royal attitude.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavaliers are affectionate, gentle dogs who adapt easily to their owners’ lifestyles. While they enjoy a good walk or play session, they are equally happy to curl up on a lap and drift into a nap. Their love for lounging is nearly as strong as their love for snuggles. Indoors, Cavaliers move at a relaxed pace and are generally easy to manage, even for first-time owners. If you’re looking for a dog who matches your relaxed Sunday vibe, the Cavalier is ready to snooze right along with you.
Tibetan Spaniel
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Tibetan Spaniel is a small breed with a big love for relaxing. Originally bred to sit on monastery walls and keep watch, they developed a calm, observant nature. Tibbies enjoy short walks and light playtime, but they’re happiest when they’re surveying their surroundings from a cozy perch or lounging in a sunny spot. They form strong bonds with their families and are perfectly content spending hours simply hanging out indoors. If you believe that a well-placed nap can solve most problems, the Tibetan Spaniel will wholeheartedly agree.
The Only Race These Dogs Are Running Is to the Comfiest Spot on the Couch
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Not every dog dreams of chasing frisbees or running marathons—some are masters of the fine art of chilling. These low-energy breeds are proof that happiness doesn’t always come from high-speed adventures; sometimes it’s found in a warm bed, a sunbeam, and a solid nap schedule. Whether sprawling dramatically across your furniture or quietly snoozing at your feet, these dogs remind us that slowing down can be its kind of adventure. Bonus: you’ll never have to feel guilty about skipping a workout again.
The post 9 Surprisingly Low-Energy Dog Breeds That Are Chill Indoors appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.