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Home > Dogs > 22 Laziest Dog Breeds (With Pictures)

22 Laziest Dog Breeds (With Pictures)

dogs-Lenkadan, Shutterstock

Dogs vary tremendously with both looks and personality. It’s incredible to consider how man’s best friend has molded to fit every relationship, service role, and job we can think of. If you’re the type who prefers a laid-back buddy to spend time with, what are your options?

It’s wonderful to kick back and relax with a good book and a dog at your side. Let’s take a look at these lazy breeds who will give you all the snuggles you could want.

The 22 Laziest Dog Breeds

1. Bulldog

male bulldog standing on grass
Image Credit: Pixabay

Bulldogs might be classically one of the laziest breeds known to man. Sure, Bulldogs can get up and run up around with you for a little bit. But it won’t be long until they tucker out and are snoozing in the corner.

Bulldogs are known for their gentle, docile nature. Some of them might not take too kindly to other dogs or smaller animals, but most of the time, they are pretty even-keeled. Even though a Bulldog might appear small, don’t let that fool you—these guys are all muscle.

Because they are a brachycephalic breed, you have to be extra careful regarding overexertion. It’s for the best if these guys don’t like romping around too much because high energy and high heat can make it hard for them to breathe.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 8 to 10 years
Average Weight 40 to 55 pounds
Coat Colors White, fawn, piebald, brindle, lilac, red
Fun Fact Originally, bulldogs baited bulls.

2. Basset Hound

basset hound_ Sebastian Molina Bullrich_Pixabay
Image Credit: Sebastian Molina Bullrich, Pixabay

Basset Hounds are dogs that enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle. When you see the dopey, droopy look of a Basset Hound, it speaks volumes about their personality, too. Dogs tend to be very slow-going and relaxed—not getting wound up about too much.

Basset Hounds make awesome hunting dogs if they are trained correctly. In fact, they are one of the best tracking dogs around. They have an extremely heightened sense of smell, making it easy for them to track small prey for hunters.

But other than that, these guys prefer not to get worked up about much. If their laziness isn’t enough to sell you, know that Basset Hounds make wonderful pets. They are loyal to a fault and adorable to boot.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 10 to 12 years
Average Weight 44 to 64 pounds
Coat Colors Tri-color, lemon and white, black and white, red and white, black and brown
Fun Fact In 2011, Victoria the Basset Hound was elected mayor of Concord, Ontario in Canada.

3. Greyhound

Italian Greyhound
Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock

It might surprise you to know that one of the very fastest dogs of all the breeds—the Greyhound—is quite lazy off the track. Timid and mild, these dogs are extremely calm and low maintenance.

Their slender bodies lend great speed, built for agility and quickness. They are known for their short burst of energy, but they don’t maintain it. These traits make them excellent for going out and strenuously running, followed by a warm, relaxed evening at home.

Because of a Greyhound’s racing history, there are many shelters devoted strictly to this breed. After they retire, they typically are surrendered to find their forever homes. Chances are there’s plenty of these sweethearts looking for a place to rest their head.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 12 to 15 years
Average Weight 60 to 88 pounds
Coat Colors Black and white, white, fawn, red, brindle, blue
Fun Fact The Greyhound breed is so ancient that they are the only breed mentioned in the Bible.

4. Newfoundland

newfoundland dog
Image Credit: skeeze, Pixabay

The big fluffy bear-like Newfoundland is the prime definition of a gentle giant. These dogs thrive on human companionship and tend to be extraordinarily easy-going and good-natured. They are ideal choices if you’re looking to raise a family.

These dogs are generally extremely good with children, even showing very protective instinct sometimes to keep them safe. Because the Newfoundland is so extraordinarily furry and drooly, they might not be everyone’s cup of tea for an indoor companion.

But if you don’t mind the extra sloppy kisses, we think it’s well worth it. These big guys will make excellent snuggle buddies if you’re looking for a chill companion to spend time with.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 8 to 10 years
Average Weight 100 to 120 pounds
Coat Colors Black, black and white, grey, brown
Fun Fact Newfoundlands have webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers.

5. Shih Tzu

shit tzu_No-longer-here_Pixabay
Image Credit: No-longer-here, Pixabay

Small dogs sometimes get quite a reputation for being high-strung and super yappy. However, the Shih Tzu is one of the most easy-going small dogs of them all—quiet and reserved.

You can have all the perks of giving them crazy hairdos, putting clothes on them, or buying them all sorts of fun accessories. But you don’t have to deal with a highly independent spitfire personality.

The Shih Tzu is brilliant and easy to house train. They prefer a quieter environment where they can enjoy the company of their owners.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 10 to 16 years
Average Weight 8 to 16 pounds
Coat Colors Black, white, liver, brindle, liver and white
Fun Fact The translation for Shih Tzu is “little lion.”

6. Irish Wolfhound

irish wolfhound_DragoNika_Shutterstock
Image Credit: DragoNika, Shutterstock

This ancient breed shows up all across history, displayed in art, poetry, and culture. This sighthound is one of the tallest dog breeds, but also one of the slower-paced. These guys are quite happy, meandering around no major impulsiveness or hyperactivity.

Wolfhounds have a sound reputation for being very patient. They don’t get worked up quickly over a rap at the door, but they can defend their home if needed.

Even though they make excellent pets that are very relaxed, they won’t work for every household because of their size. They might do best with adults or older children only. Also, they might not make the best pets for apartment living.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 6 to 10 years
Average Weight 160 to 180 pounds
Coat Colors Black, white, brindle, fawn, gray, red
Fun Fact The Irish Wolfhound is named the tallest dog in the world.

7. French Bulldog

french bulldog lying down on the floor
Image Credit: Mylene2401, Pixabay

Frenchies are really all the rage these days. It seems like everywhere you turn someone is looking to add one of these smooshy-nosed companions to their home, or they already have. There’s a reason why they’re so popular.

On top of their charming looks, they have lovely personalities that blend with a variety of situations. French Bulldogs are known for their highly social characters, never meeting a stranger.

They might get frisky and romper around a bit, but overall, they tend to be extremely calm and tuned into the energy of whatever is going on around them.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 10 to 14 years
Average Weight 20 to 28 pounds
Coat Colors White, fawn, brindle, brindle and white, tan
Fun Fact Frenchies aren’t good swimmers and should never be in water unattended.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

cavalier charles king spaniel couple on grass
Image Credit: Sue Thatcher, Shutterstock

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a dog of renowned grace. They are cousins of the Cocker Spaniel, known for their gentle demeanors.

They have a powerful bond with their humans, being your lap dog wherever you go. When it comes down to it, this Spaniel just wants to be part of everything in the house—and don’t forget to take them on car rides, because these little guys are up for any adventure.

Even though they love to chill out with you, they do love engaging in play. These qualities make them perfect for romping with the kids but cuddling with adults.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 9 to 14 years
Average Weight 13 to 18 pounds
Coat Colors Blenheim, tricolor, black and tan, ruby
Fun Fact The 40th US president, Ronald Reagan, owned Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

9. Chow Chow

chow chow_VKarlov_Shutterstock
Image Credit: VKarlov, Shutterstock

The Chow Chow gets a pretty bad rap for being a very aggressive breed. While this can be very true in some circumstances, you will find these dogs lounging around their home environment calm as a cucumber.

These dogs are excellent protectors, making them ideal if you want a dog around to protect your household or children. While they might not be so outgoing with strangers, their sentiment is much different towards their families.

Chow Chows are adorable dogs, especially as puppies. They are giant balls of fluff with wrinkled snouts. You might also be well aware that most of these dogs have black tongues, a significant pigment marker of the breed.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 9 to 15 years
Average Weight 44 to 70 pounds
Coat Colors Black, blue, fawn, cream, red
Fun Fact Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud owned Chow Chows.

10. Shar Pei

shar pei_style81_Pixabay
Image Credit: style81, Pixabay

Another dog hailing from China on the list of laziest dogs is the classic Shar Pei. Shar Peis are instantly recognizable for their incredible wrinkles from head to toe. Even though this trait is cute, you have to clean their wrinkles daily to avoid infection in the folds of the skin.

These dogs tend to be pretty particular about who they get close with. They bond very well with families but tend to be aloof and even aggressive with strangers. If you want a guard dog that takes a calm approach to life, these guys should be on your list of potential breeds.

If you’re on their good side, they make fantastic nap buddies. They will cuddle up to you any time of day to chill out on the couch.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 9 to 11 years
Average Weight: 40 to 64 pounds
Coat Colors Black, brown, fawn, sand, red, lilac
Fun Fact: The Shar Pei’s wrinkles actually serve as body armor to protect their organs.

11. Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier in grass_Piqsels
Image Credit: Piqsels

The adorable Boston Terrier is a compact dog that has a happy-go-lucky personality to share with all. These dogs can be energetic, but they are typically pretty well-mannered and serene. They don’t spend all of their time napping, but they’re happy to relax with you at your request.

They tend to be more even keel than most small breeds. Many Boston Terriers enjoy pampering, allowing you to dress them up in all sorts of cute clothes. They might be a bit difficult to potty train, but they will come along just fine with persistence.

This is the type of dog you can take with you nearly anywhere as they get along with just about any other creature.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 13 to 15 years
Average Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
Coat Colors Black and white, seal and white, brindle and white
Fun Fact: Boston Terriers are the state dog of Massachusetts.

12. Saint Bernard

saint bernard_ Bernell MacDonald_Pixabay
Image Credit: Bernell MacDonald, Pixabay

The massive Saint Bernard has made a debut in many childhood movies that we love, like the Beethoven series. These dogs are giant and could be pretty hard to handle as puppies because they don’t know their size.

However, as they get older, they tend to be highly relaxed and slow-paced. They are usually very family-oriented, adapting well to most lifestyles. Saint Bernards aren’t aggressive dogs, but they will defend the people they love if they sense a threat.

These guys do slobber and shed—a lot. If you can handle the grooming and cleanup, you will have a buddy for life.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 8 to 10 years
Average Weight: 140 to 260 pounds
Coat Colors Red and white, brownish-yellow, red brindle, red-brown splash, red-brown mantle
Fun Fact: Bernards originated in the Swiss Alps.

13. Great Pyrenees

greatpyrenees- Pixabay
Image Credit: Pixabay

The Great Pyrenees is practically a mother hen. The entire purpose of the breed was to create a protective dog to guard livestock. These dogs meander around ensuring all is well, making them incredible for smaller children and barnyard animals.

These dogs are similar to nannies, always looking out for everyone at home. Natural caretaker instincts run strong. They mosey around, taking time to stop and smell the roses, so to speak.

Because of their intensely thick coat and ancient roots, these dogs tend to fare better in homes where they can explore the great outdoors.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 10 to 12 years
Average Weight: 80 to 120 pounds
Coat Colors White, tan, gray, red, badger
Fun Fact The Great Pyrenees is naturally nocturnal.

14. Pekingese

pekingese_No-longer-here_Pixabay
Image Credit: No-longer-here, Pixabay

The Pekingese is a fun little flat-faced dog that has all the personality you could want. They are incredibly owner-friendly, meaning they get very attached to their people. They don’t acclimate as well to change, especially under the circumstances of finding a new home.

These dogs are very aware of human emotions, making them a bit sensitive in certain circumstances. But they are also stubborn and might even get aggressive if something annoys them enough.

These traits make them iffy for smaller children who don’t have much experience with animal boundaries. This breed usually does better in a kid-free home where they can relax with their humans.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 12 to 15 years
Average Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Coat Colors white, black, black and tan, fawn, cream
Fun Fact Pekingese have super challenging coats that require daily care.

15. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Golden Mountain Dog
Image Credit: wa40friend, Pixabay

The Bernese Mountain dog was a herding breed that helped farmers keep everything top-notch. These dogs are incredibly easy-going and friendly with others. They are very affectionate, looking to have attention at every turn.

But they also tend to be very respectful of boundaries. Their knack for learning helps them understand their surroundings. They are very aware of their surroundings but take a more relaxed stance in observation.

Unfortunately, they don’t have very long lifespans and suffer from breed-specific ailments.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 6 to 8 years
Average Weight: 79 to 110 pounds
Coat Colors Black tricolor
Fun Fact Bernese Mountain Dogs have incredibly thick coats that shed continually year-round.

16. Neapolitan Mastiff

neapolitant mastiff_Ricantimages_Shutterstock
Image Credit: Ricantimages, Shutterstock

The Neapolitan Mastiff is big and goofy, looking to be comfortable everywhere they go. These big boys and girls are dominant and trainable, so they can make terrific guard dogs.

When they aren’t on guard protecting their surroundings, these beasts are giant cuddle bugs. You might find them asleep on the floor next to your bed—or even trying to sneak their big body up to the mattress for some nighttime snuggles.

These guys are extra-massive, with large, drooping jowls—and yes! They do drool profusely. But that face is worth some sloppy kisses, right?

Quick Facts

Lifespan 8 to 10 years
Average Weight: 110 to 150 pounds
Coat Colors Black, brindle, tawny, mahogany, blue
Fun Fact You might recognize this breed from J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, playing Hagrid’s pooch Fang.

17. Havanese

havanese on grass
Image Credit: Sandra Huber, Shutterstock

If affection is what you seek—look no further. The Havanese absolutely loves being your shadow. They are practically glued to their humans, doing whatever they can to spend time with you. The Havanese is very laid back, knowing there is a time for play and rest.

Havanese dogs have beautiful silky fur, so you will have to groom and brush them often. But this leaves lots of room for creativity with new hairdos. Another upside is that they don’t shed often.

These fun-loving little dogs will be the epicenter of your world—and they’ll leave you no other choice. If you want a pal for life, the Havanese is happy to be of service.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 13 to 15 years
9 to 16 pounds
Coat Colors White, black, fawn, tobacco, Havana brown, mahogany
Fun Fact The Havanese was once a circus performer, taught to perform intricate tricks.

18. Spinone Italiano

The Spinone Italiano is an old Italian hunting breed. Their lazy looks don’t fool you—they truly love to catch catnaps any time of day or night. But they also thrive on exercise, so don’t think you can skip walks with this breed.

The Spinone truly loves people, and they are compatible with strangers and children the same. They are immensely sweet-spirited, adopting the “lover, not fighter” mentality.

Spinones are very attention-oriented, so they don’t fare well when they’re alone for a long time. Make sure you’re willing to devote lots of time to this breed, ensuring they will be the best companions.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 12 to 14 years
64 to 86 pounds
Coat Colors White, brown roan, orange and white, orange roan
Fun Fact This breed had an influence on Italian Renaissance artwork.

19. Great Dane

female great dane
Image Credit: velora, Shutterstock

The Great Dane is a structurally impressive dog, descending from Mastiffs. These big guys might give the impression that they mean business, but they’re usually very gentle.

Even though you can trust these dogs with small children, you should always supervise them. Many Danes don’t know their size, mistaking themselves for lap dogs. It’s not unusual for one of these dogs to try to fit into your arms.

Because they tend to be so laidback, they might even do well in an apartment setting. But you do have to find time every day to exercise these dogs.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 8 to 10 years
90 to 200 pounds
Coat Colors Black, brindle, fawn, mantle, blue, harlequin
Fun Fact The timeless cartoon Scooby-Doo character was a Great Dane.

20. Clumber Spaniel

clumber spaniel_Radomir Rezny_Shutterstock
Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock

The Clumber Spaniel is an amiable breed that is calm and humble. They love hanging out with their humans, laying at your feet wherever you go. They meander along, having a very slow-paced approach to life.

These dogs are very loyal, listening to your commands and reading your body language. Even though they are super calm, they do love to play.

They might not get along with your smaller pets, since they have such a high prey drive. But they very seldom bark, so if you want a watchdog without the constant commotion, this might be the breed for you.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 10 to 12 years
50 to 85 pounds
Coat Colors White, orange and white, lemon and white
Fun Fact The Clumber Spaniel is one of the rarest dog breeds.

21. Whippet

whippet in field
Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock

The Whippet looks like a miniature Greyhound—and they share very common similarities in terms of personality. These dogs tend to be shy (and possibly a little prone to nervousness).

Whippets not only love their families immensely, but they usually get along with other animals and strangers, too. They are quiet—and even somewhat mousy—always acting modestly with grace.

Even though these dogs are on the calm side, you always have to make sure you have the proper reinforcements. Whippets can bolt off at a moment’s notice, so fences and leashed walks are a must.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 12 to 15 years
Average Weight 15 to 42 pounds
Coat Colors Black, white, brindle, fawn, blue, red
Fun Fact The Whippet can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.

22. Pug

old pug lying on the carpet
Image Credit: Michelle Scott, Pixabay

If you’ve ever met a Pug, you know that no other dog is quite as happy. Pugs tend to love every single person, animal, and other creature that they run across. These guys are typically harmless, making them great candidates to be playmates for children and other household pets.

On top of their outstanding carefree personalities, Pugs are pretty lazy, too. They might be chipper and playful, but they love taking time out for frequent snoozes. These dogs are happy spending any time with their humans, whether it’s a long Netflix binge or a jaunt around the neighborhood.

These dogs are also a brachycephalic breed. So, you have to be mindful of just how much they exert themselves physically.

Quick Facts

Lifespan 12 to 15 years
Average Weight 14 to 18 pounds
Coat Colors Fawn, black, silver fawn, apricot
Fun Fact Many pugs reverse sneeze, which is when they violently pull air into their nose.

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Final Thoughts

So, as you can see, these dogs come in just about every color, personality, and size you can think of. Each of these dogs takes the term “lazy” and makes it their own—putting their spin on how a lackadaisical dog behaves.

You can find a lazy breed with just about any temperament or size you prefer, finding one that matches your lifestyle like a puzzle piece. Which lazy dog is your favorite?

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Featured Image Credit: Lenkadan, Shutterstock

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