Some dogs’ greatest passion is simply to warm your couch (and your heart).
For every lively herding breed or inquisitive hunting dog, there’s an equal and opposite couch potato breed. These dogs can’t wait to nap the day away. The least energetic of the canine world, these dog breeds still need walks and play (of course!), but they’re just not as busy as other dogs.
The least active breeds come in every shape and size, and from every part of the world. Some have “day jobs,” sure, but many have been bred simply to be wonderful, low-maintenance family companions.
Let’s take a look at some downright lazy dog breeds. And by lazy, we also mean adorable.
Toy breeds (1-4.5kg)
Chinese crested
An elegant, mostly hairless petite companion. Caution: will require occasional clothes.
Japanese chin
A sweet companion with soulful eyes. Easy to train with a cheery personality.
Maltese
Bright and playful, this dog will relax and entertain you. Easy to train but difficult to housebreak, this sensitive little doggy may prefer a litter box.
Pomeranian
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Spunky and alert, Pomeranians pay close attention to the world around them. This foxy little spitz can be a little bossy, so obedience training is in order.
Small Breeds (3-16kg)
Brussels Griffon
These bearded little Ewoks are sensitive snugglers with huge hearts (and bigger attitudes). There are bearded and smooth-coated versions.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavs can be a little athletic, due to a hunting lineage, but they love to snuggle, and hate to be away from you for too long. A good combination for lightly active families.
Pekingese
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A chunky little dog with a beautiful coat and a big-dog attitude, the Peke was born to be your sweet, comical companion.
Tibetan spaniel
These beautiful, sturdy little watchdogs are calm and playful by turns. They love to climb and perch in a windowsill like a cat.
Medium (16-30kg)
Basset hound
Highly sociable and easygoing, this talented scent hound is known for its independent, working-dog attitude. Highly food-motivated but slow to train.
Chow chow
The majestic Chow is a noble guardian, protecting his home and family. A beautiful, bearlike, stocky dog, he requires plenty of early socialisation to combat a suspicious nature.
Cocker Spaniel
The American cocker spaniel is a beautiful, extremely sensitive companion, with less need for exercise than their English cousins.
English bulldog
Stubborn yet sensitive, the bulldog is equal parts majestic and comedic. More of a snorer than a barker, and good, though often stoic, with children and strangers.
Large (25-38kg)
Clumber Spaniel
An uncommon breed with true couch potato instincts, the Clumber is a heavy built spaniel who sleeps indoors, but is perfectly willing to play some fetch or have a run around outside.
Greyhound
For his athletic build and background, the greyhound is built for the sprint, and only requires a bit of a gallop to offset a napping regime. Sensitive to emotional tension and noise, this elegant animal does best in a calm, quiet home.
Extra Large (34kg and up)
Bernese Mountain Dog
These majestic big dogs hail from the Swiss Alps. If they have to be active, they prefer cooler weather. Though they can be massive, Berners are great with children and bustling families.
Great Dane
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The original ‘gentle giant’ of the dog world, the Dane is a large, elegant, mastiff type. Rambunctious as puppies, Danes quickly settle into a calm, majestic companion.
Newfoundland
Sweet, slobbery swimmers, the Newfie is quite an active dog outside the house. Great with children and families, this all-purpose heavy dog can also be trained to pull carts.
Saint Bernard
(Sound on for impressive snoring!) The Saint, like the Newfie, loves her outdoor time, though is a furry lump inside the home. Rambunctious in puppyhood, the adult Saint Bernard prefers to get her exercise hiking in the cool mountain air, or gently drowning you in drool.
Even though these dogs might prefer to stay at home on the couch than head out on an adventure with you, they still like having company so why not find a lovely sitter who offers dog boarding to spend quality time with your dog on Rover.com.
