The slowest dog breed in the world: 25 dogs that take their time
One of the most important considerations when it comes to choosing a dog breed is their energy requirements. Some dogs are born athletes who go insane without regular exercise. Other breeds need very little physical stimulation each day in order to stay in the best physical and mental shape.
In order to keep their energy levels in check, it’s important for dogs of all breeds and sizes, even those who may seem lazy, to get at least one good walk a day. But if you don’t think that intense physical activity should become a part of your life any time soon, don’t adopt an active breed. They will end up being more work than play anyway.
It’s important to note that while many people focus on the breed, the reality is that every dog has a unique personality. There’s no way to be sure if your dog will be a couch potato or a hyperactive perpetual motion machine. So when choosing a furry baby, pay attention to personality rather than breed.
Another thing you have to remember is to keep your dog healthy by taking them in for regular veterinary checkups. Lethargy can be a sign of illness, especially if they are athletic and typically prefer being active!
But if you are adamant about finding the laziest dog ever, you might start with the list below.
1. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a lazy dog with an unmatched loyalty and love for its owner. They refuse to move even if you try pushing them on the ground, so they’re definitely not your running partner!
The lazy nature of this breed causes them to be couch potatoes who refuse to get up when called. If you’re looking for a pet to exercise with, these guys won’t oblige! The Bassets refuse (and enjoy) every opportunity they get to take it easy.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a clever and adaptable breed that will typically acquire the personality of its owner. If you prefer a laid-back lifestyle, this pup will happily follow your example. If on the other hand, your typical day consists of mainly outdoorsy activities, then be ready for some canine company when out walking!
There’s one thing to remember though: although these dogs are normally quiet, they are bred for hunting. So if you don’t want them to chase squirrels or other animals when you’re having a walk, keep them on a leash.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are another breed that will be happy to do whatever you do. They aren’t just laid-back; they don’t like yapping all that much. This makes them perfect for urban homes, especially if you have to spend a lot of time outside.
You may love being a couch potato with your Frenchie, but don’t forget to take them on a walk. They can put on weight in no time and their little figures are too precious for neglect!
4. Broholmer
This is a giant who wants to be a lap dog. The Broholmer is a cuddly pup that loves being as close to you as possible. This breed comes from Europe, where these gentle giants were used as watchdogs for centuries! Broholmers are friendly and also get along well with children or other animals making them perfect companions.
5. Tibetan Spaniel
This loyal and cuddly tiny lion is a perfect pet for any home. The best part about these dogs? They’ll binge-watch your favorite show with you, no questions asked. And whenever you’re ready, they’ll be content with a nice short walk before finally retiring from activity into slumber mode. These lovable creatures might be small but don’t let this fool you: they have a big personalities.
6. Tosa
It’s true that the Tosas look fierce, but they are actually very patient and calm. Also known as Japanese Mastiffs, this breed has been around since the early times of Japan when it served to protect homes from intruders with its size alone. They may seem intimidating at first glance due to their large stature but once you get past that, you’ll find a laid-back and affectionate family member! Tosas love spending quality time with someone who takes good care of them. They are also likely to drool all over you and your furniture, so watch out for that.
7. Greyhound
These pups were bred for speed but this doesn’t keep them from being the ultimate couch potatoes. They might enjoy a sprint from time to time but also love lounging around at home or on your lap whenever you feel like being a layabout.
If you want a dog that really loves to take it easy, a retired racer might be a great choice. They are normally content with embracing their new slow lifestyles and spending quiet quality time with their owners.
8. Newfoundland
Think of Newfoundland as a big teddy bear and also as a kindly giant because of their attractive, sweet, friendly personality. Socializing them is a necessity, so make sure they can be around people, sounds and sights. Giving them a challenge once in a while would be great too. The result of proper socialization training will be a well-behaved dog.
The Newfoundlands need a spacious home environment and are prone to drooling. They also have a thick coat that needs regular grooming and grows lushly in cold climates. If you want to train a Newfoundland, you may need some positive reinforcement.
9. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard is a large, sturdy dog that looks like a giant compared to other breeds. But despite its size, it is a gentle, intelligent, good-natured, and friendly dog. The fact that the Saint Bernard dogs help travelers in the Alps is proof that they’re truly man’s best friends.
In an indoor environment, Saint Bernards are a beloved family friend. If you can tolerate excessive drooling, then you will love this breed. Oddly enough, despite being a rescue dog, Saint Bernards don’t need much training. A daily walk is more than enough exercise for the dog. They have a very thick coat, so if you live in a warm climate, make sure your pet has shade and fresh, cool water.
10. Chow Chow
The Chow Chows were the favorite dogs of the Chinese imperial family. It looks like a combination of a fluffy lion and a small bear. The dog is aloof by nature, but also attentive and loyal to its owners, even if it has a quiet temperament. Socialization is important for the dog because it was bred to defend its owners and its territory. This might make them become aggressive or shy of other people. A Chow Chow that has been raised correctly will be more open and friendly.
It’s preferable for a Chow Chow to live indoors instead of in a backyard or kennel. For training, a daily 15-minute walk will be enough to keep the dog happy and healthy. Be careful in hot weather or climate as the Chow Chow doesn’t tolerate heat too well.
11. Bullmastiff
Although it is a good-natured type of dog, Bullmastiffs are bred as guardians for their families. They’ve got a large build and as a large dog can be an imposing obstacle to thieves and burglars. Despite being a guard dog, the Bullmastiff can be a family-loving pet, noble, trustworthy, and confident.
The dog’s short coat makes it easy to groom, although there might be some drooling. However, the coat does not shed much, so it is easy to clean. Bullmastiffs aren’t too energetic, although they might have quite a lot of energy as pups. For training, just take your pet out for outdoor games or short walks to keep him fit and healthy. When training a Bullmastiff at an early age, make sure your pup understands that you’re the one in charge to facilitate further training as well as to curb his independence
12. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is gorgeous, friendly, and loyal to their family. They are cute dogs whose small size and charming manners make them favorite pets for many people. The dog feels great in both an urban apartment and a large country house. Children and other animals are no problem for the Shih Tzu, although you will need to supervise children who play with the dog.
The Shih Tzu is a tiny little ball of fur that can’t be very fast. The average speed at which this dog can go is about 6 mph, so it won’t give you any intense exercise whenever you decide to have a walk.
13. English bulldog
The English bulldog is a ferocious-looking dog. Wide, muscular with powerful shoulders, a lowered upper lip, and a strong lower jaw, it does have a fierce appearance. However, it’s a playful, friendly, determined, and courageous dog. Bulldogs might be a bit stubborn, but have that air of calm dignity and are always ready to protect their family.
Bulldogs were originally bred as fighting dogs. Fortunately, they became beloved pets rather than fighters after many years. Today, they want nothing more than to attract attention and enjoy napping next to their owners.
14. Great Dane
Most dog breeds were created for hunting and guarding. The Great Dane is one of those breeds. Today, Great Danes lost their ferocity as hunters and guards, but they haven’t lost their courage and determination to protect their human families. Their impressive size and loud barking will, if not frighten, stop intruders.
You can’t ask for a more adorable, affectionate pet than this. These dogs have a peaceful, playful disposition and are gentle with children. Obedience training will further improve the Great Dane’s attitude.
15. Lhasa Apso
Although these little tanks may not be fast, they are tough. Unlike many toy breeds, the Lhasa Apso can handle both hot and cold weather if it’s not too extreme. They can also walk for longer periods of time. One of the slowest dog breeds, Lhasa Apso don’t bark excessively but they’re not too fond of strangers and will yap if someone they don’t know approaches. It’s worth noting that these aren’t family dogs. Lhasas are quite jealous and don’t like being around kids which makes them a perfect breed for elderly people.
16. Pekingese
The fact that Pekingese are pretty slow is actually a health advantage for these little pups. Overheating can be really dangerous.
The Pekingese is a breed that was bred to move with the same dignified walk as their royal owners: they were the favorite dogs of Chinese emperors. These pups are great apartment dwellers, preferring short walks and long sits on their owner’s laps.
17. Dachshund
Dachshunds are descendants of German-bred hunting dogs. They can be quite tough but also love to cuddle! These pups have short legs and long bodies, which makes them disadvantaged when it comes to speed or physical capabilities. But this is hardly a flaw for those who love a laid-back time with their furry babies on their lap. These furry friends enjoy walks at most times but care should always be taken so as not to put too much pressure on their joints, especially due to how overweight they may become over time.
18. Pug
Though they may appear playful and inquisitive, their short legs mean that running for long distances is not recommended. If you must walk your pug regularly (and it has been suggested in order to combat obesity), make sure it doesn’t run too far, or else it’ll be exhausted by the end of your hike. These friendly dogs get along great with kids as well as other pets.
If you’re looking to adopt one just be aware that these pups can have some respiratory problems so they need regular visits from the vet. In return, your pug will keep you company whenever you decide to relax on a couch.
A walk around the block may not require much energy from both humans and dogs if it’s done slowly together.
19. Chihuahua
The breed is the smallest in the world: these dogs can be as tiny as 6 inches in height and 1 pound in weight. In spite of the fact that the Chihuahuas look as if they were created to rest on pillows, it’s better not to make your pup get used to the couch initially. These dogs have a vulnerable nature and might take revenge by leaving a puddle or two around the house.
This is a dog that’s easy to care for, the animal is handy in every way. A grown pupper fits in a bag, they don’t eat much, and learn easily. The breed was created in Mexico but nowadays it is popular among breeders all over the world.
20. English Toy Spaniel
This is the only Spaniels that I would not recommend for family life. These dogs are independent and single-minded and enjoy a quiet laid-back life. This makes them perfect companions to singles/couples in homes where they get plenty of attention without having another animal or kids around.
21. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise dogs don’t have a specific canine odor and do not shed, so they belong to the category of hypoallergenic breeds. In training, they show themselves as capable, but somewhat undisciplined students who require a special approach.
These pups are excellent companions, recommended for families with children. Regular walks will be enough for them to stay happy and healthy.
Despite their diminutive size and generally unprotected appearance, Bichons don’t require excessive care. Owners who tend to be over caring risk ending up with a cowardly, capricious, and spoiled animal that’s unable to establish an adequate relationship with other dogs.
22. Brussels Griffon
Communication skills and activity are the main features of the breed. It’s difficult to get bored with the Brussels Griffon. These pups are great companions: they’ll follow you everywhere and control everything you do.
Of all family members, this dog will single out one person and others will at first be treated with caution and mistrust. Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons can be good guards. The animal will certainly notify the owner of the approach of a stranger with loud barking.
This breed isn’t suitable for families with children, as they don’t normally tolerate familiarity and careless treatment.
Socialized Griffons easily get along with other dogs and other pets. The bearded pups are famous for their developed intelligence, so they easily learn commands. If they are not too stubborn, of course.
23. Toy Poodle
It’s a lively and affectionate dog that can be a most wonderful companion. It can be a good watchdog, announcing the approach of visitors, but it is usually a kind dog. Toy poodles are unusually sensitive to voice intonation and respond well to training. Nevertheless, children should be taught the proper way to handle these small, delicate dogs.
Although it’s one of the smallest breeds, these dogs are active and fun companions. Their favorite thing to do is to spend time at home with their owners. These pups often become very attached to their owners and enjoy the comforts of home. Toy Poodles also need regular exercise outdoors to keep them fit, healthy, and toned. Many of them are excellent in training and tend to be very fond of games.
24. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Welsh Corgi is a playful and sociable dog that follows its owner everywhere. These qualities are considered definitive for this breed and will appear in absolutely any Corgi, regardless of the upbringing and conditions. But to describe Corgi’s character in more detail, its subspecies must be taken into account. After all, the Pembroke differs from the Cardigan not only in exterior appearance but also in behavior.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgis are more active and friendly, easily coming into contact with strangers. They love attracting attention by sitting at your feet and pawing you until they are noticed. They are vastly superior to cardigans in terms of emotionality and sensitivity. Can behave expressively and become distracted during training. Especially if they don’t get enough exercise in the form of moving games and long walks.
25. Keeshond
Keeshond is a charming shaggy dog with an endless battery of fun inside, with whom the gloomiest day blooms into rainbow fireworks. These tireless fluffy pups are always sincerely happy about three things: spending time with their owners, delicious treats in their bowls, and relaxing walks in nature. Try to satisfy these basic needs every day and you will become the center of the universe for the Keeshond and at the same time the most adored creature on the planet.
Just like cats, Keeshonds are attached to their homes and almost never run away. But these fluffy “mini-wolves” are genuinely happy to play, especially if the place of entertainment is outside the home walls. In general, a proper Keeshond is a shaggy extrovert that cares for everybody and everything and whose mission is to create an exclusively positive atmosphere.
Conclusion
If you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle or are an elderly person who needs a four-legged companion to sit on the couch with a cup of tea and a book, our list of the slowest dogs might come in handy.
The breeds listed will make great friends who dispel loneliness and cheer you up while not turning your time together into an intense exercise.
Remember that despite the “slowness” of these dogs, they still need a little exercise to maintain good health and healthy life. All of the dog breeds mentioned above will fit in easily in a home whose owners don’t want much fuss.
