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20 Calmest Dog Breeds for Families That Prefer a Laid-Back Pup

These dogs just like to chill!

By Shelby Deering
calmest dog breeds
The Pioneer Woman

Whether they’re playful, funny, comforting, or snuggly, who doesn’t love dogs? No matter what their personality is, dogs are undoubtably a human's best friend; and you’ll adore them no matter what. But it can also be a good idea to try to match your own personal vibe to the ideal dog breed. For instance, if you’re searching for a lap dog who will be content to sit with you while you watch your favorite movie, then a chill dog could be a good fit for you. Or, if you simply want a dog that isn’t active 24/7, then a calm dog breed might be right up your alley.

Calm dogs also tend to be ideal family dogs because they're great around young children. They'll stay unruffled when those little hands are just learning to be gentle themselves. Additionally, if you’re getting older and want a dog who can match your slower pace, a calm canine could be exactly what you’re looking for. And remember, if you don’t go directly to a breeder, you can always find a purebred pup or mixed-breed companion at your local animal shelter or rescue. To add a new (calm!) member to your family, here are the calmest dog breeds.

1

French Bulldog

calmest dog breeds french bulldog
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Although they’re known for having energy as young pups, after turning two or three, you’ll see that your Frenchie has become a calm, even-keeled dog. In fact, once they’re adults, Frenchies are often considered to be one of the calmest dog breeds around.

2

Whippet

calmest dog breeds whippet
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While very mellow most of the time, you’ll also see whippets do occasional bursts of running, or zoomies.

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3

Standard Poodle

best dog breeds for kids poodle
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Standard poodles generally have very chill demeanors, but as most little puppies are, they can be pretty energetic when they’re young.

4

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

calmest dog breeds king charles
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Known to be calm, affectionate, and good with other dogs and cats, this regal breed is a lot more than simply adorable.

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5

Basset Hound

calmest dog breeds basset hound
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As Ree Drummond’s favorite breed, basset hounds are basically laid-back and peaceful, with droopy ears and an equally droopy, cute, face.

6

Bolognese

calmest dog breeds bolognese
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These little white dogs like to stick to their owners like Velcro, famed for their tranquil personalities that are a good match with elderly owners.

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7

Great Pyrenees

calmest dog breeds great pyrenees
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No canine silliness here! Great Pyrenees pups are gentle giants who are thought of as serious doggos who are easy to train and have great manners.

8

Irish Wolfhound

calmest dog breeds irish wolfhound
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Frequently described as “dignified,” these dogs with the wiry gray coats love to be at their owners’ sides.

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9

Saint Bernard

calmest dog breeds saint bernard
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Although the movie Beethoven might suggest otherwise, Saint Bernards are actually quite relaxed and gentle, especially with little ones.

10

Pekingese

calmest dog breeds pekingese
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If you and your family prefer snuggling up on the couch over anything else, a Pekingese is likely a great fit. Calm and quiet, they love nothing more than to relax and stretch out somewhere soft.

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11

Newfoundland

calmest dog breeds newfoundland
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As one of the biggest breeds around (they average a whopping 130 pounds!), Newfies are also incredibly calm and unruffled.

12

Irish Setter

best dog breeds for kids irish setter
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When they advance beyond their puppy years, Irish Settlers go from being rowdy and energetic to peaceful and composed.

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13

English Bulldog

calmest dog breeds english bulldog
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Not only are English Bulldogs calm—they tend to be downright sleepy, and will absolutely love cuddling up with you and taking naps.

14

Greyhound

calm dog breeds greyhound
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When you think of Greyhounds, you may picture them on a racetrack. But they’re surprisingly mellow, calm, and distinguished, and since they’re so graceful, you don’t need to worry that they’ll run amok in your house.

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15

Clumber Spaniel

calmest dog breeds clumber spaniel
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Easygoing and very loving, children are sure to enjoy spending time with a Clumber Spaniel.

16

Labrador Retriever

calmest dog breeds labrador retriever
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Labs are sporting dogs, so when they’re puppies, they’re undoubtedly energetic and playful. But eventually, they grow to be laid-back, relaxed family dogs.

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17

Pug

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Known to be quite serene, Pugs aren’t big on barking, chewing, or digging, so your house can stay spotless, too.

18

Cocker Spaniel

calm dog breeds cocker spaniel
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Gentle and super affectionate, these pups are smart, loyal, and very laid-back.

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19

Bichon Frise

calmest dog breeds bichon frise
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These bright-white pups are like glue with their humans. Plus, they’re friendly and relaxed around new people.

20

Great Dane

calmest dog breeds great dane
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It’s no secret that Great Danes are huge at an average of 140 pounds, but as big as they are, they’re equally calm, cool, and cuddly.

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