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Best calm dog breeds
Each breed here made the list on calm wording in its own the American Kennel Club description: low-key, placid, calm, serene or a Zen-like calm.
The table sets AKC's energy rating beside weight and life expectancy, which differ a lot across the five.
Calm dog breeds for relaxed homes
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is low-slung and low-key, sometimes stubborn but always charming. A daily walk at a moderate pace covers the exercise it needs.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Adults are calm animals that sleep a lot. The wrinkled Neapolitan Mastiff is wary with strangers but sweet and placid with loved ones. Warm weather needs care because the breed overheats easily.
Bulldog
Kind but courageous and friendly but dignified, the Bulldog counts calm among its tags. Hot days belong in front of an air conditioner.
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees usually show a Zen-like calm and spring into action only to meet a threat. They save their energy for the flock, so exercise stays moderate.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is the most serene and agreeable of companions, too serene to make a fierce guard dog. It still needs exercise throughout life and a leash outside a secure fence.
Energy, size and life expectancy from AKC
| Breed | AKC energy rating | Weight | Life expectancy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basset Hound | 2 of 5 | 40 to 65 pounds | 12 to 13 years |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 2 of 5 | 150 pounds male, 110 pounds female | 7 to 9 years |
| Bulldog | 3 of 5 | 50 pounds male, 40 pounds female | 8 to 10 years |
| Great Pyrenees | 3 of 5 | 100 pounds and up male, 85 pounds and up female | 10 to 12 years |
| Irish Wolfhound | 3 of 5 | 120 pounds male, 105 pounds female | 6 to 8 years |