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10 Dog Breeds That Are Calm, Easygoing, And Make Good Pets

Dog Breeds That Are Calm, Easygoing, And Make Good Pets

Before we get into the breeds, let’s define what “calm” means. American Kennel Club describes a calm breed as one that doesn't have significant reactions to stimuli. As a result, they're not easily spooked or stressed out by new people, places, or things—for example, something like weird scents, thunder, and noise.

It's worth noting that a dog's size does not necessarily determine whether it is energetic or calm, some small dogs are very active (such as Jack Russell Terrier and Fox Terrier), and some large dogs are calm.

If you're looking for a mellow and don't need a dog that requires enormous exercise, here’s some excellent news. The following dog breeds are known to be calm and easygoing, making them perfect for families with kids and senior citizens.

Tip

A calm breed doesn't need hours of running or intense activity but should get some outdoor time daily. Plan for a minimum of one 20-30 minute walk or exercise most days to keep any dog healthy and happy.

  • 1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • 2. Pekingese
  • 3. Tibetan Spaniel
  • 4. Clumber Spaniel
  • 5. Whippet
  • 6. Basset Hound
  • 7. Greyhound
  • 8. Newfoundland
  • 9. Great Pyrenees
  • 10. Saint Bernard

1Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles spaniels are known for their sweet, loving temperament. This playful, affectionate, and calm breed makes an ideal companion for people who want to play with their pets or cuddle up on the couch after a long day.

Even though this toy-sized spaniel doesn’t need huge amounts of exercise, two walks a day will keep your Cavalier healthy and happy. Cavaliers are excellent at adapting to family life, dealing with apartments, and keeping older humans company.

RELATED: 12 Great Choices: Best Small Dogs for First-time Owners

2Pekingese

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a sweet, quiet breed that isn't very active. If your family wants a small, fluffy dog that isn't much of an athlete, then the Pekingese could be a good choice. However, it is essential to note that Pekes are not generally suited to living with young children because they will adapt to the presence of children but may not become especially friendly with them.

3Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Spaniel

The small Tibetan spaniel is a lively, curious dog that likes to explore with you on walks. This breed is excellent at being a watchdog, and it often sits on windowsills or the back of a couch and surveys its homestead.

Tibetan spaniels tend to be alert and quick to bark when strangers approach. However, they bond closely with their families and are happy to relax around the house. These active little dogs enjoy spending time with their humans as much as possible!

4Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel is a calm and relaxed companion at home, but this breed still needs daily walks and hikes; they are pretty intelligent dogs and will enjoy having different things to do each day. They are easygoing around strangers, noises, and other common household disruptions. In addition, Clumbers shed and drool quite a bit, so they aren’t the best breed for a meticulous owner.

5Whippet

Whippet

Whippets adore their family, are kid-tolerant, and rarely meet a person they don’t like. Proper exercise is essential for Whippets, so having a securely fenced yard where they can run is ideal. They’re not known for being barkers, but this breed has a high prey drive, so families with cats, rabbits, or other small pets should think twice before adopting one.

6Basset Hound

Basset Hound

Basset hounds tend to be relatively low-energy dogs. Their short, stubby legs make it easy to wear them out with a few short walks, and their history as scenthounds means they readily explore the world with their noses rather than by eating up miles of trail.

Basset hounds aren't always a great fit for apartment living––their baying hound voices might bother neighbors. But they are ideal for households with quieter energy levels.

RELATED: Basset Hound vs. Beagle: What's the Difference?

7Greyhound

Greyhound

The breed was originally used for hunting and chasing games, but today it is more commonly seen as a racing dog because of its speed. At home, Greyhounds are calm and relaxed around people and other dogs; they love being petted and happily lounge around with their owners. However, they may not be appropriate for families that keep small animals—their prey instinct can outweigh their affection for humans.

8Newfoundland

Newfoundland

Newfoundland is for you if you're hoping for a big, gentle dog. Also Dubbed the nanny dog, the Newfoundland is an affectionate and empathetic breed known for its devotion to children. This makes it a great choice if you want a companion who loves and cares for your children when you can't be there.

Newfoundlands and Newfoundland mix breeds are pretty low-dopamine dogs, meaning they don't overreact to their surroundings. This makes them ideal apartment dogs!

RELATED: 10 Most Common Black Dog Breeds

9Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a large, white dog initially bred to guard sheep. This breed is calm but alert, so it might not be a good choice for someone looking for a dog that won't bark frequently. However, a couple of walks each day will do well with this breed, and the thick coat sheds a great deal—more than most people are used to dealing with! Also, living in hot climates isn't ideal for this breed because of the extra care required by the coat.

RELATED: 10 Most Common White Dog Breeds

10Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard

The easygoing Saint Bernard might be a terrific pet if you have a large yard and children who want a dog. This gentle giant is so sweet, loving, and patient that she's an excellent companion for your kids' adventures. Also, since she doesn't require rigorous exercise, seniors who enjoy leisurely walks in the woods might consider her a fine choice.

The Bottom Line

Remember: any dog, no matter the breed, can exhibit characteristics that differ from those typically associated with its breed. In addition, trauma as a puppy or later stress can also cause a dog to change its temperament. Therefore, before you adopt and buy it, it’s best to spend time getting to know its personality.

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