Are you a busy urban professional or a retiree looking for a low-maintenance canine companion?
Perhaps you’re a family searching for a pet that fits your laid-back lifestyle.
Whatever your situation, understanding which dog breeds require less exercise can help you make an informed decision about your next furry friend.
At HowPetCare, we’re passionate about helping pet owners find the perfect match for their lifestyle.
Today, we’ll explore 20 dog breeds that are known for their lower exercise needs.
Remember, though, that all dogs need some level of physical activity to stay healthy and happy.
# Bulldog: The Mellow Couch Potato
Bulldog relaxing on a couch
Bulldogs are the quintessential low-energy breed.
These stocky, wrinkle-faced charmers are content with short walks and plenty of nap time. Key points:
- Moderate exercise needs
- Prone to overheating, so avoid strenuous activity in warm weather
- Perfect for apartment living
# French Bulldog: The Urban Dweller’s Dream
French Bulldog at a dog daycare
Frenchies are the darlings of city living.
Their compact size and low exercise requirements make them ideal for busy professionals. Exercise tips:
- Short daily walks are sufficient
- Indoor playtime can fulfill most of their exercise needs
- Be cautious in hot weather due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature
# Basset Hound: The Laid-Back Lounger
Two Basset Hounds lounging
With their droopy eyes and long ears, Basset Hounds are the epitome of relaxation. They’re content with moderate daily walks to keep them healthy. Important notes:
- Prone to obesity, so regular exercise is crucial
- Enjoy sniffing walks at a leisurely pace
- Great for families who prefer a slower lifestyle
# Dachshund: The Adaptable Adventurer
Dachshunds on a walk
Dachshunds may be small, but they’re full of personality.
While they don’t need intense exercise, they do enjoy moderate activity. Exercise considerations:
- Daily walks and playtime are beneficial
- Avoid high-impact activities to protect their long spine
- Mental stimulation through puzzle toys is excellent for this breed
# Pug: The Charming Companion
Pug looking at the camera
Pugs are known for their wrinkled faces and big personalities.
They’re happy with short bursts of activity followed by lots of cuddle time. Key points:
- Daily walks and play sessions help maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid exercising in hot weather due to their flat faces
- Perfect for seniors or those with limited mobility
# Shih Tzu: The Regal Lap Dog
Shih Tzu with a bow
Originally bred as companions, Shih Tzus are content with light exercise and lots of affection.
Exercise routine:
- Short daily walks or indoor playtime suffice
- Enjoy interactive toys and games with their owners
- Great for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space
# Pekingese: The Imperial Companion
Pekingese dog
These regal little dogs have a long history as lap dogs and require minimal exercise. Important considerations:
- Short walks or indoor play sessions are sufficient
- Avoid strenuous activity, especially in warm weather
- Perfect for those seeking a low-energy pet
# Pomeranian: The Fluffy Firecracker
Pomeranian dog
Don’t let their small size fool you; Pomeranians have big personalities.
However, their exercise needs are relatively low. Exercise tips:
- Short walks or indoor play sessions suffice
- Enjoy mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys
- Ideal for those who prefer indoor activities
# Bullmastiff: The Gentle Giant
Bullmastiff dog
Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs have surprisingly low exercise needs.
Key points:
- Daily walks and some outdoor playtime are sufficient
- Avoid overexertion, especially during growth phases
- Great for families who prefer a calm, large breed
# Chihuahua: The Tiny Dynamo
Chihuahua dog
Chihuahuas may be small, but they’re full of energy. Fortunately, they can get most of their exercise in a small space.
Exercise routine:
- Short walks and indoor play sessions are ideal
- Enjoy interactive toys and games
- Perfect for those with limited outdoor space
# Tibetan Mastiff: The Majestic Guardian
Tibetan Mastiff dog
These large, fluffy dogs have a calm demeanor and don’t require extensive exercise. Important notes:
- Prefer work-related tasks over structured play
- Daily walks and some outdoor time are beneficial
- Ideal for those with a large property who want a low-energy guard dog
# Spinone Italiano: The Versatile Companion
Spinone Italiano dog
Spinone Italianos have moderate energy levels and enjoy being part of family activities. Exercise considerations:
- Long walks or hikes are enjoyable for this breed
- Benefit from mental stimulation through training
- Great for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures
# Neapolitan Mastiff: The Gentle Behemoth
Neapolitan Mastiff dog
These massive dogs have low energy levels and prefer a calm lifestyle.
Key points:
- Moderate walks are best to protect their joints
- Avoid high-impact activities
- Ideal for those who want a large, low-energy companion
# Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Royal Lap Dog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs
Cavaliers are adaptable dogs that enjoy both cuddles and light activity. Exercise routine:
- Daily walks and some playtime are beneficial
- Enjoy participating in low-impact dog sports
- Perfect for families or seniors seeking a gentle companion
# Chinese Crested: The Unique Beauty
Chinese Crested dog
These unique-looking dogs have minimal exercise needs and are content with short bursts of activity. Important considerations:
- Short daily walks or backyard playtime suffice
- Can excel in canine sports if interested
- Ideal for those seeking a low-shedding, low-energy pet
# Dogue de Bordeaux: The Calm Powerhouse
Dogue de Bordeaux dog
Despite their muscular build, Dogues de Bordeaux have relatively low exercise requirements. Exercise tips:
- Low-impact exercise is best, especially for puppies
- Gradually increase activity as they mature
- Great for those who want a strong but calm companion
# Great Dane: The Gentle Giant
Great Dane dog
Great Danes may be enormous, but they’re often referred to as “apartment-sized” due to their calm nature. Key points:
- Daily walks and some playtime are sufficient
- Avoid overexertion, especially during growth phases
- Perfect for those who want a large, low-energy dog
# Scottish Deerhound: The Gentle Greyhound
Scottish Deerhound dog
Adult Scottish Deerhounds are often content to lounge around, despite their racing heritage. Exercise considerations:
- Short daily walks are important for their health
- Enjoy occasional sprints in a securely fenced area
- Ideal for those with space who want a large, low-energy dog
# Japanese Chin: The Feline-like Canine
Japanese Chin dog
Often described as cat-like, Japanese Chins are content with minimal exercise. Exercise routine:
- Short, leisurely walks are sufficient
- Enjoy indoor play sessions
- Perfect for apartment dwellers or those with limited mobility
# Coton De Tulear: The Fluffy Companion
Coton De Tulear dog
These cotton-like dogs have moderate exercise needs and adapt well to various lifestyles. Key points:
- Daily walks or backyard playtime are beneficial
- Enjoy interactive games and training sessions
- Great for families or individuals seeking a adaptable, low-shedding companion
Remember, while these breeds generally require less exercise, every dog is an individual.
It’s essential to observe your pet’s behavior and energy levels to ensure they’re getting the right amount of activity.
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help you maintain a healthy exercise routine for your furry friend.
Are you considering one of these low-exercise breeds? Or do you have experience with a dog that defies its breed’s typical energy levels?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
