Having a dog whose temperament matches your personality and lifestyle is a win-win combination.
If you are busy during the day and you don’t have a lot of energy once you are home from work, you need a dog with energy that matches yours.
You know that a calm dog breed is for you, but you are not sure what breed is calm?
Check these top 25 calmest dog breeds and choose the perfect one.
1. Shih Tzu
This small breed is known for being extremely adaptable to different lifestyles, including city living.
The name means ‘lion dog’ so don’t let the size fool you, as this dog won’t be easily scared.
Originally, Shih Tzu is from Tibet.
This breed is known for being loving and loyal, and kind of needy – they prefer the company of their pet parents, and that’s the main reason why people call them ‘clingy’.
What can you expect from this breed? Some serious cuddling time.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever is the number one family dog and with a good reason.
This breed is globally known for its gentle nature, so no wonder that they are one of the most common therapy and service dogs.
Labrador Retrievers are gentle, affectionate, comfortable with children and the elderly, great with other dogs, and easy to train.
Although they are calm, it doesn’t mean that they won’t enjoy spending time outside.
Labrador Retrievers will require a significant amount of exercise (for them walking is fine), and you should make sure that they get the required exercise, or they will become lazy to match their gentle character.
Be careful with this one as obesity in dogs is something that may lead to severe health issues.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog is known for being a great addition to any family.
They have strong confidence next to their calm demeanor, so no wonder that they are so great with children and family members in general.
Bernese was bred to help farmers with various tasks many years ago.
They are extremely loyal and their need for companionship makes them perfect for families.
Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred as working dogs their energy level is slightly decreased nowadays and they are perfectly calm dogs.
Sadly, they don’t live long. On average, their life span is six to eight years.
4. English Bulldog
English Bulldog is a low-endurance breed, that may be too big to sit in your lap, but they will still try it.
Bulldogs are perfect for a fun, sweet, and loving home. They are also great companions for regular and frequent walks, with adult owners and younger children.
English Bulldog is a great guard dog, always on alert, although he has a rather calm nature and peaceful mind.
Bulldogs are extremely fond of children, they just love to spend time with them, play with them, and protect them if needed.
Under their grumpy face, Bulldogs are happy dogs.
You need to be careful with them during strong summer heat waves, as their face is prone to breathing problems, and often overheating.
Due to their tendency to spend time with their family members and especially children, Bulldogs are lovable and great family pets.
5. Great Dane
Great Dane is known for being impressively large with the most gentle nature. Therefore, this breed is a favorite to many.
Children adore them, so it’s important to introduce your toddler to Dane strategically so he or she doesn’t get scared by the sight of them.
People often think that this breed is a great guard dog. Truth is that Great Dane is a quiet pooch who is a calm and peaceful dog breed.
They are so calm that nowadays they are used as therapy dogs. This is a strong dog and you will have to be careful during the walks.
He needs to have regular runs or long walks, or otherwise, he may develop bloat, heart problems, or even bone cancer.
Regardless of his size, the Great Dane will try to climb into your lap.
6. Golden Retriever
Just like Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever is a loving breed and popular dog breed.
They are probably one of the world’s most popular dog breeds, great with adults and even better with children. Therefore, Golden Retrievers will equally appreciate playtime with their owner as well as TV time with the youngest family members.
There is a good reason why Golden Retriever is constantly among the five most popular dog breeds – he is a loving, gentle, and outgoing companion.
Make sure that if you get the Goldie you take proper care of his coat, nutrition, and make sure to have regular walking sessions.
Last, but not least, be ready for additional grooming during the shedding season.
7. Shar-Pei
Originally, Shar-Pei was bred to guard the royal palace and protect the royal family. They are known for having loose skin.
People usually don’t know the truth about their skin, but it served them like armor against other and more vicious dogs in dog fights.
If another dog grabbed onto the Shar-Pei’s skin, he could still get away, with his internal organs untouched.
Shar-Pei is a loyal and protective dog with calm nature when well trained.
They are perfect for inner-city and suburban living, while they won’t be unhappy in the countryside.
8. Saint Bernard
If you know about this breed the chances are that you watched the ‘Beethoven’ movies.
In fact, due to the movie’s popularity, this breed is often named the Beethoven dog breed.
If had an opportunity to watch the famous Beethoven franchise oper to meet this breed in person, you are probably well aware of how great and intelligent this breed is.
St. Bernard was bred to be a hard-working mountain dog and to be a part of a search-and-find rescue force, especially in terrain covered with snow.
St. Bernards are gentle giants, who are extremely fond of humans.
They are a great addition to any family, but they will need their own space when they are not trying to roll in your lap.
Make sure to provide adequate space for them to stretch their legs, preferably in a climate that isn’t too hot.
Stay on top of veterinarian check-ups and vaccination schedule.
9. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise is one of the world’s most famous ‘personality dogs’.
Moreover, this breed is an extremely calm and happy cotton ball of a dog. They love to be active, to spend time both with other canines and humans, and to play in general.
Overall, they are not aggressive at all. But it doesn’t mean that they don’t have a secret weapon of their own.
They are small, but they are sturdy and resilient. Some of their superpowers are calmness, charm, and intelligence. They will, however, demand a nice amount of your time when it comes to grooming and training.
Small doesn’t mean easy to handle, so make sure to stay informed on the breed and to reach out to a professional trainer if needed.
Otherwise, you will just enjoy this dog’s personality.
10. Newfoundland
Newfoundland looks like a giant teddy bear and acts like one as well.
This dog is calm, gentle, and smart. Also, he will equally adore both small and large family members. Make sure to have your budget all set to feed him well, as he eats a lot.
They love spending their time with children playing or just watching TV.
Thanks to their sociable character, they can adapt fast to any changes, to other pets or additional family members, like babies.
These real-life teddy bears are amazing swimmers and are commonly used in search and rescue missions.
11. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound was originally bred to hunt elk and wolves, but today they are so far from their initial purpose.
Nowadays, you can find them around the house laying on a rug and napping all day.
When they are not being lazy, you can find them around family members, especially children, being alert just in case.
They are not heavy, although they are 3-foot-tall, so make sure to make them enough space to stretch their legs.
This calm breed won’t need any additional exercises, except those on a daily level. But, make sure not to let him go off-leash, as you won’t be able to catch him.
They are really good runners, and he will run off chasing a squirrel or other small animal.
Overall, Irish Wolfhound is a calm alert dog, when he is not napping all day long.
Irish Wolfhound is a calm breed, but keeping them active remains imperative if you want a keep this tall breed happy and healthy.
12. Pug
Pug went a long way from royal chambers to everyday houses.
As a breed, they have a strong and known reputation for being sociable, They are extremely lively and extremely attached to their owners.
Pugs are great companions, for first-time dog owners, elderly owners, and bigger families, as they are one of the calmest dog breeds around.
Just make sure that, if you have children, to educate them how to behave toward dogs and especially smaller breeds like Pug.
Although Pug is known for being calm, they get calmer as they get older.
However, their nature won’t change too much as they grow older – they will always be ready for good play and great companionship.
Simply said, they love to love and to be loved.
13. Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniel is a great breed to have around.
They are great with other dogs, both larger and smaller breeds, and amazing with children.
Originally, they were bred to be working dogs, while today they are mostly active in dog shows.
Clumber Spaniels are docile, calm, gentle, and friendly with strangers and other animals (pets and wilder ones), and they enjoy long sessions of fetch in the park or the backyard.
Luckily, they don’t need much grooming, while their ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent yeast infections.
They are real foodies, so make sure to keep their weight under the regular scale and avoid obesity.
14. Basset Hound
Basset Hound is one of the calmest dogs breed nowadays. Their laid back appearance shows their true nature.
So, when they are not on the trail following a unique scent, they are easily found lounging on the sofa waiting for their next snack.
Basset Hounds are known for being gentle and calm inside the home and out on a walk. Yes, they love being outdoors and sniffing out!
With their sad eyes and sweet look, it’s impossible to miss them, especially during the long walks that they need to be healthy, active, and happy dogs.
Bassets’ are prone to obesity, so make sure that you don’t feed them more than it’s advised to. This is a hunting breed so they just might be difficult to train – you will need additional patience and proper training sessions.
Last, but not least – when outside, always keep a leash on. Otherwise, you can expect your Basset Hound to be the calmest dog ever, especially when there is food around.
15. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you prefer a smaller dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel just might be the right breed for you. They are affectionate, sweet, and gentle.
Cavalier’s pups are easy to train and they will easily fit into any household, with children and other pets as well.
They’re so adaptable that they will endure easily long walks or hours in front of the TV.
If you know that your Cavalier may spend the majority of time alone, maybe this is not the dog for you, and you should think about getting a more independent dog.
They are prone to experiencing anxiety and being sad if not loved enough.
After all, this breed gained it’s popularity thanks to their indisputable kindness and affection toward humans, especially children.
16. Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhound is a hunting dog and it may present some challenges, especially if your dog is not adequately trained or this is your first dog.
Overall, Scottish Deerhound will be a piece of heaven inside the house – gentle and quiet. But, once he is outside you can expect some challenges.
Scottish Deerhound is a calm dog breed and cuddly dog, although he may seem kind of scary due to its size.
As the name suggests, he was used to hunting deer, so his legs are long and useful.
Make sure that he has enough space inside the house to stretch and rest his running paws.
Nowadays, Scottish Deerhounds won’t hunt, but they will enjoy a nice long run or cuddling in your bed with you.
17. Russian Borzoi
Russian Borzoi is considered to be royalty in the canine world – they have the appearance.
This breed comes with a silky and soft coat, in addition to long hair.
Their appearance is rather unique as well, as they look kind of serious. Their look goes with their need as they love to spend time in a quiet and undisturbed home environment.
The fact that they love silence doesn’t mean that they won’t love spending time outside running.
You will have to keep them in an enclosed area when they’re outside or always on a leash, or their prey drive may kick in at the first sight of a rabbit or a squirrel.
Like other large breeds, they are primarily affected by heart problems and joint issues.
18. Pekingese
Did you know that Pekingese is an ancient Chinese breed? As such, they are one of the oldest dog breeds alive.
Today, these famous companion dogs are busy doing what they do best – being superb companions.
With 6 to 9 inches and between 7 to 14 pounds, they are great apartment dogs.
As compact dogs who love being around people, which is why they are often seen strolling down the busiest city streets.
Pekingese is an outgoing and friendly breed who tends to make a strong bond with their humans.
They may have a distance from children as toddlers tend to see them as moving toys, which is why you should always educate your children on how to behave around dogs.
Overall, Pekingese are often described as one of the calmest dog breeds, who won’t tolerate being left alone for long hours. They thrive when they are surrounded by people.
19. Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels, also known as Tibbies, are very appreciated dogs among Buddhist monks. They may be small in size, but they are great watchdogs.
Thanks to their size, Tibetan Spaniels are often seen in the city, due to their compact size. However, do not let their size fool you, because they will roar like lions if needed to inform you about possible danger.
From day one, they were bred to be watchdogs and to be around people, hence their love and tolerance for people.
Through the centuries their role evolved, and their traits evolved, but some of the major personality traits remained the same.
Today they are highly intelligent dogs, who are eager to please, and highly independent.
This is a great city dog who will enjoy participating in dog sports such as agility, rally, and obedience.
20. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are a famous Italian breed, best known for their unusual dreadlock-like hair.
This breed is not for those who are not into regular grooming, no matter how calm this breed might be.
Originally from Bergamo, near Milan, this breed was used to help people cross rocky terrain in the Italian Alps.
From day one this breed was described as alert, loyal, and protective. Even back then they were described as calm dogs, which they are even today.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are highly intelligent dogs who love it when there is a job to be done. This may come as a surprise, but this flocked coat isn’t that hard to maintain.
It requires surprisingly little grooming, which makes Bergamasco Sheepdogs a great low-maintenance breed.
Still, there will have to be extra drying sessions after a rainy day.
21. Boerboel
Boerboel is a breed of settlers of South Africa during the mid-1600s. Also known as Boer, this breed was bred from day one to protect the homestead.
When settlers came to South Africa they usually had with them bull and mastiff dog types by their side.
Interbreeding of the two larger groups resulted in a famous farmer’s dog who was named Boerboel.
From day one these dogs were known for their calm nature and traits that worked perfectly with children.
This is a loyal and intelligent breed, that is recommended only for experienced dog owners. Boerboels are never recommended for first time dog owners.
22. Whippet
Whippet is a great family dog that people adore due to its calm nature and sweet personality.
These are sensitive dogs, who need extra care on cold days and are loved when surrounded by people.
They are members of the hound family, which means that being active is something that they love, next to being surrounded by people.
Commonly between 18 to 22 inches and 18 to 48 pounds, these dogs tend to live between 12 to 15 years.
Before you get any dog make sure that that breed is for you, as owning a dog is a years-long commitment.
Whippets are often the first choice as apartment dogs are recommended for first-time dog owners.
They are not only affectionate with family members, but they are extra sweet with children of all ages.
Friendly toward other dogs and even strangers they are not the best fit for guard dogs.
Although Whippets are extremely good runners, they love being indoors chilling on their favorite beds.
23. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are giant dog breeds that are only recommended to experienced dog owners.
These dogs may be very large, but when it comes to their heart they are truly gentle giants. These dogs are extremely loyal, and generally trustworthy, making them great sitters of children.
Like with any other dog breed make sure that you always supervise how dogs and children interact.
They will always be kind, sweet, and calm, but if necessary they will not think twice if the family should be protected or not.
That being said, make sure that before you get this breed, you have enough experience with dogs and extra experience training giant breeds.
Pyrs are big dogs who need a confident and experienced owner.
24. Biewer Terrier
Terrier lovers love seeing Biewer Terrier, as it is one of the rarest terrier types alive. This member of the terrier group is an ultra-compact dog who is rarely seen in rural areas, as they are more of city dogs.
This tri-colored breed comes with a cheerful and calm attitude and special love toward people.
Biewer Terriers may be small in size, usually between 4-8 pounds and 7-11 inches, but they will sound like lions if needed. Their size has nothing to do with their massive spirit.
Thanks to their calm nature Biewer Terriers are great family dogs, although children should be educated on how to behave around dogs, and to try to grab them.
Otherwise, make sure that you provide them with enough exercise, as they enjoy long walks and shorter hikes. They are always top competitors when it comes to the agility ring.
25. Corgi
Did you know that Corgi comes in two varieties: Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi?
Both types have similar personalities and amazing traits that make them highly appreciated among dog lovers.
They love people, and nothing excites them more but when there is an activity to experience with their favorite people.
Corgi is a breed that is best known for their unusual appearance, as they have a longish body, high-set ears, and short legs.
Their appearance isn’t the appearance of a dog who is built for hard exercise, but don’t let that fool you.
They were bred to herd and helping them burn that energy is a must.
Corgis are not only calm, sweet, and great with children, but they also have a great sense of humor. They love entertaining everyone.
Now, that you know the top calmest dog breeds, let’s see why they are calmer than other dog breeds.
Why Are Some Dogs Calmer Than Others?
You know that some dog breeds are calmer than others. Some dogs are highly social, while others are more cat-like and prefer solitude.
For example, everyone knows that Goldens and Labs are cheerful dogs who love being around people, hence their popularity as superb family dogs.
Two significant factors will determine how friendly or how calm a dog breed will be:
- What was the initial purpose of the breed?
- Individual personality
Just like humans, dogs are individual beings and they will have their own personality traits.
Now you may ask – what a breed’s purpose might have with calmness? Well, if a breed, such as Border Collie, was raised from day one to be a herding dog, you can expect the following traits:
- A constant need to be active
- Long exercise hours
- Need to be independent
- Constant urge to learn
- Readiness for any sort of activity
- Long and regular training sessions
- Boredom if left alone for long hours
- Destructive behavior when exercise needs aren’t met
This is why you should always think about your lifestyle before you get a dog.
Always do your research first, and use tools such as compare dog breeds tool, to get the breed that fits your lifestyle the best.
Also, your pooch may be a Rottweiler who just has some poor guarding skills and prefers to be a companion dog, due to its personal preferences. How calm a dog will be, will usually be a result of different factors.
Now, let’s see what the most common questions related to the calmest dog breeds alive are, and what breed is best suited for airplane travel.
Frequently Asked Questions On Calmest Dog Breeds
1. What Is The Calmest Dog Breed?
When it comes to having the calmest dog breed, you can again run through the breeds listed above.
Otherwise, depending on your living space, experience with dog ownership, and dog training you cannot go wrong if you choose a Golden Retriever.
2. Calm Dog For Airplane – What Is The Calmest Dog Breed For Airplane Travelling?
When it comes to airplane travel, make sure that you first do proper research.
Always double-check the company’s regulations when it comes to having pets on planes.
Also, search online for experiences that dog owners had with airplane companies. That can be helpful when it comes to preparing your dog properly.
Smaller the dog easier travel. If your dog is of a small size breed, such as a Toy poodle, Maltese, or Pomeranian you can probably expect to have your dog with you sharing the seat.
All in all, small-size dogs were usually bred to lap dogs, which makes them calm dog breeds for airplanes.
For larger dogs, logistics are different and will always vary from company to company.
3. Calm Dog Breeds For Apartment
Owning a dog and living in an apartment comes with a number of obstacles.
If your dog is giant and the apartment is not huge, you may have more hair around than with a smaller breed, or your dog might be of a loud breed, especially at night if your building is continually busy.
This is why apartment owners and renters go for both calm dog breeds and quiet dog breeds which include the Borzoi, Bernese Mountain Dog, French Bulldog, Basenji, Maltese Shiz Tzu, etc.
As general tips, for apartment living aim to get a breed that is not only calm but also is highly trainable.
4. Calmest Dog Breeds That Don’t Bark
If you want a calm dog who doesn’t bark a lot, or at all you will have to extend your research.
Getting the right breed isn’t easy, and you should invest a fair amount of time to find the breed that fits your lifestyle and comes with certain traits.
If you want a calm dog that doesn’t bark, at least not a lot, you should go for a French Bulldog, Basenji, Great Dabe, Shar Pei or Borzoi.
5. Calm Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone
Certain dog breeds are more prone to separation anxiety than others.
Dogs in general do not like being left alone, but some breeds can tolerate it for some period.
If you get a Borzoi know that this is a sensitive breed that will suffer a lot if left alone for too long, or too frequently.
On the other hand, if you leave Border Collie alone you can experience him displaying boredom and even destructive behavior if their exercise needs aren’t met.
If you want a calm dog who will tolerate being left alone from time to time then think about getting a Labrador and Golden Retriever, or a Beagle.
The Bottom Line
If you are apartment-based, or you just want a dog who is more of a cat when it comes to vocalization, you should think about getting a calm breed.
When choosing the calmest dog breed focus on the breed’s purpose and, if possible, spend some time with a dog first.
Responsible dog breeders will always do their best to make sure that you choose the breed, and the dog, that is best fitted for your lifestyle.
If you are thinking about adopting a dog, animal shelters will usually allow you to spend some time with a dog for a period of a couple of days.
If you are serious about getting a calm dog breed, know that no matter how calm and outgoing your dog might be, you should do your best to provide the right care, safe living surrounding, proper exercise regime, vaccination, and regular veterinarian check-ups.