Top 10 Calmest Dog Breeds in the World in 2025

Top 10 Calmest Dog Breeds in the World

Many dog owners prefer a calm companion that can adapt to a relaxed lifestyle, whether it's lounging around at home or enjoying peaceful walks.

Some dog breeds are naturally more serene, making them ideal for families, apartment living, or those who prefer a less energetic pet. In this list, we’ve rounded up the top 10 calmest dog breeds in the world, known for their gentle and easygoing natures.

10. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are gentle giants, known for their calm and patient nature.

These dogs are incredibly friendly and protective, especially around children, making them excellent family pets.

Their thick, water-resistant coats and webbed feet make them great swimmers, and they’ve historically been used as working dogs in water rescue.

They require regular grooming due to their dense coats but are otherwise low-maintenance.

Care Considerations:

These gentle giants require significant grooming due to their thick, water-resistant coats. They also need access to swimming opportunities when possible and don't handle extreme heat well.

9. English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a lovable and easygoing dog breed. With their muscular build and distinctive wrinkled faces, Bulldogs may look tough, but they are known for being incredibly calm and good-natured.

Bulldogs are also quite low-energy, making them excellent companions for people who prefer a dog that enjoys lounging around.

They are very affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time with people, although they can be a bit independent at times.

Care Considerations:

Bulldogs are heat-sensitive and require climate-controlled environments. Their facial wrinkles need daily cleaning, and they may have breathing considerations due to their flat faces.

8. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their striking appearance and even temperament. With their large, robust build and thick, tri-colored coat, they exude an aura of calmness and gentleness.

They are very affectionate and enjoy being close to their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their loyalty and will often follow their owners around, wanting to be involved in everything.

Care Considerations:

Their beautiful coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons. They're also heat-sensitive and prefer cooler climates.

7. Great Dane

Great Danes are often referred to as "gentle giants" due to their towering size and sweet disposition.

These dogs are known for their calm and patient nature, which makes them excellent family pets.

While they can be a little clumsy due to their size, they are incredibly affectionate and friendly, often forming strong bonds with their families.

Great Danes are surprisingly calm indoors and enjoy lounging around, making them well-suited for relaxed living environments. They are typically very good with children and other pets.

Care Considerations:

Early training is essential due to their size, and they require quality nutrition to support proper growth. They also have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds, typically 8-10 years.

6. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small yet mighty companion known for its affectionate and calm temperament.

These dogs were bred to be lap dogs and are content to spend time snuggling with their owners.

They are generally easy to train due to their desire to please, though they do have an independent streak.

Shih Tzus are perfect for apartment living because of their small size and calm nature.

Care Considerations:

Their beautiful flowing coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming. Many owners opt for "puppy cuts" to reduce maintenance while preserving their adorable appearance.

5. Greyhound

Greyhounds are often associated with speed, but once they’ve finished running, they are among the calmest dog breeds.

These dogs are known for being affectionate, gentle, and relaxed companions.

Although they have bursts of energy due to their athletic nature, they are surprisingly mellow indoors and enjoy lounging around the house.

Greyhounds are typically very quiet and non-aggressive, making them great pets for families and those with other pets.

Care Considerations:

Greyhounds have thin skin and minimal body fat, so they need warm bedding and may require coats in cold weather. They also benefit from soft surfaces to protect their joints.

4. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds due to their friendly and calm nature.

They are known for being extremely affectionate and loyal, making them excellent family companions.

Golden Retrievers are gentle with children, and their patient, tolerant demeanor makes them great pets for homes with other animals.

They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, often excelling in obedience and various dog sports.

While they enjoy outdoor activities and exercise, they are just as content to relax indoors with their families.

Care Considerations:

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining their calm demeanor, and their beautiful coat requires consistent grooming to prevent matting.

3. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are massive dogs with an equally massive heart. These gentle giants are calm, patient, and incredibly affectionate, making them perfect companions for families, especially those with children.

They were originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, which speaks to their hardworking and loyal nature.

Saint Bernards are relatively low-energy, preferring to lounge around the house and enjoy quiet time with their families.

Care Considerations:

These gentle giants need plenty of space and don't handle heat well. They also require early socialization to ensure their natural calmness develops properly.

2. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are well-known for their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and incredibly calm demeanor.

These dogs have a laid-back personality and are known to be great for families or individuals seeking a low-energy pet.

While they enjoy their walks, Basset Hounds are more than happy to lounge around the house for the majority of the day.

Their quiet nature and independent spirit make them excellent companions for those who prefer a relaxed dog.

Basset Hounds are very affectionate with their owners and are generally good with children and other pets.

Care Considerations:

Those adorable droopy ears need regular cleaning to prevent infections, and their love of food requires portion control to maintain healthy weight.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the epitome of a calm and affectionate dog. These small, regal dogs are known for their sweet, gentle nature, and they thrive on companionship.

They are incredibly affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their owners and following them around the house.

They are highly adaptable and do well in a variety of living environments, including apartments.

Cavaliers are also easy to train and very eager to please, making them perfect for first-time dog owners.

Care Considerations:

Regular grooming keeps their beautiful coat healthy, and they thrive on routine veterinary care. They're adaptable to various living situations but prefer to be indoor dogs close to their families.

Disclaimer:

The temperament of a dog can vary based on various factors including genetics, environment, training, and socialization. While certain dog breeds are generally known for their calm nature, individual dogs may exhibit different personalities.

It is essential to understand that even within these breeds, each dog is unique, and their temperament can be influenced by factors such as upbringing and life experiences. Before adopting any dog, it is important to research the breed thoroughly, assess your living situation, and consider the dog's specific needs and temperament.