20 Calmest Dog Breeds For Families That Prefer A Laid-Back Pup

When it comes to finding the perfect family dog, many people look for certain characteristics such as friendliness, intelligence, and trainability. However, some families may also want a more calm and laid-back canine companion that can handle the chaos of everyday life with ease.

If you are one of those families, then this list is for you! We have compiled a list of the 20 calmest dog breeds that are perfect for families who prefer a more relaxed and tranquil lifestyle. These dogs may not have as much energy or need as much exercise as other breeds, but they are still loving, and loyal, and make great additions to any family.

What Makes A Dog Calm?

Before we delve into the list of calm dog breeds, it's important to understand what makes a dog calm in the first place. While each dog may have its unique personality and traits, certain qualities make some breeds more laid-back than others.

One major factor is breed temperament. Some breeds are naturally calmer and more relaxed, while others are more high-strung and energetic. Another factor is the dog's environment and training. Proper socialization and positive reinforcement training can help a dog become calmer and more well-behaved.

Top 20 Calmest Dog Breeds

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its gentle and affectionate nature, making it a perfect choice for families looking for a calm and sweet-tempered dog. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both apartment living and larger homes.

They are also very trainable, eager to please, and get along well with children and other pets. Despite their small size, they have a moderate activity level and enjoy daily walks but are just as content to snuggle up on the couch with their owners.

Their long, silky coat may require regular grooming, but their loving and gentle nature makes it worth the extra effort. Overall, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a wonderful choice for families seeking a calm and loyal companion.

2. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and loving breed that makes for an excellent family pet. They are known for their happy-go-lucky attitude and love to please their owners, making them highly trainable and well-behaved dogs.

They have a moderate energy level, making them suitable for families who prefer a more laid-back dog. They also do well in smaller living spaces and are great with children and other pets.

Their hypoallergenic coat makes them a popular choice for families with allergies, but it does require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. With their affectionate nature and gentle demeanor, the Bichon Frise is a top pick for families seeking a calm and loving companion.

3. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a beloved breed known for its friendly, calm, and playful nature. They make great family dogs as they get along well with people of all ages and other pets.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are just as content to lounge around with their owners. Their long, luxurious coats may require regular grooming, but it also add to their charm and appeal.

Their small size makes them a great choice for families living in apartments or smaller homes. With their loving and easy-going personality, the Shih Tzu is a fantastic addition to any family looking for a calm and affectionate companion.

4. Bulldog

Despite their tough exterior, Bulldogs are quite calm and gentle dogs. They make great family pets as they are known for their loyalty, patience, and affectionate nature.

They have a low to moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are just as happy to snuggle up with their owners on the couch. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them an easy choice for busy families.

Bulldogs also do well with children and other pets, adding to their appeal as a family dog. While they may have a stubborn streak at times, their love and devotion to their owners make them one of the calmest breeds for families.

5. Pug

Pugs are well-known for their comical and affectionate personalities, making them a popular choice for families. They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but also love to laze around with their owners.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but they do shed quite a bit. Nevertheless, their loving nature and ability to get along with children and other pets make them a great addition to any family.

Pugs are also highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes. Their charming personalities and easy-going nature make them one of the calmest dog breeds for families.

6. Great Dane

Despite their large size, Great Danes are known for being gentle giants and make excellent family pets. They are calm, patient, and loving dogs that do well with children and other pets.

They have a moderate energy level but require daily walks to stay healthy and happy. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them an easy choice for busy families.

Great Danes may not be suitable for small living spaces but do well in larger homes with space to stretch their long legs. With their laid-back personalities and loving nature, Great Danes are a top pick for families seeking a calm and affectionate dog.

7. Greyhound

Known for being one of the fastest dog breeds, Greyhounds may seem like high-energy dogs, but they are quite calm and easy-going. They make great family pets as they get along well with people of all ages and other pets.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are also content to lounge around at home. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance choice for families.

Greyhounds are also highly adaptable and do well in both smaller living spaces and larger homes. With their gentle demeanor and affectionate nature, they make for wonderful companions for families looking for a calm and loving dog.

8. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is known for its sweet, patient, and calm nature, making it a great choice for families seeking a gentle giant. They are highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are also content to lounge around with their owners. Their long, thick coat requires regular grooming, but their loving temperament makes them worth the extra effort. 

Newfoundlands are also great with children and other pets, adding to their appeal as a family dog. Their loyalty and gentle nature make them one of the calmest breeds for families looking for a loving and devoted companion.

9. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its affectionate, calm, and patient nature, making it a top choice for families. They are highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are also content to relax at home with their owners. Their long, thick coat requires regular grooming, but their loving personality makes it worth the effort.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are also great with children and other pets, making them a fantastic addition to any family. With their loving and gentle demeanor, they make for a calm and devoted companion for those seeking a loyal family dog.

10. Basset Hound

With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds have a charming appearance that matches their affectionate and laid-back personality. They make great family pets as they get along well with people of all ages and other pets.

They have a low to moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are also content to lay around at home. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them an easy choice for busy families.

Basset Hounds are also highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes. Their loving nature and loyalty to their owners make them a top pick for families seeking a calm and devoted companion.

11. Mastiff 

Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are known for being gentle and calm dogs, making them a great choice for families. They have a loving and patient nature that makes them excellent with children and other pets.

They have a moderate energy level and require daily walks to stay healthy, but they are also content to lounge around at home. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them an easy choice for busy families.

Mastiffs do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough space to stretch their large bodies. With their loving personalities and calm demeanor, Mastiffs make for wonderful family pets that will always be by your side.

12. Chow Chow

Known for their fluffy appearance and lion-like mane, Chow Chows may seem intimidating, but they are calm and devoted companions. They do well with families as they are loyal and protective of their loved ones.

They have a moderate energy level and require daily walks to stay healthy, but they also enjoy lounging around at home with their owners. Their thick coat requires regular grooming, but their loving nature makes it worth the effort.

Chow Chows are also highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes. With their affectionate and calm personality, they make for a great addition to families looking for a devoted companion.

13. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a gentle and patient breed, making them an ideal family dog. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them great with children and other pets. While they have a moderate energy level, daily walks are still recommended to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, allowing for more time to be spent with their owners. Bullmastiffs do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough space to move around comfortably.

With their loving personality and calm demeanor, Bullmastiffs make for a great addition to families looking for a devoted and affectionate companion.  So, they are another preferred choice for families seeking a calm and loving dog.

14. English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a gentle and calm breed, known for their affectionate nature and loyalty to their family. They are highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes.

They have a moderate energy level and require daily walks to stay healthy, but they also enjoy relaxing at home with their owners. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making them a great choice for busy families.

English Mastiffs are also great with children and other pets, adding to their appeal as a family dog. Their gentle demeanor and loving personality make them one of the calmest breeds for families looking for a devoted companion.

15. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its affectionate, calm, and patient nature, making it a top choice for families. They are highly adaptable and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but are also content to relax at home with their owners. Their long, thick coat requires regular grooming, but their loving personality makes it worth the effort.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are also great with children and other pets, making them a fantastic addition to any family. With their loving and gentle demeanor, they make for a calm and devoted companion for those seeking a loyal family dog.

16. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a beloved breed known for their loving and friendly nature. They are great with families, including children and other pets, as they have a patient and gentle demeanor.

They have a high energy level and require daily exercise, making them the perfect companion for active families. Their medium-length coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beautiful golden color.

Golden Retrievers do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough space to move around and play. Their loyalty and affection towards their owners make them a top choice for families seeking a loving and devoted companion.

17. Basenji

The Basenji is a unique breed known for their independent and intelligent nature. They are loyal and affectionate with their owners, making them great family pets.

They have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks but can also entertain themselves at home. Their short, low-maintenance coat makes them an easy choice for busy families. 

Basenjis do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough mental stimulation and exercise. With their loving personalities and adaptability, Basenjis make for a great addition to any family looking for a unique and devoted companion.

18. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is a popular and well-loved breed known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They make excellent family pets as they are great with children and other pets, always ready to play and be by their owner's side.

They have a high energy level and require daily exercise, whether it be running or swimming. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for busy families.

Labrador Retrievers do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough space to move around and play. With their loyal and affectionate personality, they make for a fantastic companion for any family.

19. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a gentle and affectionate breed, making them a great family dog. While they have a calm nature, they are also highly adaptable to different living situations and do well in both small living spaces and larger homes.

They have a moderate energy level and require daily walks to stay healthy, but their calm demeanor makes them content to lounge at home with their owners. Their long, shaggy coat requires regular grooming, but their loving personality makes it worth the effort.

Irish Wolfhounds are also great with children and other pets, making them a fantastic addition to families in search of a devoted and gentle companion.

20. Border Collie

The Border Collie is a highly intelligent and active breed, making them great for families looking for a dog to keep up with their active lifestyle. They excel in activities such as agility training and hiking and require daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated.

Their medium-length coat is easy to maintain, allowing for more time to be spent on outdoor adventures with their owners. Border Collies do well in both small living spaces and larger homes, as long as they have enough space to run and play.

Their loyalty and eagerness to please make them a devoted companion for families, although their high energy level may require training to prevent destructive behavior.

So these are the top 20 dog breeds that make great family pets. Each breed has its unique characteristics and needs, but all have one thing in common – their love and loyalty towards their owners. No matter which breed you choose, having a furry companion by your side can bring immense joy and happiness to your family.

How To Choose The Right Dog Breed For Your Family

Choosing the right dog breed for your family can be a tough decision. After all, you want to find a furry companion that fits in well with your lifestyle and personality. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect dog breed for your family:

1. Size: Think about how much space you have in your home and yard. Larger breeds may need more room to run and play, while smaller breeds can do well in smaller living spaces.
2. Energy level: Consider your family's activity level. If you're an active family that loves the outdoors, a high-energy breed like a Labrador Retriever or Border Collie would be a good fit. For families who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, a calmer breed like an Irish Wolfhound or Golden Retriever may be a better choice.
3. Grooming: Some breeds have long and thick coats that require regular grooming, while others have shorter coats that are low maintenance. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to put into grooming your dog.
4. Temperament: It's essential to choose a breed with a temperament that matches your family's lifestyle. Some breeds are great with children and other pets, while others may be more reserved or need extra socialization.
5. Training: Certain breeds may require more training and mental stimulation than others. If you're new to dog ownership or have limited time for training, consider choosing a breed known for their trainability.
6. Health concerns: Different breeds have a higher risk of certain health issues, so it's essential to research potential health concerns and be prepared for any extra care or expenses that may arise.
7. Breed-specific laws: Some cities and neighborhoods have breed-specific legislation, so it's crucial to check if there are any restrictions on the breed you're considering.

By carefully considering these factors and doing research on different breeds, you can find the perfect dog for your family. Remember that every dog is an individual and may not fit perfectly into their breed stereotypes, so it's essential to also meet and interact with the dog before making a decision.

Should You Adopt Or Buy A Dog For Your Family?

Once you have decided on the right breed for your family, the next question is whether to adopt or buy a dog. Adoption gives a loving home to a dog in need and can be more affordable than buying from a breeder. However, adopting a dog may also come with unknown behavioral and health issues that require extra care and attention.

On the other hand, buying a dog from a reputable breeder can ensure that you know the breed's background and potential health concerns. However, it can be more expensive, and there are also ethical considerations when it comes to breeding practices.

Ultimately, the decision between adoption or purchase is a personal one. As long as you choose a responsible source and provide a loving and caring home for your new furry family member, both options can lead to a happy and fulfilling relationship. 

So whether you decide to adopt or buy, always make sure to give your dog the love and care they deserve. Remember, adding a dog to your family is a lifelong commitment that requires patience, responsibility, and lots of love.

Can Any Dog Be A Family Pet?

While all dogs can bring love and joy to a family, not all breeds are suitable for every household. It's essential to consider factors such as the breed's energy level, size, and temperament when choosing a dog for your family. Some breeds have specific needs that may not fit in well with your lifestyle or living situation.

Additionally, it's crucial to remember that every dog has its unique personality, regardless of their breed. A well-trained and socialized individual can make a great family pet, even if they are not typically considered a "family dog" breed.

It's also essential to consider the age of the dog when adding them to your family. Puppies may require more time and effort for training, while older dogs may have established behaviors that may not be suitable for a family.

And finally, it's important to provide proper socialization and training for any dog being brought into a family. This will ensure that they are well-behaved and happy members of the household.

FAQs

Does Having A Dog Benefit A Family?

Yes, owning a dog can bring many benefits to a family. They provide companionship, and love and can even help reduce stress and increase physical activity.

How Do I Know If My Family Is Ready For A Dog?

Adding any pet to your family is a big decision that requires careful consideration. You should make sure that everyone in the household is on board with the idea and can commit to caring for a dog. It's also important to consider factors such as time, finances, and living situation before making the decision.

Are There Any Dog Breeds That Are Better For Families With Children?

Yes, some breeds are known for their gentle demeanor and ability to get along well with children. These include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Collies. However, it's important to remember that every dog is an individual and may not fit perfectly into breed stereotypes.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect dog for your family requires careful consideration and research. Factors such as size, energy level, grooming needs, temperament, and health concerns should all be taken into account when selecting a breed. Additionally, considering whether to adopt or buy and providing proper socialization and training are crucial in ensuring a happy and harmonious relationship with your new furry family member.

With love, patience, and dedication, any dog can make a great addition to a loving family. So whether you're looking for a small lap dog or an active companion, there's a perfect match out there waiting for you.  So take your time, do your research, and make the best choice for both you and your new furry friend.