World’s Most Low Energy Dogs (And High Energy Dogs Too)

Ever wondered why some dogs act like couch potatoes while others are natural Olympians? Breed type is often to thank (or blame) for Fido’s feisty (or lazy) behavior. While good looks and personality are important, you should also take into consideration each breed’s energy level so you can make sure his or her exercise levels are adequately met given your lifestyle and location. We’ll discuss the various low energy dog breeds as well as the high energy dogs too so you can learn which breed is a good fit for you.

Dog Energy Level And How It Affects You

First off, why should a dog’s energy level matter to you anyways? Because you’ll be the one taking care of it and if you’re a good dog owner you’ll also be the one getting off your tail to play with it. So, the calmest dog breeds make great pets for people who only have time for an occasional walk, and low energy small dogs are perfect for those with smaller sized apartments. On the other hand, high energy dog breeds would be ideal for large families or people who like to go on runs and wish to take a companion with them.

Small Size Doesn’t Mean Low Energy

You might be surprised to find that low energy dog breeds aren’t necessarily all small dogs. For instance, despite their large size and being known for their racing skills, Greyhounds are among the world’s most lazy dog breeds. Low energy small dogs exist too but don’t fall prey to the assumption that all small dogs are lazy or calm dogs.

Not sure what breed your dog is? Order a DNA test kit to find out

Most Low Energy Dogs

Now that we’ve explained the reasons you may want to know a dog’s energy levels and set some expectations, you’re probably wondering which breeds fall into which categories. Well, want no longer because we’ve got a list of the calmest dog breeds for you.

• Basset Hound
• Bulldog
• Bull Mastiff
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chow Chow
• French Bulldog
• Great Dane
• Greyhound
• Irish Wolfhound
• Pekingese
• Pharaoh Hound
• Pug
• Shih Tzu
• Sussex Spaniel

Best Dogs For Apartments

This two-and-a-half-minute video from the American Kennel Club shows some of the best dogs for apartments in action (many of which happen to be low energy dogs too).

Most High Energy Dog Breeds

On the other end of the spectrum are the highest energy dog breeds. As you might suspect, most of the higher energy dog breeds are traditionally working dogs and have roots that tie back to an energetic activity or sport. Just because they’re not working for you doesn’t mean they don’t still need plenty of exercise, though. If you have a dog with lots of energy, you’ll need to give them lots of room to play and keep them entertained with toys (luckily we’ve reviewed the best dog toys for you).

• Airedale Terrier
• Australian Shepherd
• Border Collie
• Dalmatian
• English Springer Spaniel
• Miniature Pinscher
• Parson Russell Terrier
• Pointer
• Siberian Husky
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Vizsla
• Weimaraner

Is Your Favorite Breed Listed?

If we didn’t list them in either the high or low energy dogs lists above, then it’s probably safe to say they fall into the medium energy dogs category. Learn more about picking the right dog breed.