What are the top 10 calmest dog breeds to have? The calmest dog breeds tend to be those that have a gentle demeanor, are less prone to excitement, and have a patient nature. These characteristics make them ideal companions for families, individuals seeking a laid-back pet, or those living in smaller spaces like apartments. It’s important to note that while breed tendencies exist, individual dog behavior can vary greatly and is influenced by training, socialization, and environment. Based on general breed characteristics and tendencies, here’s a list of the top 10 calmest dog breeds:
Basset Hound:
The Basset Hound, with its distinctive long ears, droopy eyes, and short legs, is not only one of the most recognizable dog breeds but also among the calmest. Originally bred in France for hunting small game, their keen sense of smell is second only to the Bloodhound. Despite their hunting background, Basset Hounds are remarkably laid-back and easygoing, making them excellent companions for various households.
Basset Hounds are known for their gentle and amiable nature. They are incredibly patient, which makes them fantastic pets for families with children. Their calm demeanor means they are usually friendly with strangers and other pets, including dogs and cats. However, they can be stubborn, which may pose challenges during training sessions. Positive reinforcement techniques work best as they respond well to treats and praises.
Bulldog:
The Bulldog, with its unmistakable wrinkled face, pushed-in nose, and muscular, stocky build, is a breed that exudes a dignified, calm demeanor. Originating from England, the breed was initially used for bull-baiting, a cruel sport that required the dogs to be aggressive and tenacious. However, after the sport was banned in the 19th century, breeders shifted their focus, breeding Bulldogs for their more amiable traits. Today, Bulldogs are known for their gentle disposition and are cherished as affectionate companions and family pets.
Bulldogs are renowned for their easygoing and friendly nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly patient and loving towards children, making them excellent family pets. Despite their somewhat gruff appearance, Bulldogs are quite sensitive and crave human attention and affection. They are also known for their courage and excellent guarding capabilities, not because of aggressiveness but due to their strong sense of loyalty to their families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. They are incredibly sociable, both with humans and other animals, making them excellent family pets. Their friendly nature extends to children, with whom they are patient and playful, and to other dogs and pets in the household. Cavaliers are eager to please, which, combined with their intelligence, makes them relatively easy to train.
Despite their status as lap dogs, Cavaliers possess a playful and curious nature. They enjoy moderate exercise and are always up for a game in the yard or a brisk walk. This breed’s adaptability to their owner’s lifestyle is one of their most cherished traits; they’re as content to snuggle on the couch as they are to embark on outdoor adventures, making them a perfect match for many different types of owners.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their calm and friendly demeanor. They exhibit a remarkable patience, making them excellent companions for children with whom they are gentle and protective. Despite their large size, they are often unaware of their bulk and may try to be lap dogs, seeking close physical affection with their family members. Berners are also known for being particularly attuned to the emotions of their owners, displaying a unique empathy that strengthens the bond they share with their human families.
While Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy lounging indoors with their family, they also have a well-developed need for regular exercise. They thrive on moderate activities like walks, hikes, and especially enjoy tasks that make them feel useful, such as pulling carts or carrying backpacks. Their working dog heritage means they are happiest when they have a job to do, even if that job is simply retrieving the newspaper or accompanying children to the bus stop.
Shih Tzu:
Shih Tzus require relatively low levels of physical activity, making them well-suited for apartment living or as companions for less active individuals. They enjoy short daily walks and play sessions, with a particular fondness for indoor games. However, their brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature means they can be prone to breathing difficulties, so care should be taken not to overexert them, especially in hot or humid weather.
Living with a Shih Tzu can bring a lot of joy and companionship. They are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various environments, from quiet households to bustling family homes. They are known for being particularly attached to their owners, often following them from room to room. Shih Tzus are also relatively quiet, making them excellent pets for those living in apartments or with close neighbors.
Great Dane:
The Great Dane’s size comes with certain health considerations. They are prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat, the latter of which can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. Their lifespan is typically 8 to 10 years, shorter than smaller breeds, making every moment with them precious. Responsible breeding, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary care can help mitigate some of these health risks.
Great Danes require regular exercise to maintain their health but do not need extensive space to be happy. They can adapt well to living in larger homes with yards as well as in smaller living spaces, provided they get daily walks. Their short coat is easy to care for, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. However, due to their size, training and socialization from an early age are crucial to ensure they are well-behaved and manageable.
Newfoundland:
The Newfoundland is celebrated for its calm and docile disposition. These dogs are notably gentle and kind, displaying an extraordinary affinity for children, which has earned them the moniker of “nanny dog.” They are known to be watchful and protective of their family members without showing aggression, making them excellent companions. Their demeanor is one of friendliness and approachability, not just with their own family but with strangers and other animals as well.
Living with a Newfoundland means accommodating a dog that, despite its size, may well think of itself as a lap dog. They thrive on being part of the family and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Their sheer size requires that they have enough space to move comfortably, both indoors and outdoors. Despite their size, they are remarkably gentle and careful in the home, often moving with a surprising gracefulness.
Greyhound:
Greyhounds are known for their quiet, friendly, and intelligent character. They are often described as “45-mph couch potatoes” because of their love for relaxation and comfort. Despite their athletic build, they are perfectly content to lounge for hours, making them excellent indoor pets. Greyhounds are typically gentle with people and get along well with children, offering a patient and affectionate presence. While they can be reserved with strangers, they warm up quickly, displaying a friendly and welcoming nature.
Contrary to what their racing background might suggest, Greyhounds do not require excessive exercise. They are satisfied with a couple of short walks daily and the occasional opportunity to run in a securely fenced area. Their bursts of speed are short-lived, and they prefer spending the bulk of their time resting. Their low endurance for extensive physical activity aligns well with a laid-back lifestyle, making them adaptable to various living situations, including apartment living.
Labrador Retriever:
The Labrador Retriever, affectionately known as the Lab, is one of the most beloved and popular dog breeds worldwide, consistently topping charts in the United States, United Kingdom, and many other countries. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, not Labrador as their name might suggest, these dogs were bred to help fishermen retrieve fishing nets from the cold Atlantic waters. Today, their versatility shines through their roles as family pets, service dogs, and in fields such as search-and-rescue and law enforcement. Labs are renowned for their friendly nature, intelligence, and boundless energy, making them ideal companions for active individuals and families alike.
Labrador Retrievers are celebrated for their gentle disposition, friendliness, and loyalty. They are exceptionally good-natured, making them excellent family pets that get along well with children and other animals. Labs are known for their eagerness to please, which, combined with their intelligence, makes them highly trainable. They possess a joyful spirit and a love for life, often displaying puppy-like behavior well into adulthood.
Irish Wolfhound:
The Irish Wolfhound, known for its imposing stature and gentle demeanor, stands as one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. This breed, which originated in Ireland, has a rich history that dates back to antiquity, where they were revered for their prowess in hunting wolves and their presence on the battlefield. Despite their formidable size, Irish Wolfhounds are known for their kindness, patience, and friendly nature, making them beloved companions in homes around the globe.
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants, characterized by their calm and dignified demeanor. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and the deep bonds they form with their families. Despite their size, they are typically gentle with children and get along well with other dogs and pets. They have a reserved nature, especially around strangers, but are not aggressive. Their patient and affectionate temperament makes them excellent companions, though their size and strength require responsible ownership and training.
While these breeds are generally known for their calm demeanor, individual temperament can vary. It’s crucial to meet a dog before adopting to ensure their personality and energy level are a good match for your lifestyle. Additionally, all dogs, regardless of breed, require proper training, socialization, and care to be well-adjusted and happy pets.
