20 Low-Energy Dog Breeds That Love Naps More Than Walks

 Meet the Couch Potatoes of the Dog World 🐶💤

Let’s be real—not every dog wants to hike mountains or chase balls for hours. Some just want to curl up on your couch, sigh deeply, and snooze like it’s their full-time job. Sound familiar? If your dream pup matches your Netflix-and-snack lifestyle, then you’re in the right place.

I’ve always had a soft spot for dogs with lazy charm. My bulldog, Tank, literally side-eyes me when I suggest a walk. And you know what? I respect it. He’s living his truth. 😂

So if you’re looking for a low-energy pup that prefers siestas over sprints, here are 20 chill dog breeds that just want love, snacks, and uninterrupted nap time.



1. Bulldog

Ah yes, the king of the nap gang.

  • Known for their smooshy faces and meh attitude toward exercise
  • Will walk... for five minutes... maybe
  • Heavy snoozer—like, chainsaw-snore level

Bonus: They’ll keep you company during those lazy Sundays (or Mondays, or any day ending in “-day”).


2. Basset Hound

You’d think those long ears would make them aerodynamic. Spoiler: they don’t.

  • Loves lounging and long, dramatic sighs
  • Has a “resting nap face” even when awake
  • Needs walks, but mostly as a way to sniff stuff and go back home

FYI: They’re stubborn, but in the “I’ll nap here, thanks” kind of way.


3. Chow Chow

This lion-lookin’ fluffball is not here for cardio.

  • Can be aloof and independent (like a cat in a dog’s body)
  • Not a fan of intense play—prefers to observe the chaos from the shade
  • Will nap just about anywhere, especially if it’s inconvenient for you

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Looks like royalty, naps like royalty.

  • Super affectionate, lap-loving little cuddlebugs
  • Small enough to carry when they give up halfway through a walk (trust me, it happens)
  • Playful for five minutes, then back to sleep

IMO: Best combo of beauty, brains, and serious napping skills.


5. Great Dane

Wait—giants can be lazy?

  • Oh yes. Despite their size, these dogs are low-energy giants
  • Will take up half your bed and still act like they’re being squished
  • One long walk? They’re good for the day. Maybe two.

Don’t let their size fool you—they’re just oversized teddy bears with a chill soul.


6. Shih Tzu

If your house were a spa, your Shih Tzu would own it.

  • Loves lounging around and being pampered
  • Not the athletic type (unless napping is a sport)
  • Will demand cuddles on their terms... and only their terms

Pro tip: Invest in a comfy dog bed. It’ll be their throne.


7. Pekingese

This dog is literally bred for lap life.

  • Used to be royalty in ancient China—they know their worth
  • Will give you a judge-y look if you interrupt their nap
  • Doesn’t mind short walks, but they’re mostly just for show

Honestly? Same energy as a moody old man with a favorite chair. 😆


8. French Bulldog

Aka “The Sleepy Clown.”

  • Bursts of energy... followed by hours of coma-like rest
  • Playful, funny, but absolutely loves lounging
  • Snorts, snores, and sounds like an old engine—but in an adorable way

FYI: These guys are great apartment dogs—small space, big dreams, zero energy.


9. Maltese

Fluffy, fabulous, and fabulous at doing nothing.

  • Low-exercise needs, but high cuddling requirements
  • Will follow you around the house, then fall asleep at your feet
  • Kind of like a mobile throw pillow 💤

10. Tibetan Spaniel

They’re called “little lions” for a reason.

  • Laid-back, alert, but not hyperactive
  • Loves high spots to watch you do... everything
  • Very content with light activity and lots of napping

Honestly, they just want peace, snacks, and soft surfaces.


11. Pug

Life motto: Nap hard, snore louder.

  • So goofy and lovable, it’s impossible not to smile
  • Prone to overheating, so they naturally avoid long exertion
  • Favorite activities: eating, sleeping, judging your food choices

12. Lhasa Apso

These fluff nuggets were bred to chill.

  • Bred as monastery watchdogs—meaning they lounged around all day
  • Independent and relaxed
  • Will sleep on your pillow if you let them (and even if you don’t)

13. Japanese Chin

Imagine a dog that thinks it’s a cat. You’ve got a Japanese Chin.

  • Loves lounging in high places and being carried
  • Moves with grace, naps with purpose
  • Doesn’t need much—just you, a quiet home, and a comfy perch

14. Boston Terrier

Small and chill, with a touch of sass.

  • Bursts of energy followed by deep recharge mode
  • Low-maintenance exercise needs
  • Will give you side-eye if your walk plans go beyond one block

15. Clumber Spaniel

Not very common, but definitely nap royalty.

  • Big, droopy, and practically allergic to jogging
  • Very mellow, even in chaos
  • Will literally trip over their own feet to get to the couch

16. Saint Bernard

You thought they were all action and rescue? Nah, they’re also major chillers.

  • Huge cuddle monsters
  • Calm, patient, and totally down for long naps
  • Needs exercise, sure, but isn’t gonna drag you on a marathon

17. Scottish Deerhound

Tall, elegant... and shockingly lazy.

  • Gentle and mellow indoors
  • Loves to sprint—but once. Then it’s nap o’clock
  • Acts like royalty who’s over the whole "active dog" thing

18. Old English Sheepdog

That shaggy coat hides a sleepy soul.

  • Known for mellow vibes and goofy charm
  • Doesn’t need intense exercise—just space to wander a little
  • Loves cuddles, hates heat, prefers fans and cool floors

19. Neapolitan Mastiff

All drool, no energy.

  • Big, lazy bodyguard who’ll barely move unless necessary
  • Will follow you from couch to kitchen, then plop back down
  • Looks intimidating, but really just wants a pillow for each paw

20. Havanese

Small, sweet, and super laid-back.

  • Can play if you want, but honestly prefers lap time
  • Great for apartments or chill homes
  • Adapts to your energy—if you're low-key, they are too

Final Thoughts: Are You the Right Human for a Lazy Pup?

Let’s be clear—low-energy doesn’t mean low-maintenance. These pups still need love, attention, regular vet visits, and some movement. But if you’re looking for a dog that values naps more than nature hikes, any of the breeds above will be your perfect fuzzy soulmate.

So, are you ready for a nap buddy instead of a jogging partner? If so, you’ve got plenty of options. Grab a blanket, clear some space on the couch, and welcome your future napping champion. 🐾💤

P.S.: Don’t forget to occasionally get them off the couch for a walk... even if they pretend their legs don’t work. 😉



About the author

Sidan Abdessamad
unofficial “Prime Minister” of Tuvalu 🏝️🇹🇻