Millions of Americans are dog owners and receive a vast number of benefits from their companionship. There’s a long list of real health benefits that have been studied, and we’re under the firm belief that everyone should own a dog!
However, many people may have doubts over getting a dog because they don’t have the time or energy that dogs require. There are plenty of legitimate concerns, including –
- Limited time to exercise a dog.
- Inability to exercise a dog due to physical disabilities or age.
- Limited space in the house and yard to exercise a dog.
If you fall under these categories, there’s still hope! Plenty of dog breeds don’t require a ton of exercise and make great pets for sitting around at home with their owners.
What’s more, is that you can also automate some of your play time with a great dog ball thrower, which can do the throwing for you. Another way to keep dogs entertained with little physical space is to work out their brain! There are a lot of great dog toy puzzles that keep dogs thinking and happy while at home.
Here is a list of the top 7 laziest, low-energy dog breeds:
English Bulldog
Despite their bullish appearance, Bulldogs are among the most patient and friendly dogs thanks to a history of breeders focusing on removing aggression from the breed. Bulldogs are described as gentle, affectionate, dependable and gentle with children. A dog that enjoys and seeks out attention and love from humans. Unfortunately this breed suffers from respiratory and joint problems. Fortunately for you, this dog is low maintenance, preferring rest in between meals rather than demand walks, though daily walks are recommended.
These dogs would be plenty happy given a limited amount of space in your yard with a tie out cable.
Pug
With an appearance similar to a Bulldog, Pugs are number 2 on the lazy dog list. A few words to describe a Pug’s behaviour: clowny, playful, affectionate, attention seeking and not very useful. Pugs aren’t known to hunt or guard, they are known to be companions which is what they were bred to be. Pugs are happy with sitting in your lap while you read a book or watch TV. If you are looking for a low maintenance dog that will entertain you with their silly personality then maybe give a Pug a chance.
Shih Tzu
A history of being apart of Chinese Royalty, the Shih Tzu is a dog that was bred to put your needs first. This means if you live in an apartment, the Shih Tzu will love it, and if you live in a mansion the dog will also love that! As long as the Shih Tzu is around their family, giving and receiving attention, they are happy. This breed is content with short walks around the neighborhood and will definitely run out of energy if taken on an epic forest journey. Born to be your companion, a Shih Tzu is an life companion.
Chow Chow
The largest dog on the list so far, a Chow Chow is described as being aloof, perhaps cat-like in nature. A Chow Chow is around 40-70 pounds and has a coat that requires weekly attention to keep it in ideal condition. This dog is very protective over its family making it a great guard dog, and is not overly outgoing towards strangers. Preferring to stick to themselves or with their family, this breed may be ideal for someone who wants a dog but also wants an animal with low maintenance like a cat. Like all dogs, this breed requires a daily walk, but 15 minutes is satisfactory.
Basset Hound
Despite being a hunting dog this dog fits this list when they are indoors. When outside their instinct as a hunter kicks in but when inside they are content with being lazy and immobile. A dog that was bred as a pack dog, this animal requires consistent presence with family because they are more susceptible to destructive behaviors when alone. Basset Hounds also enjoy lying around in the sun all day but appreciate a nice long walk with a lot of sniffing time.
Boston Terrier
Bred to be a fighter, what this dog has become known for is their friendly and loving nature earning them a nickname as the Little American Gentleman. Being a very intelligent animal, Boston Terriers can have moments of hyperactivity which might aggravate the owner. They can also be stubborn so consistency and persistence is important when training this dog. Boston Terriers are also sensitive to punishment and tone of voice so positive training techniques should be utilized over other methods. This dog enjoys walks but does not require excessive exercise. Should be kept indoors because they do not handle heat or cold well.
Tibetan Spaniel
A small, smart, stubborn lap dog, the Tibetan Spaniel takes the last spot on this list. At around 10 inches high and 10-15 pounds this tiny creature is known for being a guard dog. Close with their family but aloof to strangers, this dog is known for barking when faced with strangers at the door. This breed is a house dog that thrives off interacting with their family. 1 or 2 walks a day or some playtime with toys is all that is required to satisfy this creature.