For many of us, the idea of a perfect day involves lounging on the couch with a good book or binge-watching our favorite TV series. If you’re a self-proclaimed couch potato, you might be interested in finding a dog that shares your love for relaxation. Fortunately, there are several dog breeds that are naturally inclined to be lazy loungers. These breeds are perfect companions for those who prefer a quieter, more sedentary lifestyle. Let’s explore nine dog breeds that are perfect for anyone looking for a low-energy furry friend to snuggle with on lazy days.
Bulldog: The Quintessential Couch Companion

Not all dogs are high-energy adventurers—some prefer a cozy nap over a long hike. If you’re a self-proclaimed couch potato looking for a laid-back canine companion, there are certain breeds that fit the bill perfectly. These relaxed pups love nothing more than lounging by your side, enjoying lazy afternoons, and soaking up affection.
Bulldogs are well-known for their love of lounging. With their stocky build and laid-back demeanor, these dogs make excellent companions for those who enjoy a slower pace of life. Bulldogs are not particularly active, and they are more than content to spend their days napping on the couch. Despite their tough appearance, Bulldogs are incredibly affectionate and love to snuggle with their owners. Their gentle and friendly nature makes them perfect for families, singles, and seniors alike. Just make sure to keep an eye on their weight, as their love for lounging can sometimes lead to excessive weight gain.
Shih Tzu: The Regal Relaxer

Shih Tzus are small, yet they have a big personality. Known for their charming appearance and friendly nature, they are the perfect companions for those who want a dog that enjoys being pampered. Shih Tzus are not particularly active and prefer to spend their days lounging around the house. They are incredibly loyal and love to be by their owner’s side, whether that means sitting on the couch or lying at their feet. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their flowing coat in check, but other than that, Shih Tzus are low-maintenance and easygoing pets.
Basset Hound: The Leisurely Lounger

With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds have a laid-back nature that makes them perfect for anyone seeking a lazy companion. These dogs enjoy a good nap and aren’t particularly demanding when it comes to exercise. Basset Hounds are known for their strong sense of smell, but when they’re not following their nose, they are happy to relax at home. Their easygoing temperament makes them great family pets, and they are especially good with children. Just be prepared for some drool and occasional howling!
Chow Chow: The Fluffy Lounging Lion

Chow Chows have a distinctive appearance, often compared to a lion, with their thick mane-like fur. While they may look regal and aloof, they are surprisingly laid-back and enjoy spending time lounging around the house. Chow Chows are independent and don’t require constant attention, making them ideal for busy people who still want a pet to come home to. They do need regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat, but their calm and reserved nature makes them a low-energy option for dog lovers.
Greyhound: The Gentle Giant

Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are actually quite lazy by nature. They are known as “couch potatoes” for a reason; once they get their daily exercise, they are more than happy to spend the rest of the day resting. Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate, making them wonderful companions for singles, couples, and families. They are adaptable and can live comfortably in apartments or houses, as long as they have a cozy spot to stretch out and relax.
Pug: The Playful Lounger
Pugs are small dogs with big personalities. They are incredibly charming and love to be the center of attention. While they do enjoy short bursts of playtime, Pugs are also perfectly content to snuggle up on the couch with their owners. Their compact size makes them suitable for apartment living, and their friendly nature ensures they get along well with people and other pets. Pugs do have a tendency to gain weight, so it’s important to monitor their diet and exercise to keep them healthy.
French Bulldog: The Snuggly Snoozer
French Bulldogs are similar to their Bulldog relatives in that they love to lounge. Known for their bat-like ears and affectionate personality, French Bulldogs are ideal companions for those who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. They are excellent lap dogs and enjoy spending time with their humans. French Bulldogs are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only moderate exercise and minimal grooming. Their charming demeanor and love for snuggling make them a favorite among dog lovers worldwide.
Newfoundland: The Gentle Giant of the Couch

Newfoundlands are large, gentle dogs known for their sweet and calm nature. While they can be playful, they are also very happy to spend time relaxing indoors. Their size might suggest they need a lot of space, but Newfoundlands are surprisingly adaptable and can live in smaller homes as long as they get regular walks. They are great with children and make excellent family pets. Their thick coat requires regular brushing, but their kind-hearted and laid-back demeanor more than makes up for it.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Affectionate Lap Dog

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. These small dogs love to be in the company of their owners and are perfectly content to lounge around the house. They are excellent lap dogs and thrive on attention and companionship. While they do enjoy a bit of playtime, they are not overly energetic and are happy to relax for most of the day. Their beautiful, silky coat requires regular grooming, but their loving personality makes them well worth the effort.
If you’re someone who enjoys a more relaxed lifestyle and wants a dog to match, these nine breeds are excellent choices. They are all known for their love of lounging and their affectionate nature, making them perfect companions for those lazy days at home. Whether you prefer a small lap dog or a larger gentle giant, there’s a lazy lounger out there just waiting to join you on the couch.

Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.