Lazy Dog Breeds: A Look by Kim Campbell Thornton - Updated February 7, 2023 - Share on Facebook, Twitter, Email, or Print.
Ready to unwind with a fur buddy who'd rather catch up on Netflix than chase the neighborhood squirrels? We got you covered! Here's a list of 12 canine couch potatoes that need only moderate exercise, making them perfect pals for lazy movie nights on the sofa.
Just be aware that these lazy loungers might be more prone to rack up extra pounds if their food cravings overpower their desire for exercise. To prevent this, consult with your vet on whether a weight management diet like Royal Canin Weight Control dry dog food would be suitable for your pooch.
Bichon Frise - The Luxury Lap Lounger
Bichons can be quite playful, bursting into quick sprints around the house or yard, only to suddenly halt and plop back into your lap. A short daily romp and a walk are all the exercise they require to maintain that cheerful disposition. These toy-sized pups weigh between 10 to 18 pounds, making them perfect for snuggling during movie marathons.
Bulldog - The Deceptively Lovable Lump
Bulldogs may have a stern appearance, but they're actually gentle lap dogs with manageable exercise needs. key thing to remember is to keep them cool and indoors due to their sensitivity to heat. A medium-sized breed weighing between 40 to 50 pounds, they're a cozy companion during chilly movie nights.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - The Ultimate Couch Surfer
Cavaliers are the epitome of couch potato dog breeds. Their main goal in life is to hang out with you, adapting their energy level to your own. Spend the entire day binging shows and eating popcorn? They're right there with you. Ready to chase the kids around the backyard? They can do that, too. Typically weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, they're a great fit for families with children.
Chinese Shar Pei - The Loyal Laid-Back Lounger
This dignified breed from China is a one-person dog, content to sit by your side on the sofa or by the fireplace. After a brief daily walk, they're ready to relax back home. They're medium-size to large breeds, standing 18 to 20 inches tall and weighing 45 to 60 pounds.
Chow Chow - The Sedentary Security Guard
With its lion-like appearance, the Chow Chow is as active as a sloth. Its job is to guard your home, and it does so without breaking a sweat. Give them a short daily walk and they'll be content. The Chow is a medium-size breed standing 17 to 20 inches tall and weighing 45 to 60 pounds.
French Bulldog - The Adorable Indoor Companion
The French Bulldog's chunky build and short legs make it an ideal choice for apartment dwellers or homeowners who struggle to provide enough exercise for more active breeds. A brief daily walk of 15 to 20 minutes and indoor play will keep a Frenchie trim, but on lazy days, they're perfectly happy napping in your lap. Due to their sensitivity to heat, walks and outdoor play should be scheduled for cooler mornings and evenings. Their moderate size makes them a popular choice among couch potato dog breeds.
Keeshond - The Calm Co-watcher
Originating from the Netherlands, the Keeshond has moderate exercise needs. They'll be satisfied with a short walk on a leash or some playtime in a yard, adjusting their energy level to yours. They're well suited to life in a small space, such as an apartment, as long as they're taught not to bark too much. Standing at 17 to 18 inches tall and weighing 35 to 45 pounds, they're a great choice for low-key companionship.
Lhasa Apso - The Historic Homebody Watchdog
The Lhasa is calm and watches for trouble just as it has done for millennia. One or two brief walks a day or some indoor playtime is enough to keep them entertained. They can increase or decrease their activity level depending on yours, making them a versatile choice for busy or laid-back lifestyles. Small but sturdy, they stand 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh 12 to 18 pounds.
Pekingese - The Regal Homebody
The Pekingese is a low-energy breed that enjoys strolling through parks and playing with toys indoors, but they'd rather be lounging on the sofa. Exercise is important for them, though, so make sure they get some physical activity daily. These toy-sized breeds typically weigh no more than 14 pounds.
Shih Tzu - The Devoted Lapdog
Shih Tzus aren't guard dogs, hunters, or tunnel dogs, but they will happily lounge in your lap. A quick walk daily is recommended, but if that's not possible, they'll prance around the house and leap onto furniture to get their exercise fix. They're a small breed, standing 8 to 11 inches tall and weighing 9 to 16 pounds.
Skye Terrier - The Flexible Couch Companion
Though they can be active diggers and cat chasers, Skye Terriers are also happy to lounge with you. If you gradually build up their stamina for longer walks or hikes, they'll develop endurance and agility. Otherwise, they're content with a couple of brief walks or playtimes each day. They're a medium-sized breed standing 9 to 10 inches tall and weighing 35 to 45 pounds.
Tibetan Spaniel - The Sofa Sentry
Originally a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries, these Tibetan Spaniels are now popular family dogs. They're content to take short strolls around the block but will also happily play indoors. Standing 10 inches tall and weighing 9 to 15 pounds, they're perfect for keeping an eye on your sofa from comfy positions.
Bichon Frises and Chinese Shar Peis, both known for their laid-back nature, make ideal companions for home-and-garden lounging, with their moderate exercise requirements perfectly suited for a lifestyle focused on relaxed home activities, like watching movies or reading books. On the other hand, some breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, though playful at times, primarily enjoy snuggling and relaxing, making them excellent pets for those who prefer a pet that prioritizes a lifestyle of ease, much like a pet found in a home-and-garden setting.
