Bulldog
These family-friendly cuties fit the snoozing stereotype, alright. Bulldogs love nothing more than a good nap, but don’t let their sleepiness rub off on you. All dogs – even the less active ones! – require exercise to stay healthy, whether it’s regular walks or play sessions.
Saint Bernard
They’re best known for their alpine rescues, but these days you’re a lot more likely to find Saint Bernards in the suburbs than the Swiss Alps. Their calm and patient disposition also makes the gentle giants a great “nanny dog” for kids.
Basset Hound
Between their stubby legs, droopy ears and wrinkled brows, Basset Hounds have plenty of distinguishing characteristics. When they’re not hunting, the skilled scent hounds still love to cuddle up with the family.
French Bulldog
Apartment dwellers always pick French Bulldogs for a reason. They rarely bark, hardly shed and enjoy a brisk walk around the block for exercise. What more could you want?
Pekingese
Underneath all of that fur is a charming companion who is perfectly happy without a yard. The little lap dogs did originally live in the Chinese palaces, but their modern counterparts will settle for less than royalty.
Bernese Mountain Dog
While they technically belong in the American Kennel Club’s Working Group, Bernese Mountain Dogs are surprisingly low-key. The big fluff-balls like relaxing indoors as much as they like being outside.
Chow Chow
Don’t mistake their trademark scowls for bad attitudes. While somewhat stubborn and suspicious of strangers, Chow Chows are devoted and bonded to their families. Their reserved and quiet nature actually earns frequent comparisons to cats.
Pug
Pug owners know that there’s a lot of personality packed into those 15-odd pounds. The less-active pups may actually share some ancestral history with the Pekingese.
Tibetan Mastiff
These giant guardians from the Himalayas will lounge around inside, but get them out and about and their more active, independent nature will show. The AKC even recommends exercising them in a contained area since they’re notorious for not coming when called.
Havanese
Smart and social, Havanese love spending time with their owners. Put their upbeat personality and small stature together and you have an energetic breed that doesn’t need a lot of physical activity.
