The Complete List of Big Lazy Dog Breeds features 13 large dog breeds known for their calm and relaxed nature. These gentle giants come from varied backgrounds but share a common trait: they prefer lounging and low-energy activities over constant play or exercise. From the sturdy Bernese Mountain Dog to the elegant Scottish Deerhound, these breeds offer loyal companionship without demanding high physical activity.
Below is a detailed list to help you explore these big, laid-back breeds. Each entry includes key information to understand their size, behavior, and care needs.
Breed Name identifies the common name of the dog breed, helping you recognize each type quickly. Scientific Name shows the formal classification used by experts, confirming the breed’s species as Canis familiaris. Avg. Weight (kg) indicates the typical weight range for adult dogs of the breed, giving you a sense of their large size. Energy Level describes how active or calm the breed generally is, guiding you on their exercise needs and lifestyle fit.
What Defines a “Big Lazy Dog Breed”?
Big lazy dog breeds are large dogs that have a low to moderate energy level. They are usually heavier than 40 kg (about 90 lbs) and prefer a calm, steady lifestyle. These dogs need less daily exercise compared to more active breeds but still require regular walks and mental stimulation to stay healthy. Their relaxed temperament makes them perfect for families or individuals looking for a gentle, low-energy canine companion.
How Much Exercise Do Big Lazy Dog Breeds Need?
Although these breeds are known for their calm demeanor, they still need some physical activity to prevent health problems. Most big lazy dog breeds enjoy short, leisurely walks and moderate playtime. Avoid vigorous or highly strenuous activities, as their size and energy levels may not support it well. Consistent but mild exercise helps maintain their weight and overall well-being.
What Should You Know About Caring for Big Lazy Dog Breeds?
Caring for big lazy dog breeds involves providing enough space, proper nutrition, and regular grooming, especially for those with thick coats like the Bernese Mountain Dog or Newfoundland. Because they are large, these dogs often have specific needs, such as joint care and comfortable resting areas. Understanding their gentle nature and basic health requirements ensures a happy life for both dog and owner.
Big Lazy Dog Breeds
| Breed Name | Scientific Name | Avg. Weight (kg) | Energy Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Mastiff | Canis familiaris | 80 | Very Low |
| Newfoundland | Canis familiaris | 59 | Low |
| Saint Bernard | Canis familiaris | 73 | Low |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | Canis familiaris | 45 | Low |
| Great Pyrenees | Canis familiaris | 45 | Low |
| Great Dane | Canis familiaris | 66 | Moderate-Low |
| Leonberger | Canis familiaris | 61 | Low-Moderate |
| Irish Wolfhound | Canis familiaris | 58 | Moderate-Low |
| Scottish Deerhound | Canis familiaris | 43 | Moderate-Low |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | Canis familiaris | 60 | Very Low |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | Canis familiaris | 57 | Low |
| Landseer | Canis familiaris | 59 | Low |
| Boerboel | Canis familiaris | 70 | Moderate-Low |
Descriptions
English Mastiff
A gentle giant, the English Mastiff is known for its immense size and calm, affectionate nature. They are truly dedicated couch potatoes, preferring lounging to vigorous activity. Despite their imposing appearance, they are excellent, docile family companions requiring minimal exercise but plenty of space and love.
Newfoundland
The “Newfie” is a sweet-natured, intelligent giant famous for its gentle disposition and love of water. Despite their size, they are surprisingly docile and enjoy relaxing with their families. They require moderate grooming due to their thick coat and benefit from some swimming or leisurely walks.
Saint Bernard
Originating from the Swiss Alps, the Saint Bernard is a majestic, patient, and very calm dog. Known for rescue work, they are natural guardians with a gentle heart. They enjoy lounging and minimal exercise, making them ideal indoor companions, though drooling can be a notable trait.
Bernese Mountain Dog
A beautiful, tricolored breed, the Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its sweet, calm, and devoted temperament. They bond strongly with their families and are relatively low-energy, enjoying leisurely strolls and relaxing indoors. They thrive in cooler climates and require regular brushing to manage their thick coat.
Great Pyrenees
This majestic white dog is a calm, patient, and somewhat independent guardian. Great Pyrenees are known for their devotion to family and are relatively low-energy indoors, preferring to survey their surroundings. They need a secure yard and appreciate cool weather due to their thick double coat.
Great Dane
Often called “Apollo of Dogs,” the Great Dane is graceful despite its enormous size. They are generally gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly calm indoors, earning them the nickname “leaners.” Despite needing short bursts of activity, they are largely content lounging on the couch.
Leonberger
A noble and confident breed, the Leonberger combines the strength of a Mastiff with the gentle nature of a Newfoundland. They are calm, playful, and incredibly affectionate, making wonderful family pets. While they enjoy outdoor activities, they are generally low-energy indoors, happy to be with their people.
Irish Wolfhound
The tallest of dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a true gentle giant. Despite their hunting lineage, they are remarkably calm and quiet indoors, preferring to sprawl out. They require moderate exercise to stay healthy and are known for their dignified, patient, and loyal personalities.
Scottish Deerhound
Resembling a shaggy Greyhound, the Scottish Deerhound is a noble and elegant sighthound. While capable of bursts of speed outdoors, they are wonderfully calm, gentle, and undemanding indoors, often described as “couch potatoes.” They are affectionate and polite companions who enjoy quiet living.
Neapolitan Mastiff
An imposing and ancient breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a protective but surprisingly mellow giant. Known for their loose skin and wrinkles, they are very low-energy and prefer napping to playing. They are devoted to their families, requiring minimal exercise and plenty of space for their large frame.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The “French Mastiff” is a powerful and muscular breed with a surprisingly calm and affectionate nature. They are devoted family protectors who are generally quiet and prefer lounging. Despite their imposing looks, they require moderate exercise and are known for their patient, loving temperament, though they can drool.
Landseer
Often mistaken for a black and white Newfoundland, the Landseer shares many traits, including a gentle, devoted, and calm temperament. They are big, sweet family dogs who enjoy being with their people and are relatively low-energy. Like Newfies, they love water and require grooming.
Boerboel
The Boerboel is a confident and powerful South African Mastiff type, known for its protective instincts. Despite their size and guarding abilities, they are surprisingly calm and relatively low-energy indoors, content to supervise their domain. They are loyal and affectionate with their families, needing proper training and socialization.
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