Dogs are known for their love of napping and lounging around the house. However, some breeds take their relaxation to the next level, spending significant time catching up on their beauty sleep. These breeds are often characterized by their calm and laid-back nature, making them the perfect companions for those who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. From the adorable Basset Hound to the majestic Great Dane, various breeds are known for their love of sleeping. In this article, we will explore some of the sleepiest dog breeds that are notorious for their snoozing habits and delve into the reasons why they love to nap so much.
Whatever temperament your pup may have, however, there are certain ways to calm dogs down in high-stress situations if they aren’t predisposed to being calmer by nature. For instance, a recent study showed that playing specific genres of music can help particularly anxious dogs on car rides. Researchers found that reggae and soft rock were actually the canine tunes of choice. Ultimately, the goal is to create a peaceful and relaxing environment for your pup, regardless of breed or temperament. Speaking of temperament, we promised you a ranking of breeds, didn’t we? We at Study Finds have pulled research from eight expert sources to bring you today’s list of the top seven sleepiest dog breeds. Did we miss one? We would love to hear from you in the comments down below. Now, onto the list!
The List: Sleepiest Dog Breeds, According to Canine Experts
1. Basset Hound
The first lazy pup on our list is the basset hound. Described as an ancient and noble breed by Chewy, the Basset Hound was originally bred to be a “slow, patient tracker” of certain prey. Known for their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are also famous for their laid-back and easygoing nature. They are content to spend hours lounging around the house or yard, making them the perfect companions for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.
These loveable hounds will snuggle up and sleep just about anywhere and with anyone, iHeartDogs notes. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. Despite their appearance, these dogs are actually quite happy and playful, always ready for a good cuddle or for a romp in the yard on occasion.
They prefer lounging around the house rather than engaging in rigorous physical activities. However, they do require daily exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity. It is important for Basset owners to provide these dogs with regular walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
2. Bulldog
The mighty but sleepy Bulldog is the next pup to take up rank on our list. And according to iHeartDogs, there is “not much to say here,” as these dogs are known for their snoozing nature. Just be warned about the snoring! They can also be quite stubborn and determined when they want to be. So, while they may spend most of their time napping, they are definitely not lacking in personality or charm.
The Bulldog as a breed will happily spend more time asleep than awake, Hepper adds. This relaxed and low-energy breed is content to lounge around the house for most of the day. Bulldogs are known for their easygoing nature and love of comfort, making them perfect for those who enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. Additionally, their affectionate and gentle demeanor makes them great pets for families with children.
Just don’t be alarmed if your Bulldog sleeps around 12–14 hours per day, as Dogs District notes that the standard for them is high on the spectrum. So, if your bulldog is snoozing the day away, just know that it’s completely normal for this breed. Just make sure they get plenty of exercise when these pups are awake to keep them happy and healthy.
3. Shih Tzu
Calling all cuddle companions! The Shih Tzu clocks in a whopping 13 hours of shut eye a day on average! Despite their small size, they have a big personality and are always up for a cuddle or playtime, writes Dogs District. With their tendency to nap for long periods throughout the day, they are the perfect breed for those looking for a laid-back and low-energy pet.
Originally bred as companions during the Chinese royal dynasty, Shih Tzus are known for their luxurious flowing coats and lively dispositions, explains Dogvills. These small dogs are great for apartment living and are excellent with children, making them a popular choice for families. Shih Tzus require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free, but their loving nature make them a beloved breed for many dog owners.
The cuddly canine requires more sleep during their puppy and senior stages, sometimes sleeping up to 20 hours per day, Pets World states. It is important for owners to provide a comfortable and quiet sleeping area for their Shih Tzu to ensure they get the rest they need. Additionally, regular exercise and mental stimulation can help prevent behavioral issues that may arise from lack of sleep. By understanding and meeting the sleep needs of their Shih Tzu, owners can help ensure their furry friend remains happy and healthy.
4. Mastiff
The Mastiff is the next breed to join us on the list of sleepiest dogs, and for good reason: these big boys can sleep up to 18 hours a day, according to Pets World. This dog is known for its calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent cuddle buddies. Mastiffs are also known for their strong loyalty and protective instincts, so they make great guard dogs as well.
Being a big dog, the Mastiff burns so much energy just walking in the yard, which makes their sleep cycles more frequent, says iHeartDogs. While they do love to sleep, Mastiffs also enjoy being active and going for walks, and thus, it’s important for owners to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise in between naps.
This breed is so synonymous with being sleepy that they even look tired with their droopy eyes, writes Hepper. Despite their large size and strength, the Mastiff is often content to lounge around and relax, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Their calm and easygoing attitude endears them to many owners who appreciate their low-energy yet loving presence in the household.
5. Saint Bernard
Next up on our list of sleepyheads: the Saint Bernard! These gentle giants are not only known for their epic drool factor, but also for their impressive napping abilities, Pets World says. These pups are extremely loyal and protective, making them excellent family pets. Despite their large size, they are known for being gentle and patient with children. Saint Bernards are also incredibly intelligent and easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owner.
Bustle describes the great Saint Bernard with a trifecta of good qualities: kind, intelligent, and good-natured. They are also so full of fluff that they make epic pillows. With their thick fur and warm, cuddly bodies, it’s no wonder they are often referred to as “nanny dogs” for their nurturing nature.
Saint Bernards are related to the Mastiff, so you can only imagine their similarities, notes Not A Bully. Both breeds are known for their gentle and calm demeanors. With their loving and affectionate nature, it’s no wonder that both the Saint Bernard and the mastiff are beloved breeds among dog enthusiasts.
6. Great Dane
The next sleepy pup is yet another big canine, the Great Dane. Pets World jokes that you shouldn’t “wake the giant,” but their calm and loving nature wouldn’t mind a snuggle. With their gentle demeanor and affectionate personality, Great Danes make wonderful cuddle buddies. Despite their imposing size, these dogs are known for enjoying nothing more than lounging around with their favorite humans.
Known as the world’s largest dog, Hepper says the Great Dane can be intimidating, but it’s all bark, as these dogs are some of the laziest cuddle butts you can find. So, don’t let their intimidating appearance fool you – Great Danes are truly big softies at heart.
Not A Bully adds that “as crazy as it may sound,” the Great Dane actually makes a decent apartment dog as they don’t require more exercise than their daily walks. Despite their large size, they are typically calm and well-behaved indoors. With proper training and socialization, a Great Dane can easily adapt to apartment life and thrive in a smaller living space.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
The last but certainly not least breed to take up rank as our number seven in the Bernese Mountain Dog. And as Bustle describes, as long as you give them their needed exercise, these big pups would love nothing more than to lay around with you. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs are great companions for families and individuals alike. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs.
Hepper notes that this breed is known as being “high energy.” However, this rings true only when they are out in the field or up in the mountains. Otherwise, Bernese Mountain Dogs are actually quite calm and mellow indoors. They are known to be good with children and other pets, making them a great addition to any household. Their thick, fluffy coat requires regular grooming to keep them in good condition, but their friendly and loving personality makes it all worth it.
Despite their sleepy nature, Not A Bully says Bernese Mountain Dogs love the outdoors and are always up for a good activity in the yard. Whether it’s playing fetch, going for a hike, or simply lounging in the sun, they are always eager to be outside and enjoy nature. Their gentle demeanor and loyalty make them a beloved companion for families of all ages. With their striking appearance and affectionate nature, it’s easy to see why Bernese Mountain Dogs are such a popular breed among dog lovers.
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