"As a Vet Nurse, Here Are 5 ‘Chill’ Dog Breeds Perfect for Busy Families!"

A DOG expert has revealed the five ‘lazy’ breeds that are built for comfort in the family home – and they could be the perfect match for busy households.

Anna Robertson, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box said that just like people, some dogs are “naturally more laid-back, while others are go-go-go”.

The Saint Bernard is the ‘gentle giants of the dog world’Credit: Getty

Anna, from Forfar, Angus, added: “No dog is inherently ‘lazy.’ What we call laziness is often a misunderstanding of a breed’s specific needs.

“What’s key is giving every dog, whatever their energy level, the right balance of food, exercise, and mental stimulation, tailored to them.”

Here, she reveals the five breeds prospective dog owners should consider if they are looking for a lower energy companion.

Basset Hound

Anna says the short legs and long bodies of a Basset Hound are not built for endurance.

This adorable droopy-faced breed has a very low-key temperament and were bred for tracking slowly, not for running marathons.

Anna adds: “They are prone to a sedentary lifestyle, which can make them quite susceptible to weight gain and joint issues.

“For a Basset, a long sniffing walk is far more appealing than a vigorous run. They’re a prime example of a breed where ‘relaxed’ is part of their fundamental nature.”

Basset Hounds are not built for endurance and are a ‘relaxed’ breedCredit: Getty

Pug

“Pugs are true charmers — affectionate, playful, and always ready for a cuddle”, Anna insists.

“They’re not built for marathons, though, and are much happier with short, gentle strolls and plenty of sofa time.

She points out that their adorable flat faces (brachycephalic shape) can make breathing harder, especially in the heat, so owners should keep exercise light and watch out for overexertion.

“With the right diet and care, Pugs can thrive as the perfect little companions who bring joy wherever they go”, she concludes.

Saint Bernard

The vet nurse hails Saint Bernards as the “gentle giants of the dog world” due to their calm, patient, and famously affectionate characteristics.

She says: “Originally bred for rescue work in the snowy Alps, they were designed for strength and stamina in short bursts, not endless running.

“Their size and slower metabolism mean they’re happiest with steady walks, plenty of relaxation, and lots of cuddle time with their humans.

“While they thrive on a laid-back lifestyle, they still enjoy mental stimulation and a sense of purpose — whether that’s training, puzzles, or simply being the family’s loyal protector.”

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

“The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s reputation for being low energy is more about breed purpose than physiology”, Anna says.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the perfect cuddly, affectionate companionCredit: Getty

“They were bred specifically to be companion lap dogs, so their whole being is geared towards comfort and affection. They don’t have the same high-drive mentality of a working dog.

“While they enjoy walks and playtime, they are content with shorter exercise sessions and are famous for their ability to curl up on the sofa for hours.

“Their demeanour is a perfect fit for a particular type of owner who wants a cuddly, affectionate companion.”

Chihuahua:

To round off the list, Anna reveals that the Chihuahua is a very low-impact companion in terms of exercise.

She says: “They get a good workout just running around the living room!

“They are deeply loyal to their owner and love to snuggle.

“Chihuahuas are clever and spirited, and they benefit just as much from training and socialisation as larger breeds.

“Giving them opportunities to learn and explore helps bring out the best in their bold little characters.”