Is the answer to a more peaceful life lying at your feet at this very moment? Within a world that never seems to be moving at a slower pace, making the decision to have an animal as a companion can have as great an impact on the moods and feelings that exist within your dwelling as your furniture and your daily activities. Studies have shown that there’s a direct relationship between having a dog and lower blood pressure, a stress response, and even heart disease.
As Mass General’s Dr. Beth Frates highlights, “Pets offer us a sense of belonging, connection, and happiness that we all crave.” And clearly, for people who live in an apartment, work from home, or have pets with high energy levels, choosing a breed with an easygoing nature can make all the difference. Based on expert views, breed histories, and health research, below are seven breeds whose natures and living styles perfectly match that of a peaceful family.
1. Whippets
Sleek and graceful, Whippets have a common misperception as marathon runners. Although they can’t get enough of daily doses of speed, they truly excel at stillness afterward. According to Lorraine Rhoads, senior director of health and safety at Dogtopia, “They are sweet dogs who relax completely after they have had their daily dash.” Their easygoing nature exudes an airlessness that makes evenings with a Whippet a stress reliever. Their people-centric nature makes them have a subtle “grounding effect” on people. The owners have described the experience of having a Whippet snuggled up with them as “the tranquil part of the day” a living testament that sometimes rest can be as refreshing as exercise.
2. English Cocker Spaniel
Known for being warm and cheerful, English Cocker Spaniels combine playfulness with a calming effect. Rhoads points out as “traits” the “constant tail wags and want to be near” as having a presence that brings consistent emotional comfort. The companion role that this breed brings to your life will be uncomplicated as they lie at your feet or follow you around. Historically, they were bred as hunting dogs. Their adaptability also makes them well suited for either an active family or a more reserved family. Their capacity to reduce tension without requiring constant attention makes them perfect for anyone who wants consistency in a companion animal.
3. Newfoundland
Dubbed “the nanny dog” because of recognition given it by the American Kennel Club, the Newfoundland typifies it. Their deliberate actions make it easy for stress to reduce within a family. Rhoads believes a Newfoundland lying against your leg represents “a weighted blanket with a heartbeat.” Historically, these dogs were a common sight with fishermen, rescuing people from icy waters. That took a great deal of composure. Today, they have a very nurturing and loving nature that makes them perfect family pets. Many people would love a large, loving presence that exudes calm.
4. French Spaniel
French Spaniels have a well-balanced and tranquil nature. Once they have fulfilled their exercise requirements, they become quiet and composed, helping their owners unwind. According to Rhoads, they are very easy to coexist with because they have gentle energy. Their tranquil nature at home and alert and lively personality outside make them a well-rounded breed for people who would like some quiet and some fun with their pets.
5. Basset Hounds
Extremely engaging and yet happy to lounge, Basset Hounds live life at a deliberate tempo. Their slow and deliberate movement and snuggle-loving ways evoke an air of slowness. Rhoads writes, “They are happy to lounge side by side with a soft sigh, giving quiet companionship without ever demanding much.” As hunting dogs, Bassets have adapted perfectly well in an environment with a moderate activity level and affection. Their easy-to-maintain and loving personalities make these dogs an excellent fit for an owner who leads an easy life.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Combining the gentle attentiveness of a toy dog with the athletic abilities of a sporting spaniel, with equal ease walking with you or snuggled on your couch, are the Cavalier King Charles spaniels. Rhoads goes on to relate, “It’s easy to bring down their shoulders and make them breathe easier just by stroking their satin ears.” Historical lineage and favor with the British royal family have made these dogs excel at bonding with their masters. Due to low exercise needs and an affable character, they can be highly appropriate for places that value bonding more than activity.
7. Pug
Although they are small dogs, they have big hearts. Pugs exude an easy and low-key calm that follows them wherever they walk. Their cheerful salience and low levels of exercise needs make them excellent stress relievers. As Rhoads writes, “Having a Pug napping peaceably beside you can brighten an otherwise darkening day.” Pugs have enjoyed royal favor in China for several centuries and have maintained an appreciation for human affection. Pugs will do perfectly well in an apartment and will appreciate a slow and easy life. Picking a gentle dog breed goes beyond being a lifestyle choice.
It’s an investment in the emotional atmosphere of your home. The seven dog breeds listed here, with their rich histories and personalities, form a special mix of friendship and calm. Whether you want to reduce your stressful life and turn over a new leaf with a gentle companion or wish to pace your life and turn it around with a dog, they offer a special solution.
