By Liz O'ConnellShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberLazy and dogs don't often go hand in hand. Most pups are energetic companions that thrive on daily exercise and playtime—some more than others. But no matter the breed, all dogs need their sleep.
For those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, it can be hard to imagine a dog fitting into that "lazy" mold, yet there are some breeds that are naturally sleepier than others.
Dr. Abby Bedell, a veterinarian at Nottingham Animal Hospital in New Jersey, spoke with Newsweek about the five dog breeds that tend to log the most hours of shut-eye. And while they might be sleepiest, it does not mean they are the easiest to care for.
1. Greyhounds
At first, when thinking of greyhounds, many might think of speed. These dogs are known for their running ability, reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour. But they are also partial to a nap.
Bedell calls greyhounds the ultimate "couch potatoes." These dogs will sleep about 18 to 22 hours a day—far more than the average dog, which typically sleeps 10 to 14 hours a day, Newsweek previously reported.
"They will sleep forever, especially retired greyhounds, which is usually around two or three," Bedell said.
...2. Saint Bernards
Known as gentle giants, Saint Bernards are calm, easygoing dogs that love to relax. Bedell said they average about 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day.
Their massive size means it takes more energy to just move around, making rest—and lots of it—essential. A more active Saint Bernard will naturally need even more recovery time.
...3. Mastiff
Bedell said mastiffs are similar to Saint Bernards in the sense that both large dog breeds prioritize their beauty sleep. Even a mastiff's signature wrinkly skin and droopy eyes make them look sleepy.
Mastiffs require moderate daily exercise, but when they're not engaging in low-intensity play, they prefer to lounge. Bedell said, depending on the type of mastiff, these canines can sleep between 16 and 20 hours daily.
...4. Basset Hounds
Bedell describes basset hounds as "chill" dogs with a sweet disposition and a preference for a slower pace. They generally sleep 18 to 20 hours a day.
However, their love of lounging can lead to weight gain, making daily exercise essential. They are also prone to ear problems and skin allergies.
...5. English Bulldog
For those hoping to welcome home a smaller breed, you might want to consider English bulldogs. Given this breed's unusual anatomy and squishy face, they often get a reputation of being "lazy," though Bedell notes not every bulldog fits that description.
With low energy levels and breathing challenges due to their brachycephalic structure, English bulldogs tend to tire easily. These small, yet muscular dogs sleep about 16 to 18 hours a day, Bedell said.
She added that English bulldogs will especially need pet insurance, as they are prone to a list of health issues, including skin diseases and disc and spinal injuries.
...These five sleepy breeds will happily spend time on the couch with their owners over playing. These dogs will often dictate, to some degree, the exercise level they want, Bedell said.
"All of these dogs are pretty low maintenance," she said. "A 15 to even 30-minute walk a day should be enough."
Still, Bedell stressed that despite their laid-back nature, each of these breeds has health considerations owners should be aware of. She recommends pet insurance for every dog, even the laziest ones.
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