Basset Hound
These sweet, short pups are well known for being laid-back and easy to train. According to Animal Planet, basset hounds are low-energy dogs that are extremely patient with kids and anyone else who tries to annoy them. But if you want a quiet house, you might want to consider another breed, because they have a reputation for being talkative.
Saint Bernard
Anyone who watched Beethoven back in the day probably thinks of Saint Bernards as a large breed that can be a handful. But in real life, they are known for being intelligent and patient. The American Kennel Club calls them “gentle giants” and, like Newfies, considers them a great “nanny dog“. Of course, keep in mind that they can grow to be nearly 200 pounds and are known to have a loud bark and drooly mouths.
Great Dane
Another big pup that’s totally lovable and laid-back, the “Apollo of Dogs” looks intimidating but is about as sweet as they come. Great Danes are described as “easygoing” and “a total joy to live with” by the American Kennel Club, which ranks it as one of its most popular breeds. When standing on their back legs, these pups are taller than most people. So if you want a dog that will frighten potential intruders but will be a calm sweetie, this is a great choice.
Greyhound
The first thing you’ll likely think of when you read about greyhounds is their speed (they can go from 0-45 miles per hour in just 30 feet!), but they are also renowned couch potatoes. Animal Planet describes them as “lovable, sweet and charming lapdogs, even if they don’t exactly fit in your lap.” If greyhounds were too much of a handful at home, a busy author like J.K. Rowling wouldn’t have chosen one to be her companion.
Neapolitan Mastiff
If you want a big dog that doesn’t really like playing but loves being cuddly, a Neapolitan mastiff might be the perfect choice. These watchful pups grow to be up to 150 pounds and have low energy and low exercise needs. According to Animal Planet, “their favorite thing in the world is to be with the people they love.” Like other big dogs, Neapolitan mastiffs have a reputation for drooling, with their slobber being described as tough to clean off of surfaces.
Bullmastiff
These friendly giants are praised for being docile, easygoing and loving — unless their family is threatened. Vet Street calls the bullmastiff “a terrific family dog”, and one that doesn’t need much exercise or playtime to be happy. Just make sure you have enough room for one, however, because they can weigh about 130 pounds and stand more than 2-feet-tall at the shoulders!
Dogue De Bordeaux
How can you not love that expressive face? This breed is the most ancient of all French dogs, according to the American Kennel Club. Dogue de Bordeaux, aka the French mastiff, is described a courageous and affectionate pup. Training is apparently key, however, because the AKC says they can be stubborn and assert dominance over you if they aren’t trained as puppies.
English Toy Spaniel
If small dogs are your thing and you want to keep a calm, quiet house, you might want to find an English toy spaniel. These adorable little dogs grow to be 8-14 pounds, are described as having low energy and gentle demeanors and, according to Animal Planet, rarely barking. Finding one, especially a puppy, may be a chore because English toy spaniels are pretty rare in the U.S.
Maltese
A small pup that can live nearly 20 years, if you adopt a Maltese you’ll find a devoted friend. They are described as very intelligent, perfect for apartment dwellers and people who also own cats, according to Vet Street. The site also calls the breed “a super therapy dog.” However, they do like to bark and will require some intense grooming at times, thanks to that luscious fur.
About The Delite
Somtimes it can feel like the world is full of negative news. Luckily, there is still a lot of good in the world. There are amazing people doing incredible things. Our goal is to help showcase some of these positive, inspiring stories in order to bring a smile to your face.