If you’re a first-time pet owner, there’s a good chance that you’ve asked yourself “are Pugs low energy and low maintenance?” Today, we’re taking a look at some of the laziest dog breeds as well as whether or not the Pug is the right dog for you.
Are Pugs Low Energy?
While Pugs are known for their low energy exercise routine, but they do require quite a bit of grooming. They have short hair, which is easy to groom with the right brush. This brachycephalic dog breed will require occasional baths and cleaning of their wrinkles.
They have a low to medium energy, which makes them a popular breed for first time pet owners. This breed is perfect if you want a dog that sleeps a lot.
However, you need to know that their temperament can make them challenging to train. They are trainable, but you will need to have patience when you’re working with them.
Just because a Pug is a low energy, doesn’t mean that it’s the perfect fit for you. There’s a lot more to consider when getting a dog than just how much exercise it requires. (Scroll down to see what I’m talking about)
But first, watch this video to find out about how active a Pug can be. Basically, they will be as lazy or active as you want them to be.
What Are Low Energy Dogs?
Basically, there are two types of dogs, low energy and high energy. Pugs tend to fall into the low energy category.
High Energy Dogs
are always ready for action, in fact, they require a lot of daily activity and stimulation. They are likely to spend more time jumping, playing, and investigating new smells, sounds and etc.
Low Energy Dogs
They are referred to as “canine couch potato” because they are content to sleep the day away. Most breeds will only require about 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise.
When choosing a dog for your home, it’s important to consider your own activity level and lifestyle.
Why Low Energy Dogs Are The Best
Personally, I am a fan of low to medium energy dogs because they don’t require a ton of energy. Mindy my black Pug didn’t have a lot of endurance, yet we still made some great memories at the beach, dog park, and on our daily walks.
Canines with low activity levels are great for the following reasons:
- Perfect for senior citizens or widows.
- Can be left alone (while you’re at work)
- Chances are they don’t bark a lot.
- Can live in apartments (don’t require a lot of space to run around)
- Perfect for families with small children who may be scared of dogs.
- Usually, get along well with cats and other dogs.
- Great for lazy people who don’t like to exercise a lot (you’ll still need to exercise them to maintain proper health)
If you’re like me, then you’re probably looking for a dog for companionship. You’re NOT the type of person who goes hiking a lot, but you want a dog you can take for daily walks or to the dog park.
Is The Low Maintenance Dog: The Pug The Right Toy Dog for You?
It’s NOT hard to find huge lists of lazy big dogs, small lazy dogs breeds and medium-sized low stamina dogs. In fact, the Pugs make the list and are ranked #28 on the popularity of dog breeds according to the AKC.
Exercise
While it’s true that the Pug does not require a lot of exercise. According to the AKC, this breed requires at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. They will usually do well with a daily walk at a normal or fast pace.
I know you’re looking for low energy or lazy dog, but all dogs require exercise for several reasons:
- Prevent unhealthy weight gain
- Aids in their digestion
- Keeps their bodies agile and healthy
- Helps them sleep better at night
Burning off excess energy through exercise also helps reduce those unwanted behaviors like barking, hyperactivity, scratching, and even boredom.
Maintenance
Pugs are adorable with all their wrinkles and smooshed faces. Some people say that they “have a face that only a mother can love.” I’m not sure if that’s true or not, but what I can tell you is that with that smooshed face comes some health issues you should be aware of.
Most lazy or low energy dogs are brachycephalic dogs. This means that they’ve been bred for short muzzles, which gives them the squashed face appearance.
The Pug, Bulldog, and French Bulldog fall into the brachycephalic category from the lazy dog list below.
Due to this condition, Pugs are known to have several health problems. They also don’t do well in the heat and should never be kept outdoors.
I’ve written some articles you should read before deciding on a Pug to help you find out about:
There’s a lot to take into consideration when getting a dog. There’s more to raising a dog than just how much exercise they require.
It’s a decision that shouldn’t be made lightly. They will become a member of your family and you’ll have to care for them for at least 10-16 years, depending on which breed you get.
Read this article to find out the life expectancy of a Pug.
Interactive Toys for Low Energy Dogs
Before I share some of the other low maintenance and low energy dog breeds, I wanted to share some ideas on how to burn off that excess energy that I gathered from pet sites and owners. Plus, I’ll share how we exercised Mindy our black pug.
Most dogs on this list will be fine with a quick 30-45 minute walk. I personally took Mindy for long walks. There were times when I took her for 2-3 mile walks and she did great.
So don’t believe that this breed is lazy. They will be as active as you want them to be.
We never had any problems with unwanted behavior and she showed no signs of being hyperactive.
If you don’t have time for a walk, then you can consider puzzle toys and treat dispensing toys to keep your dog active. These types of toys keep them entertained and occupied while moving their bodies.
If they require a little more exercise then you may want to consider a canine playpen where they can run, jump and get some exercise without being on a harness.
I’ve also put together a list of dog toys that Mindy loved. They are perfect for keeping any dog entertained and active.
Less Active Dog Breeds You May Want to Consider
Getting a dog is a big commitment, that’s why you need to make sure you know what type of dog breed works best for you.
Here’s a list of the top lazy dog breed recommendations:
Small Lazy Dogs:
- French Bulldog
- Boston Terrier
- Pug (not really lazy, and will mimic your activity level)
- Italian Greyhound
- Chihuahua
- Pekingese
- Bolognese
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Medium Sized Lazy Dogs:
- Whippet
- Chow Chow
- Bulldog
Lazy Big Dogs:
- Irish Wolfhound
- Great Dane
- Bullmastiff
- Greyhound
I Want a Small Low Maintenance Dog
If you have read this far and still looking for a low energy dog breed. You can’t go wrong with a Pug. They are a small framed dog that will grow to be around 22 pounds.
They are classified as a toy dog, although they are the largest breed of toy dogs.
This dog is extremely loyal and will make the perfect companion for anyone.
They are easy to socialize and tend to get along well with anyone. Mindy my black pug got along well with everyone as long as they rubbed her belly.
References and Further Reading
Science Daily – Vet Says Owners Should Exercise With Their Dogs Based On Specific Needs to Prevent Obesity
VCA – Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome In Dogs
Canine Journal – World’s Most Low Energy Dogs (and High Energy Dogs)