If your dog is calm and collected 24/7, your best move might be to check its pulse. That
being said, there are certain dog breeds that are significantly less hyper than others.
But what exactly constitutes a calm dog? Is it the kind of lethargic, always dozing off
attitude some older dogs boast? Or perhaps it's a Labrador Retriever, who is friendliness
personified... right up until he spots food, at which point all bets are off?
Don't worry, we have the answer, as The American Kennel Club has actually compiled a handy
list of dog breeds that are remarkably calm. You see, while no dog is calm all of the time,
it seems that there are some pups that could be considered "more chill" than others. And
it's also worth mentioning that a calm dog is not necessarily the same as a calm human
being. Even the most refined and reserved dog in the world may start climbing the walls
if you have a hot dog near to its face.
As the American Kennel Club puts it, calm dogs are usually known for the predictable
ways they react to various sounds, smells, and things. They're unlikely to stress, growl,
or freak out, and are generally able to maintain a degree of composure that allows them to
deal with pesky things like small children, which is why these types of dogs often work
in guardian, herder, or therapy dog roles.
Still, they're dogs and not monks, so there's a certain amount of dogginess to be expected.
In fact, some would doubtlessly argue it's kind of the point.
"I was gonna pick you anyway. Don't tell anybody. Don’t tell the others."
So what dogs are in the running for the title of calmest dog breed in the world?
For small dogs, the Basset Hound is worth mentioning, though it's only "small" in terms
of its height. The droopy low-rider of the canine world seems like a sure-fire selection
for the "calmest dog" award, because, well, just look at it. Indeed, the breed makes the
American Kennel Club's list, but unfortunately, the organization notes that the Basset Hound
boasts an independent and difficult-to-train streak, which sounds like it might counteract
any calmness the pup might have.
Another "small dog" contender is the tiny Pekingese. The breed is quite calm, but also
apparently requires that you earn its respect, which seems like the exact opposite of chill.
An assortment of spaniels, including the Cavalier King Charles, the Tibetan, and the Clumber,
also make the American Kennel Club's list, but their calmness factor is somewhat undermined
by the fact that they reportedly tend to thrive on exercise, hunting, and training. That's
a lot of work to calm a dog down! PLus, the Clumber is too fat to be considered a small
dog anyway.
Finally, for smaller dogs, the American Kennel Club also name-drops the French Bulldog, but
with one big caveat, saying,
"Some French Bulldogs have larger-than-life personalities, and they do require training
just like any dog."
Sadly, a doggy drama queen does not bode well for the title of the calmest dog breed in
the world. Sorry, Frenchie.
So what about big dogs? Well, The American Kennel Club list also boasts a few larger
dog breeds. The long-coated Bergamasco Sheepdog and the muscular Boerboel appear to be calm
enough. However, the Bergamasco Sheepdog can be wary around strangers, and the Boerboel
specifically isn't recommended for inexperienced owners.
Of course, the most famous big dog of all big dogs also makes an appearance. A Saint
Bernard's considerable body mass is only matched by its genuine kindness and gentleness. However,
the sheer size of the dog means that it all too often knocks people over, which perhaps
isn't something we'd attribute to the calmest dog in the world.
"Oh, I just love these big dumb animals."
If none of those dogs are the calmest, then what is? Well, the answer might surprise you.
The gigantic Irish Wolfhound may have been the worst nightmare of the 15th Century wolf
population in its namesake country, but the breed's modern incarnation is an incredibly
calm, emphatic and intelligent animal. Though the Irish Wolfhound is a muscular giant that
can stand up to three feet at the shoulder and weigh around 180 pounds, the American
Kennel Club describes the breed as incredibly patient with children, and their dignified
demeanor, calm temperament and serene nature make them excellent companions. They're apparently
even wonderful as therapy dogs.
Plus, an added bonus is that their owners are incredibly unlikely to be attacked by
wolves. What more could you want?
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