Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds For Busy Owners
Dog ownership can be an incredibly satisfying experience, but the process of choosing the right breed for your situation can quickly become overwhelming.
While some families might prefer high-energy dogs that require a lot of attention, others might prefer a dog that's slightly more docile and low-maintenance. We've compiled this list of breeds that are perfect for anyone looking for a low-maintenance companion.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for being friendly and adaptable. They can be comfortable in various living situations, and their small size makes them ideal for apartments.
In general, a short daily walk along with in-home playtime is enough to satisfy the needs of this companionable breed. Aside from occasional baths, their coats don't usually need much maintenance.
Shih Tzu
Another smaller dog, the Shih Tzu is known to be affectionate and companionable, making them an ideal match for single people looking for some company.
It's possible to give a Shih Tzu plenty of exercise even in indoor environments. Their long coat is more involved than some other breeds, but getting a "puppy cut" every few months helps reduce maintenance.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are bigger dogs, and despite their reputation for racing, they're surprisingly low-energy. Their exercise comes in short bursts, and otherwise they're basically couch potatoes.
Greyhounds are also gentle, quiet dogs who are friendly to strangers. With few breed-specific health issues and a short, easily maintained coat, they're a great choice for any prospective dog owner.
French Bulldog
The adorable face of French Bulldogs draws many people in, but this breed is more than just a cute face. French Bulldogs are small, relaxed, and have a short coat that's easy to maintain.
While French Bulldogs thrive on companionship and can even be needy at times, their easygoing nature makes them a popular choice.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog, at a glance, looks like an absolute nightmare to maintain due to its shaggy coat. Fortunately, this coat requires minimal brushing and never needs to be trimmed.
Furthermore, this coat acts as a protective layer and reduces shedding. These sheepdogs are generally content with a daily walk.
Basset Hound
The distinctive hangdog expression of the Basset Hound suggests that this is a gentle, trusting breed — and indeed, this is precisely the case.
Like any dog, Bassets are going to want to go outside every day, but aside from this exercise, they're pretty content to lounge around with their humans.
Tibetan Spaniel
Anyone looking to split the difference between a cat and a dog could seek out a Tibetan Spaniel, since these unique dogs have a cat-like independent streak.
Occasional brushing of their medium-length coat and short daily walks are about all the Tibetan Spaniel requires. Additionally, their independence makes them a great choice for anyone who doesn't want a needy dog.
Irish Wolfhound
While the large size of the Irish Wolfhound makes it a poor choice for apartment living, anyone with the space will find that this is a surprisingly low-maintenance dog.
They're known to be easygoing and don't shed heavily despite their thick coat. Their calm temperament makes them a great fit for families.
Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels have a gorgeous coat that's short but also dense — and fortunately, only needs to be brushed occasionally and sheds minimally.
These medium-sized spaniels adapt well to different living situations and even different pets, and maintain a calm demeanor.
Pekingese
Smaller dogs like the Pekingese are often picked for their convenience, as they can thrive in smaller living environments or even fit into a purse.
The benefits of the Pekingese extend beyond this, though, as they're known to be quiet, loyal, and affectionate. Their long coat requires regular brushing, but periodic haircuts can reduce grooming time.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are known as gentle giants, as their large frame is tempered with an affectionate and easygoing nature.
Unlike other big dogs, Saint Bernards don't require intense exercise. They do shed, especially during shedding season, but brushing once a week is usually sufficient.
Pug
While pugs can be excitable at times, pug owners know that this breed has two speeds: Chaos mode and lounging mode.
Owners who can deal with occasional bursts of energy will find a lot to like in this friendly, playful breed. Their signature wrinkles require occasional cleaning, but they're otherwise low-maintenance dogs.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs indeed, but unlike many other small dogs, they have very short coats that are easy to maintain.
While these dogs can have big personalities and bursts of energy, their small size means that they don't need much space or intense physical activity.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are known to be easygoing dogs who can be easily scooped up without much fuss. They're also intelligent and loyal, making them ideal companions.
A calm demeanor and low upkeep thanks to a short coat makes Boston Terriers a good choice for families, single people, and everyone in between.
West Highland Terrier
Also known as Westies, West Highland Terriers have a thick white coat that sheds minimally, and requires brushing every few days (along with occasional professional grooming).
Like other terriers, Westies can be energetic, but are generally happy with a daily walk and some playtime. They also don't demand constant attention.
Shiba Inu
The distinctive Shiba Inu features a double coat that sheds seasonally, but only requires occasional brushing. Despite this thick coat, they're clean dogs and don't often need to be bathed.
Shiba Inus are relatively easy to train, but often have an independent streak. They're full of personality, but don't require intense exercise or upkeep.
Old English Mastiff
Another dog that could be referred to as a gentle giant, the Old English Mastiff is content to just lounge around the house. A short coat ensures low upkeep and only moderate shedding.
While the size of these big dogs can be imposing, they're incredibly gentle and affectionate with a relaxed demeanor.
Pomeranian
The trademark fluffy coat of the Pomeranian does require regular brushing, but is generally easy to care for with routine maintenance.
While these dogs are energetic, their small size means that they don't need intense exercise, and short walks are generally enough to tire them out.
Maltese
Maltese dogs don't actually shed much despite their extravagant coat, and regular brushing is enough to keep them looking healthy.
Another benefit of the Maltese is that it's intelligent and far easier to train than most smaller breeds. While they're playful, they're not particularly energetic.
Havanese
Havanese dogs have a gorgeous, silky coat that can be tamed through regular brushing or occasional trimming. Despite this coat, they don't shed much, which makes them a good choice for anyone with allergies.
While they enjoy daily walks and playtime, they're otherwise generally content to simply relax indoors.