A Bernese doesn’t have a dominant personality, unlike most big dog breeds. In other words, they’re excellent dogs if you’re a busy person. The Border Terrier is also hypoallergenic with a relatively short coat, so grooming won’t be too much of a problem. Physical Characteristics: Short and sleek coat colored fawn, apricot, or brindle with a dark mask on the muzzle, ears, nose, and drooping jowls. Highlights: Intelligent, Independent, Loving. For example, small companion dogs tend to be hypoallergenic and need less exercise, but they can’t stand being alone. They’re also perfect for first-time dog owners, the elderly or for your kids to take care of (though, under parent supervision). Not every dog owner is looking for a running buddy or a dog that can play for hours on end. Chihuahua. Dachshunds are often regarded as small dogs that don’t shed. They’re not ideal for busy owners, unless you work from home. Since purebred dogs often have predictable traits, certain dog breeds tend to be more ideal for a more sedentary lifestyle. It’s worth noting that they can be a little stubborn from time to time. As such, you can count on them being low maintenance dogs for those that just want to cuddle with their dog. This means that these lap dogs tend to prefer cuddling in your laps than going for a game of catch. It doesn’t get more easy than this. Beagles – Very Low Maintenance Dog Breed. They’re always friendly with both strangers and family, so socializing won’t take long. These low maintenance, laid back dogs are perfect for nearly all first time owner due to their responsive temperaments. Facebook Pin Email Print. It’s true that they shed and drool a lot. Either way, grooming will be minimal work. Dachshunds need about 30 minutes of exercise a day. It’s because they were born with a small nasal passage and unable to tolerate much physical activity. Do you want a dog but do not want to put in very much effort? Low maintenance dogs for apartments make great companions even if you have a tiny living space. All pets require different amounts of care, attention and maintenance. To top things off, Poodles need just 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day. No matter how adorable or “cool” they may seem, they won’t be ideal if you can’t commit the time or have the experience to raise them.  =  Though, occasional brushing is still needed. Here’s a look at which dogs shed the least. Physical Characteristics: Medium-length silky, wavy coat; adults have feathering on their ears, chest, legs, feet, and tail. Papillons can be lively and energetic, but that doesn’t mean they need a lot of exercise. Here is a list of the top 10 low-maintenance, large dog breeds (pictures and descriptions to follow): Having a pet is a big lifestyle change. And while they may not be quick learners, their adaptive intelligence is off the charts. Despite this, they have a lot of good aspects. With so many low maintenance options available in the market, you will find a dog you can enjoy and give the best to. Likewise, not all high maintenance dogs will be difficult. They only need a moderate amount of exercise, grooming, training, and health care. Greyhounds thrive on short bursts of exercise. In most cases, 30 to 60 minutes a day is enough. Let's face it, dogs aren't ever really low-maintenance pets. Aside from that, there’s very little involved with caring for a Bichon. These dogs are intelligent, but training them will require patience, as they can be strong-willed dogs. The Best Low-Maintenance Dogs for People with Super-Hectic Lives. Having a single coat reduces the opportunity for shedding in the dog. Instead, they’ll make a yodel sound that’s more fascinating than annoying. Basic training is important to offset their feisty side and provide structure. Standard Poodles may be the best low maintenance option among medium-sized dogs. High maintenance dog breeds, on the contrary, are dogs that require an substantial amount of exercise. Don’t worry. Even so, there are a few factors that contribute to what most would describe as low maintenance. This site is owned and operated by Jenco Digital LLC. Highlights: Gentle, Reserved, Affectionate. Some breeds, like the Border Collie, may need up to two hours per day! Though they’re low maintenance dogs that are great for beginners, they do need to have plenty of human interaction. To kick things off, the Poodle is the second smartest dog breed. Dachshunds have a stubborn side, so they need a good basic foundation of training to give them structure. The Miniature Dachshund generally weighs 11 pounds or less, making him an ideal lap dog. Health is similar to the mastiff (or better) and the lifespan might be a bit longer. They’re often called “America’s Gentleman” of dogs because they’re polite, calm, sweet and gentle. They really hit all the recommended requirements for kids, beginners, seniors and busy owners. Highlights: Companionable, Sensitive, Curious. Highlights: Intelligent, Friendly, Cheerful. Small, cute, and goofy, the Brussels griffon is a delightful dog to know. Saint Bernards don’t need a lot of exercise, at least compared to other dogs of the same size. This dog comes in two sizes: miniature and medium-sized. They’re easy-going dogs with a mild temperament. Although these dogs do get bursts of energy, they generally do not need a lot of exercise. Their gentle disposition makes the awesome to be kept as pets. Miniature Pinscher. But without their exercise, active breeds may show destructive behaviors. At 6 to 12 pounds, the Brussels is another small breed that has no more than moderate grooming needs. The Boston Terrier is both lively and loyal, suited to families with young or elderly members, city apartments or suburban homes. As such, the Frenchie is one of the easiest to care for! Training them to fit into the family will be a piece of cake. Affenpinschers are great low maintenance dogs for three reasons. Highlights: Spirited, Friendly, Dependable. Bichons will appreciate exercise and fun-play, but only 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise will be needed to keep them happy. The Bichon Frise is undeniably a low maintenance breed, though they’re not ideal for owners with a busy schedule. .hide-if-no-js { And some dog owners don’t want to spend countless hours dealing with dog grooming demands. A French Bulldog puppy costs between $2,000 and $2,500 USD. This dog is the happiest when lounging with its owners. Calm dog breeds are typically lap dogs or breeds developed for companionship. Still, that doesn’t mean they don’t need to go for a walk every day. These people-oriented dogs are always eager to please and learn. Despite popular belief, not all large dog breeds are active and full of energy. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Weighing 100 pounds to 130 pounds, this is still a quite large dog. Plus, Basset Hounds shed moderately due to their short double coats. However, aside from the orthopedic problems that affect some mastiffs, these dogs tend to be fairly healthy. 10 Low Maintenance Dog Breeds. One of the most time-consuming aspects of dog upkeep is the grooming. Most Pugs may prefer not to exercise. The best part of these dogs is the temperament. In general, greyhounds tend to be easy to handle and very responsive to training. That said, I recommend these dogs for seniors looking for a companion, or first-time owners. They’re hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed fur like most dogs. So, let’s take a look at some of the best low maintenance dogs, that won’t fit in your handbag: The Barbet. But on the bright side, they’re fairly chill and calm dogs that require minimal exercise. When it comes to learning tricks and commands, few dogs can learn quicker than the Papillon. Thanks to their flat larynxes, they’re just not capable of barking. Most Frenchies respond well to a basic foundation of training and are generally well-behaved if provided with structure. We picked the Basenji as a low maintenance dogs for a few reasons. Many people choose to hand-strip the coat of this dog (pluck the dead hairs) while others just brush regularly to keep the coat healthy. Leaning towards a tiny dog? These true low maintenance dogs do require a lot of exercise, as they’re quite active dogs. The main reason being that they’re truly independent dogs who don’t mind spending some time alone. Providing active dogs with enough exercise is time-costly. Without proper attention, they might develop behavioral issues. These dogs do not have a strong dog odor. Another huge plus for the Lhasa is their low-shedding coat. Low Maintenance Traits. Today's dogs, with the exception of a small show population, are bred for racing, and around 8,000 of them are retired each year, usually between the ages of three and four. Even so, they prefer human companionship, so don’t do it too often. From the laps of Chinese elitists to our very own, Shih Tzus have been low maintenance for centuries. 1. Long-haired dachshunds require a bit more grooming than the short-haired or wire-haired variety. However, they’re even more low maintenance than the Cavaliers (in most cases). This is a huge reason why our shelters are filled with so many “unwanted” dogs. Here are our top 12 low maintenance dogs you can consider today: For example, the Cavalier King Charles are famously called “comforter dogs” because they love to sit in their owners’ laps. That said, low-maintenance dogs tend to have single coats as opposed to double coats. The rest of the time, this dog will be all about the couch. Most dog owners will agree that a calmer, more docile dog tends to be more low maintenance. As such, make sure to brush them weekly to remove dead hair and debris stuck on the coat. One thing to keep in mind is that they’re big dogs with a double coat. Highlights: Obedient, Gentle, Even-tempered. Just a 30 minute session each day will work. So while they still retain their enthusiasm and liveliness from the past, Doxies are also be low maintenance lap dogs. Because many medium-sized dogs were bred for work, there are few low maintenance options. In terms of physical activity, a English Toy Spaniel will often exercise himself. But when the French got them, they bred Bichons into gentle lap dogs. Basset Hounds were first bred as a hunting companion, capable of tracking down the slightest of scents. They don’t pose a risk to people and make terrible guard dogs. Though they can be a bit energetic, they do not need a lot of exercise. If you are looking for an active companion for walks, the Barbet is a great option. 3. As a result, the modern Boston is a happy-go-lucky companion in the home. Although they are adorable, you should steer clear of puppies because they have a lot of energy and need a lot of care during that first year. Though, having a big backyard with a fence can help a lot. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is arguably the most famous spaniel breed, and by far, the most popular spaniel (in America). The often-overlooked Affenpinscher is a fun-sized toy dog that doubles as a spirited companion and lap dog. But even so, their easy-going nature makes up for this. We recommend 30 to 60 minutes daily! Low Energy Large Breed Dogs *Please take note: Low-maintenance big dogs are not always low energy, and low energy big dogs aren’t always low-maintenance big dogs! They’re known as some of the top dogs for kids, and for good reason too! But unless you’re a neat freak, the calm and docile demeanor makes them overall easy dogs. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Plus, they’re all relatively calm and docile sitting in your lap. Although some think that tiny breeds will make a dog owner’s life a bit easier, some of the most undemanding canines are actually on the larger side of dog breeds. The amount of ... 2. If you’re looking for a low maintenance dog, we recommend skipping these breeds. Highlights: Quiet, Obedient, Affectioante. In other words, they’re quick learners that respond well to training. English Toys do tend to develop strong bonds with a single person, though. We narrowed it down to these dog breeds: Highlights: Friendly, Loyal, Sweet-tempered. Highlights: Friendly, Dependable, Intelligent. These dogs are typically calm and docile, even when strangers are around. Though, they can be more low maintenance if you have a large backyard for them to run in. Patience and consistency is needed with high maintenance dogs. In some cases, high maintenance dogs may also need frequent baths, as they primarily live outside and often get into dirt (much like my Aussie!). Many owners struggle with the upkeep of grooming, exercising, training and all the attention that’ll need to go into your furry companion. As they age, they become lazier and more aloof but still affectionate towards their families. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. And finally, Poodles are okay being left alone for long durations. Specifically, lap dogs of Chinese royalty. TheSmartCanine.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. by Karen Tietjen. The Pekingese was bred to be a companion, and they’ve been performing this role for several centuries. And among all the low maintenance dogs, they require the most attention. Physical Characteristics: Apple-shaped heads and pointed muzzles; smooth or long coats come in black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red. 15 Not all recommended low maintenance dogs will be easy to care for. In fact, they have one of the lowest scores for obedience and work intelligence. But despite all this, they have a calm and gentle temperament that’s easy to handle. In addition, the Affenpinscher needs just 30 minutes of daily exercise. Not only do they shed quite a bit, but they’re not the most trainable dogs. They’ve done a good job adjusting to a more mellow and relaxing lifestyle, and it’s easy to see how. However, it won’t require much work at all. After all, they’re prone to obesity. In addition, they respond well to training. This breed requires some grooming but does not need to be trimmed regularly. There are a few Low Maintenance Dog Breeds. They’ll adapt to the owners, so if you’re a first timer or novice trainer, they won’t be too difficult for you. Just make sure positive reinforcement is used. Richard has been raising dogs his whole life, including a Poodle, Pomeranian, Corgi and Australian Shepherd. Height: 8 to 9 inches (standard); 5 to 6 inches (miniature), Weight: 16 to 32 pounds (standard); up to 11 pounds (miniature), Physical Characteristics: Long muzzle and droopy ears; coat varieties include smooth (shorthaired), longhaired, and wire-haired; colors include (but not limited to) black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red with various markings. Highlights: Intelligent, Devoted, Trainable. Dogs make good companions but there is a lot to consider before bringing one into your home. Italian Greyhounds enjoy a moderate amount of play, but for the most part they are content lounging on the couch, ideally in their owner’s lap. While the Beagle does shed, they are so docile and easy-going that you’ll sometimes forget that taking care of a dog can be a difficult task. They are typically healthy pets, though some may inherit or develop heart issues. Cavaliers generally weigh about 11 to 18 pounds and are easy to handle and train. display: none !important; The Greyhound can be left alone for hours at a time, making them great for busy owners. Rather, the Pekingese is always cheerful with a positive vibe. However, not all breeds will be as eager with training. It’s why we think they’re perfect dogs for children! Because of the tuxedo colouring of a Boston Terrier's coat, these dogs are sometimes called "Little American Gentlemen". Although not every Golden will be low maintenance, a well-bred and trained Golden will cause little headache. And do you own any dog on this list? I’ll admit, the Chihuahua doesn’t check all the boxes for a low maintenance dog breed. Considering a small- to medium-sized dog for your new easygoing companion? Not only were they bred down in size, but their personalities were also tailored for those wanting low maintenance dogs. Cute, short coated and strong willed, this low maintenance dog breed requires daily activities to avoid boredom. These dogs tend to have a high work & obedience intelligence, thus they’re very responsive to training. For these reasons, they can make great playmates for kids. Want a dog that will look like a puppy forever? Overall, the English Toy is a much more reserved and quiet spaniel. The Cavalier is a mild-mannered, gentle, affectionate, and adaptable dog. I want to say that it’s very rare for any dog breed to hit every single criteria. Take a look nine examples of low-maintenance dog breeds with qualities that make them ideal housemates for busy pet owners. Contrary to popular belief, this racing dog is not a high-energy dog. These dogs really don’t need much, so a simple stroll would suffice. In other words, they will shed a lot and regular grooming is essential. But some require more effort and time. Read More. Although Newfoundlands are relaxed in the home, they still need their exercise. The best part is they’re low-maintenance dogs perfect for all kinds of owners. Dachshunds are one of the best low maintenance dogs for apartments as they come with a bubbly, clownish personality and require only moderate exercise to be kept in shape. All dogs were bred for different jobs, roles and tasks in society. They have a thin coat which requires the least grooming and are also very obedient to their owners. However, they do have a lively side. Similar to their Cavalier King Charles cousin, the English Toy Spaniel is a toy companion that’s happiest in the laps of their loving owners. Golden Retrievers can be heavy shedders and will need grooming. Otherwise, your new dog may very well end up in one of our overcrowded shelters in a few months. Like many small dogs on this list, the Bichon Frise is a hypoallergenic dog that rarely sheds. A “low maintenance” dog breed can be subjective. And while they are lively dogs, an Affenpinscher enjoys cuddling just as much. Even so, it’s not impossible to find a calm and laid back medium dog that’s easy to care for. Plus, they’re smart enough to take on obedience training with full enthusiasm. No wonder they’re a hit! They don’t need an exuberant amount of energy, like with other terriers, but a daily walk and some human interaction will suffice. Instead, choose a dog with a little less energy. While many are, a few select breeds have the temperament ideal for busy families, seniors and first timers. In a world with all types of working dogs, companion dogs are among the most laid back dogs. Let us know what you think in the comments section below! The smooth-coated Griffon will be low shedders and only require weekly brushing. Some can do with just a few feeds a day, fresh water and air and no need for playtime or walks twice a day for exercise and poop. Depending on the owner, everyone will have different ideas of what basic dog care is. All dogs should be trained, whether it be housetraining, basic obedience or proper behaviors. While terriers tend to be spirited, bold and energetic, the Border Terrier is certainly calmer than most. Specifically, dogs that shed more tend to require more time to care for. Most of the time, they prefer to hang out in the comfort of your lap. But on the bright side, Basset Hounds don’t need as much socializing and training as other dogs. We recommend a short 20 minute stroll through the neighborhood will suffice. Otherwise, grooming is basic. However, they can play hard too. Still, there will be exceptions among individual dogs. Plus, they tend to do well alone for a few hours a day. If you want a really large dog that is not quite as giant and lazy as the mastiff, then the bull mastiff might be right for you. They don’t shed fur, but rather lose strands of hair like humans. Beagles are one of the friendliest dog breeds around. However, they’re not big dogs and cleaning up after them shouldn’t be much of a problem. As long as they have enough food and water, they’ll be fine. If you appreciate the personality and looks of a greyhound but would prefer a smaller dog, consider a whippet. Keep on reading to learn more about the best low maintenance dogs. French Bulldogs check all the boxes. What we love about these dogs is that they’re not heavy shedders year-round. Whether it be tracking, herding, retrieving or companionship, dogs are built with the physical attributes to perform those jobs. But despite all the Chihuahua’s “flaws,” they’re some of the most independent toy dogs you’ll be able to find. The gleeful Frenchie makes the perfect loafing companion. They need a lot of love, attention, and affection. Greyhounds are known as the “fastest dog breed” in the world. 30 Low Maintenance Dogs: Beginners, Seniors & Busy Families The top dog on today’s list of the top low maintenance dogs is the Beagle! The Cavalier has some grooming needs, such as regular hair brushing, ear cleaning, and the occasional trip to a groomer. But if you do want to bring a precious pooch into your family, consider a more low-maintenance breed. Standing at 19-24.5 inches and weighing 35-65 pounds, the solidly built Bardet definitely doesn’t feel like a toy breed. Overall, they’re quite obedient and respond well to training and commands. As such, dog breeds that rarely shed, such as hypoallergenic breeds, are top consideration. Nevertheless, Dachshunds are clever dogs with a loyalty seen in few breeds. Plus, they’re some of the most intelligent large dogs, so training will be a breeze. Having a dog that rarely sheds or drools may reduce your risk of having an allergic reaction. This low maintenance dog is a lazy puppy, but they don’t come cheap. But it can also be very difficult. With enough food and water, Chihuahuas can be left alone for 9 to 10 hours. In addition, the breed is fairly healthy and well-mannered. And while they do shed, these small dogs don’t have much fur to begin with. To top things off, the Shih Tzu is yet another hypoallergenic dog breed. Most Chihuahuas are relatively healthy. Daily walks should be enough to keep your bull mastiff happy and healthy. You might want to consider a middle-aged or senior dog, although, senior dogs may eventually need more medical care. Here is a list of low maintenance pets for kids that you can consider having at home. If you are looking to adopt or get a dog that is low in maintenance, check out the top 10 most low maintenance dog breeds that will fit into your family. After all, these dogs were bred to hunt in packs, so they’re always with others. However, this breed has all the qualities to make them true low maintenance dogs. In fact, with their short little legs and long bodies, too much running and jumping can actually exacerbate any inherited spinal issues. On one hand, you’ll have dogs that require 1 to 2 hours of physical activity each day. Not only do they usually need less exercise, but they’re likely not going to be always pestering their owners to play with them. Got your heart set on a giant couch potato dog? There is a dog out there for everyone who wants and has the ability to care for one. The important thing is these These dogs often seek for less attention as they can maintain good relationship with the other pets. Still, you’ll want to get them at least an hour of exercise each day – which really isn’t that bad if compared to other medium-sized dogs. But that’s not to say they don’t have any shortcomings when it comes to easy dog care. Larger dogs may also have a dominant personality and will require a firm hand. In addition, some breeds are more independent than others, thus requiring less attention. That’s not to say they are not playful and mischievous – they’re just more easy-going in the home. Most greyhounds are couch potatoes that enjoy loafing around with their owners. Perhaps you are working unsociable hours, or you have a large family. They’re very smart dogs that respond well to training. Having a pet join your family is one of the most rewarding, powerful and exciting things you can do. Here are a few according to FemaleNetwork.com that may fit in with your domestic, personal and time constraints. But when it comes to physical exercise, the Tibetan Spaniel doesn’t need much at all. Therefore, moderate daily exercise is usually just right for this breed. Rather, they just need human companionship. He's always working with animal shelters and dog rescues because of his passion for all dogs. The faithful and lively Cocker Spaniel is the perfect addition for owners needing an easy dog to take care of. }. Combine this with the high intelligence, and you have yourself an obedient and trainable dog. Giving them 30 to 60 minutes per day should be enough. We don’t mean you’ll need to put in work to care for them. The French Bulldog is a type of bulldog bred specifically for companionship. It’s hard to argue that the Shih Tzu is a difficult dog breed to keep. A low maintenance dog possesses several characteristics that guarantee less costs and time consumption. Border Terriers are mild-tempered dogs with a loving side that meshes well into any household. They’ll need roughly 30 minutes each day to remain healthy and happy. Physical Characteristics: Sturdy, compact dog breed with a large head, short snout, and bat-like ears. These dogs are naturally hyper, and without exercise, can be destructive. These will also be dog breeds that require regular grooming – sometimes brushing every day! The Dachshund is the perfect couch buddy and one of the best low maintenance dogs. Though fairly large dogs, they don’t require a lot of exercise. It’s recommended they get 1-2 hours of exercise each day. Of course, exercise requirement plays a huge role in determining whether a dog is considered low maintenance. 7 Low-maintenance dogs come in all shapes and sizes. However, you’ll want to regularly check their ears, as they can get infected. Bored dogs have a tendency to become frustrated and even depressed. Depending on your individual Dane, they may require 30 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. They’re not all that excited about physical activity, but they can easily turn into overweight lounge dogs without it. However, with the right owner and the right environment, they can make fairly easy dogs. There’s plenty of debate over whether the St Bernard should be considered a low maintenance dog breed. They’re not hypoallergenic dogs, though they do have an easy-to-care-for single coat that they will often groom themselves. If you’re a busy person, we’ve come up with a list of the 30 most low-maintenance dog breeds to help with your decision. Though all dogs need regular veterinary care, pampering, exercise and grooming, some dog breeds are simply more independent. It’s true that the Chin is an independent breed and can be left alone for a few hours at a time. Lhasas are one of the few companion lap dogs that are perfectly fine with being home alone for an extended period of time. Plus, you won’t see typical coat-blowing during shedding season. Pets That Require Low Maintenance. As a result, they score poorly in both obedience and working intelligence. This list wouldn’t be complete without the fan-favorite Pug. These dogs come in two coat variations. Some are called nanny dogs because they can actually “help out” around the home. Regardless, you won’t have a hard time with a Basset. Highlights: Friendly, Lively, Affectionate. Shedding is not a huge concern with the Havanese. Their high price tag may have something to do with their ever growing popularity, it certainly pays to be the 4th most popular dog … Highlights: Obedient, Loving, Even-tempered. Instead, they’ll shed their coats only during shedding season. But at the same time, they don’t need as much exercise as many of the other breeds. Avoid carrying these dogs everywhere and babying them too much. Frenchies don’t shed much, either. Like many other small Chinese dog breeds, Pugs were developed to be lap dogs. But at the same time, a Dane will require human interaction, as they tend to be social dogs that thrive in a loving environment.