We all love warm hugs from our canine friends and usually crave having a furry friend at our home. Similarly, these furry pals love to be with their humans and need constant care, such as grooming, playing, training, frequent health checkups, etc.
However, because of this intense demand, having them in a hectic schedule can be extremely difficult. For example, adopting a furry friend might seem impossible if you have a large family and corporate job or toss between work, family, freelancing, and volunteering on weekends.
Here, experts suggest getting a low-maintenance breed of dogs. Even if you don't have time constraints, you are a new pet parent, opt for low-maintenance dog breeds for your home.
Their lower needs will save you from being a bad pet parent (mistakes are natural for first-timers or busy people). They come in both large and small sizes. Thus, they are suitable for every home.
Do you want to know more about it? Then stay tuned and keep reading, because in today’s blog, we will discuss the 21 best low-maintenance dog breeds for home use.
Let’s start!
Characteristics of a Low-Maintenance Dog
Raising or holding a paw needs a lot of responsibilities. It starts with understanding them correctly, and as they can't express their emotions or issues, pet parent must know how to read their minds.
It helps to diagnose many underlying problems and contributes to keeping a dog happy. Hence, before getting into the breed list, one must know the characteristics that make them low-maintenance dogs.
Here, please note that there are no 'no-maintenance' dogs. All dogs need a certain amount of care, attention, and immense love.
Here are the characteristics of low-maintenance dogs:
1. Calm and Easy Going
99.9% of low-maintenance dog breeds are calm and easygoing. They usually have fewer mood swings and no barking issues. This helps their owners handle them easily and makes them suitable for elderly people.
2. Sociable
Low-maintenance dog breeds are known for their sociable nature. They are kind and well-behaved with other breeds, kids, and strangers. Additionally, they usually don’t chase smaller animals, so handling them outdoors doesn't give the owner a headache.
3. Energy Level and Independent Nature
Low-maintenance dog breeds have lower energy levels. Hence, they don't create chaos and are suitable for a fast life and apartment living.
Additionally, they are mostly independent and love to do their chores. For example, if you put their food in the bowl and instruct them properly, they will eat it by themselves. They don't need hand feeding.
4. Shedding Nature
If you are scared of shedding, be assured that almost all low-maintenance dog breeds have zero shedding and need less grooming. Even if they have long coats, you can keep them short to keep the whole thing low-key.
5. Fewer Health Checkups
One of the biggest conveniences of low-maintenance dog breeds is that they need fewer health checkups.
However, this also depends on you. To reduce their health issues, you must keep them healthy (with the right food and sleeping habits) and happy (by providing enough assistance or interactive toys).
21 Best Low Maintenance Dog Breeds
As stated, there is no 'zero-maintenance' dog. However, some canine friends require less grooming and other care. They also don't like to spend time outdoors. Instead, they love to sit beside their human and stare at them or sleep all day.
They usually have low energy levels and don't love intense exercises or long walks. 10 to 15 minutes of moderate walking is enough for them, and some don't even like it. They fulfill the exercise requirement by playing and jumping inside their room.
Because of these features, these breeds are suitable for apartment living, too.
Here is a list of the best low-maintenance dog breeds to choose your best friend without hustle.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most popular companion dogs worldwide. Originally, breeders raised them as royal companion dogs, but now they care for everyone.
Their small appearance, sweet temperament, and non-shedding features make them ideal for apartment living and low-maintenance dog breeds. They only need a few baths in a year.
Thus, they are perfect for your hectic schedule. Additionally, they have significantly low energy levels, and a short walk is enough. A step in harness is a good option to ensure both comfort and control.
Features of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Height: 30-33 cm (male and female)
- Weight: 5.9 – 8.2 kg (male), 5.9 – 8.2 kg (female)
- Color: Black & tan, tri-color, Blenheim, ruby
- Life expectancy: 9 – 14 years
- Personality: Friendly, sociable, loyal, even-tempered, and good with kids and other breeds.
- Energy Level: Lower energy
2. Pug
Pugs hold the second position on this list because they are one of the most cute low-maintenance dog breeds.
They are calm and quiet and love to stay indoors. However, experts suggest taking them for a walk for exercise for half an hour only. This is enough for them and will prevent obesity.
Although they shed less or almost no fur, it is important to brush them once a day or thrice a week to keep the fur zero.
Features of Pug:
- Height: 30 – 36 cm (male), 25 – 30 cm (female)
- Weight: 8-9 kg (male), 6-8 kg (female)
- Color: Black, fawn, silver fawn, apricot
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Charming, clever, docile, social, playful, and kid-friendly. They can’t tolerate harsh weather.
- Energy Level: Medium. However, they can show high energy if they get the right companion to play.
3. Basset Hound
Basset hounds are originally bred to hunt smaller animals like rabbits. Currently, they are popular companion dogs. The reasons for this popularity are their sweet temperament and minor appearance. Making an ideal apartment and low-maintenance dog.
Bassets love to sleep, so if you own one, you will see them logging around the home. However, one hour of exercise or play is crucial to keep them healthy.
Additionally, since Bassets do not shed much, brushing them once a week is enough.
Features of Basset Hound:
- Height: 30–38 cm (male), 28–36 cm (female).
- Weight: 25–34 kg (male), 20–29 kg (female)
- Color: Black & brown, lemon & white, tri-color, white & chocolate, red & white, black & white
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Personality: Sweet-tempered, friendly, loyal, affectionate, loves to play, and sociable
- Energy Level: Typically lazy and low-energy
4. French Bulldog
French bulldogs are one of the cutest, low-maintenance dog breeds. They are polite and gentle dogs, so they need little time for basic training and help their human friends manage their busy schedules.
Authentically, Frenchie’s are high-energy dogs. However, they are extremely lazy and behave like a couch potato. Consequently, taking them to exercise is a task.
Please note that they are prone to brachycephalic syndrome. Therefore, keep an eye on if you are bringing one.
Features of French Bulldog:
- Height: 27–35 cm (male), 24–32 cm (female)
- Weight: 9-14 kg (male), 9-13 kg (female)
- Color: White, brindle, fawn, tan, brindle, white
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Personality: Playful, lively, loyal, friendly and athletic
- Energy Level: Moderate to lower energy
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds are one of the best dog breeds for low maintenance. They are soft and docile. Along with that are playful, social, loyal, and calm dogs.
They come in medium and small sizes, and both types are low-maintenance and ideal for apartment living. The Dachshund, also known as the sausage dog, has quite a sturdy and healthy body. They also have small coats and do not shed at all.
However, it is necessary to take them for exercise, brush them, and comb their coats (once a week).
Features of Dachshund:
- Height: Miniature- 13–15 cm (male and female), Standard: 20–23 cm (male and female)
- Weight: Miniature- 5.0 kg (male and female) Standard- 7.3–14.5 kg (male and female)
- Color: Black, black and tan, blue & tan, chocolate & tan, chocolate & cream, cream, tan and red
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
- Personality: Clever, friendly, playful, loyal and stubborn
- Energy Level: Moderate energy. Requires regular exercise
6. Boston Terrier
Boston terriers are one of the top low-maintenance dog breeds worldwide. They are gentle, small, and affectionate towards their humans. They love to spend time indoors and do not need much care.
However, Terriers are most suitable for houses with a small yard. They love to stay active rather than play around. Terriers also love to hang around with their humans and are quite people-oriented.
Therefore, if your office has a pet-friendly environment, you can take them.
Features of Boston Terrier:
- Height: 38 – 43 cm (male and female)
- Weight: 3-11 kg (male and female)
- Color: Black and white, seal and white, brindle and white
- Life expectancy: 11.8 years
- Personality: Playful, friendly, and happy-to-go-lucky
- Energy Level: High energy
7. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are another small, easy, low-maintenance dog breed. People recognize them for their affection for their owners and their strong bond with their family. They are mostly clingy and follow their owners everywhere they go.
Additionally, they are kid-friendly and well-behaved with other pets.
However, they can sometimes be too stubborn, which makes training difficult. To ensure they become obedient, consider hiring an experienced trainer from the start or explore our guide on training a stubborn dog.
Please note that they are prone to shedding; thus, do regular brushing.
Features of Brussels Griffon:
- Height: 9-11 inches (male and female)
- Weight: 2-4 kg (male and female)
- Color: Black, belge, black & tan, red, brown, blue
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Sensitive, self-important, alert, curious and watchful,
- Energy Level: Medium energy
8. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are probably the smallest dogs in the world. People know them for their deep-rooted companionship, and their size makes them the perfect lap dog.
Although they are some of the best low-maintenance dogs ever, they are high-energy dogs and require the assistance of their owners to channel the energy in the right direction.
Please note that they are one of the most aggressive dog breeds in the world. Therefore, take care of it from an early age.
A Chihuahua needs almost no maintenance except love and training. However, if you bring a long-haired Chihuahua home, remember to brush it regularly.
Features of Chihuahua:
- Height: 15-25 cm (male and female)
- Weight: 2.8 to 3.7 kg (male) and 1.5 – 3 kg (female)
- Color: All colors apart from marle
- Life expectancy: 12-20 years
- Personality: Lively, alert, aggressive, quick, devoted and courageous
- Energy Level: High energy
9. Italian Greyhound
You must go for an Italian Greyhound if you are searching for large, calm, low-maintenance dog breeds.
Because of their stunning appearance and aesthetic look, they have been the subject of paintings for many years.
Apart from their beauty, people recognize them for their sensitive soul, sweet and gentle nature, and low-maintenance lifestyle.
Their exceptionally short coats shed minimally, and they are also almost one hundred percent hypoallergenic. Hence, even if you are allergic, you can have them.
Please note they love to have makeovers and look good. It elevates their mental health.
Features of Italian Greyhound:
- Height: 32 to 28 cm (male and female)
- Weight: Not more than 5 kg (male and female)
- Color: Deep black, grey or isabelline
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Personality: Affectionate, naughty, intelligent, agile, athletic and companionable
- Energy Level: Moderate to high energy
10. Whippet
Whippets are quiet maintenance dogs, and people know them for their graceful characteristics.
Although most of the low-maintenance dog breeds on this list love to stay indoors or be lap dogs, the whippet is not.
Whippets are famous for their speed, and dog lovers have named them 'Poor Man's Racehorse' because of this. Additionally, their quite athletic bodies make them ideal guard dogs, too.
Despite these features, whippets are low-maintenance and adjustable. They can fit any cozy, smaller apartment.
Features of Whippet:
- Height: 47–51 cm (male), 44–47 cm (female)
- Weight: 6.8-19 kg (male and female)
- Color: White, black, brindle, fawn
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Affectionate, lively, intelligent, friendly, gentle and quiet
- Energy Level: High energy but easily manageable
11. Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers might be one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Many movies have cast them because of their cute look and flexible nature. Additionally, they are famous for their protective nature.
The cherry on top is that Labrador retrievers are quite low-maintenance. Although they are high-energy dogs, they love to keep their activities inside the home.
However, experts suggest providing at least one hour of exercise to avoid obesity.
Also, they don’t shed much. If you brush them regularly, the shedding amount is almost zero.
Features of Labrador Retriever:
- Height: 57–62 cm (male), 55–60 cm (female)
- Weight: 29–36 kg (male), 25–32 kg (female)
- Color: Black, chocolate, yellow
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Personality: Outgoing, even-tempered, intelligent, kind and friendly,
- Energy Level: High energy
12. Papillon
Papillon is another small, calm, low-maintenance dog breed known for its beauty. Its long ears and fur grab the attention first.
Although they are pretty furry and have long coats, brushing them is enough. This means that you will not need to invest time in them.
Moreover, they are quite intelligent, easy to train, and adaptive to different spaces. These features make papillon ideal for city life.
Features of Papillon:
- Height: 20 – 28 cm (male), 20 – 28 cm (female)
- Weight: 3.6 – 4.5 kg (male), 3.2 – 4.1 kg (female)
- Color: White, sable, red & white, white & chocolate, black & white, fawn & white
- Life expectancy: 13-15 years
- Personality: Intelligent, friendly, alert, energetic, and happy
- Energy Level: Low to moderate energy
13. Beagle
Beagles are the perfect combination of low maintenance, moderate energy, and lively nature, and they can change your life with their paw prints forever.
Their short coat requires no time and shed less. Also, they do not have high energy for intense exercise or hours of outdoor playing, so their energy is appropriate for indoor playing.
However, before bringing a beagle, please note that they need constant attention and love. Hence, if you are too busy, it is better to avoid them.
Features of Beagle:
- Height: 36–41 cm (male), 33–38 cm (female)
- Weight: 10–11 kg (male), 9–10 kg (female)
- Color: Lemon & white, tri-color, white & chocolate, chocolate tri, white & tan, orange & white, red & white
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Friendly, bold, excitable, determined, independent and gentle
- Energy Level: High energy
14. Bull Mastiff
You might be shocked by this name; however, bull mastiffs are one of the best low-maintenance dog breeds in the world. They have a short coat that requires minimal maintenance and moderate exercise to stay fit.
They love to be cozy at home. However, don't dare question their protecting ability based on this. They are also among the best guards.
Please note that bull mastiffs need space to be comfortable. Thus, bring them only if you have a large home.
Features of Bull Mastiff:
- Height: 64–68 cm (male), 61–66 cm (female)
- Weight: 50–59 kg (male), 45–54 kg (female)
- Color: Brindle, fawn, red
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Personality: Powerful, protective, reliable, docile, alert, loyal and reserved
- Energy Level: Moderate energy
15. Shiba Inu
Do you have a kid at home looking for a furry friend? You can go to Shiba Inu.
They are one of the most popular medium-sized maintenance dog breeds that will not consume much time but fill your life with unconditional love and funny moments.
They are loving, social, gentle, and independent dogs. However, they have a bit shedding issue. Thus, you need minimal grooming. Experts also suggest brushing every day to minimize the shedding.
Features of Shiba Inu:
- Height: 35–43 cm (male), 33–41 cm (female)
- Weight: 8–11 kg (male), 6.8–9 kg (female)
- Color: Red sesame, black & tan, black sesame, cream, red, sesame
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Charming, keen, alert, fearless, confident and faithful
- Energy Level: High energy
16. Maltese
Maltese belongs to the toy group and is one of the best low-maintenance lapdogs in the canine world. Although they have silk coats, floppy ears, and curled tails, they don't take much time for maintenance.
Only brushing them two to three times in a week is enough. Here, the experts suggest spraying a mist on the coat before brushing for a smoother experience, less pain, and fewer tangles.
Please note that Maltese is excellent with kids; however, teach kids to handle them properly. Maltese can’t tolerate rough handling or behavior.
Features of Maltese:
- Height: 21–25 cm (male), 20–23 cm (female)
- Weight: 3–4 kg (male and female)
- Color: White
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Personality: Playful, affectionate, intelligent, docile, lively and sweet-tempered,
- Energy Level: High energy, extremely playful
17. Basenji
Often, you will find Basenji's in the list of the least intelligent dog breeds. Well, it is not because they are dumb; it is because they are independent.
Undoubtedly, it creates an issue while training, but it is one of the best features of low-maintenance dogs. Basenji is not going to be clingy with you or not ask a lot of your time. They love to stay in their world.
However, they need regular outside activities. For that, you can appoint an experienced trainer. They will take care of their obedience level and playtime.
Basenji does not need a lot of grooming and usually stays fit.
Features of Basenji:
- Height: 41–43 cm (male), 38–41 cm (female)
- Weight: 9-11 kg (male and female)
- Color: Black, brindle, tri-color, black & white, tan, red
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
- Personality: Curious, intelligent, quiet, affectionate, playful and alert,
- Energy Level: High energy, active dog
18. Newfoundland
Are you fond of large dogs? If yes, you can go to Newfoundland. Newfoundland or Newfies is a large, friendly, low-maintenance, intelligent, easy-to-train, and muscular dog breed.
They have a lot of fur at the grooming part, and brushing them once a week is fine. However, you must take them to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks.
For the exercise part, hours of swim or a 30-minute walk is enough.
Take note: Never shave your coat to keep them healthy.
Features of Newfoundland:
- Height: 69–71 cm (male), 63–66 cm (female)
- Weight: 65–80 kg (male), 55–65 kg (female)
- Color: Black, black & white, grey, brown
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Personality: Sweet-tempered, gentle, and trainable
- Energy Level: Medium energy
19. Broholmer
Broholmer is another dog breed perfect for a family with kids. They are low maintenance and form a perfect bond with kids.
Additionally, people recognize Broholmer for its robust health features. Usually, they stay fit and don't need frequent vet visits.
On the grooming part, they have short coats which don't need much maintenance. Although it is a fact that they need significant exercise, playing with kids can fulfill that.
However, experts suggest keeping an eye on dietary habits to keep them healthy.
Features of Broholmer:
- Height: 75 cm (male), 70 cm (female)
- Weight: 50–68 kg (male), 41–59 kg (female)
- Color: Yellow, solid black, red golden
- Life expectancy: 7-12 years
- Personality: Calm, docile, and even-tempered
- Energy Level: Medium energy
20. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are one of the most familiar breeds worldwide. They are famous because of their sweet-loving personalities. They have the power to form a bond with everyone they meet, especially with kids.
They are pretty low-maintenance dogs and do not require hours of intense exercise. Moderate grooming (once or twice a week), a short walk, and lots of love are enough to keep a Golden Retriever at your home.
Experts suggest keeping grooming tools nearby so that you can brush messy coats whenever you see them.
Features of Golden Retriever:
- Height: 56–61 cm (male), 51–56 cm (female)
- Weight: 30–34 kg (male), 25-32 kg (female)
- Color: Dark golden, cream, light Golden, golden
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Personality: Intelligent, kind, friendly, reliable and trustworthy
- Energy Level: High energy
21. Havanese
Havanese is one of the best dog breeds with low maintenance features, a cute look, and an adaptable nature. They are excellent with kids and even other dogs.
One of the best parts of Havanese is that they are one of the top-rated watchdogs.
Although the Havanese is originally from Cuba, they are more popular among American city dwellers. Their non-time-consuming qualities, quick adaptability, and small, sturdy physiques explain their popularity.
Havanese has silky, soft coats. However, those coats need less care than any other furry pal. Brushing them once a day is okay. Additionally, you can do a hairdo like Puli or put a short clip to make them look cuter.
Features of Havanese:
- Height: 9 inches (male and female)
- Weight: 4.5 – 7.3 kg (male and female)
- Color: Black, white, fawn, mahogany, Havana brown, tobacco
- Life expectancy: 14 – 16 years
- Personality: Affectionate, playful, intelligent, responsive, gentle and companionable
- Energy Level: Medium energy
As stated, every dog breed needs some maintenance or care. Most importantly, they need love and care to become one of the most essential parts of your family.
People consider the mentioned dog breeds low maintenance because they don't need regular brushing or hours of intense exercise, which consumes less time.
However, no one is perfect. Some breeds need brushing once or twice a week or daily and a vet visit. Therefore, consider these facts carefully and consult a vet before choosing a low-maintenance dog breed for your home.
How to Select the Perfect Low-maintenance Dog Breed?
Dogs are not just pieces of furniture to elevate your mind or for recreation. They are your family members. Having a dog is a lifetime commitment, and you need to be extremely careful about their comfort, happiness, and overall well-being because they can't share your issues.
Additionally, considering factors like their shedding, hypoallergenic issues, health care, space needs, healthcare support, etc., is crucial before bringing them home.
Ideally, if you are looking for a low-maintenance dog, you should go for dogs that have low shedding issues, less need for grooming, higher intelligence power (because it makes the training process easier), lower need for exercise, a history of good health, and are independent (because they will not ask for your time).
Avoid dogs like Vizsla or Husky if you have too much time constraint because they have a bit of a separation issue. They feel anxious when someone leaves them unattended.
Adopt a Low-Maintenances Dog to Make Your Life Paw-some
If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog breed for your home, hopefully, this list has helped you. Although all these dogs require a negligible amount of time or effort to keep them happy and fit, try to give them ample time.
Because, for them, you are the world. They don't have an office or friends. Thus, try to be their best friend, too.
Even in your hectic schedule, to make you happy from the core, you can gift a makeover to your canine friend.
You can use a customized pet ID charm from Doodle Couture. Also, you can look at their bandana and other accessories to enhance your dog's look.
What are you thinking about? Adopt your lifetime friend now.
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