Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Getting Started

No fuss, all love: Meet the top breeds of low-maintenance dogs that will steal your heart

Looking for a canine breed that won't overwhelm you with work? These low-maintenance dogs are best

Veronica Sparks
By
A brown and white Basset Hound sleeping in a blue chair.
Daniel Myjones/Shutterstock

Owning a dog can be a fulfilling experience, but it also requires time, effort, and commitment. If you’re leading a busy life, struggle with mobility issues, or prefer a more laid-back approach to being a dog parent, low-maintenance dogs can be the perfect companions.

These dogs offer all the love and affection without the fuss and extensive care requirements. Let’s talk about what makes a furry friend a low-maintenance one and introduce you to the top breeds of low-maintenance pups that will steal your heart.

Recommended Videos

What are low-maintenance dogs?

When it comes to choosing a dog, different breeds have varying needs and characteristics. Some breeds demand constant attention, regular grooming, and extensive exercise, while others are more independent and require minimal care. Low-maintenance canines fall into the latter category. They’re generally independent, adaptable, and easygoing, making them suitable for busy individuals, seniors, or those who prefer a more relaxed pet ownership experience.

Close-up of a Cavalier King Charles spaniel.
Paulke/Pixabay

Top breeds of low-maintenance dogs

The following are low-maintenance dog breeds, meaning their grooming requirements are typically only an occasional coat brushing session. While their exercise needs are typically minimal, even these easygoing, low-maintenance dogs should be taken on daily walks and should have indoor playtime to keep them mentally engaged and prevent health issues like weight gain.

  • Labrador retriever: A friendly, outgoing, and intelligent dog breed
  • Chihuahua: Known for their lively, alert, and adaptable nature
  • Basset hound: Gentle, easygoing, and affectionate temperament, but requires regular ear cleaning
  • Cavalier King Charles spaniel: Known for their friendly, affectionate, and adaptable temperament
  • French bulldog: Easygoing, affectionate, and adaptable
  • Boston terrier: Friendly, intelligent, and adaptable temperament
  • Pug: Charming, mischievous, and adaptable temperament, but their adorable facial wrinkles do require regular cleaning
  • Bullmastiffs: Gentle, loyal, and protective
  • Dachshunds: Curious, lively, and independent temperament
  • Greyhounds: Gentle, quiet, and independent nature
  • Basenji: Intelligent, independent, and energetic
  • Shiba Inu: Alert, bold, and independent — they have moderate grooming needs, but higher exercise requirements meet their physical and mental stimulation needs
A woman with long hair holds a pug while riding on the city bus
hedgehog94/Shutterstock

Tips for taking care of low-maintenance dogs

While low-maintenance dogs require less overall work, it’s still important to provide them with proper care to ensure their well-being and happiness. Here are some tips for taking care of low-maintenance pups:

  • Regular exercise: Even though they may require less exercise compared to other breeds, it’s still essential to provide daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
  • Proper nutrition: Feed your low-maintenance dog a balanced diet tailored to their specific needs and consult with a veterinarian to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health.
  • Regular grooming: While low-maintenance dogs may not require extensive grooming, regular brushing and occasional baths are still important to keep their coats healthy and free from matting or debris.
  • Socialization and training: Even though low-maintenance dogs are generally easygoing, it’s crucial to socialize them from a young age and provide basic training to ensure they develop good manners and behaviors.
  • Regular vet checkups: Of course, just like any other dog, low-maintenance breeds absolutely need regular veterinary care. This includes vaccinations, preventive treatments for fleas and ticks, and routine checkups to detect any potential health issues as early as possible to ensure prompt treatment.

Low-maintenance dog breeds offer a fantastic option if you’re in need of a canine companion without the added fuss and extensive care requirements. The top breeds are known for their easygoing nature, minimal grooming needs, and moderate exercise requirements. These furry friends can bring immense joy and love into your life while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Veronica Sparks
Veronica Sparks
Contributor
Veronica Sparks is a writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who loves writing about gardening, home décor, and DIY life. She’s…
The 6 biggest myths about Chihuahuas, debunked once and for all
Chihuahua fact or fiction? Here's the truth behind 6 common myths about these small dogs
A black Chihuahua against a yellow backdrop

Chihuahuas are a small breed with a big personality. Some have a Napoleon complex — they totally think they can take on the mail carrier, and they will threaten to do so. Purebred Chihuahuas don’t exceed 6 pounds, so their valiant efforts can be more comedic than anything. Their reputation as an opinionated, snuggly, and incredibly loyal breed precedes them, and more than a few dog owners dream of being a Chihuahua's favorite person.
However, not every part of their reputation is true, and there are more than a few myths about these lovable dogs. We’re debunking them and giving you straight Chihuahua facts.

Myth 1: Chihuahuas don’t need much exercise
This statement is one of the biggest Chihuahua myths. Though the breed is small, Chihuahuas are full of energy and need stimulation. Any dog can become overweight, and Chihuahuas are particularly prone to obesity. Physical activity is one way to keep your Chihuahua healthy. While they don’t need as much physical activity as a larger breed, such as a Labrador Retriever, they need frequent exercise. About 30 minutes of walking and playing per day should do, and it’s a great way to bond. Some dogs may need more or less, depending on their age and overall health. Talk to your vet.

Read more
These national parks are stunning in the fall – and allow your dog to visit, too
These 4 beautiful national parks have pet-friendly attractions
Couple looking at map on fall trail with dog.

With cooler fall temperatures just around the corner, pet parents dream of taking their dogs on long outdoor adventures. Some might even be planning pet-friendly getaways. Autumn is certainly a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy nature, and where better to do this than in a U.S. national park? Many of these wonderful parks are pet-friendly. Here we highlight four national parks that are incredible in the fall and perfect for both of you.

Are dogs allowed in national parks?
The good news is that most national parks do allow pets in some areas and under certain conditions. Only a few deny pets in all parts of the park — so you can easily plan an outing or vacation for you and your four-legged friend. However, it's important to follow the rules, especially when it comes to hiking and wildlife. The National Park Service uses the acronym B.A.R.K. to sum up the four basic principles you should follow while in the parks with your pets. It stands for:

Read more
These are the 6 dog breeds that shed most in fall
Fall-shedding dog breeds and how to cut down on fur at home
A pomeranian with a yellow background

We love a lot about fall — the crisp breezes, the indescribable scent in the air, and the glorious colors as the temperatures begin to dip. One thing we don't love as much? The piles and piles of dog hair. Many canines go through a shed in the spring, but some breeds also lose their hair in the fall. Wondering what dog breed sheds the most? Which pets force you to use the vacuum more frequently during the autumn season? We're here to tell you what dog breeds shed in the fall.

Why do some dogs have double coats?
Let's cover why dogs shed in the first place. While many dog breeds have single coats, some dogs are double-coated dogs, meaning they have a top coat, known as a guard coat, and a secondary undercoat made up of short, dense hairs, called an undercoat.

Read more