20 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Busy Owners

If you want a companion but are often busy, you need a low-maintenance dog breed or one that is typically easy to care for. Look for a pup that needs minimal exercise, grooming, and training, or infrequent health care needs. Lower maintenance dogs come in all sizes large and small, so you're sure to find a good match.

Remember, even if you get a low-maintenance breed, the truth is that there is no such thing as a maintenance-free dog. All dogs require some time and attention. If you can't devote the time to properly care for a dog, consider bringing home a cat or other pet instead.

These 20 low-maintenance dog breeds have qualities that make them ideal housemates for busy pet parents.

01 of 20

Dachshund

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The dachshund is a lovable and affectionate dog breed that makes a great couch buddy. This dog comes in two sizes: miniature and medium-sized. Long-haired doxies require a bit more grooming than the short-haired or wire-haired varieties. All can make excellent companions.

Dachshunds have a stubborn side and will need basic training to give them structure. This breed usually only requires a moderate amount of exercise. With their short little legs and long bodies, excessive running and jumping can exacerbate or cause spinal issues.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 8 to 9 inches (standard); 5 to 6 inches (miniature)
Weight: 16 to 32 pounds (standard); up to 11 pounds (miniature)
Personality/Temperament: Energetic, lovable, endearing
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth (short-haired), long-haired, and wire-haired; colors include black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red with various markings
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
02 of 20

Greyhound

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Contrary to popular belief, this racing dog is not a high-energy dog. Most greyhounds are couch potatoes that enjoy loafing around with their family. They enjoy daily walks and the occasional chance to run, but they do not need a large amount of exercise.

Most greyhounds have overall good health. In general, greyhounds tend to be easy to handle and very responsive to training. This dog is large but not giant. If you appreciate their personality and looks but would prefer a smaller dog, consider a whippet.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 25 to 30 inches
Weight: 60 to 80 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Even-tempered, intelligent, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short and smooth; colors include black, blue, fawn, red, white, and various shades of brindle, or a combination of any of these colors
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
03 of 20

French Bulldog

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The gleeful Frenchie is one of the most popular dog breeds, and makes the perfect loafing companion. French bulldogs are among the most cheerful of all dog breeds. Although they have a good deal of energy, they tend to lack endurance. Moderate daily exercise is usually suitable for this breed, though outdoor activities should be limited when it is very hot or humid.

Most Frenchies respond well to basic training and are generally well-behaved if provided with structure. This breed has minimal grooming needs but may have various skin issues. Due to their shortened muzzle, there's a high potential for brachycephalic syndrome.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 19 to 28 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Playful, friendly, loyal, affectionate, lively, sociable
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, smooth; brindle, fawn, white, or combination of brindle and white or fawn and white
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
04 of 20

Shih Tzu

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The shih tzu is a great choice if you’re looking for an adorable little dog that can easily live in a small house or apartment. These charming canines love getting all of your attention, so don’t be surprised when they are around you all the time and asking to cuddle with you.

With a moderate energy level, you’ll need to give your shih tzu daily exercise, and training is also necessary to prevent this smart dog from becoming too stubborn. In terms of grooming, these hypoallergenic dogs shed minimally, but weekly brushing will help keep the coat soft and smooth, while regular trims will keep it at the appropriate length.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 8 to 11 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, friendly, playful
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, double coat; colors include black, white, blue, gold, liver, or combinations
Life Span: 10 to 16 years

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05 of 20

Basset Hound

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The medium-sized basset hound is known for being devoted to their family and calm. These dogs can also be stubborn and independent, so training them while they’re puppies is necessary. These dogs can shed quite a bit, so weekly brushing will help keep the skin and coat healthy while also minimizing the amount of fur that ends up throughout your home.

They don’t have a high energy level, don’t need as much exercise as other hunting dog breeds, and can do well with 30 to 60 minutes of playtime and physical activity daily. When they’re done playing, they will happily snuggle with you on the couch and take a long nap.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, sweet, playful
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short; combinations of black, brown, tan, white, lemon, mahogany, and red
Life Span: 12 to 13 years
06 of 20

Chihuahua

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Leaning towards a tiny dog? Weighing in at just 2 to 6 pounds, the itty-bitty Chihuahua is the perfect pocket-sized lap dog. Although these dogs do get bursts of energy, they generally do not need a lot of exercise. Most Chihuahuas are relatively healthy. Grooming needs are minimal, but long-haired Chihuahuas will need a bit more brushing to avoid tangles.

One thing to watch out for is this breed's attitude. Avoid carrying these dogs everywhere and babying them too much. Set boundaries for your Chihuahua, or else they will try to boss everyone around. Choose a dog with a mild-mannered temperament and provide basic training.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 6 to 9 inches
Weight: 2 to 6 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, alert, lively, attentive, bright, companionable
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth or long; black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red
Life Span: 12 to 20 years
07 of 20

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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If you want a dog that will look like a puppy forever, the Cavalier is a mild-mannered, gentle, affectionate, and adaptable dog. This dog is small- to medium-sized, and is often happiest when snuggling with a human or another dog, so they make great couch buddies. Cavaliers generally weigh about 11 to 18 pounds and are easy to handle and train.

The Cavalier has some grooming needs, such as regular hair brushing, ear cleaning, and the occasional trip to a groomer. They are a low-shedding breed that’s considered hypoallergenic, and need just a few baths each year. But they are predisposed to some health problems like heart disease, ear infections, and neurological issues.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, active, family-friendly
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, sleek, silky; feathering around ears, feet, chest, and tail; tricolor, blenheim, ruby, and black and tan
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
08 of 20

West Highland White Terrier

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If you're considering a small- to medium-sized dog for your new easygoing companion, a Westie makes an excellent pet. Most are moderately energetic, easy to train, and relatively healthy.

This breed requires some grooming but does not need trimming regularly. Many people choose to hand-strip the coat of this dog (pluck the dead hairs), while others brush periodically to keep the coat healthy.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 10 to 11 inches
Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Upbeat, loveable, active
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, rough; white
Life Span: 13 to 15 years

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09 of 20

Brussels Griffon

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Small, cute, and goofy, the Brussels griffon is a delightful dog to know. Though they can be a bit energetic, they do not need a lot of exercise. Basic training is essential to offset their feisty side and provide structure.

At 6 to 12 pounds, the Brussels is another small breed with no more than moderate grooming needs. The wiry coat requires some brushing, but extensive grooming is not necessary. Also, the breed is relatively healthy and well-mannered. They can become lonely, so they prefer being by your side often.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 7 to 10 inches
Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Lively, joyful, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth or rough; red, black and tan, solid black, or belge (mix of black and reddish-brown)
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
10 of 20

Mastiff

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Got your heart set on a giant couch potato dog? Mastiffs are immense dogs that tend to have a relatively low energy level and not much endurance. Younger mastiffs tend to be a bit goofy and playful and are usually very docile. As they age, they become lazier and more aloof but remain affectionate towards their families.

Like most giant dog breeds, a downside is these dogs have a shorter lifespan than the average dog. Most are considered seniors by age 6, and not many will live past the age of 11 to 12 years. Aside from the orthopedic problems that affect some mastiffs, these dogs tend to be reasonably healthy.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 27 to 30 inches
Weight: 120 to 220 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Noble, gentle, loyal
Energy Level: Low
Coat and Color: Short and sleek; fawn, apricot, or brindle with a dark mask on the muzzle, ears, nose, and drooping jowls
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
11 of 20

Bullmastiff

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If you want a large dog that is not quite as giant and lazy as the mastiff, the bullmastiff sounds about right. Weighing 100 to 130 pounds, this is still a large dog. But they can adapt to small homes. Health is similar to the mastiff (or better), and lifespan is a bit longer.

The bullmastiff has a little bit more energy than the mastiff, but not much endurance. Daily walks should be enough to keep this breed happy and healthy. The rest of the time, count on this dog to be a couch potato.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 24 to 27 inches
Weight: 100 to 130 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, protective, alert, loving, companionable, calm
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short; fawn, reddish-brown, or brindle with dark-colored muzzle, nose, and drooping jowls
Life Span: 8 to 10 years
12 of 20

Poodle

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Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. They are a more intelligent breed and more active but are adaptable to their humans. Versatility equals low maintenance. They are active dogs and tend to mirror the energy level of their people.

Poodles have hair that continuously grows and requires brushing and clipping regularly to prevent mats. Fortunately, they do not shed much, so they won't leave a mess around the house.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: Over 15 inches (standard); 10 to 15 inches (miniature); 10 inches and under (toy)
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds (standard); 15 to 18 pounds (miniature); 5 to 9 pounds (toy)
Personality/Temperament: Fun-loving, energetic, intelligent
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Curly, dense single coat; colors include white, black, grey, brown, apricot, and parti-colored
Life Span: 10 to 18 years

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13 of 20

Pug

Pug Dog Eddy Joaquim/Moment/Getty

Pugs are little dogs that are packed with personality. A little spunky and very sweet, these dogs make wonderful companions that get along with everyone, including kids and other pets. And even though they are certainly upbeat and ready to have a good time, they are also known for curling up with their humans to relax and take a nap.

This breed has basic grooming and exercise needs, and you can use positive training techniques to get your eager-to-please pug to learn the rules. But because these dogs have skin folds, care needs to be taken to keep them clean and dry to avoid infections. And because of their flat face, they are prone to brachycephalic syndrome.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Playful, affectionate, adaptable
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, smooth; black or fawn with a black face mask
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
14 of 20

Beagle

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The beagle is an energetic scent hound that can make a lovely family pet, including in households with other dogs. They love to have fun through play and exercise, and they prefer being around people, so they shouldn’t be left alone for too long.

Although they shed, a basic grooming routine can keep these dogs looking great. Also, positive training is important to ensure these strong-willed dogs won’t misbehave. Once they’re a part of your family, they are affectionate, friendly, and intelligent pets that will bring loads of joy into your daily life.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: Two varieties: those under 13 inches and those from 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 20 to 25 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Fearless, active, companionable
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Short; tricolor combinations include tan, black, white, reddish brown, and pale lemon
Life Span: 10 to 15 years
15 of 20

Boston Terrier

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The cute little Boston terrier loves being around their people. This breed is also known for being eager to please, affectionate, and friendly, getting along with everyone. They’re funny, love to play, and can be taught to do tricks because they’re so smart.

These active dogs need about an hour of exercise daily, but their grooming needs are minimal because they don’t shed much and their coat will look good with a weekly brushing. But, like other breeds with flat faces, the Boston terrier is prone to brachycephalic syndrome.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 15 to 17 inches
Weight: 12 to 25 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Playful, social, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short; black and white; black, brindle, and white; brindle and white; seal and white; seal, brindle, and white
Life Span: 11 to 13 years
16 of 20

Italian Greyhound

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Another petite dog breed is the Italian greyhound. This breed from Italy is hypoallergenic, so it can be a good choice for those with allergies. The coat is smooth and short, does not shed a lot, and you can use a grooming mitt to brush your dog weekly.

These dogs prefer being cozy, comfortable, and warm, and they can be content living in a small home or apartment. In fact, they are sensitive to cold conditions, so they typically prefer being indoors when it gets chilly. And because they crave being around their humans, they’ll gladly cuddle with you on a soft blanket.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Loving, sensitive, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short; gray, black, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, red, sable, or a combination
Life Span: 14 to 15 years

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17 of 20

Maltese

Photo © iStockphoto.com/Andrey Medvedev

The Maltese is a beautiful dog, and another toy breed that is suitable for those looking for a small canine companion who will enjoy being a cuddly lapdog. These dogs can be wary around strangers, but they are totally devoted to the family they know and love.

Since the Maltese has a moderate energy level, they don’t need a whole lot of exercise and physical activity daily. But their coat requires more when it comes to maintenance. To simplify things, you can take your dog to a groomer to have the coat trimmed regularly. At home, brushing a few times a week is best.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Alert, stubborn, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Silky, long; white
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
18 of 20

Havanese

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The easygoing Havanese can be a good option for pet parents looking for a lower maintenance dog breed. These gentle, friendly dogs make great companions because they get along with kids and other pets. But because they can experience separation anxiety, you can’t leave them alone for long.

Though they need to be groomed often and consistently, these dogs don’t need a lot when it comes to daily exercise, as about 30 minutes per day should be enough. And even though they can take a while to housebreak, they are smart and learn fast, so they aren’t challenging to train.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Even-tempered, playful, bright
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, silky; straight or wavy with ringlets; double coat; one or two colors, including black, silver, white, cream, tan, fawn, gold, sable, or red
Life Span: 14 to 16 years
19 of 20

Chinese Crested

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It’s hard to resist the tiny Chinese crested, with their unique appearance and cheerful demeanor. They are smart, friendly, and easygoing, so they are suitable for a variety of lifestyles. They also aren’t difficult when it comes to training, and they don’t need a high amount of exercise, so they’re a good low-maintenance breed to consider.

A hairless Chinese crested dog will need sunscreen when outside and exposed to the sun’s rays. On the other hand, the powderpuff variety will need to be brushed often to keep their coat smooth and healthy. Plus, these hypoallergenic dogs don’t shed much.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Social, happy, playful
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Soft, silky hair only on the head, feet, and tail; powderpuff variety is fully-coated; white, gray, or black hair; gray, pink, or brown skin with white patches
Life Span: 13 to 18 years
20 of 20

Shiba Inu

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If you want a dog that looks like a fox, consider the shiba inu. These dogs are intelligent but also can be stubborn, so training them takes patience and consistency. Grooming, however, is straightforward, as you just need to brush them weekly and bathe them monthly. In fact, they’re so low-maintenance when it comes to grooming because they groom themselves like cats.

These affectionate dogs can get along with kids and other dogs. They can be independent at times, and are also described as aloof. So, if you don’t want a clingy dog, the shiba inu might be the right match for you.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 13.5 to 15.5 inches (female), 14.5 to 16.5 inches (male)
Weight: 17 pounds (female), 23 pounds (male)
Personality/Temperament: Independent, alert, loving
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, double coat; black and tan, cream, red, red sesame with/without white markings
Life Span: 13 to 16 years

Breeds to Avoid

Bored dogs tend to become frustrated and even depressed. Be sure to avoid high-energy dogs, such as schipperkes, huskies, and pit bulls, if you will not provide them with enough exercise and stimulation. Without proper attention, they might develop behavioral issues. Instead, choose a dog with a little less energy.

Also, smarter, high-energy dog breeds like border collies, Australian shepherds, and Jack Russell terriers will become bored if they do not get enough training and stimulation.

Although they are adorable, you should steer clear of puppies because they have a lot of energy and need around-the-clock care during their first year. Also, adolescent and young dogs (around 2 to 3 years old) likely have more energy and needs, and may not be the best match.

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20 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Busy Owners

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