When it comes to choosing a canine companion, some people prefer dogs that require a little less effort. While all dogs need love, care, and attention, certain breeds are known for being a bit more low maintenance. These are the dogs that are happy to lounge around the house, don’t need constant grooming, and are perfectly content with a simple walk around the block. If you’re looking for a furry friend who won’t turn your life upside down, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the top 15 most low maintenance dog breeds, each with their own unique quirks and habits that make them delightful companions. From the easygoing English Bulldog to the mellow Mastiff, these dogs are perfect for anyone who wants the joy of a pet without all the fuss.
15. Chihuahua
Despite their tiny size and big personalities, Chihuahuas are actually quite low maintenance. These little dogs don’t need a lot of space and are perfectly happy living in an apartment. They don’t require extensive exercise—a short walk or a bit of indoor playtime will suffice. Chihuahuas also have minimal grooming needs, especially the short-haired variety. One of their endearing quirks is their love for burrowing. You’ll often find them snuggled under blankets or nestled in cozy spots around the house. They’re like tiny, living, breathing heat-seeking missiles!
14. Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, are surprisingly low maintenance. These dogs don’t need a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy a good walk or a play session. Their grooming needs are minimal, especially the smooth-haired variety. One of the Dachshund’s quirks is their tendency to “dig” in their blankets or bedding, mimicking their original role as badger hunters. They are also known for their stubborn yet charming personalities, which can make for some amusing moments as they try to assert their independence.
13. Greyhound
Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes at heart. These elegant dogs are content with a few short bursts of exercise each day and then they’re happy to lounge around the house. Greyhounds have very short coats that require minimal grooming. One of their most amusing habits is their penchant for roaching—lying on their backs with their legs in the air, looking completely relaxed. They also have a surprisingly gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions.
12. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, sturdy dogs with big ears and even bigger personalities. They don’t need a lot of exercise and are perfectly happy with a couple of short walks each day. Their grooming needs are minimal, thanks to their short coats. One of the French Bulldog’s quirks is their love for lounging—these dogs can often be found sprawled out in the most comfortable spot they can find. They also have a habit of making a variety of snorting and grunting noises, which only adds to their charm.
11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their sweet and gentle nature. These dogs are very adaptable and don’t require a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy a good walk or a bit of playtime. Their grooming needs are moderate, with regular brushing to keep their coats looking nice. One of their quirks is their love for cuddling—these dogs will happily snuggle up in your lap for hours on end. They also have a playful side and enjoy games of fetch and hide-and-seek, making them delightful companions.
10. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small, sturdy dogs with a long, flowing coat that gives them a regal appearance. Despite their luxurious looks, they are relatively low maintenance. While their coats do require regular grooming, their exercise needs are minimal. Shih Tzus are perfectly happy with a few short walks and some indoor playtime. One of their endearing habits is their tendency to “talk” to their owners, using a variety of vocalizations to express their feelings. They are also known for their affectionate nature and love of cuddling.
9. Basenji
Basenjis are unique dogs with a sleek, muscular build and a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis make a variety of other sounds, including yodels and howls, which can be quite amusing. These dogs are low maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, needing only moderate physical activity to keep them happy. One of their quirks is their cat-like grooming habits—they often clean themselves like a feline. Basenjis are also very independent, which can make them easy to care for as long as they have some mental stimulation.
8. Pug
Pugs are small dogs with big personalities and even bigger appetites. These lovable clowns are low maintenance when it comes to exercise, being perfectly content with a couple of short walks and some playtime. Their short coats require minimal grooming, but their adorable wrinkled faces need regular cleaning to prevent skin issues. One of their quirks is their snoring—Pugs can often be heard snoring loudly while they sleep, adding to their comedic charm. They are also incredibly affectionate and love to be close to their owners.
7. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, with their tuxedo-like markings and big, expressive eyes, are charming and easy to care for. These dogs don’t need a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy a good play session. Their short coats are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing. One of the Boston Terrier’s quirks is their “smile”—these dogs often look like they’re grinning, which only adds to their appeal. They also have a playful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for people of all ages.
6. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are miniature versions of the Greyhound, with the same elegant build and low-maintenance lifestyle. These dogs require minimal grooming and only moderate exercise. Italian Greyhounds are known for their love of warmth and can often be found snuggled up in blankets or basking in the sun. One of their quirks is their “dancing”—they often stand on their hind legs and paw the air, looking like they’re performing a little dance. They are also very affectionate and enjoy being close to their owners.
5. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their long ears, droopy eyes, and laid-back nature. These dogs are very low maintenance when it comes to exercise, being perfectly content with a few short walks and some sniffing around. Their coats are easy to care for, although their ears need regular cleaning. One of their quirks is their love for lounging—Basset Hounds can often be found sprawled out in the most comfortable spot they can find. They also have a deep, melodious bark that they use to communicate their feelings, adding to their charm.
4. Bullmastiff
Despite their large size, Bullmastiffs are surprisingly low maintenance. These gentle giants don’t need a lot of exercise and are happy with a couple of short walks each day. Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them easy to care for. One of their quirks is their love for leaning—Bullmastiffs often lean against their owners, looking for some extra affection. They are also known for their calm and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
3. Whippet
Whippets are medium-sized dogs with a sleek, athletic build and a low-maintenance lifestyle. These dogs require minimal grooming and only moderate exercise. Whippets are known for their love of running, but they are also perfectly content to lounge around the house for most of the day. One of their quirks is their “burrowing” habit—they love to snuggle under blankets and often find the coziest spots in the house. Whippets are also very affectionate and enjoy being close to their owners.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are known for their wrinkled faces, stocky builds, and easygoing nature. These dogs don’t need a lot of exercise and are happy with a few short walks each day. Their short coats are easy to maintain, although their wrinkles need regular cleaning. One of their quirks is their snoring—Bulldogs can often be heard snoring loudly while they sleep, adding to their comedic charm. They are also incredibly affectionate and love to be close to their owners, making them excellent companions.
1. Mastiff
And the number one spot goes to the Mastiff. Despite their massive size, these gentle giants are incredibly low maintenance. Mastiffs don’t need a lot of exercise and are content with a few short walks each day. Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them easy to care for. One of their quirks is their love for lounging—Mastiffs can often be found sprawled out in the most comfortable spot they can find. They are also known for their calm and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
In conclusion, these low-maintenance breeds bring joy and companionship without requiring extensive care or exercise. Whether you’re looking for a dog to relax with or one to enjoy short walks and playtime, there’s a low-maintenance breed out there for you. So, next time you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, consider one of these easygoing pups—you won’t be disappointed!
Toledo, United States.
