Low maintenance dog breeds are perfect for owners who want companionship without the extra work. Love dogs but don’t have the time or energy for a high-maintenance pet? Whether you’re a first-time owner, a busy professional, or simply want a more relaxed companion, there are many dog breeds that are easy to care for, low-shedding, and low-energy.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top low-maintenance dog breeds—those that require minimal grooming, training, and exercise—while still offering all the loyalty and love you’re looking for.
What Makes a Dog Low-Maintenance?
Low-maintenance breeds typically have:
- Short, easy-care coats
- Calm or moderate energy levels
- Good overall health
- Easygoing temperament
- Less need for constant mental stimulation or intense training
Keep in mind: no dog is “no-maintenance”—they all need love, routine care, and exercise. But some breeds make it a lot easier.
Top Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
1. French Bulldog
- Short coat and minimal grooming
- Doesn’t need much exercise—happy with short daily walks
- Calm, affectionate, and great for apartment living
Perfect for busy city dwellers
2. Chihuahua
- Tiny size means tiny mess
- Short-haired variety requires almost no grooming
- Independent yet loyal
Great for small homes and solo owners
3. Dachshund
- Low-shedding coat (especially smooth variety)
- Doesn’t require a lot of exercise
- Playful and bold, but not demanding
Ideal for low-activity households
4. Boston Terrier
- Gentle, sociable, and low-shedding
- Short coat is easy to groom
- Compact and adaptable to many living situations
Excellent for first-time dog owners
5. Beagle
- Friendly, low-grooming breed
- Energetic outdoors, but calm and cuddly inside
- Rarely needs professional grooming
Excellent for first-time dog owners
6. Greyhound
- Surprisingly lazy indoors—nicknamed “couch potatoes”
- Thin coat and minimal grooming required
- Quiet, gentle, and easy to train
Ideal for calm, low-energy homes
7. Whippet
- Like Greyhounds, they’re low-shedding and low-energy inside
- Quiet and clean
- Great with children and easy to manage
Perfect companion for relaxed lifestyles
8. Pug
- Low-maintenance coat and simple grooming
- Sociable, funny, and loves to be close
- Needs moderate exercise and attention to weight
Ideal for apartments and mellow homes
9. Italian Greyhound
- Slender, low-shedding, and extremely low-odor
- Requires very little grooming
- Enjoys short bursts of play and long naps
Great for minimalists who still want companionship
10. Shih Tzu (if kept with a short trim)
- Although long coats require care, many owners keep a “puppy cut”
- Affectionate, gentle, and doesn’t need intense activity
- Compact and adaptable
Better with routine brushing or professional grooming every few weeks
Honorable Mentions
- Basenji – Little shedding, no doggy odor, independent
- Miniature Pinscher – Short coat, compact, energetic but manageable
- Labrador Retriever – Friendly and easygoing, but needs more exercise than others on this list
Tips for Low-Maintenance Dog Ownership
- Stick to a consistent feeding and potty routine
- Use automated feeders or dog-walking services if needed
- Invest in easy-to-clean dog beds and toys
- Choose low-shedding or hypoallergenic coats for easier home cleaning
- Keep vet checkups and preventive care (vaccines, flea/tick meds) up to date
Conclusion
Final Thoughts on Low Maintenance Dog Breeds
A low-maintenance dog can bring joy, companionship, and calm to your life—without overwhelming your schedule. Whether you want a playful Frenchie, a chill Greyhound, or a compact Chihuahua, there’s a perfect easy-care companion waiting for you.
Want a printable comparison chart of low-maintenance breeds? Visit our Dog Lifestyle Match Finder for resources, breed filters, and beginner guides.