There are high-maintenance dogs and there are low-maintenance dogs. There’s nothing in between. You’ll either have terrible issues with your dog’s shedding or behavior when you’re not at home. Or, you’ll have an angelic pup that behaves properly and sheds little to no dog hair.
There are lots of great low-maintenance dog breeds that you can pick to be your next pet. People opt for such dogs because they lack time to spend on daily brushing or extensive daily exercises. We can’t blame them, right?
Life is happening. We must focus on more important things, such as spending quality time with your dog and establishing a bond.
If you’re one of those people who is always low on time, but you still want a tail-wagging buddy to wait for you at home, then you’ll need a low-maintenance dog.
Today, I’m presenting to you the top 40 low-maintenance dogs and they will make you wish for a puppy as soon as possible!
Contents
- 1 1. Chihuahua
- 2 2. Greyhound
- 3 3. Dachshund
- 4 4. Basset Hound
- 5 5. Pug
- 6 6. French Bulldog
- 7 7. Beagle
- 8 8. Bullmastiff
- 9 9. Boston Terrier
- 10 10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- 11 11. Whippet
- 12 12. Poodle
- 13 13. Maltese
- 14 14. Labrador Retriever
- 15 15. Havanese
- 16 16. Shih Tzu
- 17 17. Jack Russell Terrier
- 18 18. Miniature Pinscher
- 19 19. Shiba Inu
- 20 20. Newfoundland
- 21 21. Dalmatian
- 22 22. Yorkshire Terrier
- 23 23. Boxer
- 24 24. Vizsla
- 25 25. American Staffordshire Terrier
- 26 26. Papillon
- 27 27. Pekingese
- 28 28. Japanese Chin
- 29 29. Border Terrier
- 30 30. Bernese Mountain Dog
- 31 31. English Toy Spaniel
- 32 32. Shar Pei
- 33 33. St. Bernard
- 34 34. Bichon Frise
- 35 35. Affenpinscher
- 36 36. Doberman
- 37 37. Brussels Griffon
- 38 38. Lhasa Apso
- 39 39. Basenji
- 40 40. Coton De Tulear
- 41 To Sum Up…
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas aren’t technically low-shedding or the easiest pups to train, but I do have to put them on this list of the best low-maintenance dogs.
For starters, if you’re already a Chi boy and Chi girl fan, you will turn your head away from all the flaws this dog has.
Sure, a long-haired Chihuahua will cover you in dead hair. Of course, training them, especially potty training a Chihuahua, is a nightmare. But, that’s something that can easily be overcome.
Shedding can be controlled with the best dog food for Chihuahuas, while training only needs a firm hand and some patience.
The reason Chihuahuas are featured today is their independent behavior. They love their owner from the bottom of their hearts, but they can stay alone for a while. So, if you’re working long hours, Chihuahuas won’t make a mess of your home before you come back.
2. Greyhound
Greyhounds are those incredibly tall and slim pups with elongated faces and sparkly eyes. There’s really something special about these dogs. Now, you’re about to learn why many people opt for Greyhounds from rescue centers. The popularity of this breed was never like this before.
Greyhounds, including fellow Italian Greyhounds, are really low-shedding pups. They don’t require daily brushing. Hey, they don’t even require monthly bathing either! Since their skin is a bit oily, it protects itself and keeps the pup looking fresh.
Greyhounds are also a bit fragile, with their extra long legs. Most specimens of the breed dabble in sports and end their careers early because of health issues with their backs. This is why Greyhounds don’t need a lot of workout sessions, not only each day but also each the week.
These dogs are sweet souls that prefer cuddling!
3. Dachshund
One moment they’ll be doing zoomies throughout the house, and the next, you’ll find them climbing up on your lap. Yup, these are Dachshunds!
Dachshunds, Doxies, or Sausage Dogs are fairly easy to take care of. They’re one of the best low maintenance dogs in the world. Why? Because Doxies shed mildly. You won’t find your couch covered in dog hair, or your new black jeans destroyed.
Dachshunds are stubborn creatures, so training might be complicated. But, other than that, they’re genuinely sweet and will listen to their owners.
These adorable pups have one huge pro for all of you seeking dogs that are easy to take care of. Have you noticed a Doxie’s body shape? The elongated back and stumpy legs? Well, that’s the reason that Doxies don’t need much exercise.
Actually, they CAN’T exercise a lot, otherwise, they’ll hurt their little legs.
4. Basset Hound
Another fellow with short legs, a long body, and rather a heavy build is the Basset Hound.
Even though they were designed as hunting dogs and used to be extremely active back in the day, today’s Basset Hounds are far from that. They don’t really care to or have chance to hunt small prey anymore.
Instead, these pups are satisfied with their lives as companion dogs, sitting next to their owners at the end of the day.
Basset Hounds shed moderately, so you shouldn’t have any issues as long as you groom them lightly.
Also, Bassets are known for their calm temperaments. Of course, you may hear a Basset barking or howling from time to time, but that’s not their standard behavior. They’re friendly, sometimes reserved toward strangers, and just need affection.
Okay, they also need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, but that’s nothing!
5. Pug
At first glance, Pugs may seem to be hypoallergenic. But, they’re far from that, especially considering the fact that some Pugs have a double coat. Pugs do shed, but their shedding amount isn’t something that should worry you.
Generally speaking, Pugs do everything moderately. They shed moderately, they drool moderately, and they exercise… moderately! You won’t spend hours and hours in the dog park, trying to tire out your pup.
Pugs are small dogs with short legs. They’re not designed to exercise too hard or too often. They prefer light strolls and brisk walks twice a day.
What’s so interesting about this dog breed is that, of all the Pug colors, pure black is the one that seems to shed a lot more than the others. That’s just according to some dog owners. However, I believe they all shed equally, black is just easier to notice than light tan.
6. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs or Frenchies are blessed with a single coat. This means that they won’t have that blowout season twice a year. Actually, you won’t notice their shedding either. Although Frenchies are not hypoallergenic, you can’t deny the fact that they’re good around people who are prone to allergies.
Sure, they can still trigger them, but only in severe cases. Mildly allergic people can still own a French Bulldog.
Oh, and don’t mind their zoomies around the house. These outbursts of energy are absolutely normal for the breed. This doesn’t mean that they will require strenuous exercise every day. Frenchies, just like Pugs, only need light strolls.
To keep them entertained, buy some fun squeaky toys and balls.
All in all, if you’re wondering whether to get a Frenchie but you’re busy at work, I’d say do it. Bonus points for their small size too. You can even bring them along if your employer approves. They will boost the morale of your entire workplace!
7. Beagle
Being so curious about, well, pretty much everything, has made Beagles quite independent creatures. If you adopt a Beagle boy or girl into a big house with a fenced yard, he’ll have lots of fun exploring it, finding new places to dig, and sniffing unknown animals that pass by.
Yes, your Beagle will have so much fun, and you’ll be relieved because you don’t have to be there to entertain him.
Beagles can manage on their own. They’re fairly easy to train and will show you how obedient they are if you leave them alone.
Beagles won’t make a mess or destroy things around the house. They’re not prone to boredom or destructive behavior. If they feel bored, Beagles will go outside and find their own fun.
Another great side of this dog breed is that they shed only a little bit. Brush their coat occasionally, but don’t try too hard. You’ll be grateful for having a Beagle in your life!
8. Bullmastiff
I bet when someone mentions low maintenance dogs, you only think of small, lap dogs with hypoallergenic coats and fragile body frames. Well, if you do, you’re wrong. Low maintenance dogs can also be big buddies, just like the next breed on our list.
This is the Bullmastiff, with such a mighty paw, you’d never think he’s low maintenance. But, what makes this sweet giant low maintenance?
For starters, Bullmastiffs only carry one layer of coat in lovely shades, which doesn’t shed massively. It’s always under control and you can only make things better if you brush them once or twice a week. That’s ten minutes of your time that will really make a difference.
Surprisingly, Bullmastiffs don’t exercise a lot. I was absolutely stunned by this fact considering how big they are.
Still, this breed has one downside, and that’s drooling. Bullmastiffs are really big droolers, so make sure you find a way to control it, i.e. don’t make them wait for a meal for too long.
9. Boston Terrier
No wonder Boston Terriers are real gentlemen and ladies of the canine kingdom. These pups have a regal attitude, but they don’t look down on you. Boston Terriers are calm pups with lots of dignity. You won’t feel intimidated by them because they don’t have a judging look on their faces. Ever!
These pups are super friendly with everyone, including strangers. But, they find their inner peace when surrounded by children. BTs are not aggressive or dangerous. They don’t even possess the standard crazy terrier temperament.
I recommend you consider this dog breed if you’re looking for a good family dog. They’re adaptable, don’t need much exercise, and will wait patiently for you to come back home.
On top of everything, Boston Terriers don’t shed. I mean, they do, but the amount is negligible. Still, they’re not hypoallergenic. Their single coat makes them pawfect pets for anyone sensitive to dog hair.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are absolutely adorable little dogs, often found with families that either want to or already have kids. Owning a small dog breed is exceptionally good for growing families because they don’t require extensive workout sessions.
They’re sweet, gentle, and love showing and receiving affection. But, that’s about all of their low maintenance traits. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are another dog breed that are considered velcro dogs. They like to follow their owners everywhere.
In other words, leaving this dog breed alone at home is impossible. But, considering how small they are, you can easily bring them along, especially if you have a teacup King Charles.
We’re blessed to live in a world where dogs are treated as equals to us humans. They can now come along to work or shop with us.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel won’t cause you any problems. This dog wants to be the best pooch for his owner, and that’s why he behaves nicely.
11. Whippet
Imagine a dog breed that will snuggle on the bed with you and take really good, long naps. Usually, dogs don’t have the patience like humans to nap for long, especially after a long day. Well, those dogs are not Whippets.
This breed is the ultimate cuddler from all of the low maintenance dogs listed today. I’m going to tell you why you need a Whippet in your busy life.
Imagine the situation: you’re working extra long hours to cover your sick co-worker. What does your Whippet do alone at home? It’s well past your coming home time. Is he nervous? Anxious? Not at all! Whippets are as calm as can be.
They will wait patiently for their humans to return, and they won’t make a big fuss about it. Hey, they won’t even let out a sound since they’re not big barkers!
Whippets are one of those dog breeds we don’t appreciate as much as we should. I predict a nice growth in their popularity soon and more good Whippet breeders.
They’re sweet, calm, adaptable souls, and they don’t even shed! How amazing are Whippets?
12. Poodle
What kind of low maintenance dog list would this be without a Poodle? Of course, I had to include one, but I didn’t want to put the Poodle first. It’s too obvious, and there are other dog breeds that are somewhat easier to handle than the Poodle pooch.
The first thing everyone will tell you about the Poodle’s low maintenance traits is the coat type. Poodles are hypoallergenic dogs, one of the reasons why many breeders mix their dogs with them. They don’t shed visibly, meaning their loose hair gets trapped underneath the top coat.
Control the shedding by regular brushing and giving your Poodle a haircut.
But, that’s not the only reason that Poodles are low maintenance. Since they’re one of the smartest dog breeds in the world, Poodles will find training a piece of cake. They will listen to your commands and do their best to keep you satisfied.
Also, they require only a moderate amount of exercise, so that’s another bonus point.
The bottom line is: Poodles are one of the ultimate low maintenance dogs!
13. Maltese
Maltese pups have a rather regal posture and appearance. When you look at them, you’ll notice a ball of white fluff with sparkly eyes, and cheerfulness that oozes from them!
As far as their low maintenance goes, Maltese pups are blessed to have low grooming needs. They belong in the category of hypoallergenic dogs. So, if you or someone from your family is allergic to dogs, this is the pup you should get!
Speaking of families… Did you know that both Maltese males and females do exceptionally well with kids? They’re super friendly with anyone, especially the little ones. These dogs are not aggressive, territorial, and do not have strong herding genes. Your Maltese girl or Maltese boy will be a valuable family member.
But, that’s about it. Maltese pups are rather difficult to train and tend to be a bit clingy. Still, I wouldn’t take this as a huge fault. They will be trained eventually, and their clinginess is just a sign that they love you like crazy.
14. Labrador Retriever
One of the most popular pups on this list of low maintenance breeds is the Labrador Retriever.
Labradors are widely known as terrific family pets. They don’t serve well as guard dogs or watchdogs as they’re extremely friendly with pretty much everyone. If a burglar comes in, your Lab will definitely greet him as a dear friend.
But, I can’t blame their friendliness. After all, we’re looking for a good low maintenance dog, not a guardian. In that aspect, Labrador Retrievers are stellar students. Besides being too friendly, these pups are ideal for families with kids, even small ones.
With their short hair and thin coat, Labs shed moderately. You won’t need to groom them as much as a German Shepherd, but still… A fair amount of brushing is required. Their grooming and shedding aren’t something that should worry you.
One thing that makes them less maintenance is their high energy level. Labrador Retrievers aren’t couch potatoes. They do need to exercise daily, so either buy a ball-throwing machine or take your Lab to doggy daycare.
15. Havanese
Havanese hypoallergenic traits are widely known. That’s one of the reasons why these dogs enjoy such popularity. People with severe allergic reactions to dog hair and dander have reported zero reactions after adopting a Havanese. That’s pretty amazing for a low maintenance dog!
The reason why the Havanese is so hypoallergenic is the fact that he doesn’t have fur like many other dog breeds. This dog has lovely silky hair. It’s proven that dog hair doesn’t cause reactions as much as fur does.
Other than their delightful hypoallergenic features, it’s good to own a Havanese because they prefer human interaction over exercises and tasks like, for example, Border Collies. The Havanese is moderately active and doesn’t mind sitting on the couch with you, watching the news.
These dogs are also known as “velcro pups” because they follow their owners around everywhere they go.
16. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are very grateful dogs to have around, especially if you’re a first-time owner. These adorable little pups will make you fall in love with dogs and become a dog person for good
The biggest reason why people have Shih Tzus is their hypoallergenic coat. While there isn’t a 100% hypoallergenic dog, these pups are as close as it gets.
What’s so amazing about Shih Tzus is the fact that they were originally bred to be companions. This means that they will adapt to any lifestyle and will follow you throughout your daily routine.
Shihs are the kind dogs that like people of all ages, especially kiddos. They’re good with them, and you can also leave them alone at home. Your Shih Tzu buddy will not be aggressive and will wait patiently for you to come home.
Their grooming needs are light and can be done on a weekly basis. All in all, you won’t even notice this doggo around!
17. Jack Russell Terrier
The first thing anyone notices about Jack Russell Terriers is their energy levels because these pups don‘t know how to stand still. They seem like they‘re always bouncing around.
Does this make them low-maintenance dogs? Absolutely not, but here’s what does!
Jack Russell Terriers are generally healthy dogs and shouldn’t suffer from any major or life-threatening conditions. Also, they’re quite easy to groom and even though they’re not hypoallergenic, they don’t shed a lot like some other terrier-type dogs.
JRTs are smart dogs and will finish their obedience lessons with the highest marks. You will love their loyalty and how easy-going these pups are.
18. Miniature Pinscher
One look at the Miniature Pinscher and you’ll realize why they’re on our list of the best low-maintenance dogs.
For starters, Miniature Pinschers are tiny dogs. Their size makes them so convenient for brushing and grooming. But, don’t worry, you won’t have to do a lot of it, considering the fact that the Miniature Pinscher doesn’t really shed that much.
Their coat color is usually lighter, so you won’t even notice stray dog hairs.
Other than their low-shedding characteristics, Miniature Pinschers really are that mini and thus, fragile. They don’t need lots of workout sessions during the day. Just take them outside for a nice walk and they’ll be satisfied.
Despite what people think of Pinschers, they’re not feisty or aggressive. These pups are pretty easygoing and love giving you signs of affection with some quirky characteristics thrown in just to make things fun.
19. Shiba Inu
I know what you think: How can Shibas, as dogs with dense coats, be low maintenance?
Well, you certainly don’t know Shiba Inu dogs! They’re considered felines of the canine world. I’m serious! You will find a Shiba grooming himself, licking his coat just like a cat. And that’s not just something Shibas do occasionally. This is their daily grooming routine, which eases the job for us, humans.
Shibas are dogs that have no odor. This makes them spectacular pets! Also, people with allergies have reported that they feel fine around Shibas. It must be because Shibas don’t sweat that much or shed dander and loose hair.
The one thing that won’t impress you about Shibas is the fact that they’re so hard to housebreak. Once you get past this barrier, you’ll find a generally low maintenance dog. If you’re not around, they won’t make that big of a deal out of it. Shibas love their owners, but they also love themselves and their alone time.
20. Newfoundland
Here’s where things get tricky. As you can deduct from our previous low maintenance dogs, they all feature low to non-shedding coats. Now, we come to a dog breed that is none of the two. Newfoundlands are big dogs with thick coats. And yes, it does shed.
This is a dog breed for those people who don’t mind shedding around the house.
Whoa, wait a minute! Why are Newfoundlands on our list then?
It’s because they don’t really need much exercise or affection all the time. Newfies are large dogs. Raising them is hard, ask any Newfie breeder, for example, these guys from Ontario! But, they’re also kind pups that like spending time at home, snuggling with you. In other words, you’re looking at a real gentle giant.
Of course, since this is a giant dog breed, make sure that you exercise it enough so obesity doesn’t strike your buddy. Other than that, you’ll find our Newfie a delight to own.
21. Dalmatian
Over the years, I’ve heard many people questioning whether Dalmatians are hypoallergenic. They were really sad when they heard Dalms are not hypoallergenic. Truth be told, so was I, but fortunately, I have no dog-related allergies.
Despite not being hypoallergenic, Dalmatians are still low maintenance dogs and pawsome pups to have around.
These dogs are big, but that’s nothing you can’t handle. Dalms are kind, friendly, and love spending time with their owners—doing anything that’s fun. But, don’t think you’ll have to devote all of your free time to your Dalm. They can handle being on their own for a while.
What’s good about Dalmatians is that they don’t shed much. They only have a single coat, with the exception of long-haired Dalms.
This is a dog that will step up to your needs. So, whether you’re going for a run or simply walking to the store to buy something, your loyal Dalmatian friend will be there, following you like a shadow, and never bothering you.
22. Yorkshire Terrier
We must not forget about our tiny buddies, the Yorkshire Terriers! Otherwise known as Yorkies, these pups are everything you can wish for in a dog, especially if you’re on a budget.
Yorkies, not to mention teacup Yorkies, are a delight to own and groom. You see, since they’re so small, they don’t need that much dog food. A big bag of kibble can last them for quite a while. Also, grooming them takes only a few minutes.
Their silky soft hair doesn’t shed and Yorkies are considered to be hypoallergenic. Isn’t that pawmazing!
If you must leave your Yorkie alone at home, don’t worry at all. They’re not destructive and you’ll find your living room just the way it was.
Bonus points go to their tiny size because you can carry them around wherever you go. Your Yorkie will always sit close to you, waiting patiently for you to finish your tasks.
23. Boxer
Remember how Shiba Inus like to groom themselves just like their kitty friends? Well, there’s another dog breed that prefers to keep itself clean and tidy like a cat. That’s, believe it or not, the Boxer!
Boxers are fairly large dogs, both male and female Boxers, but that’s not something that should bother you. They get along with kids perfectly fine, as well as with adults and other animals.
Boxers are not big shedders, so you can enjoy that trait too! I would pay attention to their droopy mouth as they can drool a bit, but that can be kept under control with a few tricks.
The thing with Boxers is that they can be alone at home, but their limit is four hours tops. Boxers love their family members dearly, so don’t break their little hearts and leave them alone for long. All in all, you shouldn’t have any major issues raising a Boxer pup.
24. Vizsla
The Vizsla is not your typical family pet. You won’t see them with many families like Labradors or Poodles. But, that’s absolutely unfair to this wonderful dog breed.
Although the Vizsla was bred to serve as a hunting dog, he can easily be a wonderful companion.
The reason why I included this dog breed on this list is their low maintenance in terms of grooming. Vizslas don’t need to visit the groomer. They can go by with only weekly brushing. These dogs like to groom themselves and don’t really have an odor.
This is great if you’re sensitive to sharp scents and dead dog hair all over the place.
But, their low-shedding qualities are the only thing that makes Vizslas low-maintenance dogs. These are not couch potatoes! Vizslas are active dogs that need a lot of exercise. Their energy levels must be drained by the end of the day, or they’ll become destructive.
I have some pretty great Vizsla breeders in Ontario if you’re interested in adopting this low-maintenance dog.
25. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier or Staffie has rather bad publicity. He’s considered one of the most dangerous dog breeds, just because of his history in dog fighting.
Fortunately, that’s absolutely far from the truth.
Staffies are sweet dogs with a heart made of gold. Once they attach to their owner, these pups will follow him everywhere and will never question the owner’s decisions.
They’re easy-going, smart, and loyal to the bone. Also, they don’t shed a lot, so grooming consists of only a couple of brushing sessions a week.
All in all, the American Staffordshire Terrier is the perfect dog for someone with moderate activity.
26. Papillon
They have long coats with silky hair, but that won’t give you a headache. In fact, you’ll be pawsitively surprised once you learn that Papillons need minimal grooming at the parlor, only once a month. This shouldn’t be considered a flaw since we have many dog breeds that must go to see a professional even more often.
Papillons are pups with coats that need only a trim here and there. Keep it long because that’s the signature style for this dog breed.
Unfortunately, Papillons aren’t considered to be hypoallergenic. They shed only a bit, but experts don’t recommend them for allergic people.
Other than their low-shedding qualities, Papillons are very much adaptable. They fit into every lifestyle and they won’t nag about anything. If you want to cuddle, your Papillon will cuddle with you. If you want to go for a daily walk, he’ll enjoy this too. These friendly dogs are very easygoing and laid-back.
27. Pekingese
When someone mentions a Pekingese, I immediately think of a pup with a floor-length coat. I always link that to excessive shedding. But, even I can be wrong.
Don’t give the Pekingese bad publicity that they don’t deserve. Despite their double coat, the Pekingese can still controllably shed, especially if you brush them regularly. Even though they aren’t hypoallergenic dogs, they still won’t shed like crazy. And you’re gonna love them for that!
Another reason why the Pekingese is a low maintenance dog is that they’re such fun-loving and friendly dogs. They love a light playtime where the only goal is to have fun with your pup and bond, not to drain their energy levels to zero.
The bottom line is that the Pekingese is a pup that will never bother you. Show him some affection and he’ll love you forever in return.
28. Japanese Chin
Originally from China, not Japan, the Japanese Chin is a true enigma. These are rare pups that not everyone has heard of. And, frankly, that serves in their favor. The Japanese Chin is a rather small dog that can be a perfect companion for cuddling and lounging.
You’ll recognize this pooch for the somewhat grumpy look on its face, as well as nice, silky long hair.
Don’t let the long coat scare you away from adopting this pup. The Chin is a low-shedding dog, and thus, a low maintenance dog too!
If you can commit to weekly brushing to prevent matting, then you’re going to love this dog breed.
The Chin is a friendly pooch and loves his owner more than anything in the world. Problems may occur if you try to leave them alone for too long. But, their small size will help, as you can bring them along pretty much anywhere!
29. Border Terrier
Did you know that scruffy-looking pups can be low maintenance too?
Meet the Border Terrier, a lovely example from the terrier family. Not many people have heard of this pooch. Usually, everyone recommends a Jack Russell Terrier. While the JRT is already on the list, I have to say a thing or two about Border Terriers too!
Now, the Border Terrier has a short coat that appears a bit scruffy. As you can imagine, they shed minimally. Also, you won’t need to bathe them that often since they don’t have an unpleasant odor.
What’s so great about Border Terriers is that they’re very obedient. You can easily train them into spending some time alone at home. Border Terriers will master their lessons quickly and you can go to work without worrying if you’re gonna find a destroyed house once you come back home.
Check out some pretty great Border Terrier breeders here!
30. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog or the Berner is one of those large dog breeds that is classified as a low maintenance dog. This is a real surprise, but once you hear what kind of temperament Berners have, you’ll realize why they’re on this list.
The Berner is super sweet and friendly. They love kids more than anything in the world! You’ll often find Berners acting like nanny dogs, so that’s another bonus point for them. They’re easygoing and don’t mind spending some time alone at home. But, let’s not make that more than a few hours a day.
Being giant dogs, Berners don’t need as much exercise as some working dogs, i.e. German Shepherds.
A big downside is that they have a thick coat that will shed like crazy. You will spend a fair amount of your time brushing a Berner. This dog breed is especially low maintenance if you pick a mini Bernese Mountain Dog.
31. English Toy Spaniel
Spaniels are generally lovely dogs to own. They’re real showstoppers with their lovely coats and docile behavior. One of the examples of the Spaniel dog family is the English Toy Spaniel.
As you can see, this is a tiny pooch from the toy size group. This makes them fairly easy to groom, since there’s not much body to groom to begin with.
English Toy Spaniels usually don’t shed that much. Occasional brushing will do for these pups.
Unlike their cousins, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, English Toy Spaniels are a delight to groom at home.
What makes them almost pawfect is the fact that these pups love their owners and don’t mind spending time with them, no matter what they do. English Toy Spaniels are pups that don’t need strenuous exercises. Daily walks are the ideal time for you two to bond and for your pup to drain those energy levels.
32. Shar Pei
If you don’t mind the shedding seasons, which don’t strike too hard, Shar Peis are generally amazing dogs to own. They don’t have a rich coat. Instead, you’ll recognize them for their wrinkly skin and thin coat in numerous shades that sheds only when absolutely necessary.
Shar Peis are rare dogs and we don’t have many good Shar-Pei breeders in the States. I really hope the popularity of this breed will increase because they’re good low-maintenance dogs from the group of large-sized canine friends.
Although they’re big and muscular, Shar Peis don’t need more than half an hour a day to satisfy their exercise needs.
You will love their independence since you will be able to leave them alone at home. They find this to be perfectly normal and won’t make a big deal out of it. Just like Shibas, Shar Peis really appreciate their alone time.
33. St. Bernard
If we ignore the fact that they drool quite a bit and need regular brushing, Saint Bernards can be good low-maintenance dogs, and here’s why.
This is one of those gentle giants we’re always talking about. The St. Bernard is calm, relaxed, and doesn’t get upset or excited over the little things.
Also, even though they need their daily dose of exercise, you shouldn’t over exercise a Saint Bernard due to their proneness to bone conditions.
34. Bichon Frise
Every list of low-maintenance dogs should include a Bichon Frise. This happy-go-lucky puppy runs on happiness and affection. They’re little clowns with fluffy, curly coats as soft as clouds. Bichons are one of those dog breeds that are considered to be hypoallergenic.
Many people prone to allergies adopt them and find no problems with them whatsoever.
Being hypoallergenic is the only thing that granted Bichons entry to this list of low-maintenance dogs. In terms of their behavior, Bichons are highly sociable, but they don’t do well on their own.
I’d recommend you either bring them along when you’re working or enroll them into doggy daycare.
It’s worth having a Bichon boy or girl for their absolutely lovely temperament and little to non-shedding.
35. Affenpinscher
People love Affenpinschers for their fun and quirky temperament, but especially for their hypoallergenic traits.
Even though this dog breed isn’t as popular as others on this list of low maintenance dogs, the Affenpinscher is still worth having. I feel their popularity will increase once people realize they don’t shed or trigger allergies, they don’t need strenuous exercises, and they only need some love and cuddling.
36. Doberman
Doberman Pinschers have that gorgeous silky smooth coat that won’t shed all over you and your home. Sadly, these dogs are not hypoallergenic, but they still don’t shed a lot. This is what makes them low-maintenance dogs.
Dobermans are dogs with immense energy. As far as this is concerned, they’re not easy to handle at all.
But, Dobermans are one of the smartest, most obedient dogs in the whole world. Training them into following your commands is as simple as that! These pups will do anything to make their owner feel proud. This is the other thing that makes Dobermans low-maintenance dogs.
If you’re looking for a bigger canine that doesn’t need much grooming or hassle around training, the Dobie will be your new best friend!
37. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are one of those dog breeds that love everyone, and everyone loves them in return. I mean, how can you NOT love that funny, smushy face?
The Brussels Griffon is a small-sized pooch, but that doesn’t change the fact that they’re super energetic. This dog breed does have a lot of energy to zoom around, but they don’t need harsh workout sessions like bigger dogs.
You’ll be happy to know that our Griffon buddy is a hypoallergenic dog breed. People love these little fellows for their short and wiry coat that doesn’t shed insanely. Also, they don’t really have a bad odor.
Brussels Griffons can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, so either buy from a Griffon breeder that will start the training for you, or enroll him into an obedience training program.
38. Lhasa Apso
If you put aside the fact that Lhasa Apsos are very active dogs with big exercise needs, they are a pretty low-maintenance dog.
The Lhasa Apso is another hypoallergenic pup, and we adore them for being so mild towards allergic people.
What truly makes them low-maintenance dogs is the fact that they can stay at home alone for long periods of time during the day. Also, they can even tire themselves out, since they love to spend time alone and just…play! This playful pooch is definitely one of the finest low-maintenance dogs.
39. Basenji
One of the most independent dogs on our list is the Basenji. Dog experts consider Basenjis to be quite introverted. They love spending time alone inside, so if you’re working long hours, this is the ideal dog for you. Pst, I have some Basenji breeders for you right here!
Basenji are also very devoted and like showing and receiving signs of affection. They’re just the right kind of dog for busy people. Meaning, they’re always there, but they won’t make a sound. For real, these dogs don’t bark or howl!
As far as their exercise needs are concerned, the Basenji will take a regular walk in the park as his daily exercise. And he’ll be absolutely fine with it!
40. Coton De Tulear
Coton De Tulears are those big, fluffy white clouds that people call dogs.
All jokes aside, the Coton De Tulear really looks like a cotton candy cloud. Does this mean they’re low-maintenance? Well, they do require some brushing. But, regular brushing will reduce the number of baths needed, so that’s a win-win situation.
Coton De Tulear dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic, so you win on that side too!
These are sweet pups that can stay alone for quite some time, and they will never mind that.
Read Also: Coton De Tulear Growth Chart — Tiny But Tenacious Dogs
To Sum Up…
So, which of these low-maintenance dogs is your favorite?
I’m sure you can’t pick only one because there are so many pawmazing canine buddies.
Some people will like certain dogs for their hypoallergenic traits. Others will prefer dogs who have low energy levels so they avoid daily exercise. No matter why you want a low-maintenance dog, this is the place where you’ll find one. I’ve done the research for you so that you don’t have to question whether a Shih Tzu is hypoallergenic or if Boxers need to work hard every day.
If you go back through the list, I’m sure you’ll realize there are some dog breeds that are both worlds combined into one. Maybe those exact pooches will be your potential new best furry friend!
Read Next:
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