Low-maintenance dog breeds are ideal for those with busy lifestyles or anyone who prefers a more laid-back pet experience. These dogs offer loyal companionship without demanding too much time or effort.
With easy grooming routines and mellow, adaptable temperaments, here are some of the best low-maintenance breeds to consider.
American Staffordshire Terriers Are Adventurous
American Staffordshire Terriers thrive on being involved in the fun. These energetic pups enjoy people-centered activities like running, biking, and a good game of frisbee.
Their mix of confidence and easygoing nature makes them excellent companions for adventure lovers—whether you're hiking trails or exploring dog-friendly breweries. Plus, their affectionate and smart personality only adds to their appeal.
Maltese Dogs Trust Their Owners
The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists Maltese dogs among the low-maintenance breeds, describing them as "gentle, affectionate, and trusting."
They also note the breed's versatility, saying, “They are adaptable to various living situations and have a playful spirit.” Thanks to their sweet temperament and flexibility, Maltese dogs make easygoing and devoted companions.
Tosas Are Actually Very Affectionate
The Tosa, often considered a gentle giant, makes an excellent guard dog thanks to its cautious nature around strangers and powerful presence. But beneath that intimidating exterior lies a loving and gentle soul, known for its calm temperament, patience, and obedient behavior.
Though daily walks usually meet their exercise needs, it's important to keep an eye on their weight and adjust their activity level if needed to maintain good health.
Pugs Can Live Anywhere
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies Pugs as low-maintenance dogs, emphasizing their "compact yet muscular and sturdy" physique.
The AKC also highlights their versatility, stating that “they adapt well to a range of living situations, making them ideal for both urban and rural environments.” Thanks to their relaxed nature and loving disposition, Pugs make excellent low-maintenance companions.
West Highland White Terriers Just Need Regular Brushing
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies West Highland White Terriers as low-maintenance dogs, describing their coat as "double-layered, featuring a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat."
They also note that Westies need “regular brushing to maintain a healthy coat.” Thanks to their relatively easy grooming requirements, Westies are an excellent option for anyone looking for a spirited yet low-maintenance companion.
Chihuahuas Require Only Minimal Brushing
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Chihuahuas are among the easier dog breeds to care for, largely due to their "smooth coat that is easy to groom."
Their short hair means they only require infrequent brushing and the occasional bath to stay looking tidy, making them a great choice for anyone wanting a low-maintenance yet loving companion.
Shiba Inus Are Extremely Self-Sufficient
The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists Shiba Inus as a low-maintenance breed, describing them as "alert, active, and attentive."
Their independent personality is another plus, with the AKC noting that Shibas are “self-confident dogs that are low maintenance and clean.” Thanks to their self-reliant nature and tidy habits, they're an excellent choice for those looking for a laid-back yet confident companion.
Broholmers Don't Need A Ton Of Exercise
The American Kennel Club (AKC) identifies the Broholmer as a low-maintenance breed, noting they are "easy to maintain and care for."
Their calm, gentle demeanor paired with only moderate exercise needs makes them an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed and affectionate companion that doesn't require intensive upkeep.
Boston Terriers Are More Than Friendly
Boston Terriers are considered low-maintenance by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which describes them as "friendly, bright, and amusing."
Their adaptable nature makes them well-suited for a variety of living environments, and their cheerful personality adds to their appeal as easygoing, low-effort companions.
Why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Are Manageable
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies Cavalier King Charles Spaniels as a low-maintenance breed, highlighting their "moderate-length, silky coat that requires regular brushing."
With grooming that's simple to keep up with and a gentle, affectionate personality, Cavaliers are a great option for anyone seeking a low-effort yet elegant and devoted pet.
Brussels Griffons Are Healthy Dog Breeds
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes Brussels Griffons as low-maintenance dogs, noting that their "smooth or rough coat needs minimal grooming."
The AKC also mentions that occasional brushing and regular nail trims are enough to keep their coat looking healthy. Thanks to their easy-care coats, Brussels Griffons make charming and low-maintenance companions.
Pekingese Benefit From Their Confidence
Pekingese are acknowledged as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "regal, independent, and possessing a self-important attitude." The AKC further highlights their adaptability, stating, "They are adaptable to different environments and make great apartment dogs."
With their regal demeanor and adaptability, Pekingese make for low-maintenance and confident companions.
Manchester Terriers Have A Self-Cleaning Coat
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies Manchester Terriers as low-maintenance dogs, describing them as "an easily groomed, low-maintenance breed."
The AKC also highlights their clean, self-maintaining coat, making them an easy choice for grooming and general care. With their sleek appearance and independent nature, Manchester Terriers are spirited yet low-maintenance companions.
Rat Terriers Have Minimal Needs
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies Rat Terriers as low-maintenance dogs, describing them as "easy to care for."
Additionally, the AKC notes their versatility, pointing out that they are "equally suited to life in both the city and the countryside." With their low-maintenance requirements and adaptable temperament, Rat Terriers are perfect companions for a variety of living situations.
Dachshunds Don't Have A Lot Of Grooming Needs
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes Dachshunds as a low-maintenance breed, thanks to their easy-to-manage grooming requirements.
As the AKC notes, "Their smooth, wiry, or long-haired coats are simple to maintain and only require occasional bathing and brushing." This makes Dachshunds an ideal choice for those looking for a low-effort yet lovable dog.
Greyhounds Are Hassle-Free
The American Kennel Club (AKC) points out that Greyhounds are a low-maintenance breed, noting that "their short, sleek coats require only occasional brushing and bathing." With minimal grooming demands, Greyhounds are a perfect fit for those looking for a low-effort pet.
Their easy-to-care-for coats make them an excellent choice for people with hectic schedules who may not have time for frequent grooming..
French Bulldogs Are Easy To Care For
French Bulldogs are widely regarded as a low-maintenance breed, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) noting that they have a "short, easy-care coat that requires minimal grooming."
A simple, occasional brushing is all that's needed to keep their smooth coats looking great, making French Bulldogs a fantastic choice for those seeking a lovable yet low-effort pet.
Mastiffs Can Stay Calm
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Mastiffs are low-maintenance dog breeds due to their "low energy levels and calm demeanor."
The AKC further states that while they require regular exercise, they are not overly demanding. With their relaxed nature and moderate exercise needs, Mastiffs offer a low-maintenance option for those seeking a gentle and devoted companion.
Bullmastiffs Are Low-Key A Breed
Bullmastiffs are considered low-maintenance dog breeds, as stated by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which describes them as having a "moderate exercise requirement" and being "low-key housemates."
The AKC further emphasizes their calm nature and loyalty. With their easygoing temperament and moderate exercise needs, Bullmastiffs make for low-maintenance and devoted companions.
Poodles Are Highly Intelligent
Poodles are recognized as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), highlighting their intelligence and versatility, stating that they are "eager to please, highly trainable, and make great family dogs."
The AKC further emphasizes their adaptability and ability to excel in various activities, making Poodles a low-maintenance yet highly capable choice for a companion.
Shih Tzus Can Adapt Well
Shih Tzus are acknowledged as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which describes them as "small but sturdy, adaptable, and happy."
The AKC further emphasizes their affectionate nature and suitability for various living situations. With their adaptable and easygoing temperament, Shih Tzus make for low-maintenance and delightful companions.
Basset Hounds Are Very Easygoing
Basset Hounds are regarded as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), highlights their easygoing nature by stating, "They are easy to care for and loyal, making them a popular choice for families."
The AKC further emphasizes their adaptability and affable personality, making Basset Hounds a low-maintenance and lovable choice for a companion.
Beagles Are Pretty Independent
Beagles are acknowledged as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "friendly, curious, and merry." The AKC further highlights their adaptability, stating, "They are happy-go-lucky dogs with a keen sense of smell."
With their amiable temperament and independent nature, Beagles make for low-maintenance and cheerful companions.
Owners Won't Get Bored With A Pomeranian
Pomeranians are recognized as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "extroverted, lively, and inquisitive."
The AKC further highlights their adaptability, stating, "They are adaptable to a variety of living situations." With their lively temperament and adaptability, Pomeranians make for low-maintenance and spirited companions.
Labrador Retrievers Are Kind And Gentle
Labrador Retrievers are acknowledged as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "outgoing, even-tempered, and gentle."
The AKC further emphasizes their versatility, stating, "They are excellent family companions and easy to train." With their friendly nature and trainability, Labrador Retrievers make for low-maintenance and delightful companions.
Lhasa Apsos Are Strong-Willed
Lhasa Apsos are recognized as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "independent, intelligent, and strong-willed." The AKC further highlights their adaptability, stating, "They are adaptable to various living situations and make excellent apartment dogs."
With their independent nature and adaptability, Lhasa Apsos make for low-maintenance and resilient companions.
Papillons Are Loyal Beyond Belief
Papillons are acknowledged as low-maintenance dog breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describing them as "friendly, intelligent, and alert."
The AKC further highlights their adaptability, stating, "They are adaptable to different environments and make excellent companions for families or individuals." With their friendly nature and adaptability, Papillons make for low-maintenance and charming companions.
Doberman Pinschers Don't Require Much Physical Care
Doberman Pinschers are known for their low-maintenance nature, as stated by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which describes them as "easy-care dogs."
The AKC further highlights their athletic build and natural cleanliness, stating that "their short, hard coat requires minimal grooming." With their self-maintaining coat and overall ease of care, Doberman Pinschers make for low-maintenance and loyal companions.
Tibetan Spaniels Can Easily Amuse Themselves
Tibetan Spaniels have a natural inclination for leisure and can often be found lounging around the house without seeking permission.
They amuse themselves with toys and exhibit a playful yet generally calm demeanor, showcasing their strong obedience. Grooming-wise, a simple weekly brushing session helps keep the fur behind their ears tangle-free.