In a lot of ways, adopting a dog is quite similar to adopting a child. Both need a lot of care, attention, and of course all of the things that can add up to a lot in expenses. For these reasons, there’s really no way to deny that bringing home a furry family member is a big commitment.
Sadly, this contributes to the number of fur babies that are stuck in shelters. Some people are afraid of the commitment it takes to raise a dog. Sure, it is a lot of work but not all breeds require a great deal of maintenance. You’ll learn all about the top 10 low maintenance dogs in this article.
The Best Low Maintenance Breeds
1. Chihuahua
2. Australian Cattle Dog
3. Labrador Retriever
4. Dachshund
5. Greyhound
6. French Bulldog
7. Vizsla
8. Rottweiler
9. Havanese
10. Papillon
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas require very little maintenance, especially when it comes to short-haired breeds. This is definitely the breed you want to go with if you’re looking for a furry BFF that you won’t have to brush constantly. Plus, the shape and size of their ears make cleaning them a breeze.
2. Australian Cattle Dog
This breed is well known for its excellent health which means your vet visits will be very limited. Australian Cattle Dogs also have a short coat that requires very little grooming. Occasional baths, nail trimming, ear checks, and brushing is all that’s needed to keep them looking and feeling great.
3. Labrador Retriever
It’s fascinating how amazing these fur babies are. Amongst being gentle, kind, and extremely loyal they’re also very easy to care for. The biggest issue to look out for is ear infections. However, this issue can be avoided with occasional ear checks and cleanings. Other than that, these guys won’t need much from you except some food, love, and attention.
4. Dachshund
Dachshunds are very easy to care for. Their small size means your chow bill will remain low. Plus, their short and smooth coat means your home and furniture will be nearly hair-free. You should know though that this breed can develop back issues in their later years. As they age, regular checkups are an absolute must.
5. Greyhound
Despite what a lot of people believe about this breed, they’re actually pretty easy to take care of. They don’t really have a lot of energy. In fact, they’ll be happy to spend the day lounging around the house. Greyhounds need minimal exercise, but they do enjoy a daily walk. Their coat is easy to care for and they typically tend to maintain great health throughout their lives.
6. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are another breed that doesn’t require a whole lot of exercise. Some daily play and perhaps a walk will be enough to keep them in great health. Aside from that, they don’t require an excessive amount of grooming. Occasional brushing is really all that’s needed. However, there are some possible health concerns to keep your eye out such as skin issues and brachycephalic syndrome.
7. Vizsla
Looking for a dog that’s easy to take care of that will make an incredible BFF? Well, look no more because a Vizsla offers all of that plus more. Their coats require minimal grooming, they’re very easy to train and health issues aren’t usually a concern. What more could you ask for?
8. Rottweiler
If you can handle brushing your fur baby a couple of times per week this could be the breed for you. Occasional ear checks and nail trimmings are also necessary, but this shouldn’t take up a lot of your time. However, Rottweilers can become rather large so prepare yourself for high food costs. On top of being low maintenance, they also make excellent guard dogs that will surely keep your home safe.
9. Havanese
With a small size, low energy level, non-shedding fur, and the burning desire to cling to their human’s lap, the Havanese is easily one of the simplest dogs to care for. However, while they may not shed, this breed still needs to be brushed occasionally to avoid matting.
10. Papillon
Papillons offer the best of all worlds. This breed is easy to train which is always a plus. They also have a moderate amount of energy which means they’ll usually get the exercise they need from playtime. Papillons also adapt well to most situations. Plus, while their looks may give the impression that this breed is difficult to groom, it’s actually quite simple.
As you can see, while adopting a dog is still a big commitment, there are breeds that require little more than the basics and of course a lot of love from their human. Even people that live very busy lives that prevent them from spending excessive amounts of time and money on things such as regular groomer and vet visits can welcome a new furry family member into their home. It all comes down to making the right choice and I hope this article will help you make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a low maintenance dog breed?
Low maintenance dogs are fur babies that are easy to care for and don’t have a lot of needs. They require little grooming, minimal exercise, and tend to be on the calmer side. Low maintenance breeds come in all different colors and sizes, each with its own personality. They make excellent pets for people that live busy lives.
What is the easiest dog to care for?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are one of the easiest dogs to take care of. They’re extremely friendly, easy to train, have a moderate amount of energy, and get along great with kids. It’s also really easy to groom this breed. However, they tend not to do well when left alone for long periods of time.
What small breed of dog is low maintenance?
Short-haired Chihuahuas are extremely low maintenance. They tend to be self-reliant and confident which is always a benefit. Aside from food, occasional brushing, and baths, there isn’t much this breed needs to stay happy, healthy, and looking great.
What is the easiest big dog to take care of?
Bullmastiffs take the win in this category. Even though they’re quite large, they often have very calm personalities. Their short coat requires little grooming and their high intelligence allows them to pick new things up quickly. They get along great with kids, especially when they are socialized with them from an early age.
What dogs don’t need grooming?
All dogs require grooming. However, some breeds need a lot less than others. Some examples of dogs that need little grooming are Beagles, Weimaraners, Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Italian Greyhounds.
What are the most well behaved dogs?
Golden Retrievers are easily the most well-behaved dogs that are fairly low maintenance. They do require regular brushing and a moderate amount of exercise, but their incredibly obedient behavior makes it more than worth it. They have one goal in mind and that is to please their human.
Which dog is the cleanest?
Despite their beautiful coat, Bichon Frises are a breed of non-shedding dogs. They also don’t produce oils on their skin so they don’t develop the dog smell that many people would prefer to do without. Being incredibly loyal, clean, friendly, and easy to care for, a Bichon Frise would make a great addition to any household looking for a low maintenance dog.
What dog needs the least exercise?
Chihuahuas require very little exercise. In fact, they will often take care of it on their own when running around after getting a sudden burst of energy. If you’re looking for a breed that doesn’t require lengthy walks, this would likely be one of your best choices. Other breeds that don’t require a lot of exercise are Dachshunds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Brussels Griffons.
What dog can be left alone all day?
Boston Terriers are a low maintenance breed that often does very well when left alone for long periods of time. Separation anxiety is possible with these fur babies but it’s extremely rare. This independent, low-care breed is perfect for someone that works a full-time job and has to leave the house for hours at a time.
What are the most high maintenance dogs?
If you’re looking for an easy to care for dog, you’ll want to avoid high maintenance breeds such as Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels.
