Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys, but not everyone has the time or energy for a high-maintenance pet. Thankfully, some dog breeds are naturally easygoing, requiring less effort in grooming, training, and day-to-day care. These low-maintenance dogs provide all the love and companionship without the constant upkeep, making them perfect for busy owners, first-time dog parents, or anyone looking for a relaxed lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ve ranked the top 20 low-maintenance dog breeds in order, starting with the absolute easiest to care for. Whether you’re searching for a hypoallergenic breed that doesn’t shed, a calm companion for your family, or a dog suited for apartment living, this list has you covered.
For each breed, we’ll explore why it stands out, highlighting its temperament, grooming needs, and adaptability to different lifestyles. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which breed fits your needs and why they rank as one of the easiest dogs to care for.
What Makes a Dog Breed Low Maintenance?
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to care needs. A low-maintenance dog is typically one that requires less time, effort, and resources for grooming, training, exercise, and general care. Here are the key traits that define a low-maintenance dog:
1. Minimal Grooming Needs
Some breeds naturally have short coats that don’t require frequent brushing, trimming, or professional grooming. Breeds like the French Bulldog or Greyhound shed minimally and need just an occasional wipe-down or brushing. For hypoallergenic options, breeds like the Maltese or Miniature Schnauzer are ideal.
2. Moderate to Low Exercise Requirements
While all dogs need some level of exercise, low-maintenance breeds are satisfied with a few short walks or quick play sessions each day. Dogs like the Whippet or Pug are perfect for people with limited time or mobility.
3. Calm Temperament
The best calm dog breeds, such as the Basset Hound or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are laid-back and less likely to bark excessively or demand constant attention.
4. Easy to Train
Breeds with a natural eagerness to please, like the Labrador Retriever, are ideal for first-time owners. Dogs that are intelligent and quick to learn require less time and patience during training.
5. Adaptability
Low-maintenance dogs can adapt to various environments, from apartments to large homes. Breeds like the Shih Tzu or Havanese are small, quiet, and perfect for small spaces, while larger breeds like the Great Dane can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Now, let’s dive in—starting with the lowest-maintenance dog of all.
Top 20 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
1. Greyhound: The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Dog
- Size: Large
- Coat: Short, low-shedding
- Temperament: Calm, gentle, and adaptable
Despite their history as racing dogs, Greyhounds are incredibly laid-back and make excellent companions for anyone seeking a low-maintenance pet. Their sleek, short coat requires minimal grooming, with only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Greyhounds are famously calm indoors, content to lounge around for most of the day.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Require only a brief daily walk or a quick sprint in a safe, enclosed space.
- Minimal barking makes them ideal for apartments or quiet neighborhoods.
- Gentle nature makes them easy to manage, even for first-time owners.
Perfect For:
Busy owners, families with older children, or anyone seeking a quiet, low-energy dog.
2. French Bulldog: The Ideal Urban Companion
- Size: Small
- Coat: Short, minimal shedding
- Temperament: Affectionate, adaptable, and playful
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular low-maintenance dog breeds, especially for city dwellers. They thrive in apartments and require minimal exercise to stay happy. Their short coat is easy to maintain, and they’re not prone to heavy shedding.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Only need a short daily walk or indoor play to stay healthy.
- Low grooming requirements; a simple wipe-down keeps their coat clean.
- Rarely bark, making them suitable for shared living spaces.
Perfect For:
Apartment dwellers, singles, or families looking for a playful yet low-energy dog.
3. Chihuahua: A Tiny, Low-Maintenance Marvel
- Size: Extra small
- Coat: Short or long, depending on the variety
- Temperament: Loyal, spunky, and adaptable
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed on this list but pack plenty of personality. They’re highly adaptable, thriving in both apartments and larger homes. Their grooming needs depend on coat type, but short-haired Chihuahuas are especially easy to care for.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Small size makes exercise requirements minimal—a short walk or indoor playtime is enough.
- Low food consumption due to their petite frame.
- Fiercely loyal and bond closely with their owners, making them easy to train.
Perfect For:
First-time owners, individuals with limited space, and those seeking a loyal companion.
4. Dachshund: The Compact and Adaptable Friend
- Size: Small
- Coat: Smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired (smooth coats are the easiest)
- Temperament: Playful, curious, and independent
Dachshunds are playful dogs with a low-maintenance side. Their smooth-coated variety is particularly easy to groom, needing only occasional brushing. They adapt well to both apartments and larger homes, making them a flexible choice for many lifestyles.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Moderate exercise needs—short walks and play sessions suffice.
- Grooming depends on coat type, with smooth-coated Dachshunds requiring minimal effort.
- Independent nature makes them less demanding than some other breeds.
Perfect For:
Couples, small families, or individuals who want a playful but manageable companion.
5. Whippet: Graceful and Effortless
- Size: Medium
- Coat: Short, sleek, and low-shedding
- Temperament: Quiet, affectionate, and easygoing
Whippets are elegant yet incredibly low-maintenance dogs. Their short coats shed very little and require minimal grooming. Despite their athletic appearance, Whippets are often referred to as “couch potatoes” due to their calm indoor demeanor.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Daily exercise can be limited to a brisk walk or short play session.
- Quiet and non-aggressive, they rarely bark.
- Adaptable to both apartments and homes with yards.
Perfect For:
Active individuals who enjoy short outdoor activities and a relaxed indoor companion.
6. Pug: The Affectionate Comedian
- Size: Small
- Coat: Short and easy to groom
- Temperament: Playful, devoted, and friendly
Pugs are charming little dogs with a big personality. Their short coats are easy to maintain, and they don’t require extensive exercise. Known for their love of human attention, Pugs are happy to snuggle and entertain their owners.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Minimal grooming needs; a simple brushing every week is sufficient.
- Low energy; they enjoy short walks and lounging.
- Adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to houses.
Perfect For:
Families, seniors, or anyone seeking a playful, affectionate companion.
7. Maltese: Hypoallergenic and Elegant
- Size: Small
- Coat: Long, hypoallergenic (requires basic grooming)
- Temperament: Gentle, playful, and devoted
The Maltese is a fantastic option for those seeking a small, hypoallergenic dog breed. Their flowing white coat may look high-maintenance, but with regular brushing and occasional trims, they’re surprisingly easy to care for. They’re also calm and adaptable, making them great for first-time owners or seniors.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Hypoallergenic coat is ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Small size means minimal exercise needs—short walks and indoor play suffice.
- Friendly and easygoing, they adapt well to apartments and families alike.
Perfect For:
Allergy sufferers, seniors, or individuals in smaller living spaces looking for a loyal companion.
8. Boston Terrier: The Gentleman’s Choice
- Size: Small
- Coat: Short and sleek
- Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Boston Terriers are a low-maintenance small dog breed with a sleek coat that’s effortless to groom. Known as the “American Gentleman” for their tuxedo-like markings, they’re lively and friendly without being overly energetic. Boston Terriers are easy to train and make excellent companions for both individuals and families.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Short coat requires minimal grooming, just an occasional brushing.
- Moderate exercise needs—a quick daily walk and some playtime.
- Adaptable to apartment living or homes with yards.
Perfect For:
First-time owners, families with older children, or anyone seeking a playful yet manageable companion.
9. Shih Tzu: The Regal Lap Dog
- Size: Small
- Coat: Long, hypoallergenic
- Temperament: Affectionate, adaptable, and calm
Shih Tzus may look like royalty, but they’re remarkably easygoing and one of the best low-maintenance dog breeds for families. Their long, luxurious coat is hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for households with allergies.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Grooming is manageable with regular brushing and professional trims every few weeks.
- Small size makes them ideal for apartments or smaller homes.
- Calm demeanor with low exercise needs—perfect for relaxed lifestyles.
Perfect For:
Families, seniors, or allergy sufferers looking for a calm, loving companion.
10. Great Dane: The Gentle Giant
- Size: Large
- Coat: Short and easy to groom
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and gentle
Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are one of the lowest-maintenance large dog breeds. They’re incredibly calm, often lounging around like oversized lap dogs. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they adapt well to homes with a bit of space.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Low energy for a large breed; a short daily walk is usually enough.
- Minimal grooming needs for their sleek coat.
- Quiet and gentle, they rarely bark and are excellent with children.
Perfect For:
Families, individuals with larger living spaces, or anyone seeking a calm, affectionate large dog.
11. Beagle: The Easygoing Explorer
- Size: Medium
- Coat: Short and weatherproof
- Temperament: Friendly, curious, and adaptable
Beagles are one of the easiest dog breeds to take care of, thanks to their friendly nature and manageable size. Their short coat is easy to maintain, and they adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Short coat needs minimal grooming; occasional brushing is sufficient.
- Moderate exercise needs; they love walks and exploring but aren’t overly demanding.
- Sociable and easygoing, they get along well with families and other pets.
Perfect For:
Active families, first-time owners, or those seeking a cheerful, low-maintenance dog.
12. Labrador Retriever: The Family Favorite
- Size: Large
- Coat: Short and water-resistant
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and adaptable
As one of the best low-maintenance dogs for families, Labradors are a perennial favorite for their intelligence, good-natured temperament, and easy care. Their short, weather-resistant coat makes grooming a breeze, and their friendly demeanor suits households of all sizes.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Weekly brushing keeps their coat in top shape.
- Moderate exercise needs—daily walks or playtime keep them happy.
- Highly trainable and eager to please, making them a great choice for families.
Perfect For:
Families, first-time owners, or anyone seeking a friendly, low-maintenance large dog.
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Gentle Family Dog
- Size: Small
- Coat: Silky, moderate shedding
- Temperament: Affectionate, calm, and adaptable
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an excellent choice for those seeking a calm dog breed with a loving nature. They thrive in both active households and quieter environments, making them ideal for families or seniors.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Moderate grooming needs; weekly brushing keeps their coat manageable.
- Adaptable energy levels; they enjoy walks but are also content lounging indoors.
- Friendly and easy to train, making them great for first-time owners.
Perfect For:
Families, seniors, or anyone looking for a gentle, low-maintenance companion.
14. Basset Hound: The Laid-Back Companion
- Size: Medium
- Coat: Short and low-shedding
- Temperament: Loyal, calm, and friendly
Known for their soulful eyes and droopy ears, Basset Hounds are one of the calmest dog breeds. They’re incredibly low-energy and require minimal grooming, making them a stress-free addition to any household.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Short coat only needs occasional brushing.
- Low exercise needs; they’re content with short walks and naps.
- Gentle and good with children, they’re a favorite for families.
Perfect For:
Families, individuals with limited time for exercise, or anyone seeking a relaxed, loyal dog.
15. Havanese: Small, Quiet, and Hypoallergenic
- Size: Small
- Coat: Silky, hypoallergenic
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and adaptable
The Havanese is a low-maintenance small dog breed that doesn’t shed much, making them a great choice for apartment living or allergy sufferers. They’re friendly, adaptable, and easy to train.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Hypoallergenic coat requires regular brushing but minimal shedding.
- Small size and moderate energy needs make them perfect for smaller spaces.
- Sociable and eager to please, they’re a joy to train.
Perfect For:
Apartment dwellers, families, or anyone looking for a playful hypoallergenic dog.
16. Boxer: Playful Yet Low-Maintenance
- Size: Large
- Coat: Short and sleek
- Temperament: Loyal, playful, and protective
Boxers are energetic yet surprisingly easy to care for, making them one of the best low-maintenance dogs for families. Their short coat is simple to maintain, and their natural loyalty makes them excellent guardians.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Minimal grooming needs for their short coat.
- While they enjoy exercise, they adapt well to shorter sessions.
- Loyal and protective, they’re great with children.
Perfect For:
Active families, individuals seeking a playful yet manageable dog, or anyone looking for a family protector.
17. Shiba Inu: Independent and Low-Shedding
- Size: Medium
- Coat: Double-coated, moderate shedding
- Temperament: Independent, clean, and quiet
The Shiba Inu is one of the most independent low-maintenance dog breeds, known for their clean habits and quiet demeanor. While they have a plush double coat, their grooming needs are minimal, as they naturally stay clean.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Only require occasional brushing to manage moderate shedding.
- Independent nature means they’re less clingy than many breeds.
- Quiet and reserved, making them great for calmer households.
Perfect For:
Experienced owners, busy individuals, or those seeking a low-shedding companion.
18. Cocker Spaniel: The Balanced Companion
- Size: Medium
- Coat: Silky, moderate shedding
- Temperament: Gentle, playful, and affectionate
Cocker Spaniels are a balanced choice for families or singles looking for a dog with a mix of playfulness and calmness. Their coat requires regular brushing, but their temperament and adaptability more than make up for it.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Moderate exercise needs; daily walks and play keep them happy.
- Easy to train and eager to please.
- Sociable and loving, they fit well in both active and relaxed households.
Perfect For:
Families, couples, or first-time dog owners who want a loving, manageable pet.
19. Miniature Schnauzer: A Hypoallergenic Marvel
- Size: Small
- Coat: Double-coated, hypoallergenic
- Temperament: Intelligent, alert, and friendly
Miniature Schnauzers are among the best hypoallergenic dog breeds. They’re low-shedding and adapt well to different environments, from apartments to houses. Their lively personality and intelligence make them a joy to own.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Grooming every few weeks keeps their hypoallergenic coat in great shape.
- Moderate exercise needs; they enjoy short walks and playtime.
- Intelligent and trainable, making them easy to manage.
Perfect For:
Allergy sufferers, families, or anyone looking for a smart, low-maintenance companion.
20. Goldendoodle: A Hypoallergenic Family Favorite
- Size: Medium to large
- Coat: Curly, hypoallergenic
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and intelligent
A mix of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, Goldendoodles combine the best traits of both breeds. They’re hypoallergenic, low-shedding, and full of love for their families.
Why They’re Low Maintenance:
- Hypoallergenic coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing.
- Moderate exercise needs; they love walks but aren’t overly demanding.
- Intelligent and eager to please, making training simple.
Perfect For:
Families, first-time owners, or anyone seeking a hypoallergenic dog with a friendly temperament.
Low Maintenance Dogs by Size: Small, Medium, and Large Breeds
While our top 20 list includes a mix of sizes, it’s helpful to break down low-maintenance dogs by their size categories to better suit different living situations and preferences.
Small Low Maintenance Dogs
These small dog breeds are ideal for apartment living or individuals with limited space:
- Chihuahua: Tiny and portable, perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.
- French Bulldog: Adaptable and great for city dwellers.
- Pug: A playful and affectionate companion for small spaces.
Medium Low Maintenance Dogs
Medium dog breeds for those who want a balance of size and manageability:
- Whippet: Sleek, calm, and easy to groom.
- Cocker Spaniel: Sociable and moderately active.
- Beagle: Friendly and easygoing, perfect for families.
Large Low Maintenance Dogs
These large breeds bring the charm of big dogs without the extra effort:
- Great Dane: Surprisingly low-energy for their size.
- Greyhound: Calm indoors and easy to groom.
- Boxer: Playful but low-maintenance with minimal grooming.
Best Low Maintenance Dogs for Specific Needs
1. Best for First-Time Owners
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle and easy to train.
- Maltese: Hypoallergenic and affectionate.
- Labrador Retriever: Intelligent and adaptable for families.
2. Best for Apartments
- Havanese: Quiet, small, and great for small spaces.
- Boston Terrier: Playful yet compact and easy to care for.
- Shih Tzu: Calm and low energy, ideal for city living.
3. Best Hypoallergenic Breeds
- Miniature Schnauzer: Low-shedding and intelligent.
- Goldendoodle: Friendly and easy to groom.
- Maltese: A top choice for allergy sufferers.
4. Best for Families with Children
- Labrador Retriever: Gentle, playful, and patient with kids.
- Beagle: Sociable and great with other pets.
- Boxer: Protective and fun-loving.
FAQs About Low Maintenance Dog Breeds
What is the easiest dog to take care of?
The Greyhound is often considered the easiest dog to care for due to its minimal grooming needs, low energy indoors, and calm temperament.
What is the best dog for someone who works all day?
Breeds like the Great Dane, Shiba Inu, and Whippet are independent and can tolerate longer periods of alone time.
Which dog breeds are the least needy?
The French Bulldog, Chihuahua, and Basset Hound are all known for their low-maintenance lifestyles and minimal attention requirements.
Which dog breeds shed the least?
Hypoallergenic breeds like the Miniature Schnauzer, Maltese, and Goldendoodle are great for those seeking low-shedding options.
What is the calmest dog breed?
The Basset Hound and Greyhound are among the calmest, making them ideal for owners seeking relaxed companions.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Low Maintenance Dog
Choosing a dog doesn’t have to mean endless grooming, constant training, or high energy demands. Whether you’re looking for a hypoallergenic small breed, a quiet medium-sized companion, or a laid-back large dog, this list of low-maintenance breeds offers something for everyone.
With so many incredible options, finding the perfect match for your lifestyle is easier than ever. Ready to bring home your new best friend? Explore these breeds further, and enjoy all the joys of dog ownership—without the stress!
