Deciding on getting a pet dog can be daunting, let alone deciding on which breed to go with. Becoming a pet parent is quite literally like taking in a child that requires all of your attention, time, and energy. So, it’s only right to approach the decision with careful consideration. Fortunately, while dogs are usually highly social animals that demand a lot of hands-on care, there are low-maintenance dog breeds that on-the-go owners could consider.
When a dog is considered low-maintenance, it simply means they are highly adaptable, easy to handle, and easy to groom. They do not require a lot of attention, strenuous exercise, or in some cases, a particular environment. These types of dogs can live or adjust well in various living environments, from cozy apartments to houses with wide-open spaces.
So, without further ado, let’s consider which breed would best fit your fast-paced lifestyle.
10. Shiba Inu
Native to Japan, Shiba Inus are adored for their fluffy fox-like features. Their moderately active and independent nature makes them appealing to busy individuals, as well as the fact that they don’t require a lot of grooming. While they do shed seasonally, they only require regular brushing during those shedding seasons to maintain their short double fur coat. Other than that, there are many easy-care qualities to love about these strong-willed, alert, and very clean dogs. Such are, while they love being walked daily and getting playtime, they generally do not require constant attention and frequent grooming. This makes them a good breed choice for people with demanding schedules but who would like to make a loyal furry friend part of their daily lives.
9. Wiener Dog
Dachshunds are more commonly known as “wiener dogs” because of their elongated bodies that resemble a wiener, thus the nickname. Dachshunds, while small, are incredibly smart, active, and fearless. But the best thing about them is the fact that they are one of the most low-maintenance breeds in the canine world. There are three types of wiener dogs identified according to their coat type: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired, with the smooth-coated Dachshund being the most easy-care out of the three for their minimal grooming requirements. You would only need to keep their long backs healthy by providing opportunities for regular exercise, interactive play, and other dog-appropriate games that you and your furbaby would both enjoy.
8. Greyhound
Dubbed as “40 mph couch potatoes,” Greyhounds are fondly known as race dogs that love a lot of lounging around. Because of this, they are considered one of the most easy-care dog breeds that come with many lovable qualities. They are moderate shedders with fur coats that require minimal grooming. They are easygoing and do not necessarily require strenuous exercise despite being highly active dogs. And most of all, they are affectionate and gentle canine souls. Anyone looking for a mix of high energy and tenderness, the Greyhound could be the loving pet companion you’ve been searching for.
7. Whippet
Sharing almost the exact same level of care needs and temperament as Greyhounds, Whippets are gentle, affectionate, and highly active dogs who love extended periods of rest and relaxation. These medium-framed dogs need little grooming thanks to their short fur coats, making them great for owners who might not have the extra time for frequent trips to the groomers. But while they are suitable for owners with busy lifestyles, Whippets love some good high-speed running around, so it is vital to provide them with a safe space to exercise.
6. Italian Greyhound
Slightly smaller and more delicate in frame compared to their racing cousins, Italian Greyhounds are short-coated, elegant, and gentle canines that are very easy to care for as they only require occasional grooming. They are an energetic breed and need regular exercise, but Italian Greyhounds can be pretty content with short walks and playtimes. Busy individuals who work from home will find that Italian Greyhounds are highly affectionate and love being lap dogs as a way to lounge around and keep their humans company.
5. Basenji
Basenjis are interesting in the way they are very clean because of their inherent cat-like grooming routines. They are also commonly called the “barkless dog” as Basenjis are generally a very quiet breed. And when they do bark, they release yodeling sounds instead of the normal barking sounds we are used to. Basenjis, just like others in this list, require little grooming. They are independent yet engaging, and while they are moderately energetic and like daily walks, they also tend to be satisfied with just indoor activities. If you like a quiet but interesting little buddy roaming your apartment, choosing the Basenji as a companion would be a great choice.
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4. Boston Terrier
Another interesting low-maintenance breed would be the Boston Terrier. Like others, they have short fur coats that require minimal care. Interestingly, their coat markings give the appearance of wearing tuxedos, which give Boston Terriers the nickname “American Gentlemen.” They also have low exercise requirements and are highly adaptable to apartment living. But most of all, Boston Terriers are very social, charming, and clever dogs that are easy to train.
3. Chihuahua
One of the smallest known dog breeds, Chihuahuas make for a great low-maintenance pet due to their luggable size. But while they are small in frame, Chihuahuas can be very spirited, affectionate, and loyal towards their human carers. Chihuahuas come in two coat types: long and short, with the shorthaired breed requiring minimal grooming. In terms of staying active, this feisty breed is content with short daily walks and playing indoors, making them great for apartment renters or even those with larger homes. So, if you’re looking for an adorable furry companion to take to work (if you’re allowed to), then the Chihuahua just might be for you.
2. Frenchie
French Bulldogs, often known as “Frenchies” are bright, easygoing, and affectionate breeds that make excellent family pets. They don’t bark a lot which makes them great for apartment living. Frenchies are also friendly and tend to get along with children very well. When it comes to their appearance, Frenchies call for minimal grooming due to their smooth and short coats that moderately shed. Also, they are not highly energetic dogs and only require moderate exercise. These low-maintenance qualities, combined with their small to medium frames, make French Bulldogs easy to handle and live with.
1. Pug
Pugs are wonderful and easy-to-care-for breeds that check all the boxes—they are small, which makes them easy to take wherever you go. They have adorable, wrinkled, and round faces that are hard to resist. They also enjoy minimal exercise and lounging around. Combine those qualities with the fact that they also require little grooming and brief playtimes, making the Pug the friendly, affectionate, easy-care furbaby that will make your heart full.