The Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Looking for a furry friend who fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle? A low-maintenance dog could be a great solution. These breeds are known for their easygoing nature, minimal grooming needs, and adaptability to various living situations.
Key Takeaways
- Low-maintenance dog breeds have short coats, shed less, and require minimal grooming.
- Some breeds, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Basset Hound, need less exercise and fit well into a relaxed lifestyle.
- First-time owners and apartment dwellers may find breeds like the Poodle, Boxer, and French Bulldog easier to care for.
- Veterinary costs can still add up, but pet insurance can help cover unexpected expenses—Pawlicy Advisor makes it easy to find a plan that fits your budget.
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Whether you're a first-time pet owner or simply want a companion that requires less upkeep, we'll explore some of the best low-maintenance dogs that can bring joy and companionship without overwhelming your schedule.
✔️ Reviewed by multiple licensed veterinarians
✔️ Updated with the latest medical data
✔️ Compiled from veterinary research
- Dog Breeds with Minimal Grooming Needs
- Dog Breeds with Low Exercise Requirements
- Which Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds Fit Your Lifestyle
- Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Seniors
- Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Apartments
- Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
- High-Maintenance Dog Breeds to Be Aware Of
- What to Know About Veterinary Costs (and How to Save)
Dog Breeds with Minimal Grooming Needs
All dogs need to be groomed, but some require more upkeep than others.
You can expect routine bathing, teeth brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression to be a standard part of the job as a pet parent.
However, some dogs require you to cut their hair, bathe, or brush their coat more frequently. Otherwise, their coats can quickly become painfully matted.
Low-maintenance dogs typically have shorter coats that require little effort to look good because they are more resistant to dirt, debris, and tangles. They also shed less fur, so they aren’t as difficult to clean up after around the house and can make great companions for those looking for hypoallergenic dogs.
A few breeds that are known for their hassle-free grooming include:
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Doberman Pinscher
- Great Dane
- Italian Greyhound
Dog Breeds with Low Exercise Requirements
When choosing a dog, many people seek breeds that are easy to care for, including those that have lower exercise requirements than high-energy dogs. Some examples include:
These breeds are known for their relaxed nature and minimal exercise needs. They enjoy short walks and playtime but are just as happy lounging at home. If you're looking for a pet that fits seamlessly into a laid-back lifestyle, these low-maintenance dogs might be the perfect match. They’re also a great pet for seniors, those with limited mobility, or anyone with a busy schedule.
Which Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds Fit Your Lifestyle
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Seniors
Dogs are perfect companions no matter how old you are and some of the best dogs for seniors require less exercise and fit well with a more relaxed lifestyle. As with any pet owner, seniors should find a breed they can keep up with grooming and healthcare-wise.
Some great breeds for seniors are:
- Maltese
- Bichon Frise
- Greyhound
- Pomeranian
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Havanese
- Boston Terrier
- Yorkie
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Apartments
The size of the breed isn’t the only factor to consider when thinking about if it’ll be a good fit for your apartment, as some larger dogs are happy to lounge around.
Overall, you want a breed that isn’t high energy or needs a lot of space. Examples of such breeds include:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Pug
- Bichon Frise
- Whippet
- Basenji
- Basset Hound
- German Spitz
- French Bulldog
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
If you're going to become a first-time dog parent, you should look for breeds with relatively low care requirements as you get acquainted with living with a pup. Some ideal dogs for you are:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Boxer
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Whippet
- Labrador Retriever
- Chihuahua
High-Maintenance Dog Breeds to Be Aware Of
Here are examples of high-maintenance dogs due to their daily grooming requirements, high energy levels, or predisposition to health issues.
Chow Chow - Unfortunately, they are predisposed to several health issues, so they require dedicated and attentive care.
Belgian Malinois - This breed is known to be highly active and needs physical exercises and mental stimulation every single day.
Puli - These pups have dreadlock-like hair, which demands constant, close grooming.
Border Collie - This breed demands constant physical and mental stimulation to be happy.
Pekingese - Pekes need regular, thorough brushing every day
Labradoodle - These dogs are high-energy, attention-seeking, and have a high-maintenance care routine involving regular brushing and visits to a professional groomer.
What to Know About Veterinary Costs (and How to Save)
While selecting a low-maintenance dog can simplify aspects like grooming and exercise, it’s essential to recognize that all dogs, regardless of breed, require regular veterinary care - and many, many dogs find themselves needing expensive veterinary treatment. For instance, studies show that 80-90% of dogs over the age of three have some form of periodontal disease, which can lead to significant health issues if not addressed.
Veterinary expenses can vary widely, and unexpected health issues can lead to costs in the thousands. To manage these potential expenses, many pet owners opt for pet insurance. Most pet owners enroll within six months of adopting a dog, as it ensures coverage before any pre-existing conditions arise.
Recommended Reading: How to Compare Pet Insurance Plans
While choosing a low-maintenance breed can reduce certain responsibilities, it’s crucial to be prepared for the financial aspects of pet ownership. Enrolling in pet insurance can provide even more peace of mind, ensuring that you can provide the best care for your new companion without unexpected financial strain. Remember to use Pawlicy Advisor to compare pet insurance plans and find the best fit for your needs.
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DVM
Ricky Walther, DVM, is a small animal general practitioner in the greater Sacramento, California area. Realizing the positive financial and medical impact that pet insurance can provide for pet parents and the profession, he lends support and advice to companies like Pawlicy Advisor "The Pet Insurance Marketplace") that simplify the process of connecting with veterinary financing resources.
