18 Best Low Maintenance Dogs

They are man’s best friend, our four-legged buddies and loveable companions but sometimes dogs can be a handful. If you are looking for a dog breed that is less energetic, needs minimal grooming, exercise or training, then a low maintenance breed may be a good fit. While there is no such thing as a completely maintenance-free dog (they still need to be cared for, fed and exercised), there are some dogs that are definitely less demanding than others. To help you find the perfect canine companion, we explain what a low maintenance dog is, and list the 18 best low maintenance dogs.

What Makes A Dog Breed Low Maintenance?

Before looking at the best low maintenance dogs, let’s consider what might make a dog breed less challenging. When you think of low maintenance dogs, it is natural to take into account energy levels, grooming requirements, personality, trainability and overall health. You want a dog breed that is not overly energetic, has minimal grooming and exercise requirements, and general good health.

However, what makes a dog low maintenance to one person may not apply to another. Dogs that are bouncing around and full of energy may be considered high maintenance if you have mobility issues. While small dogs that are prone to shedding and require regular grooming but are docile might be labelled high maintenance if your budget does not allow it.

The right low maintenance dog for you is one that will fit with your lifestyle, so you need to take into account things like your own working commitments and patterns, mobility level, home life and budget.

Best Low Maintenance Dogs

These are the 18 best low maintenance dogs, each with characteristics that can make them a companion who will seamlessly fit into your lifestyle.

1) Dachshund

Also known as sausage dogs, dachshunds are one of the most low maintenance dogs because of their size and lack of shedding. Dachshunds can be either small or medium sized dogs, are loveable and affectionate, great for snuggling up on the couch. Their small size with short legs and long bodies means they only require a moderate amount of exercise. They are not prone to jumping and running. They do, however, have a stubborn side and will need some basic training for structure and obedience.

Breed overview:

Temperament: Clever, devoted, courageous, playful, independent
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Height: Miniature (13-15cm) Standard (20-23cm)
Weight: Miniature (up to 5kg) Standard (7.5kg)
Colours: Black, black and tan, chocolate and tan, chocolate and cream, cream, tan, red
Coat: Smooth, long haired or wire haired
Energy level: Medium

2) Greyhound

Even though greyhounds have a reputation as athletic, racing dogs, they are actually very docile. This breed tends to love lazing around and is very affectionate. Greyhounds are intelligent and gentle with a quiet disposition. They have a short and smooth coat which is easy to maintain and are renowned for superior health. They are not known to bark excessively and are considered family friendly dogs. Because greyhounds have little or no body fat, owners do need to provide soft places for these dogs to rest to avoid pressure sores developing.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, family friendly, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 68-76cm
Weight: 26-40kg
Colours: White, brindle, fawn (pale tan to dark deer-red), black, red, grey
Coat: Smooth, short, dense
Energy level: Low to moderate

3) Italian greyhound

The Italian greyhound is a petite dog breed that is hypoallergenic so good for those with allergies. This breed is a tiny version of the standard greyhound. It does not shed as the coat is short and smooth. Italian greyhounds are content in a small apartment or for owners that prefer indoor activities and are less interested in walking. The only problem with Italian greyhounds is they tend to be clingy and do not like to be left alone.

Breed overview

Temperament: Loving, sensitive, affectionate
Life expectancy: 14-15 years
Height: 32-38 cm
Weight: 3-6.5kg
Colours: Grey, black, red, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream,sable, black or combination
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: Low to moderate

4) French bulldog

French bulldogs are low maintenance because of their compact size and low exercise needs. They are happy to go out for a short walk or little play. Their quiet nature makes them ideal for apartment living but they also make excellent watch dogs. Their short coat makes them minimal shedders and they only need an occasional bath. This breed can have some skin issues so may require regular visits to the vet. They also have a shortened muzzle, and can be prone to the breathing issues that come with brachycephalic syndrome.

Breed overview

Temperament: Friendly, sociable, non sporty
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Height: 28-33 cm
Weight: 7-10.9kg
Colours: White, cream, fawn, piebald, black, white
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: Low to moderate

5) Basset hound

The Basset hound has a quiet and good natured temperament and can make a lovely pet for families or people who want a calm dog. These dogs are patient and loyal, and can be fairly lazy. They love to take their time with everything including walks, so be prepared that this breed will want to stop and smell every rose. They can also be quite stubborn. While they have short coats, they can shed if not brushed weekly.

Breed overview

Temperament: Calm, stubborn, good-natured
Life expectancy: 8-12 years
Height: 25-35 cm
Weight: 18-27 kg
Colours: Brown, white, tricolour
Coat: Medium length, double coated, silky, flat
Energy level: Low

6) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

One of the most snuggliest dog breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is happiest when cuddling up on the couch. This breed is a loving and gentle dog, ideal for families, retirees or singles looking for a sweet companion. A small to medium sized dog, these dogs are easy to train. They do require constant grooming with regular brushing, ear cleaning and trips to the groomer. The breed can also be predisposed to some health conditions like heart disease, ear infections and neurological problems.

Breed overview

Temperament: Soft, calm, affectionate, quiet, easy to train
Life expectancy: 9-14 years
Height: 30-33 cm
Weight: 5-5.8kg
Colours: Black, tan, ruby, blenheim, tricolour
Coat: Moderately long, feathering on ears, tail, chest and legs, slightly wavy and silky
Energy level: Low to moderate

7) Beagle

Beagles are happy and affectionate dogs that make ideal pets for different types of owners. They love cuddles, are friendly and sociable. Beagles are low maintenance because they tend to be a healthy breed. They are small and have short coats that don’t require expensive trips to the groomer. They are, however, energetic dogs and need a lot of exercise and socialisation.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, adventurous, independent, energetic, enthusiastic, lively, tolerant
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 33 – 38cm
Weight: 8-13.5kg
Colours: White, tan, tricolour
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: High

8) Boston Terrier

Boston terriers are small and gentle which makes them an ideal dog for indoor living. They are affectionate and devoted to their owners but can be aggressive to unknown dogs. Their small stature makes them ideal for apartments or houses with small yards. This breed is one of the most adaptable and easygoing. They do tend to be rather active, though with a playful and energetic nature.

Breed overview

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
Height: 38cm – 43cm
Weight: 5-11kg
Colours: Black and white, seal and white, brindle and white
Coat: Glossy, short
Energy level: High

9) Brussels Griffon

Brussels griffons are highly affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on companionship. Their petite and calm nature makes them ideal for small yards, apartment living, and families with small children. Even though this breed is small and calm, it can be stubborn and you will need to be consistent when it comes to obedience training. They do need regular grooming and can be prone to shedding.

Breed overview

Temperament: Sensitive, affectionate, stubborn
Life expectancy: 13-15 years
Height: 25-28cm
Weight: 4-6kg
Colours: Red, black, black and tan, beige
Coat: Rough and wiry or smooth and straight
Energy level: Moderate

10) Shih Tzu

While Shih Tzus are energetic and vibrant, they are incredibly low maintenance and can sit around happily for hours. Small daily exercise is all they need. Although they have a lovely, long coat, this breed is hypoallergenic and shed minimally. A weekly brush and occasional trim at the groomers will keep their coat shiny and healthy. Shih tzus do need training but are intelligent and will pick it up quickly.

Breed overview

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful, loyal
Life expectancy: 10-16 years
Height: 23cm – 27cm
Weight: 5-7.5kg
Colours: Black and white, brindle, liver and white, liver
Coat: Long, double coat
Energy level: Moderate

11) Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs and make the perfect lap dog. Their small size makes them a low maintenance dog. They will not take up much space, will not eat a lot and don’t need a lot of exercise. This breed is also known to be particularly clean. Their longish hair will need to be brushed regularly and they will need to be bathed every three to six weeks.

Breed overview

Temperament: Lively, alert, loyal, companionable
Life expectancy: 12-20 years
Height: 15- 23cm
Weight: 1.4-2.7kg
Colours: Black, tan, cream, fawn, white, blue, silver, chocolate
Coat: Smooth and long
Energy level: Moderate

12) Maltese

Maltese is a low maintenance breed that is happy to live indoors and doesn’t need a big backyard. They don’t require a lot of exercise and will play with toys or sit on the couch for hours on end. This breed is a loyal dog but tends to be nervous around strangers. They do have a beautiful coat that needs regular trimming, brushing and grooming.

Breed overview

Temperament: Affectionate, alert, loyal
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 18- 23cm
Weight: 1.4-3.6kg
Colours: White, cream, ivory, light orange
Coat: Smooth and long
Energy level: Moderate

13) Mastiff

While Mastiffs are a large dog, their low energy level makes them low maintenance if lots of walks and runs don’t appeal to you. Mastiffs tend to be playful and goofy and, despite their size, are excellent family dogs. They tend to grow quickly but, once they reach adulthood, become much calmer and eat less than you would expect. Mastiffs don’t need regular grooming, just a brush and bath occasionally.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, loyal
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Height: 76-84cm
Weight: 72-104 kg
Colours: Fawn, apricot, brindle, dark mask on ears and muzzle
Coat: Short and sleek
Energy level: Low

14) Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are quiet and do not require a lot of grooming. Despite its large size, they can be a valued family member as they are quite gentle. They are a protective dog and love to cuddle up on the couch even though they are a large breed. Their short, dense coat will not need a lot of grooming.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, quiet, fearless, companionable
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Height: 60-68cm
Weight: 45-60kg
Colours: Fawn, red, brindle
Coat: Short and dense
Energy level: Moderate

15) Pug

These friendly and affectionate dogs are perfect for families or people who want a small, less energetic dog. Although they have big personalities, they tend to be quiet and don’t require a lot of exercise or grooming. Because of their brachycephalic facial structure, they can be prone to health and breathing problems.

Breed overview

Temperament: Friendly, sociable,cuddly
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 26-33cm
Weight: 6-8kg
Colours: Black, fawn, silver fawn, apricot
Coat: Short and smooth
Energy level: Moderate

16) Whippet

This breed is like a smaller version of a greyhound. They are gentle and highly affectionate so ideal for families. They can be happy lazing around the home but love to run and play outside. Regular exercise is important for a whippet to burn off their medium to high energy. Their grooming needs are minimal which helps make them a low maintenance dog.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, affectionate, friendly, elegant, quiet
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 45-55cm
Weight: 11-15kg
Colours: Black, fawn, blue, brindle, white, black and white, blue and white
Coat: Sparse and fine
Energy level: Moderate to high

17) Shiba Inu

The shiba inu is an affectionate breed that is excellent with children and other dogs. This low maintenance dog is clean and has low bathing requirements. They do have a double coat, however, so will be prone to shedding. Regular brushing throughout the year and grooming in the shedding season is recommended. They are an independent breed so this dog won’t suit you if you want a dog that is clingy.

Breed overview

Temperament: Independent, affectionate, clean, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Height: 30-40cm
Weight: 7-10kg
Colours: Orange red, cream, white, black and red
Coat: Thick, double coat
Energy level: High

18) Newfoundland

Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are sweet, calm and dignified. They do have a lot of energy so this breed will thrive in a home with a large backyard. If you have water, your Newfoundland will be in their element as they love water. While it does require regular exercise, the Newfoundland is just as happy snuggling up on the couch for hours. This dog is ideal for a family or one person as they are affectionate and protective. Known to be an extremely intelligent dog, this breed has a reputation for alerting to danger. The Newfoundland responds well to training. Their long double coat will need regular brushing.

Breed overview

Temperament: Gentle, sweet tempered, dignified, protective
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Height: 30-40cm
Weight: 66-71 kg
Colours: Black, brown, grey
Coat: Straight, double coat
Energy level: High

If you are thinking of bringing a new dog into your life, a low maintenance breed might be a priority. There is no such thing as a totally low maintenance dog, but some breeds have traits that are less challenging than others. Each of the breeds on our list have low maintenance features. Some are easy to groom, low energy or affectionate. If your goal is for a low maintenance dog, consider factors like energy level, grooming needs and personality to help find the right dog for you.