Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Low-maintenance does not mean no maintenance — all dogs need care, attention, and love. But these breeds require less grooming, less intense exercise, and are more forgiving of a busy owner's schedule.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Top 10 Breeds
Basset Hound
MediumHappy to sleep all day. Short coat, low exercise needs, and very easygoing nature.
Greyhound
LargeCouch potato at home. Two brisk 20-minute walks and they are content. Short coat needs minimal grooming.
Chihuahua
SmallMinimal grooming, minimal food cost, and tiny energy tank — easy to exercise in a small space.
French Bulldog
SmallShort coat, low exercise needs, and generally calm. Just watch those health costs.
Pug
SmallContent to be a professional lap dog. Low exercise needs and an uncomplicated personality.
Dachshund
SmallModerate exercise needs and short coat (smooth variety). Independent enough not to be demanding.
Shih Tzu (clipped short)
SmallIn a "puppy cut" clip, grooming needs drop dramatically. Low exercise and very adaptable.
Vizsla
LargeLow-maintenance coat but needs daily exercise — good for active people who do not want grooming demands.
Weimaraner
LargeVery short coat with minimal grooming. Daily exercise is non-negotiable but coat care is simple.
Italian Greyhound
SmallNearly zero grooming, minimal shedding, and moderate exercise needs. Very clean dog.
Breeds to Avoid
Tips for Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
✓Keep coats short (professional grooming every 6–8 weeks) to dramatically reduce brushing time.
✓Automated feeders and water fountains reduce the time burden of twice-daily feeding.
✓A dog door eliminates the stress of timed bathroom breaks.
✓Choose an adult dog over a puppy — the puppy phase is the highest-maintenance period.
✓Doggy daycare 2–3 days per week provides exercise and socialization without daily effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest dog to take care of?
Basset Hounds, Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Pugs are among the easiest overall. Low exercise needs, simple grooming, and easygoing temperaments make them well-suited to busy owners. Every dog still needs daily care, attention, and veterinary check-ups.
What is the lowest maintenance dog in terms of grooming?
Short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Vizslas, Weimaraners, and Beagles need minimal grooming. A weekly wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional bath is usually sufficient.
Is a low-energy dog always low-maintenance?
Not always. Low energy reduces exercise demands but some low-energy breeds (Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels) have significant grooming, health, or cleaning needs. Consider all aspects of care — exercise, grooming, training, and vet costs — when evaluating maintenance level.
Should a busy person get a dog?
It depends on how busy. If you work 8-hour days, a low-maintenance adult dog with a midday dog walker can work very well. If you travel 4 days a week or work 70-hour weeks, it is worth reconsidering until your lifestyle allows for consistent daily care.
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