Top 10 Low Maintenance Dogs: Easy Breeds for Any Lifestyle

Matt Matasci Matt Matasci · Updated May 21, 2025

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If you want a dog but worry about finding time for care and grooming, you are not alone. Many dog breeds do well with less attention and simple routines, making them a good fit for busy families or anyone looking for an easier pet experience.

Choosing a low maintenance dog can save you time and help you enjoy pet ownership without feeling overwhelmed. With the right breed, you can have a loyal companion who does not need a lot of special care or constant activity.

1. Basset Hound

A content basset hound lounging on a plush bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. A relaxed expression on its face

  • If you are looking for a chill and easy-going dog, the Basset Hound is a strong choice. This breed is known for its calm nature and friendly attitude. Basset Hounds do well in homes with children or other pets.
  • You do not have to worry about lots of activity with this dog. Basset Hounds enjoy short walks and long naps. They are happy with a simple daily routine and do not need intense exercise.
  • Grooming needs are low since their short coat does not require frequent brushing. However, you will need to check and clean their ears often because they are long and close to the ground.
  • Basset Hounds can be vocal but are not usually aggressive. You may notice their strong sense of smell. Because they like to follow scents, it is best to keep them on a leash during walks.
  • If you want a companion that is easy to care for and enjoys a laid-back lifestyle, the Basset Hound could be a good fit.

2. French Bulldog

A French Bulldog lounges on a cozy bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. The room is tidy and well-organized, with minimal clutter

  • If you want a dog that is easy to care for, the French Bulldog is a strong choice. This breed is small and usually weighs under 30 pounds. You can live with a French Bulldog in an apartment or a small house without any trouble.
  • French Bulldogs don’t need a lot of exercise. A few short walks and some playtime inside are usually enough. Their calm personality makes them easy to get along with.
  • Grooming is simple. Their short coat only needs basic brushing to remove loose hair. Most French Bulldogs don’t shed very much, so you won’t have to clean up after them often.
  • Training is often straightforward because French Bulldogs are usually eager to please. If you are a first-time dog owner, you may find them easy to handle. Basic commands and routines tend to work well with this breed.
  • Many French Bulldogs enjoy spending time with their families. They often do well with children and other pets.

3. Dachshund

A dachshund lounging on a cozy dog bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. The room is tidy and bright, with a sunny window in the background

  • If you want a small dog that is easy to care for, the dachshund is worth considering. This breed comes in two sizes: standard and miniature. Dachshunds have a playful and curious personality, which makes them fun to have around.
  • You do not need to spend much time on their grooming. Their short coats require only basic brushing, and even the long-haired variety is not too demanding compared to many other dogs. Bathing is needed only occasionally.
  • Dachshunds are known for being loyal and alert. They can adapt well to apartments or small homes as long as they get daily walks. These dogs need moderate exercise, so short play sessions or strolls around the neighborhood are usually enough.
  • If you are away during the day for work or school, a dachshund can handle some alone time. However, make sure to give them attention and interaction when you are home.

4. Greyhound

A greyhound lounges on a soft bed, gazing out a sunny window. Its sleek, slender body exudes an air of graceful ease

  • Greyhounds are one of the best dog breeds if you want a pet that is easy to care for. Despite their reputation for speed, they are actually calm and laid-back at home. Most greyhounds enjoy short daily walks and then prefer to relax for the rest of the day.
  • You will find that grooming a greyhound is simple because their short coat sheds very little and does not require much maintenance. Greyhounds usually do not have a strong doggy odor either, so frequent baths are not needed.
  • These dogs are gentle with people and tend to get along well with other pets. They are not known for being aggressive or overly excitable. Greyhounds adapt well to both apartments and houses, as long as they have a soft spot to rest.
  • If you have a quiet lifestyle and want a calm companion, the greyhound is a great option.

5. Shiba Inu

A Shiba Inu lounges in a cozy living room, surrounded by minimalistic decor and a few toys. The dog's relaxed expression reflects its low-maintenance nature

  • If you want a clean and independent dog, the Shiba Inu is a smart choice. This breed is known for grooming itself much like a cat.
  • Shiba Inus usually do not have a strong odor and require only minimal brushing. Their short double coat helps keep shedding under control.
  • You may notice that Shiba Inus like their own space. They are independent but still enjoy spending time with you.
  • Shiba Inus need daily walks and some playtime, but they are not as demanding as high-energy breeds. They can adapt to apartment life if you give them enough exercise.
  • People often choose the Shiba Inu for its calm personality and low grooming needs. They are often listed as one of the best low maintenance dog breeds and are known for their self-cleaning habits.

6. Boston Terrier

A Boston Terrier lounges on a cozy dog bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. The room is tidy and well-lit, with a relaxed and content atmosphere

  • If you want a small, friendly dog that is easy to care for, the Boston Terrier is a great choice. This breed is known for its gentle personality and playful attitude. Boston Terriers usually get along well with people and other pets.
  • Their short, smooth coat makes grooming simple. You only need to brush them once a week to keep their fur looking nice. Most Boston Terriers do not shed much, so you won’t have to worry about lots of dog hair.
  • Exercise needs are moderate. Daily walks and a bit of playtime are enough to keep a Boston Terrier happy. They adapt well to apartment living and do not require a large yard.
  • Boston Terriers are also quite healthy compared to some other small dog breeds. Regular checkups and a healthy diet help keep them in good shape.
  • They are known for being easygoing and attaching closely to their families. Boston Terriers enjoy being with their owners and are usually eager to please. This can make training easier, even for first-time dog owners.

7. Bullmastiff

A Bullmastiff lounges contently in a cozy living room, surrounded by minimalistic yet durable dog toys and a low-maintenance grooming kit

  • The Bullmastiff is a large dog known for its calm nature. You may notice that they often seem relaxed and easygoing, even in busy homes.
  • This breed tends to form strong bonds with family members. They are gentle around children and loyal to their people.
  • Bullmastiffs do not need long hours of exercise every day. A few short walks and some playtime are usually enough to keep them happy.
  • If you want a dog that does not need constant grooming, the Bullmastiff is a good choice. Their short coat is easy to care for and only needs occasional brushing.
  • Bullmastiffs are protective, which makes them good guard dogs. They are usually quiet but will let you know if they sense something is wrong. This calm and steady personality helps them fit well into many types of households.
  • If you live in a smaller home, you might be surprised to learn that Bullmastiffs can adapt well as long as they have enough space to lie down and move around. These dogs can be a good pick for people who want a large but low-maintenance companion.

8. Beagle

A beagle lounges on a cozy dog bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. The sun streams through a nearby window, casting a warm glow on the relaxed pup

  • Beagles are known for their friendly and gentle nature. You will often find them eager to greet people and make new friends. They usually get along well with children and other pets.
  • They have short, smooth coats. This means you will not need to spend a lot of time on grooming. Brushing once a week is often enough.
  • beagles need daily exercise to stay healthy. Taking your beagle for a walk or letting them run around in a yard can help meet their activity needs. They enjoy sniffing and exploring, so a secure yard is helpful.
  • This breed is curious and intelligent, but they can be stubborn. You might need some patience during training. Using positive rewards makes training easier.
  • Beagles do not usually have many health problems compared to some other breeds. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet help them live long, happy lives.
  • These dogs do well in many types of homes, including apartments, as long as you provide enough exercise. If you want a dog that is both playful and not too demanding, beagles can be a good fit.

9. Chihuahua

A Chihuahua lounges on a cozy dog bed, surrounded by toys and a food bowl. The small dog looks content and relaxed, with a happy expression on its face

  • If you want a tiny dog with a big personality, the Chihuahua may be a good fit. This breed is known for being loyal and alert, usually bonding closely with their owners.
  • Chihuahuas are easy to care for because of their small size. They do not require much space, making them a popular choice for apartments. Grooming is simple, especially if you choose a short-haired variety.
  • Chihuahuas need some daily exercise, but a short walk or indoor play can usually meet their needs. Their energy level is manageable for most people.
  • This breed likes companionship and may not do well if left alone for long periods. They get along well with other small dogs and can even be a good match for families with older children.
  • It’s important to handle Chihuahuas gently due to their delicate build. With proper care and attention, you will find them easy to live with and enjoy as a pet.

10. Basenji

A basenji lounges on a sunny patio, surrounded by minimalistic dog toys and a sleek, modern water bowl. Its coat is smooth and glossy, and it exudes an air of independence

  • The Basenji is known for being one of the easiest dog breeds to care for. This breed has a short coat that sheds very little, so you will not need to spend much time grooming or cleaning up hair.
  • Basenjis are often called “barkless dogs” because they do not bark like most breeds. Instead, they make unique yodel-like sounds. This makes them a good choice if you want a quieter home.
  • They are very clean dogs and often groom themselves like cats. Because of this, you usually will not need to give them many baths or worry about a strong dog smell. You can read more about their self-cleaning habits in this list of the cleanest dog breeds.
  • Basenjis do not require a lot of exercise compared to some other breeds. A daily walk and a little playtime are usually enough to keep them happy. This makes them a good fit if you have a busy life or live in a small space.
  • This breed is independent and intelligent. Training may take some patience, but with consistency, you can show your Basenji what is expected.