Are you one of those individuals who love dogs but are too busy to keep one? Well, you will be happy to know that some dog breeds need less maintenance than others. Such breeds are called “low-maintenance dog breeds.”
Such breeds tend to have fewer exercise, grooming, training, and healthcare needs. However, it is important to mention that no dog breed is maintenance-free. All dogs require time and attention from their favorite humans.
Low-maintenance dog breeds are ideal for pet parents with a busy schedule, mobility issues, or small children. They also make ideal pets for first-time pet parents. Breeds that shed less, drool less, and stink less are cleaner than others and make the best low-maintenance dogs.
Here are the top 7 dog breeds that look neat with no effort.
Dog Breeds that Look Neat with No Effort
1. American Hairless Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 16 inches
Weight: 12 and 28 pounds
Shedding Level: Low
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
According to the American Kennel Club, the American Hairless Terrier comes in two varieties: coated and hairless. The coated variety has a short and shiny coat, whereas the hairless variant might have eyebrows or whiskers.
These curious and cute dogs make ideal pets for allergy sufferers or anybody who desires less dirt and dander in their home. Pet parents having these furless dogs do not need to spend extra time brushing or vacuuming their homes.
The hairless variety requires minimal grooming and looks neat effortlessly. However, they are susceptible to sunburn, so you need to apply sunscreen to your dog before any outdoor activity. The coated variety is almost as carefree and hardly sheds. They need to be brushed once a week with a soft-bristle brush.
2. Chihuahua
Breed Profile
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: Under 6 pounds
Shedding Level: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Chihuahuas are small dogs with big personalities. These lapdogs are fiercely loyal to their owners and make wonderful companions. Often known as the “Velcro dogs,” Chihuahua is a fairly low-maintenance dog breed that looks neat with little or no effort.
Chihuahuas are one of the cleanest dogs with minimal grooming needs. They have short coats that do not shed much. They do not need much space for exercising, and they make one of the best pets for apartment dwellers.
However, long-haired Chihuahuas require more consistent brushing to prevent mats, but not extensive grooming. PDSA recommends weekly brushing for short-haired and two to three times for long-haired Chihuahuas.
3. Poodle
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 24 inches (Standard)
Weight: 40 to 70 pounds
Shedding Level: Low
Life Expectancy: 10 to 18 years
One of the most popular dog breeds, Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. All of them are a great fit for individuals seeking a low-maintenance breed. Poodles are low-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs, ideal for individuals susceptible to allergies.
They make the list of clean dogs who lack doggy odor. However, some people consider Poodles as high maintenance as their curly coats require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, according to PetMD.
Poodles are versatile, intelligent, and family-oriented dogs. They are more than happy to accompany you on long walks or hikes. Poodles get along well with everyone, including children and other dogs. Poodles need one to two hours of exercise every day to stay active.
4. Whippet
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 25 to 40 pounds
Shedding Level: Low
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Whippets, just like Greyhounds, are known for a perfect blend of couch potatoes and athletes. They love attention and are independent at the same time. These gentle and amiable dogs require less maintenance than other breeds.
Whippet is a low-shedding breed with a smooth and short coat that requires weekly brushing with a rubber brush to stay healthy. They are considered one of the cleanest dog breeds. These quiet and intelligent dogs rarely bark.
Whippets have a high prey drive, so they might not be appropriate for multi-pet households. They love to run and play in the yard, but at the same time, they are also well-suited for apartment living. They are a great option for first-time pet owners.
5. Italian Greyhound
Breed Profile
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Shedding Level: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Italian Greyhound is another low-maintenance dog breed. Its short and smooth coat has minimal grooming needs. Due to its low shedding factor, the Italian Greyhound makes the list of the cleanest dog breeds. They are known for their gentle and friendly nature.
Since Italian Greyhounds do not produce the typical doggy odor, these affectionate dogs do not need to be bathed frequently. A bath is needed only when brushing does not help get rid of dirt and debris. They love to spend hours snoozing next to their favorite humans.
However, their single coat does not provide adequate insulation against the harsh weather. So, you have to buy a lot of dog sweaters for your Italian Greyhound in winter. Italian Greyhounds need moderate exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
6. Dalmatian
Breed Profile
Height: 19 to 24 inches
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
Shedding Level: High
Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
Dalmatians are highly sought for their distinctive spotted coats and energetic personalities. They are moderate to heavy shedders, but their short coats and minimal doggy odor make them one of the cleanest dogs.
Despite shedding heavily, the Dalmatian is also an easy-care dog breed since the coat repels dirt. Dalmatians require weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. However, it is important to schedule regular vet visits for flea and tick control.
Due to their high energy levels, they are well-suited for an active lifestyle. Dalmatians require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Exercise includes brisk walks, jogs, and play sessions. Dalmatians are intelligent dogs known for their stamina and loyalty.
7. Pharaoh Hound
Breed Profile
Height: 21 to 25 inches
Weight: 45 to 55 pounds
Shedding Level: Low
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Pharaoh Hound is aptly named due to its striking resemblance to the Egyptian god Anubis. They are naturally clean dogs with a moderately shedding coat and minimal doggy odor. So, you do not need to take much time for their cleaning routine.
Weekly brushing is required to remove loose hair and keep your Pharaoh Hound’s coat healthy. The dog needs a bath only when they get smelly or dirty, which is very rare. However, they are not maintenance-free—Pharaoh Hounds require nail trimming, bathing, and teeth brushing.
Pharaoh Hounds are highly trainable dogs, and positive reinforcement methods work the best for them. Pharaoh Hounds are known for their friendly, sociable, and playful nature. They need regular exercise to channel their high energy.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds are high maintenance, while others are low maintenance. Low-maintenance dog breeds do not need much exercise or grooming, and are mostly clean with little or no effort. These breeds are ideal for busy pet parents who cannot take much time for grooming or exercising their dogs. However, there is no “zero maintenance” dog breed. All dogs require care, grooming, exercise, and most importantly, LOVE!
