Life can often feel like a balancing act between work, family, and personal time, which can make the idea of owning a dog feel a little overwhelming. But here’s the good news: not every dog needs constant attention, long workouts, or daily grooming sessions.
Some dogs are naturally calmer and more adaptable, making them a great fit for busy schedules and quieter lifestyles. In fact, animal behavior experts note that a dog’s temperament often has more impact on daily care needs than size or appearance.
Low maintenance doesn’t mean low love—it simply means a dog whose needs better match a slower, more manageable routine. These dogs are often happy with short walks, basic grooming, and plenty of downtime with their humans.
If you’re a first-time dog owner, a city dweller, or someone who prefers cozy evenings over packed agendas, this article is for you. We’re diving into the best low-maintenance breeds to simplify your routine.
Key Takeaways
Low-maintenance dog breeds can bring companionship without overwhelming your busy schedule.
French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and Pugs require minimal grooming and moderate exercise.
Italian Greyhounds, Papillons, and Cavaliers adapt well to apartments and varied lifestyles.
Matching a dog’s energy and care needs to your routine makes pet ownership easier and more enjoyable.
Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds to Simplify Your Routine
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are often called the city dweller’s best friend—and for good reason. They are small, affectionate, and naturally calm.
Their low energy levels make them ideal for busy owners and small living spaces. A short daily walk or brief playtime is usually enough to keep them happy. They enjoy relaxing just as much as they enjoy play.
This breed is known for being adaptable and easygoing. PDSA mentions that Frenchies get along well with other pets and love people of all ages.
Their short coat is easy to manage and only needs occasional brushing and regular grooming. They are minimal shedders and don’t demand a lot of outdoor time, which helps simplify your routine.
Things to know before choosing a Frenchie:
Ranked first on the American Kennel Club’s most popular dog breeds list in 2023
Alert and observant, making them decent watchdogs
As a brachycephalic breed, they can develop breathing issues like BOAS
Sensitive to heat and may have higher veterinary needs
2. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be small, but they’re full of charm and personality. Known for their long bodies and short legs, these dogs are surprisingly low-maintenance.
They adapt well to different living spaces and don’t need intense exercise. A daily walk and some indoor play are usually enough, making them a great choice for busy owners and apartment living.
Often called the “sausage dog,” as per Britannica, Dachshunds are affectionate, friendly, and love spending time with their people. They’re social and curious, yet independent enough to stay content while you’re at work.
While they’re hounds at heart and enjoy regular movement, their short legs naturally keep their activity needs manageable. Grooming is simple overall, though long-haired varieties may need regular brushing.
Things to know before choosing a Dachshund:
Comes in smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired coat types
Low shedding and generally easy to groom
Prone to back problems due to their long spine
Stairs and jumping should be limited to prevent injury
3. Italian Greyhound
Think of a Greyhound shrunk down to a cozy, lap-loving size, and you have the Italian Greyhound. This sweet and sensitive dog forms strong bonds with its people and loves nothing more than curling up on the couch or in your lap.
They are affectionate, gentle, and happiest when close to their humans, making them great family pets for calmer households.
While they enjoy relaxing, Italian Greyhounds are still true sighthounds at heart. They love short bursts of running and may get the occasional case of indoor zoomies. Because they instinctively chase moving objects, consistent training and leash use outdoors are important.
The good news? After a quick sprint, they’re more than ready to settle down for cuddle time and don’t mind being alone now and then.
Why Italian Greyhounds are low maintenance:
Very short coat with minimal grooming needs
Low shedding and easy day-to-day care
Enjoy both playtime and downtime
Need extra care in cold weather due to their lean build
4. Papillon
It often looks like the Papillon is smiling—and that happy expression matches their personality. These cheerful dogs are content to play almost anywhere, whether it’s a living room or a backyard.
They’re eager to learn and are known as one of the most trainable dog breeds, which makes them easier for owners with a busy lifestyle.
Despite their elegant, delicate look, Papillons are surprisingly hardy. They adapt well to different living spaces, from city apartments to country homes, and can handle both warm and cool climates. They love joining in on family activities but don’t demand constant attention to stay satisfied.
Why Papillons are low maintenance:
No undercoat, so they have few grooming needs
Happy, alert, and affectionate nature
Highly trainable and quick learners
Playful but adaptable to your routine
5. Pug
Pugs are built for companionship and thrive on love. This happy, curious breed has an expressive face and a playful, mischievous streak that’s hard to resist.
They adapt easily to many lifestyles and do well in big or small families, as an only pet, or alongside other animals. Because of their pushed-in faces, they’re most comfortable in temperate climates rather than hot weather, as mentioned by PetMD.
Known as true social butterflies, Pugs love everyone they meet—from kids to couples to friendly strangers. They’re especially well-suited to city living and fit comfortably into busy households.
While they enjoy short daily exercise, they’re also experts at relaxing and are perfectly happy spending hours lounging by your side.
Why Pugs are low maintenance:
Requires minimal grooming despite some shedding
Friendly nature and adaptable personality
Enjoy short walks and lots of rest
Great for families, singles, and apartment living
6. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a cheerful, sporty little dog with a big personality. They love going for walks and enjoy playtime, but they don’t need a lot of space to stay happy.
This makes them a great choice for city living and apartments. They’re people-oriented, eager to please, and known for their silly sense of humor. They’re also typically great with kids and family life.
Often described as “go-with-the-flow” companions, Boston Terriers are content doing whatever you’re doing. They have a bit more energy than some low-maintenance dogs and may get the occasional burst of zoomies, but a couple of daily walks and indoor play usually do the trick. When playtime is over, they’re more than happy to snuggle on the couch or under a blanket.
Why Boston Terriers are low maintenance:
Low-shedding, easy-care coat
Adapt well to apartments and city life
Friendly, social, and eager to please
Moderate exercise requirements
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
One look into the soulful eyes of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and it’s easy to fall in love. These affectionate dogs are gentle, affectionate, and deeply attached to their people.
They do wonderfully with children and other dogs and are known for sensing and adapting to their owner’s mood, making them especially comforting companions for busy or on-the-go households.
Cavaliers are easy to train and highly adaptable. They fit just as well into apartment living as they do in country homes.
A daily walk and a bit of playtime are enough to keep them content. Their loving, calm temperament makes them great companions for families, elderly owners, and multi-pet homes alike.
Why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are low maintenance:
Moderate grooming with weekly brushing and regular baths
Gentle, people-focused, and easy to train
Adapt well to different lifestyles and living spaces
Thrive with minimal exercise
Conclusion
Choosing a low-maintenance dog doesn’t mean giving up on companionship, personality, or affection. It simply means finding a pup whose energy level, grooming needs, and lifestyle preferences align with yours.
From calm couch potatoes to playful but manageable companions, the right dog can fit seamlessly into a busy routine while still bringing joy, comfort, and loyalty into your everyday life.
If you’re ready to welcome a furry friend into your home, take time to think about your schedule, living space, and how you like to spend your days.
When you choose a breed that truly matches your lifestyle, dog ownership feels less like a chore and more like what it should be—a rewarding, heartwarming bond that enriches your life in the simplest ways.
Looking for other breeds that require minimal care and make excellent companions? You can also check out the Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Basset Hound, and Havanese.
