Dogs bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love to our lives—but let’s face it, some pups can also be a handful. If you’re seeking a furry friend that’s easygoing, low-energy, and requires minimal grooming or training, a low-maintenance dog breed could be the perfect match for your lifestyle.
When considering low-maintenance breeds, several factors matter: energy levels, grooming needs, personality, trainability, and overall health. Ideally, these dogs are calm, adaptable, easy to train, and enjoy moderate activity rather than constant high-energy play.
While no dog is completely maintenance-free—they still need love, care, and regular exercise—some breeds are much simpler to manage, making them excellent companions for busy households, first-time dog owners, or seniors.
We’ll explain what makes a dog low-maintenance and highlight the best breeds suited for owners who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. From short grooming routines to calm temperaments, these dogs provide all the joy of companionship without the extra fuss, making them perfect for pet parents who want a loving, loyal, and manageable four-legged friend.
Quick Insight: Breeds like Beagles, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Greyhounds are known for minimal grooming, moderate exercise needs, and adaptable temperaments.
Dog Breeds Perfect for Those Seeking Low-Maintenance Pets
1. French Bulldog
If you’re looking for a dog that believes in short walks, long naps, and maximum vibes, the French Bulldog might just be your perfect match. This breed is all about balance—just enough activity to stay healthy and just enough laziness to stay relatable.
French Bulldogs are famously low-maintenance thanks to their modest exercise needs. A quick stroll around the block or a few minutes of indoor playtime is more than enough.
After that, they’ll happily transform into a decorative pillow on your couch. Their calm demeanor makes them especially appealing to city dwellers and first-time dog owners.
Despite being quiet by nature, Frenchies are surprisingly observant. They don’t bark at every passing leaf, but they do pay attention. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), these “dogs of few words” make great watchdogs simply by staying alert and aware of their surroundings.
Grooming a French Bulldog is refreshingly simple. Their short, smooth coat doesn’t shed excessively and only needs occasional baths. No fancy grooming schedules, no fur tumbleweeds rolling across your floor.
Short coat = easy upkeep
Minimal barking (maximum peace)
Great choice for people who dislike dog hair everywhere
French Bulldogs fit seamlessly into many types of households—singles, couples, families, or anyone who enjoys a dog with a sense of humor. They’re affectionate, social, and often unintentionally funny, especially when those signature snorts make an appearance.
Bottom line: French Bulldogs are ideal for anyone seeking a low-maintenance companion with a big heart and an even bigger personality.
2. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be tiny, but don’t let their size fool you—these little dogs are packed with personality. Famous for being excellent lap dogs, Chihuahuas are happiest when curled up on their favorite human, preferably under a blanket, judging everyone else in the room.
Thanks to their petite size, Chihuahuas are wonderfully low-maintenance. They don’t need much space, which makes them perfect for apartments or smaller homes. Their food portions are small (your wallet will appreciate that), and they’re perfectly content with short walks or indoor playtime.
Chihuahuas are also known for being surprisingly clean dogs. Many owners compare them to cats because of their grooming habits and preference for tidy spaces. They tend to avoid messes and don’t have that strong “dog smell” if properly cared for.
When it comes to grooming, their needs are still fairly simple. Long-haired Chihuahuas require regular brushing to prevent tangles, while both coat types benefit from routine baths every three to six weeks to stay fresh and healthy.
Minimal food consumption
Minimal exercise requirements
Easy to manage for busy owners
Grooming is quick due to their small size
In a nutshell: Chihuahuas are ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance companion with a huge personality.
3. Boston Terrier
Often called the “American Gentleman” thanks to their tuxedo-like markings, Boston Terriers are small, polite, and charming—until it’s playtime. Their gentle size and adaptable nature make them fantastic indoor companions, especially for apartment dwellers.
Boston Terriers are deeply affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. They thrive on human companionship and are happiest when included in daily activities. While they’re generally friendly, they can be a little bold or defensive around unfamiliar dogs—think confident socialite, not party crasher.
One of the standout qualities of this breed is how adaptable and easygoing they are. Boston Terriers adjust well to different lifestyles, whether you’re a homebody or someone who enjoys a bit of activity. They’re known for being flexible, making them a great option for first-time dog owners.
Highly adaptable to new environments
Easy to train and eager to please
Well-suited for indoor living
Doesn’t require a large yard
In summary: Boston Terriers offer the perfect mix of charm, affection, and playful energy. They’re small enough for apartment life, active enough to keep things fun, and stylish enough to look like they’re always dressed for a formal event.
4. Pug
Pugs are the definition of small dog, big personality. Friendly, affectionate, and endlessly charming, they’re a fantastic choice for families or anyone looking for a laid-back companion who prefers cuddles over cardio.
According to WebMD, despite their expressive faces and playful nature, Pugs are generally quiet and don’t need a lot of exercise or grooming—music to the ears of low-maintenance pet lovers.
One of the reasons Pugs are so popular is their loving and social nature. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being around people of all ages, including children. Pugs also tend to get along well with other pets, making them a great addition to multi-pet households.
Thanks to their small size, Pugs can comfortably live in homes of any size—from cozy apartments to larger houses. They’re adaptable and content as long as they’re close to their favorite humans.
Suitable for apartments and small spaces
Doesn’t need a yard to be happy
Quiet dogs who rarely bark
Perfect for relaxed households
While Pugs are generally easy to care for, they do have some special considerations. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) facial structure can make them prone to breathing and heat-related issues, so they benefit from moderate exercise, cool environments, and regular veterinary checkups.
In short, Pugs are lovable, low-energy companions who bring laughter, loyalty, and lots of snorting sounds into your home.
5. Basset Hound
With their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and permanently unimpressed expression, Basset Hounds are the definition of calm and cool. Known for their quiet, good-natured temperament, they make wonderful companions for families or anyone looking for a relaxed, easygoing dog.
Basset Hounds are patient, loyal, and famously low-energy. They’re perfectly happy lounging around the house and are often described as a bit lazy—though they’d probably call it efficient energy management. When it’s time for a walk, don’t expect speed.
This breed prefers to move at its own pace, stopping frequently to investigate every interesting scent along the way.
Enjoys strolls over intense exercise
Quiet and rarely vocal
Great for peaceful households
Overall, grooming is still fairly low effort
That independent streak does come with a side of stubbornness. Bassets are intelligent but can be selective listeners, especially if their nose has found something more interesting than your voice.
Although Basset Hounds have short coats, they do shed more than you might expect. Regular brushing—about once a week—helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy and tidy.
In summary, the Basset Hound is perfect for anyone who wants a calm, affectionate companion with a slow pace and a big heart.
6. Greyhound
Greyhounds may be famous for racing, but off the track, they’re surprisingly calm and gentle. In reality, this breed is far more interested in lounging than sprinting. Affectionate, docile, and intelligent, Greyhounds are quiet companions who fit beautifully into relaxed households.
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds don’t need constant exercise. A daily walk or short burst of activity is usually enough to keep them mentally stimulated and content. After that, they’re more than happy to spend the rest of the day stretched out like royalty on the nearest soft surface.
Grooming a Greyhound is refreshingly simple. According to PetMD, this breed is very low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal care beyond the occasional bath and regular nail trims.
Greyhounds are also known for their quiet disposition. They aren’t excessive barkers and generally have polite indoor manners. Their gentle temperament makes them great family dogs, including households with children.
Requires cushioned sleeping areas
Family-friendly and patient
Minimal shedding
Adapts well to calm home environments
One special consideration is their lack of body fat. Greyhounds need soft, padded places to rest to prevent pressure sores—think plush dog beds, couches, or anywhere you wouldn’t mind sharing your seat.
In summary: If you want a calm, affectionate companion who prefers lounging on laps around the yard, the Greyhound might just be the perfect addition to your home.
7. Whippet
Whippets may look like miniature Greyhounds built for speed, but don’t be fooled—these dogs are surprisingly relaxed at home. Known for their gentle, quiet nature, Whippets are affectionate companions who love nothing more than curling up beside their favorite humans once their brief bursts of energy are out of the way.
Despite their athletic appearance, Whippets don’t need endless exercise. A daily walk and the occasional chance to run freely are usually enough to keep them happy and balanced. After that, they’re perfectly content turning into full-time couch decorations.
Whippets are also wonderfully low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, smooth coat requires very little care—an occasional bath and light brushing will keep them looking sleek and stylish.
Not much grooming required
Great for owners who prefer simple care
Quiet and well-mannered
These dogs are known for being quiet and polite, rarely barking without reason. Their gentle temperament makes them well-suited for families, singles, or apartment living—as long as they have a cozy place to relax.
In summary: If you want a sleek companion who can sprint like an athlete but nap like a professional, the Whippet is an excellent choice.
8. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a petite, graceful breed that’s often described as a tiny version of the standard Greyhound—with just as much charm packed into a much smaller frame. Thanks to their short, smooth coat, they’re considered hypoallergenic and are a great option for people with allergies or anyone who prefers a nearly fur-free home.
Italian Greyhounds are perfectly content in small apartments and are ideal for owners who enjoy a more indoor-focused lifestyle. They don’t demand long walks or intense exercise and are happiest lounging in warm, cozy spots—preferably right next to you.
Grooming this breed is refreshingly simple. Their sleek coat requires very little maintenance beyond the occasional bath, making them one of the easiest breeds to care for in terms of cleanliness and upkeep.
Well-suited for apartment living
Low exercise requirements
No heavy brushing needed
One thing to keep in mind is their emotional attachment. Italian Greyhounds are known for being extremely affectionate—and sometimes a little too devoted. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods.
In summary, Italian Greyhounds are elegant, low-maintenance companions who thrive in calm, cozy homes.
9. Beagle
Beagles are cheerful, affectionate dogs known for their friendly and sociable nature. They love cuddles just as much as they love adventure, making them a great fit for many different types of owners.
While Beagles are still used for hunting today, they’re also incredibly popular as companion dogs—mostly because they’re sweet, loving, and impossible not to smile at.
One reason Beagles are considered relatively low-maintenance is their overall good health. They’re a sturdy, small-to-medium breed with short coats that don’t require fancy grooming or frequent trips to the groomer—just regular brushing and the occasional bath.
Short, easy-care coat
Generally healthy breed
Friendly and outgoing personality
Gets along well with families and other pets
Beagles are energetic dogs with curious minds and powerful noses. They need regular exercise and plenty of socialization to stay happy and well-behaved. Without enough activity, they may find their own entertainment—and it’s not always something you’ll approve of.
Beagles are social creatures and thrive when they’re part of the action. Whether it’s a walk, a play session, or just hanging out with their people, they’re happiest when they feel included.
In summary: Beagles are affectionate, low-maintenance dogs with a playful spirit and a curious nose that never quits.
Conclusion
If you are looking to bring a new dog into your home, a low-maintenance breed can be an excellent choice. While no dog is truly “low maintenance,” some breeds have traits that make pet care easier. These dogs are often calm, affectionate, low-energy dogs with minimal exercise needs, low shedding, and require only weekly or occasional brushing.
Other dog breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, and other charming companions are equally happy in larger homes or apartments, and are suitable for first-time owners or homes with younger kids.
Originally bred for companionship, these dogs enjoy regular grooming but don’t demand constant attention. Their calm nature makes them ideal for pet parents who want a charming dog without the high upkeep, allowing owners and their dogs to be equally happy together.
