Some dogs need constant grooming, endless exercise, and a part-time job (basically) just to keep them happy.
And honestly, that is NOT what every pet parent is looking for.
Maybe you work full-time. Maybe you are on a budget. Or maybe you just want a dog that does not need a ton of extra effort to care for.
And that is totally okay~~
Wishing for a low-maintenance dog breed does not make you a bad pet owner. It makes you smart. It means you are picking a furry companion that is best for your life instead of turning your life upside down.
And ta-da!! Good news! There are tons of dog breeds out there that are easy to train, easy to care for, affordable to keep, and still give you all the love and loyalty you could want.
These are the top easy-to-care-for and affordable dog breeds. The dogs that don’t need fancy grooming like a Labrador Retriever, don’t drain your wallet, and are just… easy!
Did You Know?
Adopting from animal shelters can save you thousands of dollars than buying from breeders.
Adoption fee usually runs from $50 to $300 and include spraying/neutering, initial shots and sometimes even microchipping. Compare that to buying a purebred puppy which can cost $500 to $3,000 or more.
Plus, shelter dogs are usually already house-trained and past the crazy puppy phase. Less training stress and few destroyed shoes. TOTAL WIN!!
Top Easy-to-Care and Affordable Dog Breeds
1. Beagle
Friendly, food-obsessed and super easy dogs.
Beagles are one of the low-maintenance dog breeds that are perfect for first-time owners who want something manageable.
They have short coats and need minimal grooming. Just brush them once a week, and you’re good. They do shed, but nothing crazy.
Beagles are pretty healthy overall, which keeps vet bills low. Just watch their weight because these pups will eat anything. They are highly food-motivated dogs. Seriously, they are little vacuum cleaners.
These tracking dogs have the best sense of smell, and they need daily walks and some playtime. But they are not very high-energy dogs. Beagle puppies have high energy, but they tend to slow down and even become a bit “lazy” as they grow up. A couple good walks and they are happy campers.
Beagles are great pets, great with children, other pets, and basically everyone.
These are affectionate dogs, playful and well-suited for families.
New dog owners should know that Beagles (even when a rather small dog) are vocal. If they catch a good scent, you’re gonna hear about it.
2. Dalmatian
A beautiful spotted dog breed, easier than you’d think.
Dalmatians look fancy, but they are actually pretty low-maintenance dog breeds once you handle the exercise part.
As per the AKC, their short coat is a “thing of beauty”. that needs basic weekly brushing. They shed year-round (those white hairs get everywhere). They are heavy shedders (keep this in mind while opting for Dalmatian ownership).
But, regular brushing helps.
Dalmatians are also generally healthy dogs, which keeps costs down. They are loyal companions who are great with an active family and children.
They do need regular exercise since they were bred to run alongside horses and carriages. But if you have a yard and enjoy daily walks, these dogs are totally manageable.
These are not ideal for apartment living unless you are really committed to keeping them active. But overall, this dog is affordable and easy to care for.
3. Chihuahua
Tiny, sassy, and fashionable dog, and affordable anyway.
Chihuahuas are one of the most “surprisingly” low-maintenance dog breeds, as noted by PDSA, when we talk about grooming needs, costs, and care.
They are very small dogs (hardly 6 pounds in weight), which means less food, smaller vet bills, and way less space needed. Perfect for apartment living.
Smooth-coat Chihuahuas need very little grooming. Maybe a quick brush once a week. The long-haired Chihuahuas need regular brushing, but it is still pretty easy.
They don’t need a lot of exercise. A short walk, and some indoor play, and they are done.
All types of Chihuahuas are affectionate with their families and make great pets for new dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak and can be a bit protective, but they are manageable.
For low-key and affordable dog ownership, this breed is hard to beat.
4. Dachshund
Long body. Short legs. Big bark!!
Dachshunds are another fantastic low-maintenance breed that won’t break the bank.
Smooth-coated Dachshunds need almost no grooming. Even long-haired ones just need regular brushing to keep their coat nice. Although they do shed year-round, it is more manageable than other dogs. As per PetMD, you don’t even need to bathe them that much. Daily brushing, and they are gold.
They are small dogs, so food costs are low. Daily walks and playtime keep them happy. Well-suited for apartment living.
On heads-up: their long backs can be prone to spinal issues if they gain weight or jump too much. Keep them fit and watch the stairs.
Dachshunds are loyal, affectionate dogs with BIG personalities. They can be stubborn, but with patience, they are totally good to live with.
And yeah, that bark is loud for such a little dog.
5. Chinese Crested
Unique dog that barely sheds and is super easy to care for.
Chinese Crested dogs look high-maintenance (with their fancy hair and sleek look). But they are actually one of the easiest breeds to care for.
The hairless variety… just WOW!! No shedding, no brushing, no fur everywhere. You just need sunscreen for their skin and warmth in cold weather.
The “Powderpuff” version has hair, but it is still a low-shedding breed that just needs regular brushing and maybe to keep its hair short. Keeping them in a puppy cut also helps.
They are small dogs, eat less, cost less, and fit perfectly in apartments. They don’t need tons of exercise… minimal exercise works fine.
Chinese Crested dogs are gentle, affectionate, and great for pet owners who want something unique without extra pet care work. These dogs get along well with other pets, too.
If you want low maintenance dog breed (not much regular grooming) and a dog that turns heads, this is it.
6. Boston Terrier
The “American Gentleman” is back.
Boston Terriers are friendly, low-key, and crazy easy to care for. Perfect for first-time owners and apartment living.
Their short coat barely sheds and needs almost no grooming. Quick brush once a week to prevent matting, occasional bath… done!!
These are small to medium-sized dogs, which keeps costs reasonable. Generally healthy, though due to those flat faces, they can have breathing issues (respiratory problems) in extreme heat, as noted by APSACA.
Overall, Boston Terriers have a calm demeanor and cheerful disposition, as these dogs are great with children, other dogs, and are highly trainable.
Exercise-wise, all they need is daily walks and playtime. That’s it. They are not demanding at all.
If you want low maintenance dog, affordable and friendly, Boston Terriers are top-tier.
7. American Foxhound
Athletic, independent, and real chill dog.
American Foxhounds might not seem low maintenance dogs, but they actually are.
Short coat, minimal grooming, generally healthy. Just brush occasionally, and you are good.
They need regular exercise (like one or two hours a day), but if you have a yard or enjoy daily walks, they are manageable. Not as intense as some high-energy breeds.
Health-wise, they are one of the healthier breeds out there. No major breed-specific issues, which keep vet costs low.
American Foxhounds are loyal, friendly, and get along great with other pets. Pretty independent, too, so they are not ready.
If you want easy, affordable, and classic hound vibes… seriously underrated.
8. Pug
Wrinkly, adorable, and a total couch potato.
Pugs are low-maintenance when it comes to exercise and grooming. Perfect for people who want a small dog with minimal exercise needs.
Short coat, easy to maintain. Regular brushing manages shedding. Keep those wrinkles clean to prevent skin issues.
Exercise-wise, Pugs are lazy. Short walks and nap time. They are not built for intense activity. Mostly in heat.
These wrinkly dog breeds are affectionate, friendly, great with children, and with other dogs. Total lap dog with big eyes and big personalities.
These small dogs do have some health issues, and you should watch out for breathing problems as they are a flat-faced breed. Keep them cool, don’t over-exercise, otherwise they might need regular vet visits.
But overall, this is one affordable, easy, and absolutely delightful breed that can easily adapt to limited space. But don’t leave them alone for long periods; they might get separation anxiety.
9. Greyhound
Fast, gentle. Lazy as heck.
Wait… Greyhounds? The racing dogs?
Yep! Despite their speed, Greyhounds are one of the most low-maintenance dog breeds when they are at home and not in the field.
Short coat, minimal grooming. Quick brush weekly, occasional bath. Barely shed. They don’t even require regular brushing; their coat is that thin and fine, not heavy double coats.
And know the wild part: Greyhounds are lazy. After a quick sprint, they are lounging for the rest of the day. “40-mph couch potatoes” for real.
These tall and skinny dogs are gentle, calm, and well-suited for apartment living despite their size. They don’t bark much, are polite with other pets, and affectionate with families. Watch out for health issues like hip dysplasia.
If you want a low-maintenance, gentle, and quiet dog, Greyhounds are perfect.
Conclusion
Not every dog breed needs to be high maintenance to be amazing.
These nine top easy-to-care-for and affordable dog breeds are loving companions, and they don’t even break your bank.
Other great options are Great Danes, Poodles, Bichon Frise, Brussels Griffon, Manchester Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Border Terrier, and mixed breeds from shelters that are already trained.
The best breeds depend on your lifestyle and what you are looking for.
But these pups prove that simple and affordable dog ownership can be just as rewarding.
Heads-up!! Even low-maintenance dog breeds need love, vet visits, good food, and attention. Give them that, and they will give you years of joy.
