Life doesn’t always slow down, and for dog lovers with hectic schedules, finding the right furry friend can feel like a challenge.
People are spending big on their pets these days — U.S. pet spending hit $152 billion in 2024, and is on track to hit a record $157 billion in 2025, with dogs leading the pack. But did you know that among all those purchases, many are aimed at supporting dogs during alone time?
Turns out, some pups were bred for independence. Scientific and anecdotal sources now recognize that certain breeds withstand solitude better, without turning your home into a disaster zone.
If you’re desk-bound, juggling errands, or simply crave a bit of adulting peace, choosing the right companion matters. You don’t need a clingy furball following you like a shadow.
In this post, we’ll spotlight seven breeds that are low-energy, self-sufficient, and won’t miss you as much as your overly affectionate cousin might.
By the end, you’ll know which four-legged friends pair perfectly with a busy lifestyle — no guilt, just smart companionship.
Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone for Busy Owners
1. Chow Chow
Meet the Chow Chow: part teddy bear, part lion, and 100% “I’ll do my own thing, thank you very much.”
Training them to live independently is like negotiating with a stubborn roommate—set clear rules early, use tasty bribes (aka treats), and they’ll respect your space. Routines are their love language, so stick to a schedule or face the side-eye of doom.
For busy owners, Chow Chows are a dream if you give them puzzle toys, a cozy nap zone, and brisk walks before you vanish to work.
Just remember: they’re not marathon runners; 20-minute strolls twice a day is enough cardio for these fluffy monarchs. Bonus tip: They hate heat, so save the power walks for cooler times.
Owner insights
Naturally reserved; not ideal for families needing constant cuddles.
Strong guardian instincts—early training prevents overprotectiveness.
Heat-sensitive; always provide shade and cool resting spots.
Grooming? Oh, honey, you’re brushing this fluffball 3–4 times a week or risk tumbleweeds of fur haunting your house, claims AKC. Diet-wise, think joint-supporting kibble with omegas—they’ve got hips to protect under all that fluff.
2. Basenji
If James Bond were a dog, he’d be a Basenji: sleek, independent, and just mysterious enough to ignore you when called. Training them? Keep it fun, short, and reward-packed—because if you’re boring, they’ll ghost you mid-session. Think of it as speed dating but with more fur.
These pups are perfect for busy owners who don’t want clingy drama. Give them a crate that feels like a VIP lounge, toss in chew-proof toys, and make time for 30–60 minutes of zoomies or mental games daily. Skip that, and your shoes become chew toys—consider yourself warned.
Owner insights
Known as the “barkless dog,” but they yodel instead.
Escape artists—secure fencing is a must.
Seasonal breeders; females only come into heat once a year.
The grooming gods smiled on Basenjis: they self-clean like cats. A quick nail trim and ear check is all you need. Fuel them with quality kibble designed for athletic dynamos, because under that cool exterior is a dog with enough energy to power your Wi-Fi.
3. Shar-Pei
Ah, the Shar-Pei: the wrinkly philosopher who looks like they’ve been pondering life’s mysteries since birth. They’re independent, calm, and a little stubborn—so training is less “boot camp” and more “friendly board meeting with snacks.” Short, positive sessions and consistent leadership will keep them in line without the sass-back.
For the busy owner, this is a no-nonsense partner. Two brisk walks, a puzzle toy, and a comfy wrinkle-safe bed, and they’re living their best spa-day life. They don’t crave chaos—Shar-Peis prefer structured routines over wild playdates.
Owner insights
Loyal but wary of strangers—socialization is key.
Unique blue-black tongue often surprises first-time owners.
Wrinkle care is lifelong; infections happen fast.
PetMD explains that grooming is deceptively easy: weekly brushing for the coat, but those wrinkles? Daily cleaning is required unless you enjoy vet visits for skin infections. Feed them hypoallergenic kibble or vet-approved diet to keep them happy and healthy, and voilà—you’ve got a dignified, low-maintenance roomie.
4. Greyhound
The Greyhound might look like an Olympic sprinter, but don’t be fooled—they’re actually professional couch potatoes. Sure, they’ll zoom for five minutes, but then it’s Netflix-and-nap time.
For independence, crate training with plush bedding works wonders; they genuinely appreciate their personal “studio apartment.”
Busy owners will adore their chill vibe. Two short daily walks are usually enough, plus a quick sprint in a secure yard if available. Leave them with a snuggly blanket and maybe a chew toy, and they’ll be dreaming while you’re stuck in meetings.
Owner insights
Surprisingly quiet indoors; great for apartments.
Sensitive souls—harsh training methods backfire quickly.
Retired racing Greyhounds adapt beautifully as family pets.
Grooming is a breeze—short coat, minimal shedding, a quick weekly brush. Feed them a lean, protein-rich diet to support those long legs, and you’ve got yourself a low-maintenance athlete who doubles as a cuddle partner when you finally collapse on the sofa.
5. Shiba Inu
Shibas are the divas of the dog world: independent, sassy, and always camera-ready. Training them to be alone is all about consistency—positive reinforcement plus firm boundaries (they’ll test you). Think “tiny fox with Wi-Fi” and you’ve nailed their personality.
For the busy owner, this is a self-entertainer in fur. Provide puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and a safe space, and they’ll keep themselves busy without trashing your home. Walks? Yes—two a day to burn energy and prevent boredom-fueled mischief.
Owner insights
Famous for the “Shiba scream” when upset.
Naturally clean; housebreaking is usually easy.
Escape-prone—never trust them off-leash outdoors.
Their coat is low-maintenance—just weekly brushing and seasonal blowouts (hello, fur tornado). They thrive on high-quality kibble designed for active, medium-sized breeds. Bottom line: Shibas don’t need you 24/7… but they’ll pretend they’re doing you a favor when you get home.
6. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are basically low-rider detectives—snouts to the ground, ears flopping, hearts content. Training them to be alone? Easy if you start young with positive reinforcement and crate time. They’re naturally laid-back, so they adapt well to a steady routine.
Busy owners will love their “Netflix pace”—short walks, a cozy bed, and a toy with snacks hidden inside, and they’re golden. Bassets aren’t marathoners; they’d rather sniff every blade of grass than break a sweat. Just make sure they don’t overeat—those sad puppy eyes are professional con artists.
Owner insights
Stubborn scent hounds—recall training is tough.
Drool is part of daily life.
Slow metabolism—prone to weight gain.
Grooming is simple: weekly brushing, ear checks (droopy ears need TLC), and nail trims. Feed them portion-controlled meals with joint support—extra pounds plus short legs = back trouble.
They’re independent enough to snooze all day, but always ready to greet you with that tail-wagging, floppy-eared charm.
7. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso may be pint-sized, but their attitude is all royal. Originally bred as palace watchdogs, they’ve got independence in their DNA. Train them young with short, consistent sessions, and they’ll happily chill while you’re busy ruling your own empire.
Busy owners, take note: they don’t demand endless exercise. A daily walk plus some indoor play is plenty. What they do need is mental stimulation—treat puzzles, chew toys, and a comfy perch to survey their kingdom (aka your living room).
Owner insights
Small but bold protectors.
Can live up to 15 years or more.
Often mistaken for Shih Tzus, but they are more independent.
Grooming can go two ways: embrace the long, silky coat with regular brushing or keep it short in a “puppy cut” for easy upkeep.
Purina notes that they thrive on a balanced small-breed diet with proteins to support energy and a shiny coat. Bonus: Their guard dog instincts mean you’ll always know when Amazon delivers.
Conclusion
Independent breeds are a lifesaver for busy humans—dogs that stay home a few hours without meltdown give you freedom and peace of mind. With enough mental stimulation, proper exercise, and their own dog bed, they’re perfectly fine enjoying solo time.
From a barkless dog like the Basenji to small dogs like the Boston Terrier, these pups prove you don’t need to give constant attention or supervision to be great owners. Rescue dogs, purebred dogs, and even younger dogs can all thrive if trained from an early age.
Ready to find your perfect match? Pick a low-maintenance, intelligent, and independent dog, give them love (and a few walks), and watch them adjust like pros. Now tell me— which independent breed are you bringing home?
