Let’s be real — not everyone has time (or energy) for daily brushing, blow-drying, and chasing a shedding furball around the house. If you’re craving the joy of a dog without the high-maintenance beauty routine, you’re not alone.
On average, U.S. pet owners spend billions annually on pet care, including grooming, with a large portion of that going toward professional grooming services.
The good news? There are dog breeds that don’t need much grooming — and they’re just as adorable, loving, and loyal. Whether you’re a busy bee, a first-time dog owner, or simply prefer a neat home, these minimal grooming dog breeds are about to become your new favorites.
Low Grooming Requirements Dog Breeds
1. Dachshund
When it comes to the Dachshund’s coat, it’s as unique as the dog itself. Whether you have a smooth, long-haired, or wire-haired variety, each has a distinct texture that requires little upkeep. Their short, sleek coat (in the smooth variety) is a clear winner for anyone looking for a low-maintenance dog breed. With minimal grooming needs, they’re a breeze to care for!
When it comes to grooming frequency, Dachshunds are pretty laid-back. A quick brush every few weeks is usually all that’s needed, especially if you have a smooth-coated one. Occasionally trimming their nails and cleaning their ears will do the trick, making grooming feel like a breeze compared to other dog breeds.
Shedding is another factor that sets the Dachshund apart from many dogs. While they shed minimally, you might see a few stray hairs here and there. With such low-maintenance grooming requirements, you can spend more time playing with your pup and less time vacuuming your house!
Dachshunds are known for being a great fit for people looking to save time on grooming. Their easy-care coats mean you don’t need to book frequent grooming appointments, giving you more time to enjoy their playful personalities. Plus, their affectionate nature ensures they’re always ready to curl up on the couch for a cuddle!
This charming breed fits seamlessly into various lifestyles, including apartment living or for first-time dog owners. Dachshunds tend to be independent and adaptable, making them ideal for those who live in smaller spaces. Whether you’re a busy professional or a retiree, these dogs tend to thrive without constant grooming or attention.
2. Greyhound
Greyhounds have a sleek, smooth coat that practically shines in the sunlight. Their short fur is so soft, you might find yourself giving them extra pets just to feel it. And with minimal grooming needs, they’re the perfect companion for anyone who doesn’t want to fuss with endless brushing sessions.
When it comes to grooming, the Greyhound is incredibly low-maintenance, as per Petplan. A quick weekly brushing is all it takes to keep them looking their best. You won’t need any fancy tools either—just a simple brush will do, and you’ll both be back to relaxing in no time. No hassle, no stress!
Shedding with a Greyhound is practically a non-issue. They shed very little compared to many other breeds, so you don’t have to worry about a trail of fur following you everywhere. Their low-maintenance coat makes cleaning up after them a breeze, leaving you with more time to spend with your new furry friend.
For those looking to save time on grooming, the Greyhound is the dog to choose. Less time spent brushing means more time for play or a walk in the park! These active dogs tend to burn off energy quickly, so they’re great if you want a low-effort dog that still enjoys outdoor adventures.
Greyhounds are a great match for people living in apartments or for first-time dog owners. Their calm demeanor means they’re content to lounge around, but they also have enough energy for short, brisk walks. They fit perfectly into homes that don’t have space for a high-maintenance breed, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
3. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog’s coat is smooth and velvety, giving them that adorable, snuggly appearance everyone loves. With minimal shedding, their fur doesn’t require much attention, making them a great option for those who prefer a low-maintenance breed. A quick pet, and you’re good to go!
When it comes to grooming, the French Bulldog keeps things simple. Regular brushing, about once a week, is all you need to keep their coat looking fresh and smooth. Their grooming routine is pretty straightforward, so you won’t need a whole arsenal of tools or frequent appointments.
Shedding with a French Bulldog? Minimal at best. You won’t be constantly cleaning up a pile of fur, which is a bonus for anyone who isn’t keen on extra housework. Their easy-to-care-for coat means less cleaning, giving you more time to hang out with this sweet, low-maintenance companion.
Saving time is a breeze with a French Bulldog. Since they don’t require extensive grooming, you can spend more of your time enjoying their playful nature. This little dog doesn’t need constant attention to look great, which is a perfect fit for busy pet parents or anyone who’s new to the dog-owning world.
French Bulldogs are made for apartment living. Their compact size, easy grooming, and relaxed temperament make them ideal for smaller spaces, as per Purina. Whether you’re living in a bustling city or just starting out as a pet parent, a French Bulldog will happily adjust to your lifestyle without the stress of complicated care routines.
4. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound’s coat is short and dense, offering that irresistible “huggable” look. With its smooth texture, you might find yourself snuggling up to it more often than you thought. They don’t require much attention when it comes to grooming, and their low-shedding nature makes them an ideal choice for anyone who doesn’t want to be constantly cleaning up after their dog.
When it comes to grooming, the Basset Hound is one of those breeds that keeps things relatively simple. A basic grooming routine is all you need. Their fur doesn’t require much maintenance, so a regular brushing here and there will keep their coat looking healthy without a ton of effort.
Basset Hounds are easy on the shedding front. They shed minimally, meaning you won’t have to worry about fur piles all over your home. Keeping their coat healthy is easy too—just a quick brush a few times a week will keep them looking their best without it taking up too much of your time.
Saving time is a priority for many, and the Basset Hound is a great choice in that regard. Their grooming doesn’t take much time, allowing you to focus more on their other needs, like satisfying their love of long naps. They’re the perfect breed for anyone looking for a low-maintenance dog that still enjoys a good play session.
Basset Hounds are adaptable dogs that do well in various living environments. While they love their walks, their relaxed attitude makes them suited for apartment living or homes with limited space. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or an experienced pet parent, the Basset Hound will happily fit into your lifestyle without too much fuss.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, whether short or long-haired, have a soft and smooth coat that adds to their adorable charm. The long-haired variety has a luxurious, silky texture, while the short-haired dogs sport a sleek, shiny coat that’s easy on the eyes. No matter the coat type, they always look dapper!
When it comes to grooming, Chihuahuas keep it simple. Their grooming routine isn’t overwhelming—just a quick brush every few days to keep their coats in top shape. Long-haired Chihuahuas may need a little more attention, but it’s nothing too time-consuming. A gentle brush will do the trick!
In terms of shedding, Chihuahuas are a dream. The short-haired ones shed minimally, while the long-haired dogs shed a bit more, but it’s still nothing to fret about. Regular grooming helps to keep any shedding under control, ensuring your home stays clean and your little companion stays comfy.
Saving time is always a win, and Chihuahuas don’t disappoint here. Their grooming doesn’t take much effort, especially if you keep things consistent. They’re perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance dog with a whole lot of love to give.
Whether you live in an apartment or a house, Chihuahuas are wonderful companions for various living situations. These tiny dogs are totally devoted to their owners, making them perfect for first-time pet parents. They’re adaptable and love being with their people, no matter where you call home.
6. Mastiff
Mastiffs have a short, dense coat that feels surprisingly soft to the touch. While they’re not as fluffy as some breeds, their smooth fur still gives them a majestic look, and it’s easy to maintain. A quick pat down, and you’ll be set!
Maintaining their coat isn’t a hassle, but it does require a little routine. A brush every week is all it takes to keep their coat looking sleek and clean. The big guys may need a bit more care during shedding seasons, but nothing overwhelming.
When it comes to shedding, Mastiffs aren’t known to cause too much of a mess. Their shedding is manageable, and with consistent brushing, your house won’t be covered in fur. Their shedding is so controlled that you might forget they even shed at all!
Mastiffs save you time in grooming, and that’s a win! They don’t need constant attention to their coat. Plus, their large size doesn’t come with an extravagant grooming routine—just a bit of brushing and you’re good to go.
For families or individuals looking for a laid-back yet loyal companion, Mastiffs are a great choice. These dogs fit into active families who have space for them to roam, though they’re not particularly suited for small apartments. They do have exercise needs, but they’re happy to chill once their energy level has been satisfied with a good walk.
7. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff boasts a short, dense coat that’s surprisingly low-maintenance. With their sleek and powerful build, their fur feels smooth to the touch and doesn’t require constant care. It’s the perfect mix of low-effort and high-impact looks.
Their grooming routine is refreshingly simple. A weekly brush is all they need to stay clean and keep shedding under control. This breed doesn’t require a lot of attention in the grooming department, giving you more time to enjoy their company.
When it comes to shedding, Bullmastiffs are pretty chill. They shed minimally, making them a good choice for those who want a larger dog without the mess. A little brushing here and there will keep your home fur-free without feeling like a daily chore.
According to PDSA, Bullmastiffs don’t take much time to maintain, which is great for busy pet owners. Their grooming needs are basic, and their calm demeanor means they’re happy with less attention. With a little brushing, they’re set to go, giving you more time for snuggles.
This breed is perfect for families who have room for a giant but don’t want to spend hours grooming. Bullmastiffs are adaptable to different lifestyles, including suburban homes with yards. They’re not hyperactive, so once they get their exercise, they’re content to lounge around.
8. Pug
Pugs have a smooth, soft coat that’s incredibly easy to manage. Their small, compact bodies are covered in fur that doesn’t require much upkeep. With their low-maintenance coat, they’re perfect for pet parents who prefer simplicity over constant grooming.
Grooming a Pug is simple and straightforward. A quick brush once a week is usually enough to keep them looking their best. Their coat doesn’t mat or tangle, making it easy to care for them with minimal effort.
When it comes to shedding, Pugs are moderate shedders. They do shed, but with regular brushing, the fur doesn’t pile up too much around your home. A little attention now and then helps keep things under control without too much hassle.
Because they don’t need extensive grooming, Pugs are a low-effort breed. They’re easy to maintain, making them ideal for people with a busy schedule or those who don’t want to invest a lot of time in brushing and grooming sessions.
Pugs are well-suited for apartment living or homes with smaller spaces. They’re friendly, easygoing, and don’t require a large yard to be happy. If you’re looking for a fun-loving companion without the extra grooming effort, a Pug could be your perfect match.
9. Beagle
Beagles have short, dense coats that are both smooth and sleek. Their fur is soft to the touch but doesn’t require much upkeep. This makes them a good choice for pet parents who prefer low-maintenance breeds.
Grooming a Beagle is easy and doesn’t take much time. A quick brush every few weeks helps to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Since their fur doesn’t mat, they’re perfect for busy owners who don’t want to spend hours on grooming.
While Beagles shed moderately, their short hair doesn’t leave piles of fur around your home. Regular brushing helps minimize shedding, keeping your house cleaner with minimal effort. They’re perfect for those who want a dog with manageable grooming needs.
With minimal grooming requirements, Beagles save you valuable time. Their low-maintenance coat means you don’t need to dedicate too much time to brushing or bathing, giving you more time to enjoy life with your wonderful companion.
Beagles are adaptable and make great pets for first-time dog owners or families living in smaller spaces. They’re happy in apartments as long as they get enough exercise. Their loving nature makes them a great fit for anyone looking for a friendly, easy-going dog.
10. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers have a short, smooth coat that’s soft and easy to manage. Their fur is sleek and doesn’t require much attention to stay looking sharp. A quick pat down every now and then is usually enough to keep them comfortable.
Grooming a Boston Terrier is a breeze. A quick brush once a week is all it takes to keep their coat in top shape. They don’t require frequent bathing, so you’ll spend more time playing and less time at the grooming table.
When it comes to shedding, Boston Terriers are relatively low-maintenance. Their short coat doesn’t shed excessively, which means fewer fur-covered clothes and furniture. Regular brushing helps keep things in check with minimal effort.
With their simple grooming needs, Boston Terriers save you precious time. Their coat requires very little upkeep, so you can spend more time enjoying their playful company and less time on cleaning or grooming tasks.
Boston Terriers are perfect for apartment living or first-time dog ownership. Their compact size and affectionate nature make them an excellent fit for small spaces, and they’re happy to curl up and relax with their family. They adapt well to different lifestyles and love being part of the action.
Conclusion
Each of these breeds brings something special to the table. The Shih Tzu’s curly coat might require occasional baths, but their gentle nature makes them excellent lap dogs. Their grooming needs are minimal, so you’ll have more time for play and less time at the grooming table.
For families with other pets or busy individuals, breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise are ideal. They are low-maintenance pets that still bring plenty of love into your home. Plus, their shedding is minimal, which keeps the cleaning easy and the cuddles plentiful.
Don’t forget about the importance of coat health. Breeds like the Chinese Crested Dogs and Yorkshire Terriers may need regular ear cleaning and nail trimming, but they reward you with loyalty and affection. Their charming personalities will win you over time.
If you prefer a dog that doesn’t need as much exercise, breeds like the Bichon Frise and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are a perfect fit. They are great companions who can happily relax with you or join in on light activities. They’re ideal for first-time dog owners and those living in apartments.
In the end, no matter which breed you choose, the key to a happy and healthy dog lies in regular care. Whether it’s trimming nails, cleaning ears, or maintaining their curly coat, your dog will always be a wonderful companion. They’ll be your best friend through thick and thin, with minimal hassle.
