Bringing a pet home for the first time, as exciting as it may be, is a very overwhelming feeling. It is a huge responsibility, taking care of a pet. Often at times, even more taxing than taking care of a baby.
First-time dog owners need to be sure they’ve found the right dog breed that fits their lifestyles and whose requirements they can fulfil before making any sort of commitment.
From eating, exercising, training, and playing, each dog breed needs a different kind of attention and vigilance. A first-time dog owner can get anxious really quickly if they get a demanding breed with tight upkeep.
But the good news is, such breeds exist that do not need constant vigilance and are relatively easier to care for than others. Let’s explore some of the low-maintenance breeds.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds Ideal For First-Time Pet Owners
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes for an excellent therapy dog, making them excellent companions, need I say more?
It’s a dream come true kind of a pet for first-time owners who want an affectionate nature, an easygoing dog. They have expressive eyes and a really gentle personality that they’re famous for, and they’re incredibly people-oriented.
What makes them super low-maintenance is their calm demeanor and adaptability. You name the task, they’re down for it. Ideal companions who love to go on a walk or lounge like couch potatoes, they’re just happy to be here.
They’re gentle with kids and don’t have any excessive grooming needs. Their soft and silky coat needs an occasional brush here and there, a few times a week.
2. Greyhound
Despite their athletic build and a reputation for racing, they possess a relatively calm and composed personality.
Purina notes that because they’re very intelligent dogs, they are really easy to train and follow commands, making them ideal pets for first-time owners. Often, they’re called the “40-mph couch potatoes”, their reputation precedes them.
They love lounging as much as they love running. They don’t need an excessive workout routine; enclosed in their safe, happy space is enough for them.
Physical stimulation, like an occasional sprint and daily walks, is the sweet spot. Their short coat means minimal grooming requirements, just some weekly brushing, really, to keep them from shedding and under control.
When we talk of their personality, they are loving in nature, affectionate but not clingy. Social, but easy to manage. They’re polite with strangers and get along with other dogs, too. Also, they are generally very quiet dogs, making them excellent companions for apartment living, too.
3. Dachshund
According to PDSA, the Dachshund is a very sociable pup. They are easy to manage as their compact size indicates they don’t take up a lot of space or need any extensive grooming and training.
Some short walks and indoor living and playing, along with an occasional brush to their coat, even if it’s mid-length.
They are intelligent, so it’s easy to train them, especially keeping in mind they don’t have an independent streak. They thrive on companionship without being too demanding. It is a good choice for a busy, first-time pet parent looking for a low-effort dog breed.
The Dachshund has a bold personality, and yet, they are surprisingly very calm and laid back as long as their social and exercise needs are met. Cuddling, burrowing under blankets with their favorite humans, and snuggling are a daily part of their routine.
4. Boston Terrier
Often called the American Gentleman for their tuxedo-like coat and really calm and polite demeanor, the Boston Terrier is a great choice for first-time owners. Their short coat makes for a short, quick grooming session, like a quick wipe-down to stay clean.
They are small dogs, sturdy and full of charm. PetMD also notes that it is an extremely loving, charming, and well-mannered dog. They have a very easygoing nature and are actually really adaptable to almost any living situation.
They are also very eager to please, so this makes them easy to train and also follow commands in general. It’s one of the most effortless of breeds.
Their natural balance, ability to shift between playful and calm, affectionate to independent, is truly admirable. They can match your mood perfectly and are really entertaining.
5. Great Dane
Their intelligent, eager-to-please, and docile nature, according to the Britannica, is what makes them an excellent choice for first-time owners. Having a dog that is dedicated to pleasing you is a great help, especially if this is your first time owning a dog.
Their intelligence, on top of it, not only makes it easier for them to figure out ways to please you but also helps you get your point across and for them to register it.
With little training, they will be able to make out what you need and when you need it. And as for their docile nature, this comes in play when you see that they’re aware of their massive size.
They’re majestic dogs who know it, but they’re careful with their weight and size. So, with some professional grooming and training, even a little, you shouldn’t have any issues with a Great Dane.
6. Pug
Pugs are some of the most social, friendly, and affectionate pets to have. Especially for a first-time owner, they are wonderful companions. They have a calm temperament and love to spend time with children, and don’t mind other pets and animals.
Their exercise needs are also moderate, preferring to lay on the couch and get some Zzzs or watch TV with their favorite person, literally bred to be lapdogs.
Beyond expecting a zap around the house once in a while, they don’t surprise you physically often, other than their cute little bark. With a short coat like theirs, they don’t shed, nor do they need a lot of trimming too often.
Plus, as compared to a larger dog, they eat less. So they’re really light (comparatively) on your pocket too. Pun intended to their size.
7. Newfoundland
AKC reports the Newfoundland to be a sweet-tempered, famously good companion. They can be trusted and also, and they’re also highly trainable.
They’re good with kids, also known as noble giants. Looks like a giant teddy, behaves like one too. That’s why they can be a good option for new, first-time pet owners.
However, they are among the world’s biggest dogs. That title comes with its own challenges and hurdles that you need to be prepared for if you’re looking into getting a Newfoundland.
If you live in colder areas, this is a great dog to consider as they’re built for cold temperatures. It loves water, has a thick double coat, and webbing on its paws.
The thick coat requires some grooming, for sure. But their gentle nature and calm personalities tend to outweigh the upkeep most of the time.
Conclusion
No matter what dog you’re getting, you need to be prepared to take on the role of a dog trainer, dog walker, even minutely. Even the best low-maintenance dogs require some level of grooming and regular exercise. But they come with their light and elevate your life to the next level.
Dog training and pet ownership are the easiest things in the world if you’re built for it, and as long as you enjoy parenting a dog.
If you’re thinking of getting a dog, make sure it’s a dog that suits your needs. It’s a breed you can look after and not neglect. With a balance on both sides, it’s a relationship guaranteed to flourish and make your life ten times better.
