Bringing home your first dog is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. From training and minimal grooming to exercise and healthcare, not every breed is beginner-friendly. That’s where low-maintenance dog breeds shine.
These dogs are easier to care for, more adaptable, and often calmer, making them perfect companions for new owners learning the ropes of pet parenthood. Low-maintenance doesn’t mean boring—it means manageable.
Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a yard, these dogs fit seamlessly into everyday life without demanding constant attention or intensive training. For first-time owners, choosing the right breed can make the difference between stress and joy.
We’ll explore the best dog breeds that are friendly, reliable, and easy to care for—helping you start your journey into dog ownership with confidence, comfort, and a wagging tail.
Top 10 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for New Owners
1. Labrador Retriever
If most popular dog breeds had a “beginner mode,” the Labrador Retriever would be the default setting.
Labs are the Golden Retrievers’ slightly goofier cousins—the kind of dog who’s always happy to see you, even if you just went to the kitchen and came back 30 seconds later. For first-time pet parents, that kind of unconditional enthusiasm is both comforting and hilarious.
Labs are famously friendly. They like people, kids, other dogs, and possibly that leaf blowing down the street.
Labradors are smart and eager to please, which means training is usually straightforward.
Their short, dense coat doesn’t need fancy haircuts or spa days. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath will do. Fair warning, though: they shed.
Whether you live in a home with a yard or an apartment close to green space, a Lab can adjust comfortably—as long as it gets regular daily exercise.
If you want a dog that’s loyal, loving, forgiving of beginner mistakes, and always down for a game of fetch (even your 47th throw), the Labrador Retriever is an excellent first-dog choice. Just don’t leave snacks unattended. Ever.
2. Golden Retriever
If Labradors are the fun-loving best friend, Golden Retrievers are the warm hug in dog form.
Goldens have an almost magical ability to make everyone feel loved—neighbors, strangers, delivery drivers, and that one squirrel they’re convinced could be a friend if it would just stop running. For new dog owners, this gentle, forgiving nature is pure gold (yes, the pun was unavoidable).
Britannica mentions that Golden Retrievers are famously kind, patient, and tolerant. They’re excellent with kids, other pets, and humans who are still figuring out how leashes work. If you accidentally step on their paw, expect forgiveness within seconds.
Training a Golden is usually a joy. This makes them ideal for first-time owners learning basic commands and routines.
Goldens seem to come with an emotional radar. Feeling stressed? Sad? Slightly dramatic? Your Golden will notice and respond by leaning on you.
Their beautiful golden coat does require regular brushing to avoid tangles and reduce shedding.
Golden Retrievers enjoy exercise but aren’t hyperactive maniacs. Daily walks, playtime, and occasional adventures keep them happy.
For new dog owners looking for a loving, reliable, and emotionally supportive companion, the Golden Retriever is an outstanding choice. They’re gentle, smart, forgiving, and endlessly affectionate. Just be prepared to vacuum more often—and to never feel unloved again.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you’re looking for a dog that believes personal space is a myth and that humans exist solely for cuddling, meet the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
These small, elegant dogs were literally bred to be companions—and they take that job very seriously. Cavaliers don’t just like people; they adore them. PDSA noted Cavaliers are known for being kind, gentle, and loyal—and it shows.
They’re rarely aggressive and usually get along well with children, seniors, and other pets. Your Cavalier won’t follow you around because they’re needy (okay, maybe a little), but because they genuinely believe you’re better together at all times—even during bathroom breaks.
Cavaliers are small, manageable, and easy to handle, which makes them ideal for new owners who might feel overwhelmed by larger breeds.
These dogs were bred to keep humans company, and wow, do they excel at it. They love being involved in everything you do, whether that’s watching TV, working from home, or staring at you while you eat.
City apartment? Countryside cottage? Cavaliers are flexible as long as they get regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
Their silky coat needs minimal grooming to stay tangle-free, but no elaborate grooming routines are required.
Cavaliers do not enjoy being left alone. At all. Ever. They thrive on companionship and can become upset if isolated for long periods. If you work long hours away from home, this breed may guilt-trip you with their sad eyes alone.
4. Boxer
If a dog could be described as “permanently stuck in a happy dance,” it would be the Boxer. Boxers are big-hearted, bouncy, and blissfully unaware of their own size. They’re the kind of dog who greets you like you’ve been gone for years—even if you just checked the mail.
For new dog owners, their affectionate nature and straightforward care make them a surprisingly low-maintenance (and endlessly entertaining) choice.
Boxers are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They adore human company and are especially known for being great with kids.
Boxers mature slowly, meaning they stay puppy-like for years. Cute? Absolutely. Calm? Not always. Early training and consistency go a long way toward keeping the chaos charming instead of destructive.
For first-time dog owners who want a loyal, playful, low-grooming companion with a huge personality, the Boxer is a knockout choice.
5. Boston Terrier
If dogs wore formal attire, the Boston Terrier would be permanently dressed for a black-tie event. With their tuxedo-like markings and expressive eyes, they look sophisticated—right up until they trip over absolutely nothing.
Boston Terriers are small, sturdy, and full of personality, making them a favorite for first-time dog owners who want a companion that’s easy to care for but big on charm.
Boston Terriers are small dogs with solid builds, which makes them easy to handle, lift, and manage—especially for new owners. They’re great for apartments, condos, and homes where space is at a premium.
Their short, smooth coat is a dream. Minimal brushing, little shedding, and no elaborate grooming routines.
Bostons are affectionate, people-oriented, and love being involved in family life. They’re known for getting along well with kids, other dogs, and guests—though they may insist on being the center of attention.
Boston Terriers enjoy playtime and daily walks, but don’t require marathon-level exercise. After a good play session, they’re more than happy to curl up beside you and snore softly like a tiny chainsaw.
Boston Terriers can be sensitive to extreme heat and cold due to their short noses. Translation: they prefer climate-controlled luxury. Who can blame them?
For first-time dog owners looking for a small, affectionate, low-grooming companion with a huge personality, the Boston Terrier checks all the boxes. These little dogs are charming, adaptable, and endlessly entertaining—proof that great things really do come in small, tuxedo-wearing packages.
6. Beagle
Originally bred in England to track small game like rabbits and foxes, Beagles come equipped with an incredible nose and an unstoppable enthusiasm for life. With their short, smooth coats—often sporting a stylish mix of white, black, brown, and tan—they’re as charming to look at as they are to live with.
And that tail? It’s basically always in party mode. Beagles are famously cheerful. They’re friendly, playful, and generally assume everyone they meet is a potential new best friend.
Serious guard dog? Absolutely not. Welcoming committee? Yes. They’re sturdy without being overwhelming, which makes them a comfortable choice for new dog owners.
Thanks to their short, smooth coat, Beagles don’t require fancy grooming routines. Occasional brushing and the usual bath will keep them looking sharp—and smelling less like “outdoor adventure.”
Small to medium in size, Beagles are easy to manage and well-suited to a variety of homes.
While Beagles are still used for hunting today, they don’t expect you to live in the countryside chasing foxes.
Beagles thrive as family dogs. They enjoy being around people and often do well with children and other dogs. They’re social creatures who prefer company over solitude.
That amazing nose can get them into trouble. If a Beagle catches an interesting scent, their ears may suddenly stop working. A secure leash and fenced yard are non-negotiable unless you enjoy playing hide-and-seek with a professional sniffer.
7. Pug
If a dog could make you laugh just by existing, it would be the Pug.
With their squishy faces, curly tails, and expressions that always look mildly confused (yet deeply judgmental), pugs are proof that personality matters more than looks—although their looks are part of the charm. Bred purely as companion animals, pugs take their role as professional people-lovers very seriously.
Pugs thrive on human attention. They love cuddling, following you from room to room, and sitting as close as physically possible—preferably on your lap. Alone time? Not their favorite hobby.
Thanks to their gentle and sociable temperament, Pugs make excellent family pets. They tend to get along well with children, visitors, and other animals.
Pugs have short hair and don’t need fancy grooming routines, WebMD says. Regular brushing and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep them looking (and smelling) respectable.
Pugs don’t require intense workouts or long hikes. Daily walks and some playtime are plenty to keep them healthy and happy. Overexertion? Hard pass. They’re more into strolls than sprints.
Since they were bred to be companions rather than working dogs, pugs are happiest when they’re with their people—lounging, cuddling, or supervising your daily activities.
For new dog owners looking for a loving, low-exercise, low-grooming companion with a big heart and an even bigger personality, the Pug is an excellent choice.
8. Whippet
If elegance and speed had a baby, it would be the Whippet—a sleek, graceful dog with the heart of a cuddler and the sprinting abilities of a tiny cheetah. Whippets may look delicate, but they’re surprisingly low-maintenance and perfect for first-time dog owners who want a dog that’s both active and affectionate.
Whippets are calm, friendly, and usually very low-key indoors. Unlike some high-energy breeds, they’re not constantly bouncing off the walls—they prefer lounging on a cozy spot after a quick burst of energy outside.
Whippets form strong bonds with their families and love companionship. They’re affectionate without being clingy and generally enjoy calm, loving households.
Their fine, short fur doesn’t require much upkeep. A weekly brush and occasional bath are enough to keep them looking sleek and elegant. No fancy grooming appointments required.
Whippets love to run—fast. But the good news? They don’t need hours of exercise daily. A couple of good sprint sessions in a secure yard or park will satisfy their need for speed.
They’re small to medium-sized and surprisingly adaptable, making them suitable for apartments or houses.
Whippets have very little body fat and thin coats, so they get cold easily. Sweaters in winter or cozy blankets indoors are highly recommended.
For new dog owners who want a sleek, low-grooming, affectionate dog with bursts of playful energy, the Whippet is an excellent choice. They’re elegant, loving, and surprisingly easygoing—proof that sometimes less maintenance comes with a lot of heart.
9. Greyhound
If grace, speed, and couch-potato-level relaxation could be combined into one dog, you’d get the Greyhound. Despite their history as racing dogs, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-maintenance, gentle, and affectionate—making them excellent companions for first-time dog owners.
Greyhounds are tall, lean, and elegant, but don’t let their size intimidate you. They’re famously calm, friendly, and affectionate, often enjoying long snuggles on the couch.
Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are very adaptable. They do well in apartments and houses alike, as long as they get a little exercise and a comfy place to rest.
Their short, smooth coat requires very little upkeep. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath are all that’s needed to keep them looking sleek and shiny.
Greyhounds love to sprint, but only in short bursts. A quick run in a secure yard or park is usually enough daily, after which they’re content to lounge around like a living recliner.
Greyhounds are gentle with families, good with children, and generally easygoing around other pets.
Greyhounds are sensitive to cold and can be prone to joint issues due to their lean build. A soft bed, occasional sweater in winter, and regular vet checkups keep them happy and healthy.
For new pet parents who want a calm, low-grooming, affectionate companion with bursts of athleticism, Greyhounds are hard to beat.
10. Great Dane
If you want a dog that makes a statement without demanding a lot of fuss, meet the Great Dane—the gentle giant of the dog world. These towering pups combine calm, affectionate personalities with surprisingly low-maintenance care, making them ideal for first-time owners who have the space (and heart) for a big companion.
Great Danes are enormous, but their temperament is mostly calm, friendly, and loving. They’re often called “gentle giants” for a reason—they love people, get along well with kids, and rarely show aggression.
Great Danes form strong bonds with their families and love being near people. They often follow their owners from room to room and enjoy cuddles despite their enormous size (good luck with that on your lap).
Despite their size, Great Danes have short coats that are easy to care for. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath are all that’s needed. No fancy grooming appointments or long-haired tangles here.
While they need space to move around, Great Danes are surprisingly couch-friendly. They enjoy lounging indoors and are usually happy with moderate daily exercise—walks and some playtime are plenty.
They do best in homes with enough room to stretch out, but their calm, low-energy nature indoors makes them adaptable to family life or quieter households.
For first-time dog owners who have the space and want a loving, low-grooming, affectionate companion with a big personality (literally), the Great Dane is a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
For novice pet parents and first-time dog owners, choosing the right dog breed is key. Certain breeds like Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, French Bulldog, Basset Hound, Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier, Bernese Mountain Dog, German Shepherd, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and American Staffordshire Terrier are excellent low-maintenance pets.
These dogs are loyal companions suited for apartment living, require moderate or very little grooming, minimal exercise, short walks, and regular vet visits, while responding well to positive reinforcement training.
With proper care and socialization, these small or large dogs offer wonderful companionship and are ideal for pet owners seeking moderate exercise and easy dog training routines.
