Do you want to have a dog but are afraid that it will be hard to maintain one? Don’t worry, you are not alone. In times when you are always busy with work, trying to maintain a work-life balance, and having busy weekends, things can get hectic. Who really has the time to have a high-maintenance dog that needs regular grooming, daily walks, and regular exercise?
Here we are to solve your problem. There are many different kinds of dog breeds that don’t require constant grooming, daily walks, and proper training. Let’s look into some of the best low-maintenance dog breeds that can fit with your monthly budget and busy schedules, perfect for those considering low-maintenance pets.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Here’s the list of the best maintenance dogs that don’t ask for much. Keep reading and find the best one for you.
1- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Starting with the cutest breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great city dog. AKC notes that they come in 4 different colors: Blenheim, Tricolor, Ruby, and Black-and-tan. With a life expectancy of 12-14 years, they only have minimal grooming needs, such as ear cleaning, regular brushing, and just a few baths.
Yes, you don’t have to hire a personal trainer for them as they easily adapt to new things due to their intelligence. Their friendly, gentle, and calm demeanor makes them great family dogs, especially if you prefer a small-sized dog. They are adaptable dogs and also bark less than other dogs.
The best thing about these gentle dogs is that they also work as therapy dogs. According to CKCSC, they were originally bred for comfort and companionship. Moreover, their small size, weighing up to 11-18 pounds, makes them suitable for apartment living.
Fun Fact
King Charles I and his son Charles II owned this loyal dog breed. Charles II loved his spaniel so much that he used to take him everywhere, even to Parliament.
Common Health Issues
Eye conditions
Patellar Luxation
Hip dysplasia
Heart Disease
2- Pug
Small and sweet dogs known for their big personalities, Pugs are an ancient breed that originated in China 2,000 years ago. PetMD states that these friendly small dogs tend to get along with everyone: kids, family members, and even other pets.
Pugs require moderate exercise or play time to keep them active. They don’t ask for daily baths; once in 3-4 weeks is enough. However, cleaning the wrinkled skin daily is important as it can cause different issues, such as yeast infections. Other than that, it is also necessary to clean their ears once a week to avoid ear infections.
One thing to keep in mind is that you have to protect this dog breed from excessive heat. As their upper respiratory tract is smaller than other dogs, they have to breathe through their mouths. Due to this, it’s hard for Pugs to cool themselves through panting.
Pugs typically cost around $40–$100 per month in grooming, making them relatively affordable to maintain — just be sure they also get regular exercise to stay healthy.
Common Health Issues
Because of their narrow airways, they can often experience these health problems:
Allergies
Breathing issues
Dental Disease
Obesity
Eye injuries
3- French Bulldog
Looking for a dog who is cute, small, and always alert? Well, the French bulldog is all in one. AKC calls them one of the most owned low-maintenance dogs, with a medium energy level. Their life span is 10-12 years. They come in multiple colors; the rarest shades you can find in French Bulldogs are blue, lilac, blue and tan, and chocolate and tan.
They are ideal for people with busy schedules, due to their low-shedding coat, they require minimal grooming. They don’t need weekly baths, but regular nail trimming and cleaning of facial folds is important for their health.
Spending time with them is easy; all they need is your lap to lie on and their favorite toy to play with. You can also take them for a little walk in pleasant weather because hot and humid weather is not good for their health.
Fun Fact
French Bulldogs are often known as “Clown Dogs” because of their playful and entertaining nature, thanks in part to their shortened muzzle.
Common Health Issues
They can sometimes get serious health issues, some of them are:
Heatstroke
Ear Infections
Distichiasis
Higher Risk with Anesthesia
Ocular Dermoids
4- Brussels Griffon
If you want a cuddly partner with a charming personality, consider the Brussels Griffon, which is a petite dog breed that might be the right dog for you. They are sensitive and do not like to spend long hours alone. Purina mentions that their small size and unique features, like a mustache, make them look like a serious man.
They don’t need frequent checkups as they are a very healthy breed, just regular walks to keep them active and healthy. Moreover, their glossy coat requires occasional baths with weekly brushing. The only concern for this dog breed is potty training.
Fun Fact
They are commonly known as “Velcro dogs” as they tend to stay close to their owners. So if you are looking for a dog who loves to spend their time with you, they are the best choice.
Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Dental Disease
Eye Issues
5- Beagle
If you are a cat owner and looking for a dog who can get along with other pets, the Beagle is the best choice for you, as they are totally devoted and courageous towards their families. With basic training at an early age, they easily adjust to other pets. They are ideal for first-time pet parents.
These affectionate dogs can make your home full of love and laughter. They are easy to train but sometimes they can be stubborn, so it’s important to have patience while training them. They come in 2 sizes, one variety can stand up to 12-15 inches, while others are under 12 inches. Their average life expectancy is 10-15 years.
Due to their short coat and waterproof fur, they don’t require regular grooming. Just weekly brushing and exercise are enough for them. However, don’t forget to brush their teeth daily to avoid gum disease.
Common Health Issues
Although they are low-maintenance breeds, they can develop some health issues:
Obesity
Ear infection
Epilepsy
Hyprthyrodism
6- Basset hound
This perfect low-maintenance dog is also known as a couch potato. Yes, with a low energy level, all they need is a comfy spot on the couch. This dog breed doesn’t require as much exercise as other breeds, unlike some large dogs that need more activity. They are fairly lazy and just want some playtime to keep them active.
They live for 12-13 years, and their average height is under 15 inches, making them wonderful companions. Bassets require frequent bathing with medicated shampoo to avoid any type of infections, such as skin rashes or yeast infections.
Basset hounds originated in France. As they don’t need much grooming, you can easily manage to keep them clean, disease-free, and active.
Fun Fact:
Basset Hounds have broken a World Record for longest ears. The ear was 33.2 centimeters, which is almost a foot long. Other than that, they have about 250 million scent receptors compared to just 10 million in the human nose.
6- Shih Tzu
Originating in Tibet, known as “Little lion,” these adorable dogs are loved by everyone. Their long, silky hair with cute, round eyes makes them unique and lovable. They were officially recognized by the AKC in 1969.
They shed a little, but weekly brushing and regular trimming keep them clean and tidy. There are 8 different types of Shih Tzu: Imperial, American, Black, European, Teacup, Japanese, Brindle, and Blue-eyed. The most popular among them is the Brindle Shih Tzu.
They have a moderate energy level and prefer temperate weather. To avoid their stubborn nature, you will have to take them for daily walks and exercises. The best thing about them is that they don’t bark a lot. They like to live in a calm and quiet space, which makes them perfect for apartment living.
Common Health Issues
Obesity
Eye Issues
Respiratory Issue
Liver Shunts
Sensitive stomachs
Wrapping It Up!
Sometimes, after a busy and tired day, all you need is a cute little dog waiting for you to come home. These low-maintenance companions are there for you with minimum grooming needs. All they want is your love and a little time to cuddle. Whether you are looking for a perfect lap dog like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a goofy grin of a Pug, we’ve got you covered.
