7 Independent Family Dog Breeds: Low-Maintenance Pets

Dogs are the most popular pets in the U.S. According to the APPA study, 51% of American households own a pet dog. Dogs make wonderful companions and are highly sought as pets due to their loyal and affectionate nature.

An independent dog does not require constant interaction from their human family members and thrives as a single pet. Independent dogs do love their owners, but they have a different way of expressing it. For instance, they might sleep nearby you instead of cuddling or sleeping on your lap.

Vets suggest that you should consider various factors such as size, temperament, energy level, grooming needs, and trainability while selecting the right dog for your family. You should also consider your lifestyle, number, and age of the people living in your home.

Here are the top independent breeds that make excellent companions for your family.

Independent Family Dog Breeds

1. Beagle

Beagles are cute, friendly, and high-energy pups that top our list of independent dogs. This breed is highly intelligent and curious, and makes good friends with your kids. At the same time, they are the adventure seekers who love hunting.

Breed Profile

• There are two Beagle variants: a small one standing under 13 inches tall and a medium-sized breed that stands around 15 inches tall. Both breeds are sturdy.

• Their short coat requires weekly brushing, especially in the shedding season.

• Beagles have a tendency towards obesity. Therefore, they should be given a controlled portion of food.

• Some beagles might experience health issues like thyroid issues, hip dysplasia, and ear infections.

Temperament

Beagles are a loyal and cheerful dog breed. But Britannica suggests you should never take your beagle to an off-leash hike. Reason? This breed is a renowned escape artist that can cross a fence while chasing after a scent and be gone within seconds.

You can take your beagle for a walk in a dog park as long as there are no big dogs.

Fun Fact: The most popular Beagle in the U.S. history was called Snoopy.

2. Bernese Mountain Dog

Originally bred in Bern, Switzerland, Bernese Mountain dogs served as working dogs. They are strong-willed and eager to please, making them an independent personality as well as a good family dog. They need consistent training to overcome behavior issues such as stubbornness or shyness.

Breed Profile

• The males of this breed weigh 80 lbs to 115 lbs, whereas females weigh 70 lbs to 95 lbs.

• A Bernese stands between 23 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder.

• Their dense double coat requires weekly brushing. However, consider brushing your puppy’s hair daily during shedding season.

Temperament

Bernese are the gentle giants with a calm demeanor. These large-sized dogs tend to hide a warm-hearted heart under all the fur. This is a highly intelligent and affectionate dog breed. Due to its friendly nature, a Bernese gets along well with your children.

Fun Fact: Bernese always have a tricolored coat (including black, brown, and white) with black being the predominant body color.

3. Alaskan Malamute

This breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935. According to the Alaskan Malamute Assistance League, it is a hard-working breed with a self-contained personality. Popular for dog sledding and hauling in the snow, Malamutes are considered the close relatives of Siberian Huskies.

Breed Profile

• Alaskan Malamutes have a height of 23 to 25 inches and weigh around 75 to 85 pounds.

• They are heavy-coated dogs with a soothing temperament.

• This breed has high energy levels and needs vigorous exercise of at least two hours for physical and mental stimulation.

Temperament

Alaskan malamutes are popular for their affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. It is not one of the overly demanding dog breeds that need constant attention from their humans. Rather, they prefer hanging out on the floors. Their strong willpower makes them independent.

Fun Fact: Alaskan malamutes served in World War II for carrying weapons and sniffing for mines.

4. Basset Hound

Basset hounds are yet another dog breed with an independent nature. According to the American Kennel Club, a basset hound is calm and follows the commands at home, but is a bit stubborn on the trail. However, early training and positive reinforcement can help.

Breed Profile

• Basset hounds are medium to large-sized dogs standing no more than 14 inches tall at the shoulders.

• Members of this breed weigh between 40 and 60 pounds.

• These dogs are loyal and friendly with their owners, but exhibit a reserved nature when it comes to strangers.

• They enjoy their own company, but can suffer from separation anxiety if neglected for longer durations.

Temperament

Basset hounds are a relatively low-maintenance dog breed. They have a relaxed temperament, low energy levels, and an easygoing personality. These lazy dogs are couch potatoes who prefer napping all day. They are laid-back dogs, best for busy owners who can’t spend much time with their pets.

Do you know? Basset hounds have a sense of smell way better than humans and other dogs. They carry 250 million scent receptors.

5. Airedale Terrier

High in spirits and strength, Airedale terriers carry the nickname “The King of all Terriers.” They are one of the first breeds used for police duty in Germany and Great Britain. Till now, they have served as hunters, athletes, and great companions.

Breed Profile

• Airedale Terriers are the largest of all terriers. Their males stand 23 to 24 inches high, whereas the females are around 22 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.

• They weigh between 40 and 70 pounds.

• These hypoallergenic dogs have a dense double coat with a hard, wiry outer layer and a soft undercoat.

• These are the bearded dogs with long, muscular builds, sporty mustaches, dark eyes, and folded ears.

Temperament

Terriers are friendly, energetic, and curious. Don’t get fooled by their large size, these terriers love being stroked. They form strong bonds with their owners but do not desire strangers’ attention. Airedale terriers are independent dogs, but do not enjoy a lot of solo time.

Do you know? Airedale terriers are called “jack of all traits” because of the versatile skills they possess. From swimming to scenting, hunting, and agility, this terrier breed is a pro at everything.

6. Pug

Pugs are small and muscular dogs that were the Chinese emperors’ mischievous buddies. If you are looking for a couch companion to snuggle up with, pugs are the right dogs for you. These independent dogs can get attuned to their owner’s routine.

Breed Profile

• Pugs are small dogs that weigh less than 14 pounds. They do not need large spaces and are a good choice for apartment dwellers.

• They do not require vigorous daily exercise. A physical activity of 30 minutes or an hour will suffice.

• Pugs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Brush your pug’s hair weekly with a medium-sized brush to remove loose hair.

Temperament

Just like humans, pugs like eating and sleeping. These are playful and affectionate little pups with an outgoing personality and loving disposition. However, they are not lively socialites and might need proper training to help them do better.

Do you know? Pugs love sleeping. They can sleep as much as 14 hours a day.

7. Borzoi

Once known as the Russian wolfhound, Borzoi helped Russian elites hunt wolves and foxes. Their hunting history and courageous nature make them a great independent dog breed. Borzoi does not require constant attention from their humans.

Breed Profile

• Borzois are big dogs. PetMD reports that mature Borzoi males stand around 28 inches and weigh around 75 to 105 pounds. Females tend to be a bit smaller.

• These are the super-fast dogs with a speed of 35 to 40 miles.

• This dog breed has a luxurious, silky coat, but its build resembles the classic Greyhound.

Temperament

This is an insanely affectionate dog breed. Despite having an independent nature, a Borzoi loves spending time with its family and does not like being left alone for extended periods. The sight of a cat or a squirrel instantly stirs their hunting instinct.

Borzoi are swift dogs with moderate exercise needs. But sometimes, they can be a bit stubborn. Early training with patience and consistency can turn your Borzoi into a well-behaved canine buddy.

Do you know? Borzoi are called “sighthounds” because they have a wide field of vision. Their almond shaped eyes are placed at the front. As a result, they have a 270 degree field of sight.

Conclusion

Many independent dog breeds have been known to make good family pets. But, adopting an independent dog does not mean they can be left alone for long periods. Make sure you become a wonderful pet parent! Give the much-needed love and care to your furball!