Low Maintenance Dogs: 10 Easiest Dog Breeds for Busy Owners

So, you want a dog, but your calendar is already full with work? We can understand. Good news: not every dog needs you to spend hours brushing fur or running marathons just to keep them from chewing your couch to bits. Seriously, despite what Instagram might have you believe, a lot of pups are pretty chill when it comes to daily upkeep. 

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), while good hygiene habits are essential for a healthy dog, unlike humans, most dogs don’t require daily hygiene and grooming habits (source).

Basically, some breeds are just easier to handle. Less fur floating around, less “walk me or I’ll go nuts” energy, fewer health headaches. And yet, these easy-going furballs still hand out the same amount of goofy companionship.

So, let’s explore the 10 best low-maintenance dog breeds for busy owners.

What Makes a Dog “Low Maintenance”?

Before we get into the list, let’s get real about what “easy” even means here.

Here’s a quick look:

So, if you’re looking for dogs that require minimal grooming, don’t shed much, and don’t need constant attention, you’re in the right place. Here are the best low-maintenance dog breeds according to experts: 

1. French Bulldog 

French Bulldogs rank among the best low-maintenance dog breeds. If you’ve hung out with one, you get it. They’re compact, muscular, and have more personality than most breeds.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Short coat = low shedding
  
• Happy with short daily walks
  
• Quiet and friendly nature
  

Care Tip: Those adorable bat ears can trap dirt and debris. Therefore, clean them gently using Four Paws Healthy Promise Ear Wash for Dogs & Cats to prevent infections.

Best For: Apartment owners and people with limited time.

2. Chihuahua

Tiny dog with big attitude. Chihuahuas have a reputation for being sassy little sidekicks. However, honestly, they’re super easy to keep happy. They eat like birds, barely need exercise, and you can practically carry them anywhere.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Minimal exercise needs
  
• Eat small portions
  
• Loyal and affectionate companions
  

Bonus Tip: Short-haired Chihuahuas need only occasional brushing. However, long-haired ones can be managed with a gentle comb like the Coastal Lil Pals Double-Sided Dog Comb.

Best For: City dwellers, singles, or seniors who prefer indoor pets.

3. Dachshund

Also known as the “sausage dog,” Dachshunds are playful, loving, and relatively independent. They come in smooth, wire, or long-haired varieties—each one adorable in its own way.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Compact size and manageable energy
  
• Require minimal grooming (especially smooth coats)
  
• Independent yet affectionate personality
  

Care Tip: Their long bodies can develop skin irritations. Use the best dog products like Espree Tea Tree & Aloe Medicated Dog Spray to soothe minor itchiness.

Best For: Families or individuals who want a small but sturdy companion.

4. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are often called the "American Gentleman" for their tuxedo-like markings and polite temperament. They’re cheerful, intelligent, and don’t require excessive grooming.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Sleek short coat = minimal shedding
  
• Friendly with other pets and people
  

Training Level: Easy to train dog breeds

Pro Tip: Use Bio-Groom Super White Shampoo for occasional baths. It keeps their coat shiny without irritating their skin.

Best For: Families looking for a small, cheerful companion.

5. Pug

Pugs are little packets of charmers. They make you laugh without demanding much in return.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Love short bursts of activity and long naps
  
• Don’t require special grooming
  
• Affectionate and loyal
  

However, their folds need occasional cleaning to prevent irritation.

Quick Tip: A damp cloth or a mild pet-safe spray like Sulfodene Hot Spot & Itch Relief Medicated Spray for Dogs works great for gentle care.

Best For: Owners who love relaxed, cuddly companions.

6. Miniature Poodle

Okay, so standard poodles? Managing their hair is a full-time job. But the miniature poodle? Way less drama and one of the best low shedding dogs. These little guys barely shed, which is a blessing if you sneeze at the sight of a dust particle.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Hypoallergenic coat (minimal dander)
  
• Extremely intelligent = easy to train dog breeds

Their calm nature makes them an easy to train dog breed.

Best For: Allergy-prone families or first-time owners.

7. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are low-energy dogs who don’t shed much. Their playful and loving nature makes them great companions for all ages.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Small size = less food and exercise
  
• Gentle temperament
  
• Hair can be trimmed short for easy upkeep
  

Health Tip: Regular ear cleaning with Bio-Groom Ear Mite Treatment for Dogs & Cats helps prevent infections in their floppy ears.

Best For: Families and seniors who enjoy pampering their pets.

8. Basset Hound

Look, Basset Hounds live for chilling. They might look like they’ve given up on life, but honestly, that’s just a vibe.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Minimal exercise needs
  
• Short coat = easy grooming
  
• Quiet and patient personality
  

However, they do drool a little, so keeping a small towel handy helps.

Best For: Families who prefer quiet dog breeds with a relaxed temperament.

9. Greyhound

Surprised? Despite their racing reputation, Greyhounds are actually giant couch potatoes. They love lounging more than running laps.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• That short, smooth coat barely sheds  
• Cuddly and calm indoors  
• Training? They pick things up fast and don’t bark much
  

Exercise Tip: One short walk a day keeps them happy.

Best For: Apartment dwellers or anyone who wants a gentle, quiet companion.

10. Maltese

Yeah, they look like tiny show dogs, but don’t let the glam fool you. Maltese are easy: no shedding drama. Also, if you keep their hair short, grooming’s a breeze.

Why They’re Low Maintenance:

• Hypoallergenic coat
  
• Gentle, playful, and loyal personality
  
• Small size = less exercise needed
  

Care Tip: Bathe once a month and brush a few times a week 

Best For: Families with kids, apartment owners, or first-time dog parents.

Honorable Mentions: Dogs that require minimal grooming

Not in the top 10, but definitely worth a shout-out:

Low Shedding Dogs: Hypoallergenic Options

For families with allergies, these low shedding dogs offer companionship without constant fur cleanup:

Top 5 Low Shedding Dogs:

1. Miniature Poodle – Minimal dander, hypoallergenic coat
   
2. Maltese – Silky coat that barely sheds
   
3. Shih Tzu – Low shedding when groomed
   
4. French Bulldog – Not truly hypoallergenic, but the  short coat helps with easy maintenance
   
5. Boston Terrier – Not truly hypoallergenic, but a smooth coat indicates low upkeep
   

These dogs that require minimal grooming help maintain a clean home environment.

Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

City dwellers need quiet dog breeds that won’t disturb neighbors:

Best Quiet Breeds:

• Greyhounds – Extremely quiet indoors
  
• Basset Hounds – Rarely bark without reason
  
• French Bulldogs – Calm, minimal barking
  
• Shih Tzus – Peaceful and good in apartments
  

These easy-to-train dog breeds also respond well to "quiet" commands.

Best Dog Products for Low-Maintenance Breeds

Taking care of dogs that require minimal grooming is easier when you use the right products. Here’s a curated selection of the best dog products, interactive toys, and tools for busy owners:

Grooming Tools

• Slicker brushes for low shedding dogs: Coastal Safari Dog Flexible Slicker Brush – keeps fur under control with minimal effort.
• Gentle shampoos for sensitive skin: For the best dog products, try Bio-Groom So-Gentle Hypo-Allergenic Dog Shampoo for easy, stress-free grooming.
  

Interactive Toys

• Puzzle toys for dogs that entertain independently: These toys for dogs like Nina Ottosson Twister Interactive Dog Toy keep low-energy breeds entertained while you’re busy.
  
• Chew toys for quiet dog breeds: Nylabone Power Chew Original Wishbone Adult Dog Toy – perfect for calm breeds who need safe chewing outlets.
  
• Mental stimulation games: KONG Classic Dog Toy – keeps your dog busy while preventing boredom. Order these dog supplies online for easy maintenance and quick delivery.

Essential Supplies for Low-Maintenance Dog Care

Caring for dogs that require minimal grooming becomes easier with the right supplies:

Grooming Essentials:

• De-shedding tools for low-shedding dogs
  
• Gentle shampoos for sensitive skin
  
• Ear cleaning solutions
  
• Nail clippers for quick trims
  

Entertainment & Training:

• Puzzle toys for dogs for mental stimulation
  
• Training treats for easy-to-train dog breeds
  
• Interactive toys for independent play
  
• Comfort items for quiet dog breeds
  

Health & Comfort:

• High-quality food
  
• Comfortable bedding for rest-loving breeds
  
• Preventive health products
  

Shop dog supplies online at Kwik Pets for convenient delivery and competitive prices.

Tips for Choosing & Caring for a Low-Maintenance Dog

Alright, so you want a dog that won’t totally wreck your schedule? Smart move. Here’s how to keep it simple:

1. Meet the parents (if possible): If you can meet the puppy’s parents, do it. You’ll get a sneak peek at the kind of vibe your future furfriend might have.

2. Schedule grooming ahead: Even “easy” dogs need some basic TLC. 

• • Baths here and there with the best dog products
  • A nail trim when those claws start tapping on the floor
  • And a quick ear check for gunk

Order dog supplies online to maintain your low-maintenance routine.

1. Brush regularly, lightly: Forget marathon brushing sessions. Just grab a brush for, like, 5 minutes a couple times a week.
   
2. Train in small steps: Don’t try to teach your dog calculus in one go. Short bursts (5–10 minutes) and lots of treats or belly rubs. They’ll catch on fast.
   
3. Rotate toys & mental stimulation: Bored dogs are tiny wrecking balls. Toss them puzzle dog toys, rotate their stuffed animals, hide treats—whatever keeps their brain busy.
   

Why Low Maintenance Dogs Are Perfect for Modern Life

We live in a fast-paced world. Between work, family, and social commitments, time is precious.

Low-maintenance dogs:

• Fit into small spaces and apartments
  
• Adapt easily to daily routines
  
• Bring emotional comfort and joy
  
• Require fewer vet or grooming visits
  

Owning one means more fun moments and fewer stressful chores.