Not everyone has the time (or energy) to deal with endless grooming, high-energy exercise needs, or constant attention-seeking. Luckily, some dog breeds are naturally low-maintenance—without sacrificing charm, affection, or companionship. Whether you’re a first-time owner or just looking for a laid-back pup, these ten breeds are ideal for a simpler, stress-free pet experience.
1. French Bulldog
Frenchies are a dream for city dwellers and anyone looking for a compact, easygoing companion. With their short coat, minimal grooming needs, and low energy levels, they’re perfectly content lounging around the house. French Bulldogs don’t require much exercise beyond a few short walks a day, and they rarely bark—making them great for apartments. Their affectionate, clownish personalities make them lovable without being overly demanding.
2. Dachshund
Don’t let their long bodies fool you—Dachshunds are surprisingly easy to care for. They come in short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired varieties, but the smooth-coated type requires almost no grooming. Their exercise needs are modest, usually satisfied with a walk and a bit of playtime. They’re independent, a little stubborn, but extremely loyal and loving with their families. Bonus: their small size makes them easy to travel with.
3. Chihuahua
Tiny but full of personality, Chihuahuas are one of the lowest-maintenance dog breeds out there. They need very little exercise, eat very little food, and short-haired varieties require minimal grooming. Chihuahuas are great for people who want a close, cuddly companion but don’t have the space or time for a large, high-energy dog. Despite their reputation for being yappy, well-socialized Chihuahuas are affectionate and adaptable.
4. Greyhound
Surprisingly, this racing breed is a couch potato at heart. Greyhounds love to lounge and sleep most of the day and only require a short daily walk or occasional sprint. Their short coats mean minimal grooming, and they tend to be quiet, calm dogs once off the track. They’re gentle, affectionate, and do well in a variety of living situations, including apartments, as long as they have a soft bed to curl up in.
5. Boston Terrier
Compact, friendly, and full of charm, Boston Terriers are low-maintenance and incredibly adaptable. Their short coat doesn’t shed much and requires very little grooming. They enjoy short bursts of play but don’t need hours of daily exercise. Their sociable nature makes them great with families, singles, and seniors alike, and they’re just as happy watching TV with you as they are going on a neighborhood stroll.
6. Shih Tzu (with a short puppy cut)
While long-haired Shih Tzus need regular grooming, keeping them in a low-maintenance puppy cut makes all the difference. These affectionate lap dogs are small, friendly, and adaptable to most living environments. They don’t require a ton of exercise, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets. Give them regular brush-outs and a monthly trim, and you’ll have a low-effort companion with a big heart.
7. Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is a quiet, clean breed that grooms itself like a cat. Their short, fine coat sheds very little and requires almost no grooming. Basenjis are independent, intelligent, and surprisingly low-odor, which is a big plus for house-proud owners. While they do need daily activity to burn off energy, they’re not overly needy and often enjoy solo time as much as they enjoy being with you.
8. Whippet
Like the Greyhound’s smaller cousin, Whippets are affectionate, calm, and famously easygoing. They have a sleek, low-shedding coat and moderate energy levels that make them happy with a daily walk and some time on the couch. Whippets are typically quiet with a kind demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment living or relaxed households. They rarely cause trouble and often form very strong bonds with their humans.
9. Pug
Pugs are loving and incredibly easy to live with. They don’t require much grooming—just a quick weekly brush to manage their short coat—and their exercise needs are modest. While they can be a bit stubborn, their charming personalities more than make up for it. They thrive in almost any environment and are known for being great with kids and seniors alike. Just watch their diet—they’re prone to putting on a few extra pounds.
10. Italian Greyhound
A miniature version of the standard Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound is dainty, sweet, and very low-maintenance. Their fine coat requires almost no brushing, and they barely shed. Italian Greyhounds are content to lounge most of the day, requiring only moderate exercise. They’re affectionate but not clingy, making them ideal for those who want a quiet, elegant companion without constant demands.
Low-maintenance doesn’t mean low love. These dog breeds offer all the companionship and loyalty you could want—without the overwhelming grooming, training, or exercise routines. Just keep in mind that every dog, no matter the breed, needs proper care, affection, and attention to thrive. Choose a pup whose temperament and needs match your lifestyle, and you’ll both be happier for it.