We get it—not everybody wants a dog that needs to be groomed every day, exercised constantly, or have its own personal chef. Maybe you’re not in a hurry. Maybe you’re a first-time dog owner. Or maybe you just want a laid-back companion who doesn’t have a to-do list.

Good news: there are many wonderful dog breeds that are low-maintenance. That is, they’re easier to take care of, quicker to train, and require a little less time and effort than some of their high-maintenance counterparts (sigh, Huskies and Doodles ????).

If you live in an apartment, have a busy schedule, or simply like things a little easier, these are the best low-maintenance dog breeds.

What Makes a Dog “Low-Maintenance”?

A truly low-maintenance dog checks a few key boxes:

• Minimal grooming (short coat or low-shedding)
• Moderate to low energy (not bouncing off the walls)
• Easygoing personality (friendly, chill, adaptable)
• Low training demands (smart and eager to please)
• Good alone-time tolerance (okay while you’re at work)

Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds

1. Boston Terrier

Size: Small
Grooming: Very low
Energy: Moderate
Why they’re easy: Boston Terriers are compact, clean, and friendly. They have short coats that require almost no grooming, and they adapt well to different lifestyles. Bonus: they’re great in apartments!

---

2. Chihuahua

Size: Tiny
Grooming: Low (especially short-haired)
Energy: Medium
Why they’re easy: Chihuahuas are small but full of personality. They don’t need much exercise, are usually fine with a quick walk and some indoor play, and they’re easy to groom—especially short-haired ones.

---

3. French Bulldog

Size: Small
Grooming: Low
Energy: Low
Why they’re easy: Frenchies are sweet, sleepy, and incredibly low-effort. They love lounging, short walks, and attention. Just watch for breathing issues in hot weather and avoid strenuous activity.

---

4. Dachshund

Size: Small
Grooming: Low (smooth coat); Medium (long-haired)
Energy: Moderate
Why they’re easy: These little sausages are independent, fun, and don’t need long walks. Smooth-coated Dachshunds are easy to care for, though all types need some mental stimulation to avoid boredom barking.

---

5. Greyhound

Size: Large
Grooming: Very low
Energy: Surprisingly low
Why they’re easy: Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are laid-back couch potatoes. They’re quiet, gentle, and require just a short daily walk and a cozy bed. Minimal grooming and shedding, too!

---

6. Basset Hound

Size: Medium
Grooming: Low
Energy: Low
Why they’re easy: These droopy-eyed charmers are low-energy and low-key. They enjoy short walks and long naps. While their ears need occasional cleaning, their short coats are super easy to care for.

---

7. Italian Greyhound

Size: Small
Grooming: Very low
Energy: Low to moderate
Why they’re easy: Like their bigger cousins, Italian Greyhounds are calm, clean, and love to snuggle. They need minimal exercise and grooming—just a sweater in winter, because they really hate the cold.

---

8. Pug

Size: Small
Grooming: Moderate (some shedding)
Energy: Low
Why they’re easy: Pugs are low-effort sweethearts. They love people, don’t require tons of exercise, and are content just being by your side. They do shed a bit and snore like little piglets—but it’s all part of their charm.

9. Shih Tzu (with a puppy cut!)

Size: Small
Grooming: Low (with short haircut)
Energy: Low to moderate
Why they’re easy: Shih Tzus are loving, calm, and adaptable. While their natural coat is long and high-maintenance, keeping it trimmed into a “puppy cut” makes grooming super easy. Plus, they don’t shed much.

---

10. Mixed-Breeds / Rescue Dogs

Size: Any
Grooming & Energy: Varies
Why they’re easy: Many mixed-breed dogs are wonderfully low-maintenance. Shelters can help you find a dog with an easy temperament, lower energy, and minimal grooming needs—without the guesswork of breed-specific traits.