A hectic schedule looks different for everyone so select an easy care dog. “Super busy” can mean overtime at the office; four kids and counting; freelancing constantly; or volunteering on the weekends. Toss a dog into the mix and your plate is more than full. So, for those looking for a low-maintenance dog, take a look at our big list below, compiled with input from animal behavior experts, animal geneticists, and pet owners who can attest to their dogs’ easy-to-deal-with energy levels, simple grooming needs, and more.
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35 Working Dog Breeds
“Dogs described as ‘low-maintenance’ are typically those that have been bred to be companions, such as Maltese,” says Annie-Mae Levy, a professional dog trainer at a dog training app Woofs. “In contrast, lots of dogs (think Collies, Vassals, and Jack Russells) were bred to do a different job. Owning a dog that was selected for a purpose other than being a pet usually means more work on your hands.”
Of course, easy care pets can mean different things to different people. Certified dog trainer Nicole Ellis, a consulting expert for pet brand Rover, says that “some dogs that are easy to train need more exercise or stimulation than others. The first thing easy care means to me is a dog that doesn’t need a ton of exercise or mental enrichment to be able to coexist calmly. This might be the dog’s personality, it might be aspects of their breed or maybe it’s due to their age. Secondly, ‘low-maintenance’ may also may mean from a grooming standpoint.
Height: 5 to 9 inches
Weight: 11 to 32 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: friendly, charming, stubborn
Coat: short or medium and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 12 to 16 years
“I joke that my dachshund is a diva but she’s pretty easy to care for,” says PureWow director of branded content Rachel Gulmi. “She’s 11 now so she doesn’t have as much energy as she used to but she loves to nap all day and has a talent for using just about anything as a pillow. Even though she’s technically a long-haired dachshund, we keep her hair short so she only requires grooming about once a month and doesn’t shed at all. And because of her tiny legs, she doesn’t need to be walked miles to tire her out.
With dachshunds, you must watch out for their backs when they jump but otherwise, she doesn’t require too much attention.” Dachshunds have a positive disposition and are typically game for anything you throw at them (frisbee or otherwise). Exercise can include running around the house (though be careful of stairs) or leisurely walks. If you work in a dog-friendly office or from home, your dachshund will be content sitting by your side as you focus on tasks.2. Boston Terrier
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Height: 9 to 15 inches
Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
Breed Group: non-sporting group
Personality: friendly, affectionate
Coat: short and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life cycle 13 to 15 years
I grew up with a Boston Terror imprinted on his bulgy eyes and eager stance. With their big brown eyes and tuxedo-style coat, Boston Terriers are gregarious pups who just want your approval. (No wonder they’re one of our nation’s favorite American dog breeds.) The amount of exercise they need will definitely vary from dog to dog (as with any breed), but a couple walks a day and some playtime indoors is typically sufficient. Ellis calls them out as being great pets for apartment dwellers, but from my experience, they do just as well with families and kids in the suburbs. Plus, that coat is as low-maintenance as it gets.3. Chihuahua
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Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: >6 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: sassy, charming, graceful
Coat: short or medium and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 14 to 16 years
Chihuahuas are like your Leo friend who’s always saying, “I’m up for literally anything!” Levy recommends these tiny dogs as great options for senior citizens, apartment dwellers, and others with limited space. They are adaptable creatures with independent streaks (so instill commands early) who only need to trot around behind you for a few blocks to get enough exercise. (And trot behind you they will, since they are among the most loyal dog breeds.) Short-coated chihuahuas require nothing but a quick brush now and again, but even long-coated versions don’t require groomer visits.4. Manchester Terrier
Height: 15 to 16 inches
Weight: 12 to 22 pounds
Breed Group: terrier
Personality: energetic, observant, bright
Coat: short or and smooth
Color: tan and jet black
Life Cycle 15 to 17 years
The grooming thing comes up a lot when talking about dogs and hectic lifestyles. Scheduling an expensive salon session for your pooch every four weeks (more often than you get highlights)? No, thanks. Manchester terriers (both standard and toy sizes) have sleek, carefree coats. These dogs also love to curl up and chill after a brisk walk.
Height: 24 to 28 inches
Weight: 60 to 100 pounds
Breed Group: working
Personality: loyal, alert, smart
Coat: short and smooth
Color: black, blue, red, or fawn
Life Cycle 10 to 12 years
Disclaimer: Only get a Doberman pinscher if your definition of hectic involves ample time for physical fitness. Working out regularly is part of a healthy human lifestyle and bonding time with owners is part of a healthy canine lifestyle. Kill two birds with one stone by taking your Doberman for a run every night. These loyal dogs need lots of exercise (if you have a yard, that’s best) and solid training as puppies, but are otherwise pretty low maintenance.6. French Bulldog
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Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 16 to 28 pounds
Breed Group: non-sporting group
Personality: playful, smart, adaptable
Coat: short and smooth
Color: cream, fawn, fawn and white, and white
Life Cycle 10 to 12 years
The even-tempered French bulldog demands minimal grooming, barks infrequently, adapts well to his family’s lifestyle, and approaches exercise with a “take it or leave it” attitude. Make sure they are walked enough to maintain a healthy weight, but beyond that, these dogs will fit in just about anywhere, with anyone. Ellis points out that this breed is great for families with small children, but “brachycephalic breeds including French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs can face not only difficulties breathing but also allergies and skin issues which need veterinary attention. If you are going to get this breed please consider health insurance as they are frequent visitors to vet offices.”
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: affectionate, gentle
Coat: medium, wavy and silky
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
Due to their ability to sense and adjust to their owners’ temperaments, Cavalier King Charles spaniels are terrific for people always on the go. Their compact size and easy dispositions inspire Ellis to recommend them as perfect matches for elderly persons, apartment dwellers and homes with other pets. Yes, brushing every week is necessary to make sure their longer coats don’t tangle, but that’s a small time investment for this regal little friend.8. Bull Mastiff
Height: 24 to 27 inches
Weight: 100 to 130 pounds
Breed Group: working
Personality: affectionate, loyal, brave
Coat: short and smooth
Color: brindle, fawn, red
Life Cycle 7 to 9 years
A bull mastiff might look ferocious, but they are often compliant and friendly with their families. Train pups early to establish commands, run a brush through their fur every other week, walk regularly to maintain a healthy weight, and you’re good to go.9. Broholmer
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Height: 27 to 29 inches
Weight: 90 to 150 pounds
Breed Group: working
Personality: friendly, loving, watchful
Coat: short and smooth
Color: brown or tan
Life Cycle 8 to 10 years
This dog is ideal for a family with kids because of its relaxed demeanor and devotion to its people. Soccer game this Saturday? Bring the dog! Family hike at a local state park? Bring the dog! Broholmers like to be outdoors and part of the team.10. Rat Terrier
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Height: 10 to 18 inches
Weight: 10 to 25 pound
Breed Group: terrier
Personality: friendly, curious, charming
Coat: short and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 12 to 18 years
Take this cute, compact and playful pup anywhere and she’ll appreciate you. Leave her at home while you finish errands and she’ll calmly welcome you back with open paws. Training early is best as rat terriers love to learn and please but can be sensitive. Ideally, you’ve got either a big family or enjoy hosting friends frequently (rat terriers like to be social).11. Tosi
Height: 21 to 22 inches
Weight: 100 to 200 pounds
Breed Group: working
Personality: protective, intelligent, suspicious
Coat: short and smooth
Color: black, fawn, brindle
Life Cycle 12 to 18 years
Ah, a gentle giant, the Tosa. They are great guard dogs because they’re wary of strangers and frankly look intimidating. However, they are quiet softies who are patient, leisurely and obedient. Walking is solid exercise, but punch up the activity level if you notice your Tosa gaining weight.12. American Staffordshire Terrier.
Height: 17 to 19 inches
Weight: 40 to 70 pounds
Breed Group: terrier
Personality: sweet, confident, smart
Coat: short and smooth
Color: black, white, brindle, fawn, sable, brown, blue
Life Cycle 12 to 16 years
This is another dog who loves being in on the action—it’s no accident that this smart eager companion is often trained for movies and TV, and that it’s among the best medium-sized dogs for families. These dogs enjoy people-centric exercise like biking, running or playing frisbee, so are ideal for anyone who’s perfect weekend involves a trip to a pup-friendly brewery after a nice hike. American Staffordshire terriers are confident, easy-going canines.13. Basset Hound.
Height: 11 to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 60 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: charming, patient, friendly
Coat: short and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 12 to 13 years
Now, for one of the laziest blobs on our list: the basset hound. These dogs are so low-key and patient, you might think they didn’t care if you were home at all if it weren’t for their undying loyalty. They do well with other dogs, too. And Ellis says that apartment dwellers should consider them, even if they don’t have tons of space. “Basset Hounds are by no means small dogs…but they are happy being in a smaller home by your side,” she says. The only semi-high-maintenance aspect of basset hounds is they might need a solid brush-through three times a week to keep their coat healthy.14.
Height: 12 to 15 inches
Weight: 35 to 40 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: loyal, even-tempered, energetic
Coat: short, double-coated
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle15 years
Whether your routine is hectic or relaxed, a Drever just asks for some balance. Brisk walk in the morning followed by a couple hours of downtime until the dog walker gets there? No problem. Their coats are resilient and require very little grooming. If you’ve already got a dog or have lots of people living in your home, Drevers will embrace this group life and go with the flow.15. Tibetan Spaniel
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Height: 10 inches
Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
Breed Group: non-sporting group
Personality: playful, confident, bright
Coat: medium, double-coated
Color: black, white, cream, gold, red, black and tan
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Tibetan spaniels are keen on lounging around the house (they won’t ask your permission to do it, either) and occupying themselves with toys. They are playful, yet veer towards calmer dispositions and intense obedience. As far as grooming goes, a swift brush through every week should prevent the fur behind the ears from tangling.16. Border Terrier.
Height: 12 to 15 inches
Weight: 11 to 15 pounds
Breed Group: terrier
Personality: affectionate, even-tempered, intelligent
Coat: short and wiry
Color: blue and tan, grizzle and tan, red, wheaten
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
A true dog’s dog, the border terrier is lovable and trainable, affectionate with kids and in need of a quick brush every week or so. He’ll play and then follow routine when it’s time to eat, work or sleep. Ideally, border terriers have yards to run in, but they’re known for adapting well to city life as long as there’s a park they can prance through on occasion.17. Whippet
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Height: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 25 to 40 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: affectionate, playful, calm
Coat: short and smooth
Color: black, white, brindle, fawn
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
Easy care in just about every sense of the word is the whippet. These pups are content to lay out on the bed until you’re home from work and ready for a walk. Their short coat takes grooming almost completely out of the question and their barks are few and far between.18. Italian Greyhound.
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: athletic, affectionate, intelligent
Coat: short and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 12 to 13 years
Similar in stature to whippets, Italian greyhounds are tiny dogs that hardly take up any space at all (making them great for busy city people). They do love a good, warm lap and may follow you around when you’re home, but they know how to settle down, too. If dog parks are sparse in your area, this is the canine for you; they’re often too small and wary of other dogs to enjoy themselves and would rather hang out at home.19. Maltese
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Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: >7 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: playful, docile, easy going
Coat: long and silky
Color: white, white and lemon, white and tan
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
The true lap dog. Maltese pups are adaptable canines who will sit with you calmly or trot as needed for a bit of exercise. They’re adaptable to your schedule—that’s why they are one of the best breeds for single people. Another perk? They hardly shed at all. While super friendly, they might be stubborn if you don’t teach commands (and offer plenty of treats during training) early. After that? Smooth sailing.20. Pug
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Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: clever, charming, docile
Coat: short and smooth
Color: black, fawn
Life Cycle 13 to 15 years
Think about a roly-poly pile of love that just wants to eat snacks and hang out with you. That’s the pug! These rotund little pooches do well with other dogs, kids, singles—pretty much anyone. Yes, they shed, but require very little brushing.21. Pomeranian
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Height: 6 to 7 inches
Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: extroverted, active, bold
Coat: long, double-coated
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle12 to 16 years
Toy breeds abound on this list, and the Pomeranian is one of the most popular. People around the globe love these tiny companions. This is probably because they have a positive disposition, are smart (so they grasp commands early and stick with them) and short bursts of playtime indoors is enough to get them some daily exercise. Also, living with a Pom means you get to cuddle with one of the most fluffy dog breeds, a welcome sensory experience for anyone, especially small children and seniors.22. Miniature Schnauzer
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Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 11 to 20 pounds
Breed Group: terrier
Personality: friendly, smart, obedient
Coat: medium, wiry, double-coated
Color: black, black and silver, salt and pepper
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
Another breed eager to please and ready to learn and retain commands is the miniature schnauzer. These dogs are great companions to children and other pets. Grooming is the only area in which this pup may require some extra effort—brush often to prevent their wiry coats from getting tangled.23. Papillon
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Height: 8 to 11 inches
Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: friendly, alert, happy
Coat: medium, silky
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 14 to 16 years
It always looks like the Papillion is smiling! Probably because they are a happy breed, content to play wherever they happen to be, as well as eager to learn (they’re one of the most trainable dog breeds). Great for families living in big country houses or small urban apartments, suited to both hot deserts and chilly tundra, the Papillion is a hearty companion. They have no undercoat, so grooming is a cinch.24.
Height: 9 to 12 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: intelligent, sociable, playful
Coat: long, silky, double-coated
Color: black, black and silver, black and tan
Life Cycle 14 to 16 years
If a Havanese was a person, they’d be the class clown who can entertain themselves and others, but knows how to read the room and chill when it’s time to focus. They don’t bark or shed much and they love learning new tricks (they tire easily though, so beware of pushing them too hard while exercising).25.
Height: 30 to 32 inches
Weight: 105 to 120 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: loyal, sweet-tempered, patient
Coat: medium, wiry
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 6 to 8 years
One of the biggest dogs out there, the Irish wolfhound brings a calm, almost serene presence to his home. Ideally, you’ve got a yard where he can run around a few times a day (they’re fast and are built a lot like Greyhounds). Known for being super sweet, they make ineffective watchdogs since they’re so agreeable.
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
Breed Group: hound
Personality: friendly, merry, charming
Coat: short and smooth
Color: variety of colors
Life Cycle 10 to 15 years
Between the huge, floppy ears and those sweet, big eyes, you’d have to be a seriously strong person to not fall for these ultra-cute pups. Though they can be quite naughty, beagles are known to be very merry, with quirky personalities that will make you laugh. They make loyal companions, are very playful, and are very good with children.
Height: 7 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
Breed Group: toy
Personality: loyal, alert, curious
Coat: can be short or medium length, wiry or smooth
Color: beige, black, black and tan, red
Life Cycle 12 to 15 years
Speaking of dogs whose faces you can’t deny, how absolutely adorable are these teeny doggos? If their puggy little faces and tiny teeth don’t steal your heart, then you’ll certainly fall for the huge personalities packaged in their tiny bodies. One of the most affectionate dog breeds, these are great for families and seniors since they love companionship and aren’t going to bowl anyone over with their heft. Though most Brussels griffons average between eight to ten pounds, they’re quite vocal, and energetic and are easily chummy with new people. Things to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed
“Imagine your average day with a dog, not just an occasional weekend when you’d go on a long walk and spend all day with your dog,” says Levy, who as a dog trainer has insight into pet-human interaction. “Ask yourself how much exercise you could realistically provide daily, how often you would need to leave your dog alone, and how much time and effort you want to invest in dog training. The answers to these questions will help you determine whether a high-energy or extra-intelligent breed would suit you, or if more of a couch potato would be a better fit.”
Rover pet panelist Phil Tedeschi, an expert on the human-animal bond, says that dog breed traits are a good place to start choosing your furry companion: “In general, DNA and breed traits can offer useful information to start researching about your dog, whether you’re a first-time pet parent or not. It’s important to recognize that each dog has unique genetic contributions and species and breed specific knowledge coupled with appreciation for the individual personality of each dog offers the most sure-footed way to find what works best for their wellbeing.”
Finally, you’ll want to consider the basics every canine needs. When and where will you fit in daily walks (morning and night), nail trimming (at least monthly), regular vet visits (at least twice per year) and quality time? Think about your proximity to local dog parks and reputable veterinarians. Do you travel frequently for work? Do you have a partner who is equally as busy or who might have more time to devote to a dog? Is this a dog that will socialize with other pets you already have?High-Maintenance Dog Breeds to Avoid for First Time Owners
Experts agree that factors that go into making high-maintenance dog breeds are high-energy, focus-driven pets. “Avoid working-line breeds and dogs bred for specific purposes, such as HPR types (e.g., Hunt, Point and Retrieve),” says Levy. “Common mistakes I see include choosing breeds like the Vizsla, Malinois, German Shepherd or the working-line cocker spaniel.”
Ellis says “herding dogs such as the Australian Cattle dog and border collies can be some of the most hyperactive dogs; Other highly energetic dog breeds include Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds and Dalmatians. Interestingly, the DNA of most Dachshunds and Yorkshire Terriers suggests they are more likely to experience separation anxiety, according to animal geneticist Caitlyn Bruns. And finally, according to Rover pet care, there are some calm or low-energy dog breeds perceived as low-maintenance but whose grooming needs, health issues or temperament make them more demanding than others
. They include, Bichon Fries, who need regular grooming to maintain their coat’s appearance and prevent matting, and can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods but can be prevented with early training. Further, Chow Chows are another breed that can be mistakenly assumed to be low-maintenance but are also prone to a variety of health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems, and require early socialization and training to prevent aggression towards strangers and brachycephalic breeds including French and English bulldogs who can face not only difficulties breathing but also allergies and skin issues which need veterinary attention. What Is the Easiest Dog Breed for First-Time Owners?
Levy recommends considering show-line Labradors, Shih Tzu, and golden retrievers. Ellis says that first-time owners who are elderly couples might want to consider poodles or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, both trending breeds in the U.S. today, as well as corgis. She recommends Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzu, Boston Terriers, and Great Danes for apartment dwellers. Um? Great Danes? “Great Danes can also be amazing apartment pets,” she says. “The name ‘gentle giant’ fits this breed, whose calm demeanor makes them perfect for small-space living.” Ellis also says that first-time owners might want to consider their travel plans when choosing a pet.
The good news is that even if you have a hectic lifestyle, providing terrific care and love for your canine family member is genuinely easier than it’s ever been. There are apps that let you track your dog’s activity while you’re away, automatic feeders to make sure your dog gets the right amount of food on a solid schedule, dog walking companies to guarantee exercise throughout the day and so much more.
