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Many to-be pet parents don’t anticipate the amount of caring dogs and puppies need. Fido can require a lot of time and energy. Between work and loved ones, pet parents could find that they are too busy to care for a new dog.
If you fall into this category, certain breeds are known to be low-maintenance. If you don’t have the time or energy to look after a dog, we have some ideas for the best low-maintenance breeds to add to your household.
What makes a dog low-maintenance? They generally don’t demand as much time in your day to care for them. Many dogs require several hours of your time on a daily basis – whether it’s going on walks, playtime or an ongoing health issue requiring vet trips. With low-maintenance dogs, time spent caring for them is reduced compared to other breeds, though you’ll still care for them as you would with any pet.
If you’re looking to add a low-maintenance dog to your household, here are some defining characteristics that make breeds low maintenance:
Of course, no dog will check all the boxes. Knowing the characteristics of each dog breed will help you better understand the care needed from pet parents.
Whether you’re looking for a family dog that doesn’t require much attention or a dog that fits your busy lifestyle, there are certainly some preferred breeds. Here are some of the best choices for low-maintenance dog breeds:
Small dogs make great companions for older people and those living in apartment complexes. If you’re looking for a dog on the smaller side, here are some low-maintenance breeds to consider.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Playful yet devoted, the German badger dog is a welcomed addition to a home. People love these lively companion animals. The smooth-coated dachshund is one of the easiest to care for, requiring very little brush and minimal shedding. They still require some time with their pet parents, including regular exercise.
What makes them low maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Chihuahuas may be the world’s smallest dog breed but they are enormously loving toward their pet parents. Chihuahuas are surprisingly low-maintenance. They only require a little grooming to look their best. Although chihuahuas do get bursts of energy, they generally do not require much exercise.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Cavaliers are a small, loving, and playful breed that will capture many owners’ hearts. Their enchanting personalities and sweet temperament make them a perfect low-maintenance dog for families or for small city apartments. They are non-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs that only require baths a few times per year. Cavaliers are known for having low energy levels, only requiring minimal exercise that a short walk can accomplish.
What makes them low maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Boston Terriers are smart, affectionate and even-tempered companions. Although this breed may need a bit more exercise than others on this list, a daily walk should be sufficient. Known for being infrequent shedders, Boston Terriers don’t require too much grooming. They are well-behaved and friendly toward people. Although they enjoy routine exercise, they are also happy to lounge around a home or apartment.
What makes them low-maintenance:
The gorgeous Italian Greyhound has long been the subject of paintings and other art. They’re lovely, sweet and gentle dogs that are often reserved around strangers. Italian Greyhounds require little care to look and feel their best.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Known for its huge, lovely ears, the French butterfly dog is surprisingly easy to have at home. They are very smart and easily trained. Their size makes them an ideal fit for those who love city apartments. It may be surprising given their long hair and appearance that all they need is a bit of brushing to look great.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Charming and cute, darling Pugs have a personality that is adored by many pet parents. Pugs are ideal for small city apartments with nearby neighbors and older adults. They don’t bark much, tend to sleep a lot and are low-energy dogs. Their short coat needs a bit of care before they’re ready for anything.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Like their larger cousins, Toy Poodles are highly intelligent dogs who are easy to train. This small dog has a big personality: they are friendly, and outgoing dogs that are devoted to their pet parents and families. They will need some brushing and grooming; otherwise, they are considered a great low-maintenance breed. Furthermore, they don’t need much exercise and are relatively low-energy.
If you want a medium-sized dog that is easy to take care of, here are a few breeds to consider:
What makes them low maintenance:
Basset Hounds are natural hunters and were historically bred for hunting small game such as rabbits. This sweet-tempered breed is moderately low-maintenance in terms of exercise; they’re frequently napping or lounging around the house. This breed also has a short coat that makes grooming easy. In addition, their laid-back demeanor makes them a wonderful low-maintenance breed.
What makes them low maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Beagles are a joyful yet determined breed, and a great option for a small low-maintenance. Their short coat means no detangling of their fur. If they get dirty playing outdoors, they will only need a bath to clean up compared to other breeds. They are affectionate yet very independent, making them an ideal low-maintenance breed.
What makes them low maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Cockers need to be groomed at least once a week – that’s all it takes to keep them happy and totally healthy. Aside from grooming needs, they are known for being smart and trainable. Although Cocker Spaniels are fun-loving and good-natured pets, they are also very quiet.
What makes them low maintenance:
Drawbacks:
As a breed, Basenjis are known for being very independent and quiet. They are also affectionate and loyal companions. One reason they are low-maintenance is their short coat and lack of shedding makes them very easy to groom. Basenjis are more active dogs that do require regular walks and exercise, which is a downside for those seeking a low-maintenance pup.
Keep in mind many larger dogs tend to be higher maintenance than smaller dogs. If you want a large dog that is easy to take care of, here are a few breeds to consider:
What makes them low maintenance:
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a wonderful temperament and is dubbed the “gentle giant.” These fun-loving dogs are up for anything. Their gentle demeanor and playfulness make them an ideal large breed option for families and kids. All they need is a walk by your side to be content.
What makes them low maintenance:
Bullmastiffs are known for their devotion to duty and love of family. Fearless and confident, this breed is also considered to be gentle, affectionate, and easy-going. Bullmastiffs are independent and self-assured and generally don’t require a lot to be part of your household.
What makes them low maintenance:
Greyhounds are goofy, funny and charming. Their wonderful temperament makes them a great fit for any family. Their tender demeanor and calm personalities make them ideal low-maintenance pets. Give them a run; they’ll happily relax with you the rest of the day.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Newfies are usually on their best behavior, interacting well with humans and other dogs. They are sweet-tempered dogs who make great companions. Although they are large, Newfoundlands only need a little grooming to look dog show-ready. Graceful swimmers, let your Newfie enjoy a swim and dry them off with a towel.
What makes them low maintenance:
The smart Standard Poodle is an affectionate breed ideal for families. This fun-loving, active breed and very people oriented. They also have a high drive to please their owners, and are easily trained. While Poodles do not shed, this breed does need to be groomed fairly frequently.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Standard Schnauzers are highly intelligent, good-natured dogs. Though they have higher energy levels than other low-maintenance dogs, their tendency to misbehave is low. Standard Schnauzers are great family dogs that are loyal to their pet parents, affectionate with young kids.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Labradors are known as loyal and truly loving family dogs. Their enthusiastic and friendly presence brings joy to families and pet parents. Their easy-care coat works well for any family. While Lab Retrievers do have many low-maintenance qualities, they are also known for being a fit and active breed.
What makes them low-maintenance:
Drawbacks:
Charming and easily trained, Goldens are a modern breed with ancient roots. They are an easy-going, spirited breed while being one of the most intelligent dogs. After you welcome a Golden Retriever into your home, you’ll do fine as long as you have a few grooming tools handy.
We hope this list of breeds helps narrow down the choices for your low-maintenance dog. No matter which breed you choose, please remember dogs still need attention and love. Make sure they are protected with dog insurance plan provided from Spot.
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