12 Low Maintenance Dogs for Busy People or First Time Owners

All breeds of dogs need care, love, and attention. But some require more effort and time. If you have a hectic schedule or are first-time pet owners, look for easy to train and groom dogs.

Here are our top 12 low maintenance dogs you can consider today: 

1. Dachshund

Who does not want to have Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Poodles, Yorkshire terriers, or Chow Chow at home?

Every pet owners love that. But if you are always in the office or don’t know much information on being a pet owner, the Dachshund is one of the typical low maintenance dogs you cannot afford to miss. 

Easy and fun to groom, the Dachshund is famous as an affectionate and lovable dog breed.

Usually available in medium-sized and miniature sizes, Dachshund can change your life for the best.

Unlike a wire-haired and short-haired variety, the long-haired Dachshunds are harder to groom. But all can become your excellent buddies. 

However, Dachshunds are known to be stubborn, which requires a good foundation of training.

If you don’t know how to train one, it is worth hiring the right professional for your peace of mind. When it comes to exercise, they don’t need an intensive workout routine. 

2. Greyhound

Another breed of dog that requires less maintenance is the Greyhound. They are cost-effective and simple to groom, unlike other dogs. 

Although some first-time pet owners are afraid of Greyhound because of their height, they are not as aggressive as other dogs. They are gentle and known as couch potatoes. 

Many people believe that they are a high-energy dog, but they are not. While they also need an opportunity to run, daily walks would suffice. 

Most pet owners have decided to have Greyhounds because they are easy to handle and ideal for those who have a busy schedule.

They also respond to training, but you have to be patient and dedicated sometimes. 

When training Greyhounds, make sure to vary your drills. Don’t stick to a particular activity at all times.

Every time they achieve your expected behavior, don’t forget to give them a unique and delicious treat for longer retention. 

3. French Bulldog

If you are not comfortable with a large dog like a Greyhound, the French Bulldog is an excellent companion you can ever have.

Grooming and maintenance are easy, and they are exceptionally cheerful. 

When you have a long and stressful day in the office, French Bulldogs can boost your mood and make you positive every day.

They are sweet, caring, and affectionate, making your life stress-free and comfortable. 

French Bulldogs are energetic, but they don’t have lasting endurance. So, engage them in moderate exercise only to keep them in top shape. 

People love the dog’s level of intelligence. They respond to training well.

They are smart, but it is essential to vary your activities to capture their attention and interest. 

French Bulldogs are also well-behaved, but proper training is vital. Look for training ideas and drill online for more information. 

However, they are prone to skin issues and brachycephalic syndrome. Make sure to consult your vet regularly. 

4. Chihuahua 

If you’re not comfortable with French Bulldogs, Chihuahua maybe your best buddy.

A tiny breed of dog, they only weigh around 2 or 6 pounds, making it a great lap dog. 

The grooming needs are not as intensive as you imagine. They do not require regular and expensive maintenance.

But long-haired Chihuahuas are a different case because they need more brushing to avoid visible tangles. 

Most Chihuahuas are healthy and don’t need a lot of exercise routines. If you are a first-time pet owner and don’t know how to train this breed, seek expert assistance.

While the services require extra costs, having a well-trained and responsible dog is worth-it. 

Chihuahuas, however, have a mild-mannered temperament. The secret is to train them at a young age.

It is also a big mistake to baby or spoil Chihuahuas because they may be bossy. It is recommended to set some boundaries. 

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

Have you been searching for a dog breed that will look like a puppy for a lifetime?

There is no need to look further than Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are cute, gentle, loving, and caring. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a mild-mannered breed and adaptable.

They are easy to take good care of and an excellent companion for those who work in the office for over eight hours a day. 

They are usually small and medium-sized dogs. Most pet owners recommend both sizes. But you have the leeway to choose what you like. 

Generally weighing at least 11 or 18 pounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is effortless to handle and train.

They are also smart and love some adventures. So, keep them engaged with a variety of training drills and exercises. 

They are generally a healthy breed. But, some may acquire cardiovascular problems.

Consult a licensed and experienced vet on a weekly or monthly basis. Plus, provide them the best nutrition. 

6. Pug 

Unique personalities? Easy to maintain? Name it! Pugs have them all. They are fun to be with and also easy to groom.

While DIY grooming has been a trend, nothing can beat the services of a qualified professional. 

If your day does not seem as it is used to be in the office, the Pugs’ iconic squished faces can change your perspective and mood. 

Like short-haired dog breeds, Pugs shed. Fortunately, the hair is not hard to handle.

You can pick the strands of their hair off the furniture, your bed, or carpet without too many interruptions. 

As for exercise, Pugs are not as energetic as other small dogs. A daily walk is advisable.

While some love to nap all day, others are curious, so place your stuff in areas they cannot reach. Proper training can also be a lifesaver.

With their skull shape, they are prone to snoring and heavy breathing.

That’s why you have to avoid strenuous exercise because Pugs don’t have great stamina. 

7. Mastiff

Who wants a behemoth as a pet? Mastiff should be on top of your mind. Weighing around 220 pounds, the Mastiff is a handful to look after.

Unfortunately, they are docile and lazy. But regular and responsible training can make a big difference. 

Similar to other dogs, Mastiffs love couches. Sometimes, they may enjoy napping on your furniture, which you do not want to happen.

Training the breed at a young age can correct this kind of behavior. 

Mastiffs don’t have great stamina and physical endurance with their size, so avoid strenuous exercise routines. Keep their workout fun and straightforward as well. 

Once they get older, they enjoy taking naps and seeking attention. They also have a short life expectancy. 

It is believed that Mastiffs only last from six to ten years. But proper nutrition and sufficient exercise can keep them healthy and flexible. 

But if you prefer small dogs, consider other breeds in this list. 

8. Basset Hound 

Many pet owners are a bit confused between a Basset Hound and a Dachshund. But they are different.

Fortunately, they are both adorable and fantastic family companions. They are relatively easy to groom.

There’s no need to invest a lot of time and effort to keep them well-groomed. 

Although Basset Hounds enjoy taking naps, they also like short playtimes. 

With their stubborn streak, they have a higher risk of getting obese, so let them have some fun in your backyard. 

Please don’t leave them at home alone as your living room may be messy and disorganized.

Be sure there’s someone that will supervise your Basset Hounds all day long. 

Highly attached to the owner, Basset Hounds are caring, affectionate, and gentle. They are friendly to strangers, have huge ears, cute, and incredibly agile. 

Although they are short-haired, they also shed, which care and require brushing. But it is not as tricky as other breeds. 

9. Beagle

Although they are small, Beagles have everything pet owners prefer. They are loyal and kind, making them a good companion for everyone. 

They are playful and want some adventures. Since you always work in the office, they would love another dog companion to help them beat their boredom.

Leaving them alone at home for a day will result in chewing, barking, digging, and other annoying behaviors.

Therefore, make sure there’s someone who will look after your beagles when you are not around. 

But like other breeds, owning Beagles has some drawbacks. Most commonly, they are stubborn as far as training is concerned.

If you are not patient, hire a professional that can give you a hand. Once they are used to a drill, they will become more responsible than usual. 

Beagles are happy to be with their owners. They also love to go on a long walk or meet other dogs. 

10. Labrador Retriever 

Do you want to own a large and comfortable to groom breed of dog? Labrador retriever is the answer to your question.

Who says large dogs are difficult to maintain? Labrador Retriever got you covered. 

Despite their size, Labrador Retrievers are loyal, passionate, and kind companion. They are gentle and mild-mannered. Looks can be deceiving indeed. 

Many pet owners love Labrador Retrievers because of their positive energy and overflowing enthusiasm. They can make you smile and laugh at the same time. 

Compared to other large dogs, Labrador Retrievers always have the desire to please their pet owners. They are friendly and want a series of training. 

But let’s be honest. Not all have the patience and prior experience to train this dog breed. That’s why it is best to work with a certified dog trainer.

Labrador Retrievers require strenuous exercise due to their size, which can be challenging for new pet owners. But you will get used to it as time goes by. 

11. Whippet

Used for hunting rabbits before, Whippets are incredibly athletic. Like Greyhounds, they are a racing breed.

They are energetic and enthusiastic, which can be a challenge to deal with for pet owners. 

Whippets are intelligent and can excel in both obedience and agility courses. Whatever the training you give to your Whippets, they can respond well, reaching your expectations and requirements. 

Despite their athleticism and energy, Whippets are relaxed, calm, and gentle. They can quite enjoy a good nap. 

Being able to adapt to any home, they want to spend time with your family. 

Whippets rarely bark. They are silent. But when left alone at home, they can be noisy. So, avoid leaving them without a family relative or a dog companion. 

Their short coat is what makes them easy to groom and look after. Also, Whippets do not shed as much as the other breeds. 

Additionally, Whippets jump very high. They are fast and curious, so keep them on a leash as much as possible. 

12. Italian Greyhound 

Like Greyhound cousins, Italian Greyhound is athletic. They enjoy a good run and respond to a strenuous exercise routine. Their stamina or resistance is good. 

Aside from good athleticism, Italian Greyhounds have a lovable and calm demeanor. They are affectionate and gentle. 

Although they are exposed to people, Italian Greyhounds can be shy with strangers.

Early socialization can play a critical role in building their self-esteem and addressing their nervous system.

Naturally, they are smart, but it might be challenging to train Italian Greyhounds. 

Unlike the basic commands, potty training is a different case. You might find the process frustrating and overwhelming. 

Italian Greyhounds are sensitive, especially to negative training or scolding. So, be patient at all times. 

Italian Greyhounds also have a high prey drive. Whether you’re looking for an energetic or gentle dog breed, the Italian Greyhound is fantastic. 

What’s Your Choice? 

Before you make decisions, identify your needs in advance. Do you love a large, medium-sized, or small dog that’s easy to groom?

Do you have a hectic schedule? Do you spend most of your time in the office? Are you a first-time pet owner?

If yes, be sure to know what you want to choose the right breed with confidence.