A low-maintenance dog generally requires less grooming, exercise, or intense training, often being calmer companion breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, or Basset Hounds, though "low maintenance" varies by owner's needs, with breeds like Maltese or Poodles offering less shedding but needing professional trims. No dog is maintenance-free, but these breeds fit busy lifestyles better due to lower energy, easier grooming, or independent nature, though all need basic care, love, and attention.
These are the 18 best low maintenance dogs, each with characteristics that can make them a companion who will seamlessly fit into your lifestyle.
10 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Some dog breeds are naturally more independent and cope better with being alone during long work hours, such as Basset Hounds, Akitas, Chow Chows, and Lhasa Apsos. These breeds typically have low energy levels and low separation anxiety, which makes them well suited for busy or full-time workers.
If you're going to be out of the house a lot, make sure you choose a breed that's comfortable alone. Dog breeds that can be left alone include Labrador Retrievers, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, and Corgis (Welsh and Pembroke varieties).
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, representing 3 days (overwhelmed/hiding), 3 weeks (settling in/testing boundaries), and 3 months (feeling at home/bonding) to help owners manage expectations and provide patience, routine, and a calm environment, understanding that anxiety is normal as they decompress from a stressful past. It's a framework for recognizing stress and fostering trust, not a rigid timeline, but it helps owners understand why a new dog might seem timid or act out initially.
Lazy Small Dog Breeds
Certain dog breeds—such as Chihuahuas, Basset Hounds, Greyhounds, and French Bulldogs—are well-suited for busy professionals because they are more independent and require less constant attention, making them ideal for people with demanding work schedules.
The length of time a dog can be left alone depends on the individual dog but we advise that they are left for no longer than four hours so they have opportunities to exercise, go to the toilet, and spend time with people.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and bond closely with one person, which makes them a solid choice for single owners. They don't need much exercise or space, but they do need proper socialization or they'll turn into little bark machines. Easy to carry, easy to care for, just don't underestimate their attitude.
1. Basset Hound. The Basset Hound is a calm, gentle dog breed that's adaptable to new surroundings and content with moderate exercise. These low-energy dogs aren't very athletic, so don't expect them to excel at sports!
There's no single "number 1" laziest dog, but the English Bulldog is consistently ranked at or near the top for its low energy, love of naps, and tendency to be a couch potato, followed closely by breeds like the Basset Hound, Great Dane, and Shih Tzu, all known for being relaxed companions. These breeds prefer lounging and short strolls over strenuous activity, making them ideal for laid-back owners.
One gender isn't inherently healthier than the other, and the basic care requirements for male and female dogs are essentially the same. This goes for their diet, exercise, grooming needs, and routine veterinary care.
🌟 Top Cleanest Dog Breeds
If you're undecided on what type of dog to get, here are some breeds that make a great dog for first time owners:
#3: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
They're sweet, friendly...and another small dog breed that doesn't bark! The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has royal roots, so it's no wonder they have a poised demeanor.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
An hour for a dog feels much longer than an hour for a human because dogs perceive time more slowly due to their faster metabolism and heightened awareness of routines, so a 10-minute wait can feel like 70 minutes to them, and your hour-long absence feels like an eternity, though they don't grasp clock time but rather the intervals between events like meals, walks, and your return.
The "10 10 10 rule" for dogs refers to two main concepts: a potty training method for puppies (10 mins outside, 10 ft space, 10 mins supervision/reward) and the 80/10/10 guideline for raw feeding (80% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ), both offering structure for training or diet. Another interpretation is the 10% rule for treats, limiting them to 10% of daily calories to maintain a balanced diet, ensuring most nutrition comes from complete dog food.
Top tips for how to have a dog and work full-time:
Ask for help from a friend or family member. Can they drop in during the day to either walk your pup or spend some quality time with them. Look into doggy daycare – so they can go somewhere during the day instead of being alone at home all day while you're at work.
Dr. Russell, who cites breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pekingese among the most laid-back breeds, adds: “No breed is completely 'lazy' or 'low-maintenance'. Even the most laid-back breeds will still need regular walks and play sessions to remain healthy.”
6 lazy dog breeds
Spitz breeds like huskies and Akitas are known for their stubborn streak when it comes to training. Lumbering giant breeds like bullmastiffs may knock over toddling children or anything in their path. Other dogs may get defensive around children, such as toy breeds fearing for their safety around rambunctious kids.
15 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds That Will Become Your BFFL