The best low-maintenance dogs for busy people

All dogs have lifelong physical and emotional needs, but some breeds have strong genetic traits that should be taken into consideration when you’re trying to find the perfect pup to match your lifestyle. For example, a Border Collie is an energetic breed that’s wicked smart. It requires lots of mental and physical exercise every day to thrive and be happy. So, if you’ve got lots of love to go around but not loads of time, this adorable dog might not be right for you.

Our list features low-maintenance dogs that don’t need a ton of exercise or grooming, as well as ones that are more independent than other breeds. Still, though, if you want to expand your family with a canine BFF, you need to put in some work. “Nurture and not nature tends to impact a dog’s personality and ‘laid-backness,’” says veterinarian Bernadine Cruz. “This is a long-term, healthy human/animal bond. To do it correctly, you can’t expect that you can only interact with your dog on your time.”

Often called nanny dogs, Newfies are notably patient and watchful over children. “The best example of this breed and its demeanour is the dog Nana in the story of Peter Pan,” says Dr Cruz. Plus, these adorable, snuggly dogs are highly intelligent and easy to train. Even better for busy people, Newfies aren’t looking for high-intensity exercise. Dr Cruz says a daily walk of about 30 minutes or so discourages boredom and weight issues. Newfies do shed, so weekly brushing is a must to keep it in check. That said, these mini grooming sessions are a good opportunity for you to bond with your Newfie while having some quiet time together.

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“Greyhounds are the cats of the dog world: somewhat aloof and independent,” says Dr Cruz. They’re accommodating and can easily transition from couch potato to jogging partner. But these low-maintenance dogs don’t need a lot of exercise; a daily walk or jog is sufficient. Inside, they are light on their feet and have a good body sense, so they’re not likely to knock things over. Their short coat also makes grooming easy.

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Italian greyhounds are the opposite of greyhounds in demeanour. Aloof is definitely not a word you’d use to describe these dogs: They are passionate for their humans and can be downright clingy. But aside from their desire to shower you with affection, they are ideal low-maintenance dogs for apartment or condo dwellers. “The Italian greyhound can lounge all day and then race around the dog park with great abandon,” says Dr Cruz. Their short coat is super easy to maintain; it doesn’t shed much, and no routine brushing is needed.

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There’s no shortage of Spaniel varieties. Whether it’s the Cavalier King Charles, English Springer Spaniel, or Cocker, they all have those soulful eyes and gentle expressions that melt your heart. Spaniels were bred for hunting, but today they are more inclined to be lapdogs that are chosen for their sweet and easygoing disposition. They get along with children, other pets and strangers, and they are just as happy to frolic in the yard or take a leisurely walk as they are to snuggle with you. Their longer coats require brushing and occasional trips to the groomer, and you’ll have to keep an eye on their furry and feathery long ears, as Spaniels are prone to ear infections.

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Gentle, genial, loyal, lumbering and laid-back are words that aptly describe this low-maintenance dog. “[Bloodhounds] enjoy the company of others and lounging around,” says Dr Cruz. They’re fairly independent in nature, and their low-key energy (unless they pick up a scent) means they’ll look to you for games of chase or fetch. Bloodhounds love to sniff and explore when they walk, so they’re excellent for families who like to wind down with relaxed walks instead of getting their heart rates up. Sure, they drool, but you’ll quickly forget about that when you get lost in those long, droopy ears and soulful eyes.

Talk about low-maintenance dogs that have it all! The Maltese is blissfully happy to snuggle in your lap, but if you get a hankering for a walk or playtime, it will be equally delighted to change gears and go. Their fantastic attributes don’t end there. “They are great watchdogs, therapy dogs and competitors in sports such as agility, obedience, rally and tracking,” says veterinarian Laura Pletz. “But even with all their energy, they only require occasional exercise.”

These dogs don’t shed much, either, but daily brushing is essential to keep their silky hair from matting. This task is easily done when your Maltese is sitting on your lap. Shorter cuts are easier to maintain than the long, flowing locks often seen on show dogs.

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“Dachshunds are known for their ever-alert expression and friendly, vivacious personality,” says Dr Pletz. “Smart and vigilant, the Dachshund is bred to be an independent hunter.” These low-maintenance dogs are fans of indoor games, perfect for the family that isn’t all that outdoorsy. Still, Doxies do love to sniff and explore, so adding a little extra time outside around potty breaks is ideal to meet exercise requirements. “Keeping them at a healthy weight is very important to [their] overall health,” Dr Pletz explains.

Doxies come in smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired varieties. All are relatively easy to manage. The long-haired ones just might need a little more TLC to keep their coats tangle-free.

One of the most congenial low-maintenance house dogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is smart and affectionate, but not needy. Even with their short legs and fluffy loaf (an affectionate term for a Corgi butt), they are quick and agile. They are ideal for zippy indoor games, which Corgis consider a job. As a member of the herding group, Corgis are particularly happy when they have work to do, but a slow walk outside is A-OK, too. This breed’s thick double coat sheds a fair amount, but daily brushing will remove loose hair and keep its loaf adorable. One tiny drawback, Dr Pletz says, is that since they are vigilant watchdogs, they have a “big dog” bark.”

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Not only are poodles low-maintenance dogs, but they also come in three sizes: the Standard (up to 30kg), Miniature (4-7kg), and Toy (1.8-2.8kg). “Regardless of size, the poodle is people-oriented and enjoys learning new things. They are very smart, eager and remarkably versatile,” says Dr Pletz. Versatility equals low-maintenance because while poodles are active dogs, they love to do whatever you love to do. Plus, poodles have a low-allergen coat that doesn’t shed much. Shorter cuts are easier to maintain, but visits to the groomer for semi-regular clip-and-trims are essential to keep new growth from matting. Because they’re super smart, pet parents don’t have to spend a lot of time training them.

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