Top 10 Low-Maintenance Dogs for Owners Who Prefer a Relaxed Lifestyle

Looking for a dog that fits into your laid-back lifestyle? You're in the right place! Many people choose a cute little dog to shower with love, but they often forget the commitment it takes to care for one. After the initial excitement fades, they realize that having a dog requires time and effort.

I want to shake some of these folks and shout: “A dog isn’t just a cute accessory or a living decoration!” Beyond the essentials—food, water, and shelter—a dog needs love, attention, mental engagement, grooming, and regular exercise.

So, if you're someone who wants the joy of a dog but doesn’t have the time or energy for daily 30-minute walks, costly training sessions, or frequent trips to the groomer, here’s a list of low-maintenance dog breeds that are perfect for you. (I know some people may not be able to walk their dog every day for health reasons but still desire companionship. Skip the “lazy” in the title and read on.)

Note: I'm not suggesting neglecting or ignoring any dog. What I mean is, don't choose a high-energy breed like a Border Collie if you're not up for regular walks, or a high-maintenance breed like a Shih Tzu if grooming is a hassle for you. Get a dog that offers just as much love but requires much less effort.

10. Bolognese

This breed is believed to have originated from dogs similar to the Bichon Frisé in southern Italy. The Bolognese became a beloved companion dog among royal courts and the nobility of Spain, as well as other parts of Europe, until the early 1800s. It's a sturdy Toy/Companion breed with no notable genetic health issues. The Bolognese requires:

Living Space – Minimal. A great apartment companion. This toy breed is compact and sturdy, weighing between 8 and 14 pounds—roughly the size of a newborn.
Exercise – Low. Although playful, this breed isn’t overly active. A few occasional walks will suffice.
Training – Low. Smart and trainable, the Bolognese may be reserved around strangers but is friendly with children and other animals.
Grooming – Moderate. With long, white hair, the Bolognese requires regular grooming to avoid matting. It doesn’t shed much and is considered hypoallergenic.

9. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is believed to have originated in China and was brought to Japan as a royal gift from a Chinese emperor. This breed became a favorite among Japanese royalty and made its way to Europe in the 1800s. The Japanese Chin has the following needs:

Living Space – Low. This small dog stands just under a foot tall and weighs between 8 and 11 pounds.
Training – Low. The Japanese Chin is smart, calm, and well-mannered. It gets along with almost everyone, including strangers, other pets, and children. It’s also highly alert and sensitive to its environment.
Exercise – Low. A true lap dog, the Chin is not built for heavy exercise. Due to its short muzzle, excessive exercise could cause breathing or overheating issues. Occasional short walks are enough.
Grooming – Moderate. The Chin’s coat needs regular brushing or combing to keep it looking its best and to prevent matting. While it sheds lightly throughout the year, the breed is very clean and doesn’t have a strong odor.

Cons – Potty training can be challenging during the first 4 months. Other potential health issues include luxating patellas, heart conditions, back problems, and cataracts.

8. Greyhound

A racing dog on a list of the 10 Best Dogs for Lazy Owners? Yes, you read that right! While Greyhounds can reach impressive speeds, they are not high-energy dogs. In fact, they have earned the nickname “Forty-five mile per hour couch potatoes.” This ancient breed, with origins in Egypt and Greece, has been used for hunting and herding throughout history. The Greyhound needs:

Living Space – Low. Despite being a larger breed (60 to 70 pounds and about 2 1/2 feet tall), Greyhounds do well in small spaces. They are calm and gentle, making them better suited to apartment living than some smaller, more active breeds.
Training – Low-ish. These dogs are obedient and get along with strangers, children, and other dogs. However, it’s advisable to supervise them around smaller pets or very young children.
Exercise – Low to moderate. Though Greyhounds are sprinters and enjoy running, they don’t require extensive exercise. A 20-30 minute walk a few times a week will keep them fit.
Grooming – Low. With a short, smooth coat and no undercoat, Greyhounds are a good choice for those with allergies.

Cons – Prone to skin sensitivities and sensitive to extreme temperatures.

7. Bullmastiff

Yes, the Bullmastiff, a massive dog, is surprisingly low-maintenance. Originally developed in the mid-1800s as a cross between the English Mastiff and the Old English Bulldog, this powerful guard dog was bred not to attack intruders, but to block or knock them down and hold them in place. Despite its size, the Bullmastiff is generally low-energy. The Bullmastiff requires:

Living Space – Low-ish. Due to its large size (100 to 130 lbs, 21 to 27 inches in height), you’ll need enough space for the dog to move around comfortably. However, these calm, easygoing dogs can do well in apartments and thrive when they live indoors with their owner.
Training – Low. While minimal training is needed, especially to avoid pulling during walks, the Bullmastiff is a loyal, even-tempered, and tolerant dog. It’s very affectionate and enjoys human attention, particularly from children.
Grooming – Low. With its short, smooth coat, the Bullmastiff sheds little.
Exercise – Low to moderate. The Bullmastiff is laid-back and content to lounge on the sofa, but, being a large breed, obesity is a concern. Occasional, leisurely walks will suffice to keep them healthy.

Cons – Prone to bloating, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye issues. Not suited to extreme temperatures and tends to drool or slobber.

6. Pug

Pugs, believed to have originated in China, were likely used as royal gifts or for trade in China, Tibet, and Japan before eventually making their way to Europe. A Pug needs:

Living Space – Low. Weighing up to 18 pounds (if not overfed) and standing just under a foot tall, the Pug is perfect for apartment living.
Training – Low. Despite their adorable, wrinkled faces, Pugs are affectionate dogs that enjoy being around children. However, they can be quite stubborn. You might need some training if you want to keep them off the couch, though they may have other ideas.
Grooming – Moderate. A downside of owning a Pug is their shedding. While they have short fur, they shed more than you'd expect. Plus, their wrinkles need occasional cleaning to prevent irritation or infection.
Exercise – Very low. You should be cautious not to over-exercise a Pug. Due to their compact facial structure, they have limited airflow and can struggle to breathe during intense activity. Additionally, they have difficulty regulating body temperature, so hot weather and strenuous exercise are not ideal.

Cons – Known for snoring, so keep them off the bed if you're a light sleeper. They may also face respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and encephalitis.

5. Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a working dog native to Ireland, originally bred for hunting vermin, badger-baiting, and fox hunting. The Glen of Imaal Terrier requires:

Living Space – Low-ish. This terrier weighs up to 35 pounds (about the size of a 2-year-old) and grows to about 14 inches tall. It adapts well to apartments and homes with small yards.
Training – Low to moderate. Intelligent and trainable, Glen of Imaal Terriers are friendly with people and children but can be territorial and yappy around other dogs. Without proper socialization, they might view other pets as prey.
Exercise – Low-ish. With short legs compared to their body, these terriers aren’t designed for high-energy activities like running or jumping. A few short walks a day are sufficient, and they may find their own way to stay active if you have a yard. (Just make sure the fence is secure because they’re known diggers.)
Grooming – Low to moderate. The Glen’s outer coat grows to 3-4 inches if left untrimmed and can become matted, though this breed doesn’t shed excessively.

4. Bulldog

Bulldogs were initially bred in the 1600s to restrain bulls for butchers, later being used in the cruel sport of bullbaiting. When bullbaiting was banned, breeders selectively bred Bulldogs with milder temperaments to make them gentler. A Bulldog needs:

Living Space – Low. Bulldogs are small but muscular, weighing between 40 and 50 pounds. They do well in apartments, though if you have back problems, this breed might not be the best fit for you.
Training – Low. Known for being affectionate and extremely loyal, Bulldogs are good with people, children, and other pets.
Grooming – Low. While Bulldogs have short coats, their facial folds require regular cleaning to prevent irritation.
Exercise – This is not an active breed. However, Bulldogs can easily become overweight, so a bit of exercise is important. Low-intensity activities like leisurely walks are recommended. Due to their short snouts, Bulldogs should avoid heavy exertion or outdoor activities in hot weather to prevent health risks.

3. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua holds the title of the world’s smallest dog breed, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was first discovered in 1850. Although its exact origins are unclear, it is believed to be a descendant of dogs brought by Chinese or Spanish explorers. A Chihuahua needs for:

Space – Minimal. A tiny dog weighing between 2 to 6 pounds and growing up to 9 inches tall, the Chihuahua is essentially an indoor companion and can even fit inside your purse.
Training – Low. While loyal to their owner, Chihuahuas are often described as high-strung, especially if you have children or other pets. You may want to consider a different breed if you're looking for a more laid-back companion.
Grooming – Low. Both short-haired and long-haired Chihuahuas require little grooming.
Exercise – Minimal. A short walk now and then is sufficient, but be mindful of keeping them fit. Obesity can cause serious health issues for this tiny breed.

Cons – Chihuahuas are susceptible to a range of genetic conditions including epilepsy, seizure disorders, hypoglycemia, heart problems, and collapsed trachea.

Contributor: Tracy from Exercise My Dog</a

2. Rat Terrier

Sometimes referred to as the American Hairless Terrier, the Rat Terrier was originally bred to hunt rats, vermin, and any game they could catch. Though it originated in England, these dogs became popular farm companions in the United States during the early 1900s. President Teddy Roosevelt often took them hunting. A Rat Terrier needs for:

Space – Low. This dog weighs up to 25 pounds and stands a foot tall or less, essentially a compact size. There is also a Miniature Rat Terrier version that measures under a foot tall and weighs under 10 pounds.
Training – Low. Rat Terriers are friendly and get along well with people, including strangers, children, other dogs, and cats. While they are generally cheerful, they can be sensitive to changes in their environment, such as increased activity or shifts in their owner's mood. If you decide to train, they are quick learners.
Exercise – Low. While they enjoy lounging on the couch or in a lap, they also love to run around the yard. Occasional exercise, such as walking or playing outside, will keep them entertained.
Grooming – Low. These dogs have smooth coats and shed very little.

1. Puggle

A Puggle is a modern crossbreed, sometimes called a “designer dog,” that combines the traits of a Pug and a Beagle. Whether it’s a first-generation mix or a subsequent cross, Puggles are known for being low-maintenance, friendly pets that fit well in a home environment. A Puggle needs for:

Space – Low. Puggles are compact dogs (weighing between 15 and 30 pounds, and standing up to 15 inches tall), making them ideal for both apartment and house living.
Training – Low. These dogs are laid-back and cheerful. They’re sturdy, playful, and affectionate, often enjoying a spot on their owner's lap. Puggles get along with just about everyone, including children, other dogs, and other pets. They are loyal and eager to please.
Exercise – Lowish. While Puggles do have a little energy from their Beagle side, they’re quick to tire and enjoy lounging. Occasional walks or short play sessions will suffice. However, due to their short nasal passage (thanks to their Pug parent), they should avoid strenuous activities or long workouts to prevent breathing difficulties and temperature regulation issues.
Grooming – Low to moderate. Generally low-maintenance, Puggles do shed, especially during springtime, and may require occasional cleaning of their wrinkles if they’ve inherited more of their Pug’s characteristics.

Cons – Due to their short nasal passage, Puggles are more vulnerable to heat stroke, so care should be taken in hot weather.