Are you looking for a dog that doesn’t require hours of exercise every day? Imagine coming home after a long day at work, tired and ready to relax, only to be greeted by a calm, content dog who’s perfectly happy to lounge beside you on the couch. While many dogs thrive on physical activity, there are certain breeds that are perfectly content with a more relaxed routine.
From the laid-back Basset Hound to the easygoing Shih Tzu, there are plenty of breeds – from small to large—that require minimal exercise, maintenance and are ideal for owners seeking a low-maintenance companion. In this guide, we’ll explore the best dog breeds that don’t need much exercise to stay happy and healthy.
15 Best Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds for Busy Owners
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are affectionate, compact, and incredibly adaptable, making them perfect for owners who want a laid-back companion. They are equally content lounging around or enjoying a short walk around the block. Their short coats are low-maintenance, requiring minimal grooming, and minimal exercise a day.
- Size: 11-12 inches tall, weighing 16-28 pounds
- Personality: Affectionate, playful, and easygoing
- Grooming Needs: Occasional brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Average
2. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are a great choice for those with limited space but big love to offer. Despite their small size, they are full of personality and can thrive in an apartment or a small home. They require minimal grooming, and a few short play sessions or walks each day will suffice.
- Size: 6-9 inches tall, weighing up to 6 pounds
- Personality: Bold, confident, and lively
- Grooming Needs: Weekly brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of daily exercise
- Trainability Ease: Moderate
3. Dachshund
Dachshunds, known for their unique long bodies and short legs, are fun-loving and loyal dogs. This breed needs moderate activity, making them a great fit for owners with busy schedules who can fit in a quick walk or a short play session.
- Size: 8-9 inches tall, weighing 16-32 pounds
- Personality: Playful, curious, and independent
- Grooming Needs: Low (short-haired variety)
- Activity: 30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Average
4. Greyhound
Greyhounds are fast on the track, but when at home, they’re known for their relaxed, couch-potato nature. Their short coats require very little upkeep, and after a run or a brief walk, they’re happy to lounge indoors.
- Size: 27-30 inches tall, weighing 60-70 pounds
- Personality: Calm, gentle, and affectionate
- Grooming Needs: Low (occasional brushing)
- Activity: 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week
- Trainability Ease: Easy
Also Read: 40 Surprising Facts About Dog Breeds You Didn’t Know
5. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are social dogs that get along with everyone, making them perfect for families. With their short coats, they are easy to groom, and they require only moderate exercise. Their friendly nature means they enjoy spending time with you, but they’re also fine on their own for short periods.
- Size: 15-17 inches tall, weighing 10-25 pounds
- Personality: Friendly, alert, and adaptable
- Grooming Needs: Weekly brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
6. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate and calm dogs, making them ideal for busy owners who want a cuddly companion that doesn’t require extensive exercise. Despite their long, beautiful coat, they’re low-shedding, and regular grooming will keep them looking neat.
- Size: 9-10.5 inches tall, weighing 9-16 pounds
- Personality: Affectionate, friendly, and outgoing
- Grooming Needs: Regular brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Moderate
7. Pug
Pugs are loyal, sociable, and affectionate dogs that love to spend time with their owners. Though they have a short coat, they still need occasional brushing, but they’re relatively easy to care for. Their low energy levels mean they don’t need a lot of exercise and are happy with a short walk each day.
- Size: 10-12 inches tall, weighing 14-18 pounds
- Personality: Playful, charming, and easygoing
- Grooming Needs: Occasional brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of physical exercise
- Trainability Ease: Easy
8. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are relaxed dogs with a calm demeanor. While they enjoy a walk, they are content to lounge around at home. Their low-maintenance coats only need occasional grooming, and their easygoing nature makes them great companions.
- Size: 12-15 inches tall, weighing 40-65 pounds
- Personality: Mellow, loyal, and relaxed
- Grooming Needs: Low (occasional brushing)
- Activity: 30-45 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Moderate
9. Bulldog
The bulldogs are known for their relaxed, “chill” vibe. They love lounging around, but are still up for a short daily walk. Their short, easy-to-maintain coat makes grooming a breeze, and their calm demeanor makes them perfect for apartment living.
- Size: 12-16 inches tall, weighing 40-50 pounds
- Personality: Calm, courageous, and affectionate
- Grooming Needs: Occasional brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These gentle dogs are both friendly and easygoing, making them great companions for those with busy schedules. They enjoy spending time with their families, but are content with moderate exercise. Their coats are relatively easy to groom, needing only weekly brushing.
- Size: 12-13 inches tall, weighing 13-18 pounds
- Personality: Affectionate, friendly, and adaptable
- Grooming Needs: Weekly brushing
- Activity: 30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
11. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are smaller versions of the classic Greyhound, yet still boast that same easygoing, low-maintenance nature. They’re happy with lower exercise needs, and their sleek coat needs minimal care.
- Size: 13-15 inches tall, weighing 7-14 pounds
- Personality: Gentle, affectionate, and playful
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
12. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their cute, wiry coats, but they’re surprisingly low-maintenance. They need to be walked daily or indoor playtime and are intelligent dogs that learn quickly. Their grooming needs are moderate but manageable.
- Size: 12-14 inches tall, weighing 11-20 pounds
- Personality: Friendly, alert, and energetic
- Grooming Needs: Regular trimming
- Activity: 30-45 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
13. Beagle
Beagles are lively but not hyperactive. They are independent and happy with a moderate amount of exercise, making them perfect for busy owners. Their coats are short and easy to maintain, and their friendly nature makes them a favorite in many households.
- Size: 13-15 inches tall, weighing 20-30 pounds
- Personality: Friendly, curious, and independent
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Activity: 30-60 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Moderate
14. Pekingese
Pekingese are small, calm dogs that enjoy a quiet life, and their low-energy level means they don’t require a lot of exercises. Their long coat needs regular brushing to keep it tangle-free, but they are low-maintenance in terms of activity.
- Size: 6-9 inches tall, weighing 7-14 pounds
- Personality: Independent, affectionate, and dignified
- Grooming Needs: Regular brushing
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of light exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Moderate
15. Whippet
- Size: 18-22 inches tall, weighing 25-40 pounds
- Personality: Gentle, affectionate, and independent
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Activity: 20-30 minutes of exercise daily
- Trainability Ease: Easy
Why a Low-Maintenance Dog May Be Right for You
Low-maintenance dog breeds can be a perfect match for busy individuals, people living in apartments, or those new to dog ownership. These dogs don’t require extensive grooming or exercise, yet they provide companionship and unconditional love.
When choosing a breed, consider your lifestyle, available time, and living environment. A low-maintenance dog can offer the joy of pet ownership without adding too much to your daily to-do list. With the right match, you’ll find that even a busy life has room for a loyal, loving dog. Go through our blog for more information on different pet animals.