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7 Dog Breeds with Low Maintenance Puppies for Busy Owners

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 26, 2024

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Certain dog breeds are ideal for busy owners who want a loyal companion but may not have the time to manage a high-maintenance dog. These low-maintenance puppies require minimal grooming, are generally easy to train, and have moderate exercise needs, making them perfect for households with tight schedules. While all dogs need love and care, these breeds are known for being more accessible to manage, allowing you to balance your busy life while still enjoying the joys of pet ownership.

French Bulldog

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The French Bulldog is a perfect example of a low-maintenance breed, especially in puppyhood. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, with only the occasional brushing to keep shedding under control. These puppies are known for being relatively calm, meaning they don’t need excessive exercise, making them ideal for busy owners. French Bulldogs are also relatively easy to train, and their playful yet laid-back temperament ensures they fit well into urban and apartment living. They don’t need long walks, and a bit of playtime indoors can suffice, making them a manageable choice for owners with hectic schedules.

Boston Terrier

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Boston Terriers are another breed that suits busy lifestyles. With their sleek coat, Boston Terrier puppies don’t require much grooming—just a quick brush now and then to remove loose hair. They are small, compact, and full of personality, but they are not overly energetic, which means their exercise needs can easily be met with a few short walks and some playtime. Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making training sessions quick and efficient. This breed’s low-maintenance coat, moderate energy levels, and ease of training are all great advantages for busy owners.

Whippet

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Known for their sleek, smooth coat and laid-back temperament, Whippets are a fantastic choice for busy owners seeking a low-maintenance puppy. These dogs require minimal grooming—an occasional brush is enough to keep their coat in top shape. While they are known for their speed and agility, Whippets are surprisingly calm indoors and are content to lounge around for much of the day. A quick run in the yard or a brisk walk is usually enough to meet their exercise needs. Whippets are independent yet affectionate, making them a wonderful breed for owners with limited time.

Italian Greyhound

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The Italian Greyhound is a smaller, Whippet cousin known for being an easy-to-care-for breed, particularly in puppyhood. Italian Greyhounds have short coats that require very little grooming, and their exercise needs are moderate, especially when compared to more active breeds. They enjoy running around but are also happy curling up next to their owner for long periods. Italian Greyhounds are intelligent, relatively easy to train, and tend to form close bonds with their family. For busy owners, their low grooming needs and manageable exercise levels make them a fantastic choice.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are small dogs with big personalities, and they are one of the easiest breeds to care for during puppyhood. With their small size, Chihuahuas don’t require much exercise, making them perfect for apartment dwellers or owners with limited outdoor space. Their short or long coats require minimal grooming, with the short-coated variety being particularly easy to maintain. Chihuahuas are generally independent but still enjoy bonding with their owners. Their small size, low exercise requirements, and easy grooming make them an excellent choice for busy people who want a devoted companion without too much upkeep.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inu puppies are a great option for those who want a low-maintenance dog with a bit of independence. Known for their clean, cat-like behavior, Shibas are easy to house-train and don’t have demanding grooming needs, thanks to their short, double coat. They shed seasonally but require only weekly brushing for the most part. Shiba Inus are relatively independent and don’t require constant attention, which makes them ideal for owners who might not be home all day. Though energetic, they don’t need excessive exercise, making them manageable for a busy household.

Basenji

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The Basenji, often called the “barkless dog,” is another low-maintenance breed well-suited for busy owners. With their short coat, Basenji puppies require little grooming and slimming. This breed is highly independent and has a unique, cat-like demeanor, meaning they don’t need constant attention or interaction. Basenjis are also relatively low-energy indoors, although they enjoy outdoor exercise, so a daily walk or some time in the yard will suffice. Their clean nature, minimal grooming needs, and independent temperament make the Basenji a great choice for those with a busy lifestyle.

A Perfect Match for Busy Owners

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These low-maintenance dog breeds allow busy owners to experience the joy of having a pet without excessive demands. With minimal grooming and moderate exercise needs, these puppies easily fit into a hectic lifestyle while still offering love and companionship. Whether you need a dog that’s independent or doesn’t require constant attention, these breeds are perfect for balancing your busy schedule with the rewards of pet ownership. Their manageable care requirements make them ideal companions for those looking for a loyal, low-effort pet.