what is the easiest hypoallergenic dog to train

Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Are Easy To Housebreak

Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Are Easy To Housebreak

January 21, 2016 By Tabatha H 27 Comments

A small hypoallergenic dog that is easy to housebreak is not impossible to find. What you do need to be aware of is that as a general rule, smaller dogs can be harder to housebreak because they have smaller bladders so they need to go more often than you might think. Also, if you live in a place with a colder climate, it can be a deterrent for them to go outside. That being said, it is not impossible to housebreak a small dog.

Best Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Are Easy To Housebreak

Poodle: Your options for a small Poodle are Mini and Toy. They are a smart breed and want to please their owners. They do well very well in training! They easily recognize patterns, so establishing when their potty time is will greatly benefit you (and your floors!) The smaller the Poodle, the harder it may be to housebreak (such as a toy) but again, not impossible, you just need to be on top of him and when he eats and wakes up.

Yorkshire Terrier: These are very smart and trainable dogs. The bonus is they are hypoallergenic! They are not difficult to housebreak either. Spend lots of time with your Yorkie puppy and take him out often. First thing in the morning, after eating and playing and before bed. If he is not crated (meaning you are home) he should be going out more often, but as a general statement, small dogs can hold their bladder for about as many months as they are old. If he is 4 months old, he can only hold it for 4 hours, so be sure you have a way to let him out if you are going to have to be away.

West Highland White Terrier: I had a Westie once, she was a good dog and not hard to housebreak. She was crate trained, so as soon as I opened her door, we went outside. We established a routine and eventually she did not need to be crated at night, unless she went in there on her own. She had a few accidents in the house early on while we were both learning, but she quickly learned that her bathroom was the outdoors. Routine is essential when housebreaking.

Norfolk Terrier: A wonderful addition to your family, these small hypoallergenic dogs are fearless, trainable and intelligent. They also get along well with both other dogs and cats. He does not require excessive exercise, daily walks and playful play is good for him. The Norfolk Terrier is not difficult to housebreak, if you stay on top of him. Follow a routine with him, take him out at the same times daily and he will quickly learn that he needs to go outdoors.

No matter the dog, housebreaking is about routine and watching your dog. He needs to go out after eating, sleeping, and playing. Until he learns and is able to tell you when he needs to go out, you will need to take him out, show him where to go and just be patient. Generally, you want him to use the same spot all the time. Keep him on a leash as well. If you just let him out into the backyard, you wont know if he has done his business or not.

Have you housebroken a small dog? What sort of things did you find helpful or difficult in your experience? Do you think there are other small hypoallergenic dogs we should add to this list? Share your stories with us!

• Tabatha started her freelance content writing career well over a decade ago, years before joining the DogVills team. She loves writing about dogs (currently a beautiful Shepherd and a newly rescued pit bull) and sharing her experience with new owners. Tabatha also owns her own boudoir photography business and works as a school nurse. In her downtime, she loves hanging out with her children and husband in their Florida home.

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30 Low Maintenance Dog Breeds for Beginners, Seniors & Busy Families

Keeping or raising a dog can be a difficult task for most owners. In fact, many owners often struggle with the upkeep of grooming, exercising, training, and all thatll need to go into keeping your dog companion happy.

However, not all dog breeds need to be a handful. While living basics still need to be met, there are some dogs that require less time and energy to care for. Some breeds are more independent than others, thus requiring less attention.

If youre a busy person, weve come up with a list of the 30 most low-maintenance dog breeds. Theyre also perfect for first-time dog owners, the elderly or for your older kids to take care of (with some parent supervision).

RECOMMENDED: 50 Best Dog Breeds for Kids

What Makes a Dog Low Maintenance?

The definition of a low maintenance dog breed will be subjective. Depending on the owner, everyone will have different ideas of what basic dog care is. However, there are a few factors that most people would agree on as low maintenance.

I want to say that its very rare for any dog breed to hit every single criteria. For example, small lap dogs tend to be hypoallergenic and need less exercise, but they cant stand being alone. Youll need to pick and choose what you want to manage.

1. Low Shedding Dog

One of the most time-consuming aspects of dog upkeep is the grooming. Specifically, dogs that shed more tend to require more time to care for. As such, dog breeds that rarely shed, such as hypoallergenic breeds, are top consideration.

That said, low-maintenance dogs tend to have single coats as opposed to double coats. Having a single coat reduces the opportunity for shedding in the dog. Plus, you wont see typical coat-blowing during shedding season.

2. Low Exercise Requirements

All dogs were bred for different jobs and roles in society. Whether it be tracking, herding, retrieving or companionship, dogs are built with the physical traits and temperament to perform at those jobs. As a result, some breeds will be more energetic.

On one hand, youll have dogs that require 1 to 2 hours of physical activity each day. These may be your Huskies, Border Collies, Labradors and others. On the other side, there are some dogs that need minimal exercise, such as lap dogs.

Of course, exercise requirement is a huge factor in determining whether a dog is low maintenance. Not only is it time-costly to provide active dogs with exercise, but without their exercise, active breeds may show destructive behaviors.

3. Obedient and Easy to Train

All dogs should be trained, whether it be housetraining, basic obedience or proper behaviors. But not all breeds will be as eager with training. There are breeds that can be exceptionally stubborn or strong-willed, but also dogs that are people-pleasing.

With that said, weve prioritized dog breeds that dont mind training. These dogs have a high obedience & working intelligence, thus theyre very responsive to training. Plus, theyll be less dominant and more willing to accept the owner as the alpha.

4. Calm and Docile Temperament

Most dog owners will agree that a calmer, more docile dog tends to be more low maintenance. Not only do they usually need less exercise, but theyre likely not going to be always pestering their owners to play with them.

Calm dog breeds are typically lap dogs or breeds developed for companionship. In a world with all types of working dogs, companion dogs are among the most laid back dogs. Still, there will be exceptions among individual dogs.

Small Low Maintenance Dogs

We start off the list with small or toy low-maintenance dog breeds. Because these dogs tend to be lap dogs, theyre more suited to a slower, easy going life. In addition, many of these small dogs shed a lot less than others.

1. Affenpinscher

Highlights: Comical, Fun-loving, Playful

The often-overlooked Affenpinscher is a fun-sized toy dog that doubles as a spirited companion and lap dog. They can be a little mischievous due to their fun-loving nature, but when needed, an Affenpinscher will always be there for you.

Affenpinschers are great low maintenance dogs for three reasons. First, theyre hypoallergenic dogs, so they will shed very little. Occasional brushing is still needed. In addition, the Affenpinscher needs just 30 minutes of daily exercise.

Plus, theyre above average intelligent dogs, at least for working & obedience intelligence. This means that theyre quick learners who respond well to training. And while they are lively dogs, an Affenpinscher enjoys cuddling just as much.

RECOMMENDED: 6 Perfect Pinscher Dogs

2. Maltese

Highlights: Docile, Gentle, Easy-going

Youll never have a hard time keeping a Maltese. These low maintenance, laid back dogs are perfect for all first-time owners due to their responsive temperaments. Plus, they tend to be relatively calm and docile when sitting in your lap.

Originally bred for rat-hunting, the Maltese is primarily a companion dog today. Theyve done a good job adjusting to a more mellow and relaxing lifestyle, and its easy to see how. This dog is the happiest when lounging with its owners.

Plus, the Maltese doesnt need much exercise at all. We recommend giving them a short 20 minute walk through the neighborhood daily. However, they may appreciate more exercise. And like many other small dog breeds, the Maltese is a low-shedding dog!

RECOMMENDED: 27 Marvelous Maltese Mixes

3. Boston Terrier

Highlights: Friendly, Lively, Loving

Boston Terriers are one of the best dog breeds for kids, so it makes sense why theyre low maintenance dogs. Theyre often called the Americas Gentleman of dogs because theyre polite, calm, sweet and gentle. However, they do have a lively side.

Believe it or not, the Boston Terrier was once a fighting dog. But through several generations of breeding, the goal was to turn them into gentle yet calm dogs. As a result, the modern Boston is a happy-go-lucky companion in the home.

Requiring just 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day, Boston Terriers are among the least active of dogs. Though they arent technically hypoallergenic, this terrier sports a single coat that wont shed as much as their double-coated counterparts.

4. Shih Tzu

Highlights: Sociable, Loyal, Gentle

Its hard to argue that the Shih Tzu is a difficult dog breed to keep. In fact, they were originally (and still are) bred to keep your laps warm. From the laps of Chinese elitists to our very own, Shih Tzus have been low maintenance for centuries.

In terms of canine companionship, the Shih Tzu is one of the best in the business. After all, the Shih Tzu has been doing it since ancient China. This means that these lap dogs tend to prefer cuddling in your laps than going for a game of catch.

To top things off, the Shih Tzu is yet another hypoallergenic dog breed. Even so, the long locks of hair means they need regular brushing to remove any debris stuck on the coat. However, it wont require much work at all.

RECOMMENDED: 30 Special Shih Tzu Mixes

5. Chihuahua

Highlights: Alert, Brave, Lively

Ill admit, the Chihuahua doesnt check all the boxes for a low maintenance dog breed. Not only do they shed quite a bit, but theyre not the most trainable dogs. In fact, they have one of the lowest scores for obedience and work intelligence.

But despite all the Chihuahuas flaws, theyre some of the most independent toy dogs youll be able to find. Theyre excellent dogs if youre a busy person. With enough food and water, Chihuahuas can be left alone for 9 to 10 hours.

Thats not to say you should leave your Chihuahua alone all day. Theyre loyal companion dogs that love the company of their owners. And if dealing with shedding is your biggest concern, how much fur can this tiny dog produce anyway?

RECOMMENDED: 31 Classic Chihuahua Mixes

6. Japanese Chin

Highlights: Smart, Independent, Loving

Otherwise known as the Japanese Spaniel, the Japanese Chin is a popular dog for those that dont have a lot of time to care for their pets. Its true that the Chin is an independent breed and can be left alone for a few hours at a time.

Some owners describe them as cat-like dogs for this very reason. Even so, the Chins will still love and appreciate all human interactions. Always cheerful and bright, theyre the type of lap dogs thatll be up for anything you want to do!

Theyre not hypoallergenic dogs, though they do have an easy-to-care-for single coat. Plus, theyll often groom themselves. And when it comes to training, the Japanese Chin will happily do your bidding due to their people-pleasing nature.

RECOMMENDED: 13 Best Japanese Dog Breeds

7. Cavalier King Charles

Highlights: Affable, Adaptable, Loving

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the most famous spaniel breed, and by far, the most popular spaniel in America. The best part is theyre low-maintenance dogs perfect for all kinds of owners. No wonder the CKC spaniel is such a hit!

Its worth noting that this spaniel sports a double coat, meaning they tend to shed heavily during spring and fall. However, theyre not big dogs and cleaning up after them shouldnt be much of a problem. But even so, they have a lot of good aspects.

For example, the Cavalier King Charles are famously called comforter dogs because they love to sit in their owners laps. Because they were bred for companionship, they know when to relax and calm down. However, they can play hard too.

8. Bichon Frise

Highlights: Sensitive, Gentle, Playful

The Bichon Frise can be a low maintenance breed, though theyre not the most ideal for those that have a busy schedule. All these dogs need is love and attention. Aside from that, theres very little involved with caring for a Bichon.

Like many small dogs on this list, the Bichon Frise is a hypoallergenic dog that rarely sheds. In the past, these dogs were actually sailing dogs (used sometimes for herding). But when the French got them, they bred Bichons into gentle lap dogs.

Bichons will appreciate exercise and fun-play, but only 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise will be needed to keep them mentally happy. In addition, they respond well to training. As long as you train with positive reinforcement, theyre fairly trainable dogs.

9. Pug

Highlights: Charming, Quiet, Docile

This list wouldnt be complete without the fan-favorite Pug. Though, the biggest concern with a Pug is the shedding. While they do have double coats, many owners with black Pugs will tell you that they tend to shed a lot less.

Like many other small Chinese dog breeds, Pugs were developed to be lap dogs. Specifically, lap dogs of Chinese royalty. As such, you can count on them being low maintenance dogs for those that just want to cuddle with their dog.

Most Pugs may prefer not to exercise. Its because they were born with a small nasal passage and unable to tolerate much physical activity. Still, that doesnt mean they dont need to go for a walk every day. After all, theyre prone to obesity.

RECOMMENDED: 31 Precious Pug Mixes

10. Border Terrier

Highlights: Obedient, Loving, Mild

The Border Terrier is one of the very few low-maintenance terrier breeds. While most terriers tend to be a bit spirited, bold and energetic, the Border Terrier is certainly calmer than most. Its why we think theyre perfect dogs for children!

The best part of these dogs is the temperament. Border Terriers are mild-tempered dogs with a loving side that meshes well into any household. Overall, theyre quite obedient and respond well to training and commands.

The Border Terrier is also hypoallergenic with a relatively short coat, so grooming wont be too much of a problem. They dont need an exuberant amount of energy, like with other terriers, but a daily walk and some human interaction will suffice.

11. Papillon

Highlights: Smart, Friendly, Cheerful

The Papillon is one of the 10 most intelligent dog breeds in the world! When it comes to learning tricks or commands, few dogs can learn faster than the Papillon. First time owners should have no problems with basic obedience training.

But what truly makes the Papillon a low maintenance dog is how clean they are. These dogs do not have a strong dog odor. Plus, they tend to do their own grooming. However, youll want to regularly check their ears, as they can get infected.

Papillons can be lively and energetic, but that doesnt necessarily mean they need a lot of exercise. They will require roughly 30 minutes each day to remain healthy and happy. Most of the time, they prefer to hang out in the comfort of your lap.

12. Dachshund

Highlights: Clever, Playful, Brave

The Dachshund was originally bred to be an active hunting dog. But in recent years, theyve been widely touted as a lovable companion. So while they still retain their enthusiasm and liveliness from the past, Doxies are also be low maintenance lap dogs.

Its worth noting that these little dogs tend to be stubborn. As a result, they score poorly in obedience & working intelligence. Nevertheless, Dachshunds are clever dogs with a loyalty seen in few breeds. For this reason, obedience training will vary.

Dachshunds need about 30 minutes of exercise a day. But because of their iconic short legs and long bodies, a Dachshund cant actually exercise too much. Otherwise, it may lead to potential spinal injuries that can become serious with old age.

RECOMMENDED: 40 Dashing Dachshund Mixes

13. Tibetan Spaniel

Highlights: Independent, Happy, Playful

The Tibetan Spaniel is one of the easiest dog breeds to live with. These spaniels are very much cat-like, that is, energetic and playful, though calm and relaxed. Tibetan Spaniels are great for home-body dog owners, as they tend to crave attention.

But when it comes to physical exercise, the Tibetan Spaniel doesnt need much at all. With just a daily walk or playtime in a fenced enclosure, theyll be quite happy. For these reasons, they can make great playmates for kids.

When it comes to shedding, the Tibetan will shed moderately year-round despite sporting a silky double coat. Make sure to brush them weekly to remove dead hair and debris stuck on the coat, especially if the dog spends a lot of time outside. Otherwise, grooming is basic.

14. Pekingese

Highlights: Loving, Proud, Sweet

The Pekingese was bred to be a companion, and theyve been performing this role for several centuries. In fact, they were once lap dogs of Chinas imperial family. Its why the Pekingese dogs tend to have an air of confidence and dignity.

But theyre not as stuck-up as one may think. Rather, the Pekingese is always cheerful with a positive vibe. Though theyre low maintenance dogs that are great for beginners, they do need to have plenty of human interaction.

A Pekingese may develop separation anxiety if frequently left alone for long periods. But on the bright side, theyre fairly chill and calm dogs that require minimal exercise. And while they do shed, these small dogs dont have much fur to begin with.

15. English Toy Spaniel

Highlights: Gentle, Reserved, Loving

Similar to their Cavalier King Charles cousin, the English Toy Spaniel is a toy companion thats happiest in the laps of their loving owners. However, theyre even more low maintenance than the Cavaliers (in most cases).

Overall, the English Toy is a much more reserved and quiet spaniel. Thats not to say they are not playful and mischievous theyre just more easy-going in the home. English Toy Spaniels do tend to develop a strong bond with a single person, though.

That said, I recommend these dogs for seniors looking for a companion, or first-time owners. In terms of physical activity, a English Toy Spaniel will often exercise himself. These dogs really dont need much, so a simple stroll would suffice.

16. French Bulldog

Highlights: Patient, Bright, Easy-going

The French Bulldog is a type of bulldog bred exclusively for companionship. Not only were they bred down in size, but their personalities were also tailored for those wanting low maintenance dogs. As such, the Frenchie is one of the easiest to care for!

French Bulldogs check all the boxes. They have a docile and calm temperament, which means they can be easy to train. But at the same time, they dont need as much exercise as many of the other breeds. About 30 to 60 minutes a day will be fine.

Frenchies dont shed much, either. They sport a single coat thatll see low to moderate shedding year-round. And with their short fur, cleaning up after them wont take too much time. They just want to hang out and have fun with their owners.

17. Brussels Griffon

Highlights: Friendly, Sensitive, Curious

The Brussels Griffon is without question, a spirited and active companion. Among the dogs on this list, they probably require the most attention. However, with the right owner and the right environment, they can make fairly easy dogs.

These dogs come in two coat variations. The smooth-coated Griffon will be low shedders and will only require weekly brushing. On the other hand, the rough-coated Griffon will likely not shed at all. Either way, grooming will be minimal work.

The best part is their patience, despite being a fun-loving dog. Theyll adapt to the owners, so if youre a first timer or novice trainer, they wont be too difficult for you. Its worth noting that they can be a little stubborn from time to time.

18. Havanese

Highlights: Responsive, Gentle, Playful

Theres a lot to love about the Havanese as a low maintenance dog breed option. Its rare for a Havanese to be overly energetic and active. For the most part, they much rather prefer to curl up with their owners on the couch, than to exercise.

However, theyre best for those that have the time to spend with their dog. We dont mean youll need to put in work to care for them. Rather, they just need human companionship. Theyre not ideal for busy owners, unless you work from home.

Shedding is not a huge concern with the Havanese. In fact, the Havanese is a hypoallergenic dog with minimal shedding. Plus, theyre smart enough to take on obedience training with full enthusiasm. Just make sure positive reinforcement is used.

19. Lhasa Apso

Highlights: Spirited, Affable, Reliable

It doesnt get easier than keeping a Lhasa Apso. However, these low maintenance dogs do require a bit of exercise, as theyre quite active dogs. However, Lhasa Apsos are so small that they tend to burn off the energy at home, and often by themselves.

Lhasas are one of the few companion lap dogs that are perfectly fine with being home alone for a long period of time. Theyre independent, which can pose problems with training, but also makes it easy for them to entertain themselves.

Another huge plus for the Lhasa is their low-shedding coat. Theyre hypoallergenic dogs that dont shed fur like most dogs. With exercise, they need less than 30 minutes a day. That said, they make amazing dogs for busy people.

Medium-Sized Low Maintenance Dogs

Because many medium-sized dogs were bred for work, there are few low maintenance options. Even so, its not impossible to find a calm and laid back medium dog thats easy to care for. We narrowed it down to these dog breeds:

20. Basset Hound

Highlights: Friendly, Loyal, Sweet

Basset Hounds were first bred as a hunting companion, capable of tracking down the slightest of scents. Yes, its true that they can be active on the field, but when in the home, they seem like a whole new dog breed.

These dogs are typically calm and docile, even when strangers are around. They usually dont pose a big risk to people and make terrible guard dogs. But on the bright side, Basset Hounds dont need as much socializing and training as other dogs.

Thanks to their mellow temperaments, these hounds only need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. Plus, Basset Hounds shed moderately due to their short double coats. Regardless, you wont have a hard time with a Basset.

21. Greyhound

Highlights: Gentle, Quiet, Even-tempered

Greyhounds are known as the fastest dog breed in the world. Reaching speeds up to 45 mph, these hounds may seem hyperactive and energetic. But despite their amazing speeds, these dogs are fairly gentle and calm at home.

Still, youll want to get them at least an hour of exercise daily. It really isnt that bad when compared to other medium-sized dogs. Though, they can be more low maintenance if you have a large backyard for them to run in. Thats perfectly acceptable.

The Greyhound can be left alone for hours at a time, making them great for busy owners. But we dont recommend doing this too often. All dogs, including Greyhounds, much rather enjoy the company of their owners than without.

22. Standard Poodle

Highlights: Intelligent, Devoted, Active

Standard Poodles may be the best low maintenance option among medium-sized dogs. They really hit all the recommended requirements for kids, beginners, seniors and busy owners. Plus, the standard size tends to be calmer than the toy and miniature.

To kick things off, the Poodle is the second smartest dog breed. Theyre sharp learners, which can make life easy for many owners. In addition, Poodles are hypoallergenic dogs. They dont shed fur, but rather lose strands of hair like humans.

And finally, Poodles are okay being left alone for long durations. As long as they have enough food and water, theyll be fine. To top things off, Poodles need just 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day. It doesnt get more easy than this.

RECOMMENDED: 35 Adorable Poodle Mixes

23. Cocker Spaniel

Highlights: Quiet, Obedient, Loving

The faithful and lively Cocker Spaniel is the perfect addition for owners needing an easy dog to take care of. What makes them ideal dogs is their eagerness to learn. Theyre very smart dogs that respond well to training.

However, the only concern is they dont enjoy being home alone. After all, these dogs were bred to hunt in packs, so theyre always with others. But providing another canine buddy will help them if they get lonely and develop anxiety.

On the other hand, Cocker Spaniels dont need too much exercise relative to their size. Giving them 30 to 60 minutes per day should be enough. And while they do shed moderately, it wont be as much as say, a Siberian Husky.

24. Basenji

Highlights: Quiet, Independent, Curious

We picked the Basenji as a low maintenance dogs for a few reasons. The main reason being that theyre truly independent dogs who dont mind spending some time alone. In a way, you can think of them an introverted dogs.

Nevertheless, the Basenji is still affectionate towards his owners. One concern is that theyre energetic and require an hour of daily exercise. A long walk through the park will be fine, but expect them to wander off following scents.

The best part of the Basenji is how quiet they are. In fact, these dogs dont even bark. Thanks to theirflat larynxes, theyre just not capable of barking. Instead, theyll make a yodel sound thats a lot more fascinating than annoying.

Large Low Maintenance Dogs

Despite popular belief, not all large dog breeds are active and full of energy. While many are, a few select breeds have the temperament ideal for busy families, seniors and first timers. Some are called nanny dogs because they can actually help out around the home.

25. Bernese Mountain Dog

Highlights: Loving, Faithful, Loyal

Compared to other large dog breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog is relatively easy to keep. But thats not to say they dont have any shortcomings when it comes to easy dog care. The good news: a Bernese needs just 30 to 60 minutes of daily work.

Most Bernese Mountain dogs can manage staying home alone for a few hours at a time. Even so, they prefer human companionship, so dont do it too often. The downside is their shedding, as they tend to shed heavily during the spring.

But despite all this, they have a calm and gentle temperament thats easy to handle. A Bernese doesnt have a dominant personality, unlike most big dog breeds. Plus, theyre some of the most intelligent large dogs, so training will be a breeze.

26. Golden Retriever

Highlights: Friendly, Dependable, Intelligent

The Golden Retriever is, without question, one of Americas most favorite dog breeds partly due to their easiness to care for. Although not every Golden will be low maintenance, a well-bred and trained Golden will cause little headache.

These people-oriented dogs are always eager to please and learn. Combine this with the intelligence, and you have yourself an obedient and trainable dog. Theyre always friendly with both strangers and family, so socializing wont take long.

Its recommended they get 1-2 hours of exercise each day. Though, having a big backyard with a fence can help a lot. Golden Retrievers can be heavy shedders and will need grooming. But even so, their easy-going nature makes up for this.

RECOMMENDED: 35 Greatest Golden Mixes

27. Newfoundland

Highlights: Obedient, Gentle, Calm

Newfoundlands are your typical nanny dogs: big, fluffy, calm and sweet-natured. Theyre an easy-going dog with a mild temperament. For these reasons, they can be considered low maintenance for some people, especially when compared to other large dogs.

Although Newfoundlands are relaxed in the home, they still need their exercise. Theyre not all that excited about physical activity, but they can easily turn into overweight lounge dogs without it. We recommend 30 to 60 minutes daily!

One thing to keep in mind is that theyre big dogs with a double coat. In other words, they will shed a lot and regular grooming is essential. These dogs are intelligent, but training them will require patience, as they can be strong-willed dogs.

28. Saint Bernard

Highlights: Docile, Watchful, Calm

Theres plenty of debate over whether the St Bernard should be considered a low maintenance breed. Its true that they shed and drool a lot. But unless youre a neat freak, the calm and docile demeanor makes them overall easy dogs.

Saint Bernards dont need a lot of exercise, at least compared to other dogs of the same size. In most cases, 30 to 60 minutes a day is enough. In fact, its recommended they dont get too much exercise as a puppy to prevent future bone issues.

Training them to fit into the family will be a piece of cake. Sure, theyre intelligent, but its their loving and affectionate personalities make them ideal for most families, especially for those with older kids. Plus, a St Bernard tends to do well alone for a few hours a day.

29. Great Dane

Highlights: Loyal, Confident, Gentle

Few big dog breeds are as patient and mild-mannered as the Great Dane. Theyre known as some of the top dogs for kids, and for good reason too! Gentle and loving, the Dane is going to not only be a companion, but also a guardian.

Great Danes do an excellent job looking over the family without the aggressive behaviors seen in other large dogs. But at the same time, a Dane will require human interaction, as they tend to be social dogs that thrive in a loving environment.

Depending on your individual Dane, they may require 30 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. It isnt a lot, considering theyre the largest purebred in the world. And while they may not be quick learners, their adaptive intelligence is off the charts.

30. Shar Pei

Highlights: Independent, Loyal, Calm

The Chinese Shar Pei a dog breed you cant mistaken. With their wrinkled skin and large facial features, the Shar Pei is truly a one-of-a-kind. However, this breed has all the qualities to make them true low maintenance dogs.

Shar Peis are both independent and composed. Plus, theyre reserved dogs that dont mind spending some alone time while youre at work. While they can be aloof, know that theyre an excellent guard and watchdog for your home.

What we love about these dogs is that theyre not heavy shedders year-round. Instead, theyll shed their coats only during shedding season. Though fairly large dogs, they dont require a lot of exercise. Just a 30 minute session each day will work.

High Maintenance Dogs to Avoid

One of the biggest problems in dog ownership is picking a dog breed based on their looks or without much research into the true time and cost investment. This is a huge reason why our shelters are filled with so many unwanted dogs.

If youre a busy person, or just someone that cant spend enough time with your dog, its crucial you avoid high maintenance dogs. Otherwise, your new dog may very well end up in one of our overcrowded shelters in a few months.

High maintenance dog breeds, on the contrary, are dogs that require an substantial amount of exercise. Some breeds, like the Border Collie, may need up to two hours per day! These dogs are naturally hyper, and without exercise, can be destructive.

These will also be dog breeds that require regular grooming sometimes brushing every day! In some cases, high maintenance dogs may also need frequent baths, as they primarily live outside and often get into dirt (much like my Aussie!).

Patience and consistency is needed with high maintenance dogs. They tend to be stubborn or strong-willed, making obedience training difficult. Larger dogs may also have a dominant personality and will require a firm hand.

High Maintenance Dog Breeds

If youre looking for a low maintenance dog, we recommend skipping these breeds. No matter how adorable or cool they may seem, they wont be ideal if you cant commit the time or have the experience to raise them.

• Siberian Husky
• Border Collie
• Australian Shepherd
• Labrador Retriever
• Boxer
• German Shepherd
• Dalmatian
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Chow Chow
• Irish Setter
• Springer Spaniel
• Belgian Malinois
• Akita Inu
• Vizsla
• German Shorthaired Pointer

Of course, there will be exceptions to breeds. Not all recommended low maintenance dogs will be easy to care for. Likewise, not all high maintenance dogs will be difficult. Always do your own research when picking a dog breed for your lifestyle.

Which low maintenance dog breed was your favorite? And do you own any dog on this list? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!

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