Pets June 21, 2018
Because everybody needs a best friend.
Your parents wouldn’t let you get a dog when you were growing up. Too much dog hair, your mom said. But now you’re on your own and you’re ready to take on the responsibility. Well, maybe not too much responsibility. Perhaps a low maintenance dog… the first thing you should know is that low maintenance dogs are a myth! All dogs require a good deal of attention and effort, not to mention money. However, there are certain breeds that may be easier depending on how you define maintenance. So whether you are looking for a fluff ball or a guard dog, here are some lower maintenance dogs that may be right for you.
One of the first thoughts that come to mind when considering getting a dog is the shedding. Brushing dog hair off of every surface of your home is a constant battle. But it doesn’t have to be. If you’re not up for brushing dog hair of every piece of clothing you own, opt for a dog breed that doesn’t shed.
Keep in mind that you will still need to groom your furry friend, but you won’t have to worry about dog hair everywhere.
The Bichon Frise is typically the ball of fluff that makes you think of a life in luxury – and no wonder! Bichon Frise was once the favorite breed of 16th-century French royals. These white fluff balls are cheerful, smart and curious little creatures. Their love will make you feel like royalty!
Avoid hair altogether with the Chinese Crested. This almost hairless breed is too cute to not consider. They only have hair around their faces, feet and tails. Without any fur to get dirty, these naked little doggos hardly ever smell. Plus they are super playful pups and are extremely devoted. If you’re looking for a loyal buddy, look no further than the Chinese Crested.
The Havanese is native to Cuba and gets its name from the Cuban capital Havana. Brushing them weekly is enough to keep their hair in order if you keep it short. They are spunky and playful little pups but don’t bark too much. Plus they make good guard dogs. While only half of Camila Cabello’s heart is in Havana, your whole heart will be in Havana with this breed!
We’ve all met dogs who have energy that cannot be contained. If you can handle hair but can’t handle a crazy energizer puppy running around in circles, then one of these calmer breeds might be for you.
The Bernese Mountain Dog really is a gentle giant. If you’re looking for Nana from Peter Pan, this doggo ought to do. Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and sweet but still know how to play. They are big so they take up a lot of space. You will also need to set aside time to brush this fluffy beast.
Bulldogs are known for being tough pooches. They’re even a common mascot for sports teams. But they should be known for their relaxed temperament. These chill dogs are cool as a cucumber. And keep that in mind because they don’t do particularly well in the heat so you’ll have to walk your new BFF in the evenings or early mornings during the summer. You should know that their folds can be a challenge to keep clean and require some maintenance.
Clumber Spaniels are the strong and sensitive type. They are outdoorsy and extremely friendly, even with strangers. These smart pups will chase a scent for as long as you let them but are happy to chill on the couch when its time to go home. If you love nature and cuddling then Clumber Spaniels are great companions for you. Plus they don’t bark a lot!
If there ever were a low maintenance dog it would probably be the Frenchie. They are calm and quiet, and while their ears might be large, you won’t be hearing much of them since they tend not to bark a lot. Besides a brief daily walk, they don’t require much exercise. But they are still very playful and alert. French Bulldogs are certainly one of the best low maintenance dogs.
If you’ve ever looked at a big old mastiff, you’ve probably also imagined trying to wrangle one in. They are really, really big. But trying to wrangle in a little chihuahua? Not so hard.
If the amount of dog translates into the amount of maintenance for you, then a small dog is in order. Here are some low maintenance miniature breeds.
Affenpinscher is German for “ape terrier.” While that may sound like a weird mix, these puppy-primates are pretty cute. These little black balls of fluff don’t need much wrangling. However, training might be necessary. These spunky dogs have a mind of their own. One American Kennel Club trainer explained “This isn’t a breed you train. He’s like a human. You befriend him.” If you want a dog whose personality is bigger than their body, then an affenpinscher might be for you.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the mini versions of King Charles Spaniels, which were British hunting dogs. While you may not be hunting with your furry companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will likely hunt squirrels. They can definitely be high energy, depending on the individual dog. Their hair can be troublesome, but their size definitely won’t be an issue – they average only 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh only 13 to 18 pounds.
Dachshunds might resemble a footlong coney, but they have way more personality! They are smart and energetic, although they won’t join you for marathon training. They are also a very diverse breed, as their hair color, texture and length all vary. Dachshunds may be little but they are mighty! These tiny companions supposedly make brave watchdogs!
So while none of these breeds are going to be low maintenance dogs, you’re going to be so in love that you likely won’t mind caring for your new furry friend.
