All dogs need attention and playtime from their owners, but some breeds require less maintenance than others, which can be perfect if you lead a busy life but still want to own a dog. Here are the 17 best dogs to consider if you have a busy lifestyle.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are an excellent breed for busy people because they’re so small, so they don’t require as much exercise as larger dogs. According to 24Petwatch, chihuahuas are also low-maintenance in terms of grooming, requiring weekly brushing and a bath every 3-6 weeks. They need walks and playtime, but nothing too strenuous.
French Bulldog
French bulldogs suit busy lifestyles because they typically prefer shorter walks, so their exercise needs are easy to fulfill. They also have shorter coats, though you’ll need to groom them fairly regularly to keep shedding under control. You’ll also need to brush their teeth three times a week, but they’re an otherwise low-maintenance breed.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are another tiny dog breed with easy care routines for busy people. They don’t shed much, so weekly grooming should be adequate, and they typically have shorter coats. They also only require moderate exercise because their bodies are too small for anything more exerting.
Greyhound
Greyhounds may be a large breed, but they’re remarkably low-maintenance compared to other dogs of a similar size. They usually don’t smell, so they don’t require regular bathing, but their coats do need to be brushed. They’re a gentle breed, so they’re laidback and only require around an hour of exercise per day.
Airedale Terrier
Airedale terriers were bred to hunt alone with little human instruction, so their natural independence makes them a great choice if you’re always busy. Their coats are short and wiry, so they shouldn’t shed much if you groom them regularly. They only need an hour or two of exercise per day.
Basset Hound
Basset hounds are lovely dogs because they’re relaxed and dutiful. They’re happy to roam inside and out, needing around an hour’s daily exercise. PDSA advises brushing them only once a week to remove dead hairs, though you’ll need to keep their ears clean to avoid infections. Overall, they’re an easy-going breed.
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington terriers have gorgeous curly coats, but the good news is you won’t need to dedicate much time to grooming them. They don’t shed much, so a weekly brushing is sufficient. They’re also moderately active, so regular walks and playtime will satisfy their needs and keep them healthy.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are an aloof dog breed, mostly only bonding closely with their owners, so they usually adapt well to spending time alone. Their low-maintenance personalities mean they’re not a demanding breed. They only need approximately an hour’s exercise per day, though you’ll need to brush their coats daily to maintain them.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a gentle, happy breed, and their shiny coats only need a good brushing a few times a week to keep them looking good. They’re easy to train and don’t need to be stimulated as much as higher-energy breeds. An hour’s moderate exercise per day is ideal for them.
Miniature Schnauzer
The miniature schnauzer is perfect if you’re looking for a dog that adapts well to alone time. They’re clever and know their own minds but are also very obedient. Despite having a beautiful double coat, they don’t shed much, require weekly brushing, and only need to see a professional groomer once every eight weeks.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell terriers are intelligent and independent dogs, capable of spending some time alone. Groomers recommends bathing your Jack Russell terrier only when needed, though regular brushing is required to control shedding. They’re an energetic but small breed, so an hour-long walk per day is usually ample.
Poodle
Despite being known for their stunning fluffy coats, poodles have relatively low-maintenance grooming routines, especially if you choose the puppy cut or the teddy bear cut. Two walks a day provide sufficient exercise for poodles, so you can fit them in before and after work.
Maltese
Maltese dogs have gorgeous long coats, so it’s surprising that they only need to be brushed a few times a week. They’re clever dogs that respond well to training, so once they’re settled, they should be happy spending some time alone. Thirty minutes to an hour of exercise daily is sufficient stimulation for Malteses.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are spirited and playful, but they’re also highly independent. Pet care specialist Purina advises that Shiba Inus can be left alone for up to 8 hours per day, so long as they’re trained and have space to exercise. At least an hour of walking each day will keep them active and happy.
Pug
Pugs are gentle dogs that are quite content to spend time alone. Giving them plenty of toys will keep them occupied and stimulated until you get home and take them out for up to an hour of exercise. They require daily brushing and wrinkle cleaning, but their small size makes grooming easier.
Bullmastiff
Despite their large size, bullmastiff dogs are a low-maintenance breed that will easily fit your busy lifestyle. They’re happy to spend time relaxing alone, though they still need attention and company. A thorough weekly brushing is plenty, and two hours of exercise split up across the day will keep them healthy.
Lhasa Apso
Perhaps the best dog breed for people with busy lifestyles is the Lhasa Apso. These dogs are highly independent and happy to entertain themselves while their owners are out. Unlike other breeds, they’re less prone to separation anxiety, and daily brushing is enough to keep their coats tangle-free. Best of all, they only need bathing every 2-4 weeks!
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