10 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Every dog needs basic care—things like brushing their coat, trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and keeping their teeth healthy. But when it comes to grooming, not all breeds require the same level of work. While some dogs require professional grooming, frequent baths, or lots of brushing, other breeds are a bit more “wash and wear.”
If you’re searching for low-maintenance dogs, short-haired pups are considered some of the easiest dog breeds and make great choices for busy pet parents. Their smooth coats don’t shed much, so they only need occasional brushing, and they rarely develop that classic “doggy smell”—even without regular baths.
Here are ten low-maintenance dog breeds worth considering:
6. Toy Manchester and Manchester Terrier
Learn more about these easy-to-care-for breeds!
The Best Low-Maintenance Dogs
#1: Basenji
The Basenji is a small hound that’s so independent that they take care of grooming on their own! They use their tongues to stay clean, so baths are rarely needed, and their coat only needs to be brushed a few times per month to manage light shedding. While the Basenji is considered a “barkless dog,” they still make plenty of noise in the form of chirps and yodel-like calls. The Basenji is a good pick for anyone searching for the easiest dog to take care of that still has plenty of personality.
#2: Vizsla
Vizslas may need a lot of exercise, but when it comes to grooming, they’re one of the best low-maintenance dogs for active families. Their short coat sheds moderately and only requires occasional brushing to keep it tidy. Vizslas don’t drool, and they only need baths when they get especially dirty—like from rolling in something they shouldn’t!
#3: Whippet
Whippets’ short coats only need occasional brushing, and they don’t tend to develop that “doggy odor” even without baths. They look like smaller versions of Greyhounds and they love to run, but are just as happy to lounge around the house. Quiet and gentle, Whippets are dogs that don’t bark much, making them ideal dogs for apartments.
#4: Boston Terrier
Nicknamed “The American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is small, family-friendly dog with easy grooming needs. Their smooth coat only requires minimal brushing and bathing, and unlike some of their brachycephalic cousins, they don’t have as many facial wrinkles that require special care and cleaning. One thing to watch out for, though, is their dental health. Boston Terriers’ small mouths can lead to crowded teeth, so regular brushing and chew toy time can go a long way in keeping their smiles healthy.
#5: Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are large, powerful dogs that can weigh up to 100 pounds. Despite their size, they’re one of the more easy-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming. Dobermans don't shed much, but their coat will benefit from a quick daily brushing and the occasional bath. Their ears also need to be cleaned regularly with ear wipes or another dog-friendly cleanser to prevent ear infections.
#6: Toy Manchester and Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is the definition of a “wash-and-wear” dog—a weekly wipe-down with a damp towel or a grooming wipe is all the maintenance they need! With the Toy Manchester Terrier weighing less than 12 pounds and the Standard weighing less than 22, these are low-maintenance small dog breeds that are calm and easy to train.
#7: Pointer
Bred as hunting dogs since the 1600s, Pointers are smart, fast, and full of energy. Their lineage also helped them develop slick, easy-to-clean coats that rarely need more than a quick rinse after outdoor adventures. Pointers are moderate shedders, so it's a good idea to brush them once a week to remove loose hair and refresh their coat.
#8: German Shorthaired Pointer
Like their Pointer cousins, German Shorthaired Pointers also have a strong hunting background—and the energy that comes with it. They shed more heavily during seasonal changes, so extra brushing is needed a few times per year. The rest of the time, a quick, occasional brush with a grooming mitt keeps these dogs perfectly presentable and happy, making them a smart choice for people who want a hunting breed that’s still among the easiest dogs to own.
🐶 Related: Top 8 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (…Much)
#9: Weimaraner
The low-maintenance Weimaraner has a sleek coat that rarely needs more than occasional brushing, and baths are seldom necessary. Their floppy ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections, and their fast-growing nails need consistent trimming to keep them comfortable and healthy, but they’re still one of the easiest dogs to take care of.
#10: Xoloitzcuintli
As a hairless breed, the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eats-queen-tlee) is often listed among the top low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs. With the Xolo, no hair means no shedding, no tangling, and no brushing! Instead, their skin needs regular cleansing and moisturizing to stay healthy. Because they lack a coat, Xolos are more prone to sunburn than other breeds, so be sure to apply dog-safe sunscreen before outdoor activities.
Dogs That Need Extra Grooming and Care
Not every dog is a good fit if you’re looking for low-maintenance dog breeds. In general, you’ll want to steer clear of:
- Dogs with long hair that needs daily brushing
- Breeds with a double coat, since they tend to shed heavily
- Flat-faced dogs with wrinkles that require special cleaning
- Scenthounds, which often carry a strong odor unless bathed weekly
- Very large breeds, because their size alone means more grooming time
- Heavy droolers, since cleaning up slobber becomes part of the maintenance routine
Easy Living with Low-Maintenance Dogs
Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance kid-friendly small dogs or simply dogs that don’t need grooming, there’s a perfect pup for every lifestyle. With simple at-home grooming routines, these ten breeds are some of the easiest dogs to take care of. These low-maintenance dogs for seniors, families, or first-time pet parents are proof that grooming doesn’t have to be a full-time job.
Remember, “low maintenance” doesn’t mean “no care.” Every dog still needs love, exercise, and attention. Make time to bond with your dog every day so they stay happy and healthy. Plus, a few tasty chew treats wouldn’t hurt!
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