10 undemanding dog breeds: True friends for owners
What breeds of dogs are unpretentious (photo: Freepik)
If you need a companion dog but find yourself often busy and unable to dedicate much time to pet care, consider the breeds listed below. These dogs get along well with people, are easily trainable, low-maintenance, and can become wonderful friends to you. The Spruce Pets website tells which dog breeds are considered the most sociable and low-maintenance.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are sweet and affectionate dogs that make great companions. This breed comes in two sizes: miniature and standard. Long-haired dachshunds require a bit more grooming than short-haired or wire-haired ones. However, all can make wonderful companions.
This breed typically requires only moderate physical activity. Due to their short legs and long body, excessive running and jumping may exacerbate or cause back problems. Dachshunds live for 12-16 years on average.
Greyhound
Despite being racing dogs, Greyhounds are not overly energetic. They enjoy daily walks and the occasional run, but they don't require vigorous exercise.
Most Greyhounds are healthy dogs. Overall, they are easygoing and easily trainable. Greyhounds live on average for 10-13 years.
French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are among the most cheerful dog breeds. Although they have plenty of energy, they usually lack endurance. Moderate daily exercise is typically suitable for this breed, although outdoor activities should be limited when it's very hot or humid.
Most Frenchies respond well to basic training. This breed has minimal grooming needs but may have various skin issues, and due to their shortened muzzle, they have a high potential for brachycephalic syndrome—a combination of upper respiratory tract disorders. French Bulldogs live from 10-12 years.
Chihuahua
These dogs weigh only between 0.9 to 2.7 kg. The tiny Chihuahua is the perfect pocket-sized pup. Typically, they don't require significant physical exertion.
Most Chihuahuas have relatively robust health. Their care needs are minimal, but long-haired Chihuahuas may need a bit more brushing to prevent tangling. These dogs live for 12-20 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you want a dog that always looks like a puppy, the Cavalier is it—soft, gentle, affectionate, and adaptable. They love to cuddle with humans or other dogs. Cavaliers typically weigh 5-8 kg. They are easily trainable.
They are prone to some health issues, such as heart conditions, ear infections, and neurological problems. The Cavalier has some grooming needs, such as regular brushing, ear cleaning, and occasional trips to the groomer. They shed little and make great companions. Cavaliers live for 12-14 years.
Spaniels are companion dogs (photo: Freepik)
West Highland White Terrier
The Westie makes a fantastic household companion. Most of these dogs are moderately energetic, easy to train, and relatively healthy.
This breed requires some care but doesn't need regular trimming. Many people opt to hand-strip the coat, while others periodically brush it to keep it healthy. Westies live for 13-15 years.
Brussels Griffon
These dogs can be somewhat energetic but don't require a lot of exercise. Basic training is important to manage their liveliness.
Weighing between 0.9 to 5.5 kg, they are one of the small breeds that require no more than moderate care. Their wiry coat needs a bit of brushing, but intensive grooming isn't necessary. Additionally, the breed is relatively healthy and responds well to training. Brussels Griffons live for 12-15 years.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are large dogs with relatively low energy levels and endurance. Young mastiffs are typically a bit clumsy and playful, and they are usually very obedient. As they age, they become more sedentary and aloof but remain loyal to their families.
The downside is that the lifespan of these dogs is shorter than that of medium-sized dogs. Most are considered seniors by the age of 6, and few live to be 11-12 years old. Aside from orthopedic issues, these dogs are generally quite healthy.
Bullmastiff
The health of Bullmastiffs is similar to that of Mastiffs, but their lifespan is slightly longer. Bullmastiffs are also a bit more energetic but not overly enduring. Daily walks should be sufficient to keep this breed happy and healthy. The rest of the time, expect this dog to lounge on the couch. Bullmastiffs live for 8-10 years.
Poodle
These dogs are intelligent and active. They are relatively low-maintenance to care for. Poodles get along well with people and adapt to them easily.
Poodles have continuously growing coats, so they need regular grooming and clipping. Fortunately, they shed very little, so they won't leave much mess around the house. Poodles live for 10-18 years.
