This wonderful breed has no “doggy smell”, so combined with its short coat and small size, it goes straight to the top of the list. According to the AKC, the Labrador Retriever is America's favorite dog and it's easy to understand why. Friendly, active and outgoing, the beloved breed is famous for being a sociable housemate who will establish ties with the whole family. Deckels have a stubborn side and will need basic training to give them structure.
This breed usually requires only a moderate amount of exercise. With their small legs short and long bodies, running and jumping excessively can exacerbate or cause spinal problems. Contrary to popular belief, this racing dog is not a high-energy dog. Most greyhounds are addicted to television and enjoy hanging around with their owners.
They enjoy daily walks and the occasional chance to run, but they don't need a lot of exercise. Most greyhounds are generally in good health. In general, greyhounds are usually easy to handle and respond very well to training. This dog is big but not giant.
If you appreciate their personality and appearance, but prefer a smaller dog, consider a whippet. The cheerful Frenchie is the perfect companion for lazing around. French bulldogs are among the most cheerful dog breeds. Although they have a lot of energy, they tend to lack stamina.
Moderate daily exercise is usually adequate for this breed, although outdoor activities should be limited when it is very hot or humid. Do you lean towards a small dog? Weighing just 2 to 6 pounds, the tiny chihuahua is the perfect pocket-sized lapdog. Although these dogs get bursts of energy, they usually don't need a lot of exercise. Grooming needs are minimal, but long-haired chihuahuas will need a little more brushing to avoid tangling.
One thing to keep in mind is the attitude of this breed. Avoid taking these dogs everywhere and petting them too much. Set limits for your chihuahua, or else you'll try to rule everyone around you. Choose a dog with a calm temperament and provide basic training.
You'll recognize a Basset Hound when you see it, those ears stick out. These charming dogs are patient, loyal and, unlike some of their dog companions, can be quite lazy. A daily walk is probably enough for a Basset, otherwise these dogs may be addicted to television. Basset Hounds have short coats, however, they are more likely to lose hair without weekly brushing and taking an occasional bath.
Boston Terriers are friendly, happy dogs that make great city pets. These dogs may be a little more lively than some of the breeds on our list, but daily exercise or a trip to the dog park should be enough for them. A toy breed with a human-like personality, the Brussels Griffon is loyal, curious and sensitive. These small dogs are easy to train and are playful, but not excessively, since they only require moderate exercise on a daily basis.
A small dog with a big personality, Chihuahuas are often described as charming and daring. Chihuahuas are excellent lapdogs and can get enough exercise in a small space. Smooth-haired chihuahuas (those with short coats) will have very minimal grooming needs and will only require occasional brushing and regular baths. However, long-haired chihuahuas will need more consistent brushing to avoid mats.
Recognizable by its two varieties, hairless and furry, or “dusty”, the Chinese crested dog is an affectionate, playful and attentive companion dog. These toy dogs love to spend time with their owners, whether participating in activities or hanging out at home. Chinese ridges need daily exercise, but nothing strenuous. These dogs need minimal grooming, but they do require care for exposed skin, as they can get sunburned and other irritations.
A recognizable breed, teckels are curious, friendly dogs with intelligence and guts. Teckels are very sociable, they love to be with their families and can be a bit independent, so training is important. These may be small dogs, but they should exercise regularly. If you're looking for a dog that requires little maintenance, you can start with the 17 breeds on our list, or branch out and consider other options, such as a mixed-breed dog.
Although they are adorable, you should stay away from puppies because they have a lot of energy and need care 24 hours a day during that first year. These dogs are so discreet and patient that you might think they wouldn't care if you were home if it weren't for their undying loyalty. Prospective dog owners who want a new friend, but not the fur found everywhere, might also consider Maltese dogs, as they barely shed any hair. If you want a big dog that isn't as gigantic and lazy as the mastiff, then the bullmastiff sounds good.
These dogs may be a bit independent, but they are very affectionate and gentle with their families. If you're seriously thinking about adding a dog to your family, immediately consider the basics that every canine needs. Irish setters are famous for being good family dogs, quick-tempered companions for people and fun playmates and finders for tennis balls for children, according to the AKC. The Irish Wolfdog, one of the largest dogs in existence, brings a calm and almost serene presence to your home.
Newfoundland dogs fiercely protect their pack, also known as their family, and are even known to save their humans from drowning and other dangerous situations. The breed is also ideal for living in an apartment, although all owners should be careful to maintain a careful diet and be aware of their difficulty breathing in humid climates. Known for their aristocratic heritage and pure white coat, the Maltese have been lapdogs for thousands of years. The gentle French bulldog requires minimal care, barks infrequently, adapts well to his family's lifestyle, and approaches exercise with a “take it or leave it” attitude.
Although these dogs may have long coats, many owners choose to cut their coats short to prevent grooming from requiring little maintenance. . .
