If your looking for a low maintenance dog, then you found the right article! People are looking for a low maintenance dogs for many reasons. Some folks have very busy work lives, some may be physically impaired, or elderly and are unable to go on long walks. What ever the case I have a few excellent options for you. Remember that no dog is maintenance free. All dogs need attention and care every day. If you are not able to give your dog attention every day I would highly recommend you consider a cat instead.

First, let me define what I consider to be a low be the traits of a low maintenance dog.

1. Minimal exercise requirements
2. Minimal grooming requirements
3. Easy to train (smart)
4. Overall very healthy breed 

1. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers offer an appealing mix of affectionate, easygoing temperament and minimal grooming needs. Their short coat sheds very little and a daily walk combined with some indoor play is typically enough to meet their exercise requirements. If you have a small yard they can run around in that will be sufficient. Their friendly disposition makes them great companions in apartments or houses.

• Breed Overview 
• Height: 15 to 17 inches 
• Weight: 12 to 25 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate 
• Life Span: 11 to 13years

2. Dachshund 

Dachshunds are an excellent choice. They are very loving and affectionate. This is a pet that will be content to lay around and cuddle up on the couch with you. Dachshunds come in 2 sizes miniature and medium. Also there is long and short hair. The long hair variety will require more attention to their grooming.

• Breed Overview

• Height: Standard – 8 to 9 inches; Miniature – 5to 6 inches 
• Weight: Standard – 16 to 32 lbs; Miniature – up to 11 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate 
• Life Span: 12 to 16years 

3. Grayhound

You may be thinking no way on this one, but trust me. Even though they are a racing dog with tremendous athletic ability they are not a high energy dog. They are in my opinion, a lazy breed. They are perfectly content laying around most of the day. They tend to be a quiet breed swell making them good for apartments.

• Breed overview

• Height: 25 to 30 inches 
• Weight: 60 to 80 lbs 
• Energy Level: Low to Moderate 
• Life Span: 10 to13 years

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If you are looking for the cutest dog ever this is the one. They top out at about 18lb and are most happy when sitting in your lap. They do require a bit more when it comes to grooming. Because of their beautiful coat. I think its worth it. They tend to be easy to train and make a terrific cuddle buddy.

• Breed overview

• Height: 12 to 13 inches 
• Weight: 13 to 18 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Span: 12 to 15 years

5. Poodle

Poodles come in three different sizes Standard, Miniature and toy. I find this breed to be among the most intelligent. They take to training very well. Its a good idea to get a good training program for any dog you get. Especially  a poodle. The poodle is known for not shedding which is a huge plus. But they do require a little more coat maintenance like frequent brushing and hair cuts. They do need some outdoor time each day especially the standard version.

• Breed overview

Poodle (Standard)

• Height: 15 to 22 inches 
• Weight: 40 to 70 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate to High 
• Life Span: 10 to 18 years

Miniature Poodle 

• Height: 11 to 15 inches 
• Weight: 15 to 17 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate to High 
• Life Span: 12 to 15 years

 Toy Poodle 

• Height: 9 to 11 inches 
• Weight: 4 to 6 lbs 
• Energy Level: Moderate to High 
• Life Span: 14 to18 years

These are a few of my top picks for what I consider to be low maintenance dog. There are other options and I highly recommend you do through research. If you have any questions or comment please leave them and we can start a conversation. Also I would love to hear your top pick if you have one.