Think it’s time to find a furry buddy? You probably already know the health benefits of owning a dog, like less loneliness and more opportunities for mindfulness. But even though you might be interested in joining the 69 million households in the U.S. that own at least one dog, you might still be hesitant to bring a dog home—especially if you know that owning a dog means a lot of extra work. Good news: There are several dog breeds that are so low-maintenance you barely need to walk.To be clear, you have to walk all Read on to discover some of the easiest canines you’ll ever see, according to pet experts.
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Pet expert, dog owner and CEO of Waggy Pups Shannon Bunn Tell best life Dachshunds have to be one of the least maintained dogs you can get your hands on. These long-sized puppies are happy to be around and are small enough for any age group to enjoy, she said.
“These dogs are typically low to moderate energy, which means they don’t need as much exercise as other breeds,” explains Bunn. “Their short legs and small frame can’t take much, so short daily walks and moderate playtime are enough, plus lots of cuddling and relaxation of course.”
She added that short- and long-haired dachshunds also require minimal grooming, weekly brushing and monthly bathing, which can be done through a groomer or at home. “These dogs are also very patient and fun to train, which also makes them first-time dogs,” Bunn added.
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from Lynn Julian, a motivational speaker and Boston Marathon bombing survivor, conducted a year of research before adopting her first service dog to help prevent and interrupt PTSD attacks. Her criteria are: a quiet, intelligent, obedient, easy-to-train dog. “I was in a wheelchair at the time, and I wanted a dog that didn’t need to walk,” Julian said. “My research led me to the Maltese: the dog that needs the least maintenance.”
She added: “The Maltese is hypoallergenic, weighs only 4 to 12 pounds, uses Wee-Wee pads at home, doesn’t need exercise outside the home, doesn’t bark like other small dogs, just needs to be fed daily Once, and moderately compliant, it’s easier to train.”
When looking for a low-maintenance dog, don’t overlook the Pembroke Welsh Corgi—Elizabeth II’s Preferred variety. “While corgis are more associated with royalty, they also make a great dog for seniors and retirees,” says Michelle HenryCEO and Founder of Outdoor Dog Fun.
They’re medium in size but don’t require unreasonable movement and are compact enough to handle with ease, she said. “Their breed history as cattle dogs means they’re smart and quick to train, and while they do need daily walks, they don’t get too excited – making them great companions, especially for those with For families with kids, they are a bit busy to accommodate their long day trip,” Henry said.
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According to the American Kennel Club’s website, the Cavaliers “can be optimistic athletes or shameless couch potatoes,” whichever matches their owner’s lifestyle. Jacqueline Kennedythe CEO and founder of PetDT told best life“This small spaniel is great for seniors as they are affectionate and adaptable, making a great companion pet and love to cuddle with their owners. Their compact size and good genetics mean they are easy to handle and train , even if the owner is a dog novice.”
Plus, she adds, they’re perfect for apartments and bungalows and don’t require a lot of walking. “But you should still strive to exercise at least half an hour a day,” Kennedy warns. “It could be a few short trips around the block, or it could be a game of fetch in the garden.”
“When looking for a low-maintenance pet, dogs don’t come first!” advises Linda Simon, MVB, Veterinarian and Veterinary Consultant at FiveBarks. “Instead, consider gerbils, fish or reptiles.”
However, if your heart is a dog, there are some breeds to consider. Her advice: Toy breeds like Shih Tzus, Lhasa Aps, and of course, Maltese. “Another important consideration is the whippet or greyhound,” Simon adds. “These dogs are often found in rescue centers in countries where dogs are raced. While these dogs can run very fast, they only need to sprint a few times a day to keep them happy and actually settle for a sedentary lifestyle. .”
Whatever you do, don’t choose a dog bred for work, such as a collie, Siberian husky, or pointer, she says. According to Simon, “These dogs are naturally thrill seekers and require a lot of exercise.”
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