Bringing a dog into your life is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make, but for first-time pet parents, the idea of managing a high-energy or demanding breed can be overwhelming.
The good news? There are plenty of dog breeds that require minimal grooming, moderate exercise, and are easy to train, making them perfect companions for beginners.
To help you out with your decision, we’ve rounded up 19 low-maintenance dog breeds that are ideal for first-time owners. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lap dog or a playful buddy who adapts to your lifestyle, these breeds strike the perfect balance of companionship and simplicity.
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are charismatic companions. With their compact size and relaxed demeanor, they’re perfect for apartment dwellers. These dogs are known for their playful yet gentle nature, making them great companions for families and singles alike.
They require minimal exercise, just a short daily walk, which suits busy lifestyles. Their grooming needs are also low, with occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. Frenchies thrive on human interaction, so be prepared for lots of cuddles.
Despite their low-maintenance nature, they are prone to specific health issues, so regular vet check-ups are essential. Overall, French Bulldogs offer a charming mix of ease and affection, ideal for first-time owners.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the epitome of elegance and affection. Their gentle nature makes them suitable for families with children or elderly members. They adapt easily to various living situations, whether a bustling city apartment or a quiet country home.
Grooming is straightforward, requiring regular brushing to maintain their silky coat, but it’s a bonding opportunity rather than a chore. Moderate exercise will keep them happy—think daily walks or playful romps in the yard.
This breed relishes companionship, so leaving them alone for long periods isn’t ideal. Their health is generally robust, though regular vet visits are recommended. Cavaliers offer a blend of charm and manageable care, perfect for new pet parents.
3. Beagle
Beagles are cheerful and inquisitive, perfect for first-time dog owners looking for a low-maintenance yet engaging pet. Their compact size and minimal grooming needs make them a favorite among those with busy lives.
Known for their friendly disposition, Beagles love social interactions, both with humans and other dogs. They need regular exercise, so daily walks and play sessions are a must to keep them healthy and happy.
While training can be a bit of a challenge due to their independent streak, patience and consistency are key. Beagles are prone to obesity, so monitoring their diet is crucial. Their joyful nature and simple care requirements make them a great choice for beginners.
4. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, known as the “American Gentleman,” are perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance pet. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, just occasional brushing to remove loose hairs.
These dogs are small yet sturdy, with a friendly disposition that makes them great companions for families and individuals alike. They adapt well to both apartment living and homes with yards.
Boston Terriers need moderate exercise. A daily walk and some playtime are sufficient to keep them content. They are generally healthy, but regular veterinary care is advisable to catch any issues early. Their combination of charm, intelligence, and low-maintenance needs make them ideal for new pet owners.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are delightful little companions, particularly suitable for beginners in dog ownership. Known for their affectionate nature, they thrive on human interaction and love being pampered.
Though their coat requires regular grooming, it can be a pleasurable bonding activity. Opt for regular trimming to maintain their manageable appearance. Shih Tzus need moderate exercise, making them perfect for those with a less active lifestyle.
They’re generally healthy, but watch for potential breathing issues due to their short snouts. With their friendly demeanor and charming appearance, Shih Tzus offer a balance of companionship and manageable care, making them great for first-time pet parents.
6. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are known for their cheerful disposition and fluffy, hypoallergenic coats, making them ideal for first-time pet owners. Their small size and friendly nature make them adaptable to various living environments.
Regular grooming is a must to keep their coat tangle-free, but their sociable nature makes it an enjoyable task. They require moderate exercise—daily walks and playtime will suffice to keep them happy and healthy.
Bichons are known for their intelligence, which can make training a breeze. However, they are prone to separation anxiety, so they prefer not to be left alone for long periods. Their joyful spirit and manageable care needs make them perfect companions for beginners.
7. Pug
Pugs are charming and playful, well-suited for first-time dog owners looking for a low-maintenance companion. Their small size and minimal grooming needs make them ideal for apartment living.
Known for their affectionate nature, Pugs love human interaction and are great with children. They require moderate exercise—think short walks and indoor play sessions to keep them fit and happy.
Pugs are prone to certain health issues, particularly breathing problems due to their flat faces, so regular vet visits are crucial. Despite these challenges, their loving nature and easygoing temperament make them a favorite for new pet parents.
8. Bulldog
Bulldogs are gentle giants, known for their calm and affectionate demeanor. They are perfect for first-time pet parents seeking a low-maintenance companion. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, just occasional brushing to keep it clean.
These dogs are best suited for a relaxed lifestyle, needing only moderate exercise. Short daily walks and some playtime are sufficient to keep them healthy.
Bulldogs can have health issues, particularly with breathing and joint problems, so regular vet check-ups are essential. Their loyal and friendly nature, combined with their manageable care needs, make Bulldogs an excellent choice for beginners.
9. Havanese
Havanese dogs are delightful companions, perfect for new pet owners. Known for their friendly and affectionate nature, they adapt well to various living environments, from apartments to houses with yards.
Their silky coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles, but it’s a pleasurable task given their charming demeanor. Moderate exercise will keep them content—think daily walks or playful indoor activities.
Havanese are generally healthy, though, like all breeds, regular vet visits are advisable. Their playful spirit and loving nature, combined with their low-maintenance care needs, make Havanese an ideal choice for those new to dog ownership.
10. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, the tiniest of dog breeds, are perfect for first-time pet parents seeking a low-maintenance companion. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and are fiercely loyal to their owners.
Grooming is minimal, with occasional brushing being sufficient. They require less exercise than larger breeds, making them suitable for less active owners. A short daily walk and some indoor playtime will keep them happy.
Their loving nature and manageable care needs, coupled with their adaptability to various living situations, make Chihuahuas ideal for beginners.
11. Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their distinctive long bodies and short legs, are charming companions for first-time pet owners. Their small size and minimal grooming needs make them an easy choice for those new to dog ownership.
Known for their playful and curious nature, Dachshunds require moderate exercise. Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep them healthy and prevent obesity.
It’s important to note that their elongated spine makes them susceptible to back issues, so proper care and gentle handling are crucial. Dachshunds offer a blend of personality and manageable care, making them a delightful choice for new pet parents.
12. Whippet
Whippets are elegant and gentle, ideal for first-time dog owners looking for a low-maintenance pet. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, just occasional brushing to keep it sleek.
Despite their athletic build, Whippets are known for their calm demeanor indoors, where they enjoy lounging and relaxing. They need regular exercise, such as walks or runs in a safe, enclosed area, to satisfy their energy levels.
Their combination of elegance, ease of care, and affectionate nature make Whippets a fantastic choice for those new to dog ownership.
13. Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their speed, but they are surprisingly low-maintenance. For first-time owners, their gentle and laid-back nature is a perfect match. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, just a quick brush now and then.
These dogs are known for their calm demeanor indoors, often referred to as “couch potatoes.” They need regular exercise, like a daily walk or short run, to stay healthy, despite their reputation as racing dogs.
14. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, making them ideal for first-time dog owners. Their sleek, short coat requires minimal grooming, just an occasional wipe down.
Despite their dainty appearance, these dogs are robust and enjoy regular exercise, such as daily walks or play sessions in a secure area. Indoors, they are calm and enjoy lounging in sunny spots.
They are generally healthy, but their delicate limbs require careful handling. Regular vet check-ups ensure they remain in good health. With their graceful demeanor and easy-care requirements, Italian Greyhounds are a superb choice for new pet owners.
15. Maltese
Maltese dogs are small, affectionate, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for first-time pet parents. Their luxurious white coats require regular grooming, but many owners find it a rewarding bonding activity.
These dogs thrive on human companionship and are known for their playful nature. Moderate exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, keeps them happy and healthy.
Their loving disposition and manageable care needs make Maltese an excellent choice for anyone new to dog ownership, offering both charm and companionship.
16. Papillon
Papillons, with their butterfly-like ears, are delightful companions for first-time pet parents. Their small size and minimal grooming needs make them easy to care for, though regular brushing keeps their coat looking its best.
These dogs are known for their intelligence and energy, enjoying playful activities and regular exercise to stay content. They adapt well to various living environments, whether a bustling city or a quiet suburb.
Papillons offer a blend of spirited personality and easy maintenance, making them a wonderful choice for new dog owners.
17. Pekingese
Pekingese are regal and affectionate, perfect for novice pet parents seeking a low-maintenance companion. Their luxurious coats require regular grooming, but many owners find it a bonding experience.
These dogs are known for their calm and independent nature, thriving in quieter environments. Moderate exercise, such as short walks or gentle play, keeps them fit and content.
18. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their cheerful disposition and affectionate nature, making them ideal for first-time pet owners. Their beautiful coats require regular grooming, but it’s a satisfying task for many.
These dogs enjoy moderate exercise, such as regular walks or playful adventures in the yard, keeping them healthy and happy. They adapt well to various living environments, from apartments to spacious homes.
While generally healthy, routine vet check-ups are recommended. Their friendly nature and manageable care needs make Cocker Spaniels a fantastic choice for anyone starting their journey in dog ownership.
19. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are lively and affectionate, ideal for first-time pet parents. Their small size and vibrant personality make them a joy to have around. While their fluffy coats require regular grooming, many owners enjoy the process.
These dogs need moderate exercise, such as daily walks or play sessions, to keep them fit. They adapt well to various living situations, whether an apartment or a house with a yard.
Their spirited nature and easy-care needs make Pomeranians a delightful choice for new dog owners, offering both companionship and joy.