Having a canine companion is all fun and games- until he’s zooming around the house creating havoc! Many people get athletic dogs thinking that they won’t require much maintenance. However, quite the opposite is the case because athletic dogs will constantly keep you on your toes for tons of exercise.
Wondering how you can get a loyal companion without all the commitment? Low-energy small dog breeds have got your back! If you want a low-maintenance pet for your parents or if you generally can’t afford to spare too much time on maintenance and keeping up.
Don’t mistake small low energy dog breeds to be boring and lazy though, because these tiny pooches are a perfect addition to your household. Not only do they give you loads of cuddles, but also accompany you in all your highs and lows. All you have to do is to get the Best Chew Toys for Small Dogs or unzip a bag of treats to watch your furry friend lather you with excited licks!
Finding the ideal small dog breeds with low energy is not an easy job though, because many dogs are being rehomed backed by the claims of being low-maintenance. Go through this article and find all the information you need regarding different kinds of low-maintenance dogs. We also have answers to some frequently asked questions so make sure you don’t miss out! Let’s get started:
- Chihuahua:
First to make it to our list is of course the tiny chihuahua who’s one of the best low-energy small dog breeds because of their excellent personalities! Chihuahuas are quite picky when it comes to demonstrating love, they’re not prone to be affectionate towards you in the first couple of meetings.
However, for their owners, Chihuahuas make sure that they become the most loving companions ever! When not cuddling, you’d find a chihuahua chilling on the sofa or a couch and if undisturbed, he’d be happy by himself all day.
Chihuahuas are often chosen because of their unique looks but are ready to be mildly surprised when you meet a Chihuahua full of personality!
2. Pug:
A pug will require a fair amount of exercise but unlike most dogs, they’re one of the mellowest small dog breeds with low energy. Don’t worry about too much exertion though because even a short walk each day would make your Pug lead a happy and healthy life.
Originating from China, Pugs have short muzzles, a curly tails, and a wrinkled face that is best known for its big, beady eyes. Pugs are often referred to as “clowns” due to their playful and goofy nature. They are also known for being loyal and loving companions, making them a popular choice for families and laid-back individuals,
Despite their small size, Pugs have a sturdy build and are known for their endurance, but they do have a tendency to overheat due to their short snouts, so owners should be mindful of their exercise and heat exposure. Overall, Pugs are a fun-loving and low-energy breed that make great pets for those looking for low-energy small dog breeds.
3. Italian Greyhound:
Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and loyal dogs that are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love to be close to their owners. They are intelligent and sensitive, making them good at reading their owner’s moods and adjusting their behavior accordingly.
While they are a small breed, Italian Greyhounds have a surprising amount of energy and love to run and play, but they are also content to curl up on the couch with their owners. However, due to their delicate build, they are prone to certain health issues such as dental problems and joint issues, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important.
Overall, Italian Greyhounds are a beautiful and loving breed that makes wonderful companions for those who have the time and energy to give them the attention and care they need. If you’re looking for small low energy dog breeds.
4. Pekingese:
Having Chinese roots, Pekingese are independent and confident dogs that can be quite stubborn at times, but they are also loyal and affectionate to their owners. They are low-energy and enjoy lounging around the house, but they also have a playful side and can be quite entertaining.
Pekingese can be wary of strangers and may bark to alert their owners of any perceived danger, but with proper socialization, they can become friendly and outgoing. They have a moderate exercise requirement and do well with short walks and indoor playtime.
Pekingese can be prone to certain health issues such as breathing problems and skin allergies, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian and giving Homemade Food For Small Dogs are important.
5. Bolognese:
Low-energy dog breeds small don’t always have to have short muzzles like the Pug and Chihuahua- they can be white and fluffy too! Bolognese is an Italian breed that has a social and playful personality, making them a perfect fit for people searching for low-energy small dog breeds.
The best part about having a Bolognese is that you wouldn’t have to worry about adaptability. Bolognese is highly adaptive, making them an ideal choice for people who move around a lot. They are also loving dogs who spare nobody; they’d cuddle their owners and also shower strangers with love.
6. French Bulldog:
Popularly known as ‘Frenchies’, these small dog breeds with low energy are known for having an easy-going personality which means that if you’re planning to be a laid-back pet parent, a Frenchie will probably be your best bet!
These dogs have a highly intelligent nature, making them easy to train. You can have fun with your Frenchie outdoors for as long as you want but if you want to laze around the house someday, your Frenchie won’t mind it one bit and would chill on the couch all day.
Frenchies overall have good immunity but they are often prone to breathing problems. Excessive training can also lead to exertion, which is why you’ll have to be extra careful when training your French Bulldog. To avoid any health issues, invest in the Best Collars for Small Dogs for impactful training.
7. Shih Tzu:
Extremely popular for being celebrity pets, Shih Tzus are small low energy dog breeds that require lots of attention. No, this doesn’t mean that you’d have to be on your toes all the time, a Shih Tzu would be his happiest self if you can just play for a few minutes.
However, Shih Tzus are also known to be quite stubborn when it comes to training, therefore, you’d have to be extremely calculative when it comes to training your dog because extra strictness can leave a negative impact, and leverage might make your dog misbehave.
Shih Tzus are also prone to health-related issues like dental problems, breathing issues, and eye problems, which is why you should always keep regular vet visits in check.
8. Maltese:
If you’re looking for low-energy small dog breeds who can fit in your arms as easily as a purse, Maltese is your way to go! These dogs are famous for their silky white coats and also sport lively personalities.
Because of their extravagant fur, Maltese dogs require regular grooming so if vet visits count as too much effort for you, Maltese might not be the perfect fit for you. If you don’t mind grooming sessions, however, then get ready for a playful white furry friend zooming following you around the house!
Maltese dogs are highly trainable, but they do need a lot of positive reinforcement. Common health issues found in Maltese dogs include skin allergies, breathing issues, and eye problems.
9. Basset Hounds:
If you’re looking for small low-energy dog breeds just because they require little maintenance then you probably haven’t heard of Basset hounds! This medium-sized dog breed is one of the few dogs that have a laid-back personality.
Basset hounds are highly affectionate towards their owners and are also quite low on energy, making them a perfect companion for your post-retirement days. While Basset Hounds love daily walks and playtime, they’ll also be perfectly fine if left to lounge around all day.
Despite being fairly low-energy, Basset Hounds have a strong sense of smell. Therefore, you’d have to monitor boundaries, use shock collars, or put your pet on a leash at all times to prevent him from being destructive.
10. Papillon:
Originating from France, these dogs are one of the few low-energy small dog breeds that love to be around people. Small, affectionate, and highly intelligent, these dogs are an excellent addition to a laid-back household!
Papillons are intelligent and easy to train, and they excel in obedience and agility competitions. They have a moderate exercise requirement and enjoy daily walks and playtime, but they can also be content to curl up on their owner’s lap.
Like most small dog breeds, Papillons are also prone to health issues like breathing problems, eye infections, and dental issues. Therefore, always make sure that your pet is up to date with his vet appointments!
FAQs:
What dog breed has the least energy?
There are many options when it comes to low-energy small dog breeds but Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, Pugs, and Italian guys remain our favorite!
What small dogs are not hyper?
Shihtzus, Pomeranians, Maltese dogs, and Bichon Frise are all dogs that are not hyper. They rarely bark and have a lot of cuddles to shower you with!
What is the happiest small dog?
Bichon Frise remains one of the happiest dogs on the planet because of their affectionate and pleasant personalities.
What is the best-behaved small dog?
Small dog breeds with low energy rarely misbehave but breeds like the Maltese, Pug, Boston Terrier and Pomeranian stand out in the list because of their best behavior!
Final Verdict:
Thanks to low-energy small dog breeds, dog lovers don’t have to miss out on having a furry friend in the house! Not only do small dog breeds stand out for their uber cuteness, but they also make a great addition to your house in terms of being a well-behaved pet.
With the help of this article, choose the best dog for your family and get started with your pet-parenting journey!
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