A busy schedule doesn’t have to hold you back on owning a dog! There are over 200 dog breeds across the United States. These breeds come in all different shapes and sizes. As you may be narrowing down the different types of breeds, there are many things to consider. When looking for the perfect dog to fit into your busy schedule, you may want to look at: grooming habits, energy level, adaptability, and loyalty. A dog that fits in with the life you have is the most important factor. With so many busy bees out there, we searched to find out the top five best dog breeds for busy owners.
It is no lie that owning a dog is a big responsibility, some breeds will require more of your time and attention. That is not the case for every breed though! There are many low-maintenance yet high-loving dogs out there. Giving your free time to owning a dog can also have benefits on your own life, more exercise, companionship and even safer neighborhoods!
Could it be possible that a neighborhood with more dogs is safer? A recent study found that neighborhoods with more dogs actually see less crime. Now you may be thinking this is due to aggressive breeds watching the streets, no! Researchers found that neighborhoods with more dogs often have more people walking around at different times of the day to walk their furry friend! “Their results suggest that more people walking their dogs puts more “eyes on the street,” which discourages criminals from committing both violent and non-violent crimes.”
For many, a setback to owning a dog may be due to their busy schedule. There are many dog breeds that will love their owner regardless of the amount of time they get to spend with them! Recent research shows that loving people is actually in their blood! A pet dog will require time out of your day, but the love given in return is worth every extra minute.
If you think you are too busy to give a dog a loving home, think again! We put together this list of the best dog breeds for busy owners that were recommended across these sites! Just to be clear, this does not mean we recommend getting a dog if you are already stretched too thin with other responsibilities, but if you think you can manage a furry friend on your free time, then go for it. If you have your own suggestions, please leave them in the comments below!
The List: Best Dog Breeds for Busy Owners, According to Experts
1. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be best known for their appearance – little legs, a long body and an adorable face! They are a cute and affectionate breed that will fit right into a busy schedule. “This breed usually only requires a moderate amount of exercise. With their short little legs and long bodies, excessive running and jumping can exacerbate or cause spinal issues,” explains Spruce Pets.
Dachshunds are known for being friendly and helping anyone put a smile on their face! “Dachshunds have a positive disposition and are typically game for anything you throw at them (frisbee or otherwise). Exercise can consist of running around the house (though be careful of stairs) or leisurely walks. If you work in a dog-friendly office or from home, your Dachshund will be content sitting by your side as you focus on tasks,” says PureWow.
Low-maintenance and loving, Dachshunds are sure to fill a busy owner’s day with love and not too much extra work. “‘Dachshunds are known for their ever-alert expression and friendly, vivacious personality,’ says Dr. Pletz. ‘Smart and vigilant, the Dachshund is bred to be an independent hunter.’ These low-maintenance dogs are fans of indoor games, perfect for the family that isn’t all that outdoorsy. Still, Doxies do love to sniff and explore, so adding a little extra time outside around potty breaks is ideal to meet exercise requirements. “Keeping them at a healthy weight is very important to [their] overall health,” adds Readers Digest.
2. Greyhound
Oftentimes a dog owner who is busy does not have a lot of extra time to devote to grooming which is why a Greyhound may be a great fit in a busy owner’s household. “Greyhounds make particularly great couch pets as they require low to medium exercise and minimal grooming. In fact, their skin produces so little oil that only a few baths a year are needed. Many owners who have rescued retired Greyhound racers speak highly of their dog’s mild temperament and gentle nature,” explains Parade Pets.
Some even say that Greyhounds are independent like a cat often is! “Greyhounds are the cats of the dog world: somewhat aloof and independent,” says Dr. Cruz. They’re accommodating and can easily transition from couch potato to jogging partner. But these low-maintenance dogs don’t need a lot of exercise; a daily walk or jog is sufficient,” adds Readers Digest.
Although Greyhounds are often seen as racing dogs, they are also very laid back! “Greyhounds are best known as racing dogs, but they are pretty mild-mannered and laidback if raised in a good environment. Greyhounds do require frequent exercise and can grow to be sizable. Smaller Italian Greyhounds are cuddly lapdogs,” says Master Class.
As all dogs, there are times when they need to exert their energy and exercise. “As long as an ex-racing Greyhound can have the chance to have a good sprint, they love nothing more than to sit back and watch the chaos from the comfort of the sofa,” states Purina.
3. French Bulldog
Another name for French Bulldogs that is often used is Frenchie! French Bulldogs may be small but they are mighty with their love! “A mellow, playful fellow, French Bulldogs are perfect pets for people in search of low maintenance dog breeds. These canines have short coats that do not require much grooming at all. Keep in mind that Frenchies love to be with their families all the time. So, early training is necessary to enable them to cope easily while they are alone in the house. Once trained, this can help curb separation anxiety when left by themselves for a few hours,” says The Goody Pet.
When looking for a companion, a French Bulldog may be the one to make you smile and fit into your schedule. “The gleeful Frenchie makes the perfect loafing companion. French bulldogs are among the most cheerful of all dog breeds. Although they have a good deal of energy, they tend to lack endurance. Moderate daily exercise is usually suitable for this breed, though outdoor activities should be limited when it is very hot or humid. Most Frenchies respond well to basic training and are generally well-behaved if provided with structure. This breed has minimal grooming needs but may have various skin issues, and due to its shortened muzzle, it has a high potential for brachycephalic syndrome,” explains Spruce Pets.
Frenchies have grown in popularity in the United States. As the breed is known for their sweet affection as well as low maintenance care. “The Frenchie — is fairly low maintenance given his short hair, little legs and preference for snuggling on the couch over long walks around the neighborhood. Frenchies do love attention, but mostly they want to be with their humans. This breed has skyrocketed in popularity. According to the American Kennel Club, Frenchies are the second most popular dogs in the United States, just behind the affable Labrador retriever. French bulldogs are curious, loyal and lovable. These dogs tend to do well in small spaces, too,” adds HGTV.
4. Chihuahua
When you think of a dog breed for a busy schedule as an owner, you may not initially think of Chihuahuas. “The chihuahua has fairly basic needs. Just give him a bath now and then and take him out for a spin around the block to get in his steps. These petite and portable pups are loyal and lovable. They are also quite healthy, not prone to genetic issues, so they will be with you for years to come. Chihuahuas can be well-mannered too, which is a plus when friends stop in for a visit. Given their size and exercise needs, they make great city pets,” adds HGTV.
Chihuahuas are a great companion but also they do not mind alone time. This trait may come in handy If you plan to be away for many hours of the day for work or other obligations. “Chihuahuas are one of the most independent toy breeds. They make a great companion for busy owners because they can be left alone for up to 9 or 10 hours. This doesn’t mean they should be on their own all day, as they thoroughly enjoy quality time with their humans,” explains Parade Pets.
Chihuahuas come in a variety of small sizes. “One of the greatest things about these pups is their size. These small dogs can be taken virtually anywhere. However, if you want a pup that you can leave alone, it’s important that you don’t baby them. You’ll need to do proper training to make sure that they’re well-behaved around people,” says Daily Dog Stuff.
5. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu breed is native to Japan and are known for their loyalty and smaller size. “Naturally clean and odor-free, the Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s oldest and smallest dog breeds. They tend to stay busy grooming themselves and are notorious for being easy to housebreak. Be prepared for their strong personalities; Shiba Inus are described as the dog with ‘cat-like’ behaviors,” explains Parade Pets.
If you are a first time dog owner, this may not be the breed for you. “Native to Japan, the Shiba Inu has a thick double coat, so he requires fairly regular grooming, but he is also loyal, quiet and not likely to cause a ruckus when the mailman delivers the mail. This breed is intelligent and a fast learner that has a lot of energy and appreciates a big backyard. The Shiba Inu is not a good choice for a first-time dog owner but will do well with an owner who knows the ins and outs of life with a doggo,” adds HGTV.
Shiba Inus can be trusted alone for extended hours of the day. “They are quiet, independent, and amiable pooches that busy folks would love to have in their home. Even if you have a 9 to 5 job, you should never have any problem leaving your pet alone in the house. Do take note that these dogs require minimal exercise. A couple of walks each day and some mental stimulation should keep your Shiba healthy and happy,” says The Goody Pet.
You might also be interested in:
- Best Dog Breeds for First-time Owners
- Best Dog Breeds for Seniors
- Best Dog Breeds for Home Security
- Best Medium-Sized Dog Breeds
Sources:
- The Goody Pet
- HGTV
- Parade Pets
- Daily Dog Stuff
- Spruce Pets
- Purina
- Readers Digest
- Master Class
- PureWow
- American Financing
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations
The author has NO IDEA about dog breed needs! Completely missed the needs of each and every breed! This article should be deleted and author should write about anything but animals!