Choosing a new canine companion can be overwhelming when you ask, “What’s the easiest dog to own?” While every dog requires love, attention, and proper care, some breeds are known for being more adaptable and lower-maintenance than others. Here’s a comprehensive list of breeds that often make excellent choices for busy or first-time dog owners.
1. French Bulldog
What’s the Easiest Dog to Own? and Why They’re Easy:
- Low Exercise Needs: They enjoy moderate walks rather than long, strenuous workouts.
- Minimal Grooming: Their short coat is simple to care for.
- Charming Personality: Friendly and adaptable, making them great for apartment living.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
What’s the Easiest Dog to Own?and Why They’re Easy:
- Affectionate Nature: These dogs thrive on human interaction and adapt well to various living environments.
- Moderate Energy: They balance playtime with plenty of cuddle time.
- Manageable Grooming: Regular brushing keeps their silky coat in good shape.

3. Pug
What’s the easiest dog to own?
- Compact Size: Perfect for smaller living spaces.
- Low Exercise Requirements: A short daily walk is often enough.
- Sociable and Playful: They easily become a family favorite.

4. Boston Terrier
What’s the easiest dog to own, and why are they easy?
- Friendly and Adaptable: Known for their affable nature, Boston Terriers adjust well to different environments.
- Moderate Energy: They need regular, but not excessive, exercise.
- Low grooming needs: Their short coat makes maintenance simple.

5. Chihuahua
Why They’re Easy:
- Small and Portable: Ideal for apartment living or those with limited space.
- Low Exercise Needs: Their energy is easily managed with short walks.
- Big Personality: They often compensate for their size with a bold, engaging demeanor.

6. Dachshund
What’s the easiest dog to own, and why are they easy?
- Compact and Lively: They are small enough for apartments yet spirited enough to be entertaining.
- Low to Moderate Exercise: They enjoy playtime without excessive demands.
- Simple Grooming: Their coats, whether smooth or long-haired, require routine maintenance.

7. Shih Tzu
Why They’re Easy:
- Adaptable Companions: These dogs thrive in both apartment and house settings.
- Affectionate Disposition: They are known for their loving nature and loyalty.
- Routine Grooming: Although they have a longer coat, regular brushing keeps them well-groomed without too much hassle.

8. Maltese
What’s the easiest dog to own, and why are they easy?
- Low Shedding: Great for people with mild allergies.
- Small and Adaptable: Their size makes them suitable for various living situations.
- Gentle temperament: They are affectionate and enjoy being close to their owners.

Tips for Choosing the Right Breed
- Assess Your Lifestyle: Consider your daily schedule, living space, and activity level before choosing a breed.
- Research thoroughly: Even low-maintenance breeds require specific care routines and have unique personality traits.
- Consider Adoption: Mixed-breed dogs in shelters often possess the best traits of multiple breeds and can be just as low-maintenance.
Final Thoughts
When wondering, “What’s the easiest dog to own?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, breeds like the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Shih Tzu, and Maltese have reputations for being adaptable and lower-maintenance. By matching your lifestyle with the needs of the breed, you can find a companion that not only fits your routine but also enriches your life.