The Best Dogs for Lazy People (When “Stay” is Easy)

Dogs are loveable critters. But they can also be a lot of work. For some people, certain aspects of doggie care like grooming and exercise is a big turn off. Fortunately, there are several low-maintenance breeds perfect for those that want to skip some of the typical upkeep.

A Couch Potato Dog Does Not Necessarily Equal a Dog for Lazy People

It may be easy to assume that a dog that falls into the "couch potato” category is a no-brainer for those looking for a low-maintenance pooch. And make no mistake - there is some crossover from one segment of the canine kingdom to the other. However, just because some of these pooches like to spend most of their time by your side doesn’t mean that they are completely perfect for a lazy lifestyle.

The main culprit behind this is grooming - specifically, maintaining your dog’s coat. Some breeds that routinely end up on “best couch potato dog” lists, such as the Skye Terrier, have long, shaggy coats that require a hefty amount of care in order to keep clean and healthy. If you aren’t willing to spend the time and money required to ensure these kinds of pups look their best, you’d be wise to look elsewhere.

Is an Independent Dog A Wise Choice for a Lazy Person?

There are certain dog breeds that thrive on autonomy. This particular attribute stems from being bred to be working dogs that could focus on the task at hand as opposed to needing love and affection. On paper, these may be considered good dogs for the lazy person because they can “fend for themselves.”

However, there is a catch to these self-sufficient pooches. Because they have been bred to be independent, they have a tendency to be stubborn, which could ultimately make them very difficult to train. If you are looking for a pooch that will fall in line with the rules of the house with relative ease, an independent breed may end up trying your patience.

If I’m a Lazy Person, What Kind of Attributes Should I be Looking for in a Dog?

Ideally, you’ll be looking for a low-maintenance, low-energy dog that won’t give you too much grief in the training phase. These metrics when taken collectively sound like they create breeds that are too good to be true. However, you can be rest assured that they exist.

What you may find surprising, is that a healthy chunk of these dogs is large - we're talking "take up most of your couch" large. Some of these dogs such as the greyhound have athletic builds and can show off their skills if given the proper setting. If such a setting is not available, they have no problems just chilling right along with you.

Just Because They’re Lazy, Doesn’t Mean They Don’t Have Needs

The beauty of having a low-maintenance dog is that they obviously don’t require a whole lot of work in order to be happy. However, even if laziness was a prime mover in your decision to welcome a particular breed into your home, you must be mindful that “low-maintenance” does not automatically equal “no maintenance.” Your buddy’s needs may be minimal, but they are still needs.

The biggest need that you should provide for your dog is exercise. They may not need a whole lot of it to scratch their proverbial itch - some breeds can take care of their need to expel energy in small, swift bursts or a brisk walk. However, it’s important that these small bits of exercise do happen on a routine basis, as it helps them maintain a sound sense of mental and physical health.

Once a Lazy Dog, Always a Lazy Dog!

If you get a dog that has a penchant for laziness, don’t expect him to change if you suddenly change your lifestyle. Unlike us humans, who can adapt the way they operate whenever we want, a low-energy dog won’t suddenly transform into a pup of perpetual pep. As such, it’s wise to examine your own life to make sure a lazy dog is truly the right fit for you before you welcome him into your home.

If no radical lifestyle changes seem to be on the horizon, then a low-maintenance dog may be a match made in heaven for you. What the dog lacks in maintenance and exercise needs, he’ll make up for in love and affection. When it comes down to it, could you really ask for anything more?