Choosing your new fluffy companion is never easy. There is a wide range of considerations that go into finding the perfect pup for you! From your lifestyle to your living arrangements, it’s important to find a pooch that seamlessly fits into your life and home – so you know that you can care and love them to the best of your ability.

What Makes a Dog Low-Maintenance?

The definition of a “low maintenance” dog can look different for every owner. For some, it means a pup that doesn’t shed much or stays relatively quiet. For others, it’s a dog that needs less exercise, grooming, or daily attention.

At the end of the day, what feels “low maintenance” depends on your lifestyle, routine, and living space. However, it’s important to remember that low maintenance never means low love. No matter what breed you choose, your dog will become a cherished member of the family, offering the same loyalty, affection, and companionship as any other.

13 Best Low-Maintenance Dogs in Australia

Looking for a pup that’s big on love but low on fuss? We've broken down 13 of the best low-maintenance dog breeds in Australia, so you can find the perfect breed for you!

Large low maintenance dog breeds

1. Greyhound

Despite their racing reputation, Greyhounds are often couch potatoes at heart. They love short sprints but are just as happy to snooze the day away, making them one of the easiest big dogs to care for. This means a high-protein diet keeps their lean muscles strong without the extra bulk.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, calm
Life expectancy: 10 - 14 years
Height & weight: 60 - 70 cm; 27 - 40 kg
Shedding: Low, short coat
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Moderate bursts
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily walk or sprint

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Lamb and fish freeze-dried raw dog food for lean muscle mass.

2. Bullmastiff

While this gentle giant might look imposing, they too are extremely low energy, loving to lounge around all day. They’re protective yet easy-going, making them great low-maintenance companions for families. These gentle giants do often put on weight quickly, so they do best on lighter, more nutrient-dense meals.

Temperament: Loyal, protective, docile
Life expectancy: 7 - 9 years
Height & weight: 60 - 70 cm; 45 - 60 kg
Shedding: Low to moderate
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Low
Exercise needed: 30 mins daily walk

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Chicken freeze-dried raw dog food supports their health without overloading their joints.

Medium low-maintenance dog breeds

3. Whippet

Think of Whippets as mini-Greyhounds; a quick sprint and then they’re straight back to the couch! They’re sweet, affectionate, and thrive on cuddles. Diet-wise, this means they thrive off lean protein to fuel their short bursts of energy.

Temperament: Friendly, calm, affectionate
Life expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Height & weight: 45 - 55 cm; 9 - 18 kg
Shedding: Low
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Moderate bursts
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Lamb and fish freeze-dried raw dog food gives them omega-3s for skin, coat, and joint support.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These floppy-eared sweethearts are the definition of an easy-going and family friendly dog. Happy on the couch or on a gentle walk, they’re perfectly adaptable to most households. While they are loving companions, Cavaliers can often be prone to heart issues suggesting that a balanced, easy-to-digest diet is most suitable to them.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, friendly
Life expectancy: 9 - 14 years
Height & weight: 30 - 33 cm; 5 - 8 kg
Shedding: Moderate
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Low to moderate
Exercise needed: 20 - 40 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Pork freeze-dried raw dog food for a lean and digestible meal.

5. French Bulldog

French bulldogs are known best for their snoring and snuggling. They don’t need much exercise and are perfectly happy as lap dogs. However, they do often have sensitive stomachs and skin, meaning they thrive off meals that are hypoallergenic and nutrient rich.

Temperament: Playful, easy-going, affectionate
Life expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Height & weight: 28 - 33 cm; 9 - 13 kg
Shedding: Low
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Low
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Lamb and fish freeze-dried raw dog food provides a hypoallergenic option rich in nutrients to keep them comfortable.

6. Boston Terrier

Nicknamed the “American Gentleman,” Boston Terriers are the perfect cheerful and adaptable pups. They’re small enough for apartments and don’t demand endless exercise, however they do sometimes suffer from tummy troubles.

Temperament: Friendly, lively, charming
Life expectancy: 11 - 15 years
Height & weight: 38 - 43 cm; 7 - 12 kg
Shedding: Low
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Moderate
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Chicken freeze-dried raw dog food is light, clean, and easy to digest.

7. Australian Terrier

Small but tough, this cheerful Aussie breed has a scruffy coat that’s surprisingly easy to care for. They’re happy with short walks and playtime and due to their size don't require heavy feeding.

Temperament: Spirited, friendly, loyal
Life expectancy: 11 - 15 years
Height & weight: 23 - 28 cm; 5 - 7 kg
Shedding: Low
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Energy levels: Moderate
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Pork freeze-dried raw dog food offers the right balance of protein and fat to keep them happy.

Small low-maintenance dog breeds

8. Dachshund

Otherwise known as sausage dogs, these pups are full of personality but don’t need a huge backyard. A couple of strolls and plenty of couch time is all they want. Due to their long bodies, these pups often benefit from lean protein to support their backs.

Temperament: Brave, clever, affectionate
Life expectancy: 12 - 16 years
Height & weight: 20 - 23 cm; 7 - 14 kg
Shedding: Low to moderate
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Moderate
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Beef freeze-dried raw dog food is ideal for maintaining healthy muscles.

9. Chihuahua

Tiny but mighty, Chihuahuas love being lap dogs. Their small size makes them super easy to care for - though they’ll happily strut around on short walks. With tiny tummies but big personalities, these pups don't require heavy feeding.

Temperament: Lively, loyal, alert
Life expectancy: 12 - 20 years
Height & weight: 15 - 23 cm; 1.5 - 3 kg
Shedding: Low to moderate
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Moderate
Exercise needed: 15 - 20 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: A light, nutrient-packed diet like Chicken freeze-dried raw dog food is perfect for their size.

10. Italian Greyhound

Think of them as Greyhounds in a pocket size! Italian Greyhounds adore their humans and love curling up under a blanket almost as much as they love a walk.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, playful
Life expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Height & weight: 32 - 38 cm; 3 - 7 kg
Shedding: Very low
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Energy levels: Moderate bursts
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Lamb and fish freeze-dried raw dog food supports their skin, coat, and joints.

11. Maltese

These little fluffballs look high maintenance but are actually easy-going. A quick brush keeps their coat neat, and they love nothing more than sitting on your lap. Maltese dogs are low shedding but still need coat care and dental support to give them the love and care they deserve.

Temperament: Affectionate, lively, gentle
Life expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Height & weight: 20 - 25 cm; 3 - 4 kg
Shedding: Very low
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Energy levels: Low to moderate
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Pork freeze-dried raw dog food and freeze-dried treats makes a winning combo.

12. Pug

The class clown of the dog world, pugs love attention but don’t need much exercise. They’re happiest hanging out with their humans! Pugs are notorious snack-lovers who gain weight easily, so keeping to lean and nutrient dense meals and snacks is best!

Temperament: Charming, mischievous, loving
Life expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Height & weight: 25 - 33 cm; 6 - 8 kg
Shedding: Moderate
Hypoallergenic: No
Energy levels: Low
Exercise needed: 20 - 30 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Chicken freeze-dried raw dog food helps keep them trim without sacrificing nutrition.

13. Shih Tzu

Bred to be lap dogs, Shih Tzus are the ultimate affectionate companions. Their long hair looks dramatic, but a short “puppy cut” helps to keep grooming easy.

Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, outgoing
Life expectancy: 10 - 16 years
Height & weight: 20 - 28 cm; 4 - 7 kg
Shedding: Low
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Energy levels: Low
Exercise needed: 20 mins daily

Recommended Frontier Pets Menu: Lamb and fish freeze-dried raw dog food delivers the omega-3s that keep their fur glossy.

How to Choose the Best Dog for Your Lifestyle

Finding the best dog for you and your lifestyle depends on a wide range of considerations and factors including;

1. Size and living space

The size of your dog should be a consideration, especially if you live in an apartment or more confined living space. This means naturally bigger dog breeds often need more space to roam, leaving them feeling more confined in smaller spaces. If you have limited room, a smaller dog breed would likely be the best fit for you.

2. Energy levels

Different dog breeds come with different energy levels. Whilst some breeds are known for their calm and relaxed temperament, many others are high energy meaning they require extensive exercise, space and attention throughout the day. If any of these factors may be hard for you to accommodate, energy levels should be a key consideration when choosing a breed.

3. Grooming needs

Coat type plays a big role in maintenance. Dogs with short coats often just need a quick brush, while long-haired breeds may require regular grooming sessions or even professional trims. Think about how much time (and budget) you’re willing to dedicate to grooming before choosing your breed.

4. Allergies

If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies or asthma, a hypoallergenic breed may be the best option. Low-shedding dogs help reduce triggers like dander and hair, making life more comfortable for both your family and your pup.

5. Training & socialisation

Some breeds are naturally eager to please and quick to train, while others can be more independent or stubborn. If you’re a first-time owner, you may prefer a breed that learns quickly and adapts easily to new people, pets, and environments. This is a particularly important consideration if you already have another pet at home.

6. Time at home

Dogs are social animals, but some cope with alone time better than others. While some breeds can manage a few hours alone, others may struggle without constant company. Be realistic about how much time you’ll be home each day.

Choosing the right dog for you isn’t an overnight decision, make sure you do your research to ensure you find the perfect breed and companion that seamlessly fits into you your lifestyle and home – so you can give your new best friend the best life and love it deserves.

Low Maintenance Feeding Advice for Your Dog

Low-maintenance dog ownership doesn’t mean low-quality care, especially when it comes to diet. One of the most common struggles in the world of pet ownership is mealtime. Feeding can often take time, make mess, take up storage, and just cause a load of unwarranted stress. Let alone when you’re met with a fussy eater.

That’s why Frontier Pets has created the perfect low-maintenance feeding solution. Our range of freeze-dried raw dog food delivers on all the stressors often associated with pet feeding:

Convenience: Simply scoop, add water, and serve
Nutrition: 100% balanced, protein-rich, raw meals packed with real meat and veggies.
Real food: Made with free-range, human-grade ingredients from Aussie farmers.

Gone are the days of extensive research to find the perfect diet for your perfect pooch, with the natural and protein-rich recipes at Frontier Pets you can rest assured that your pooch is receiving the highest quality diet with flavours so good, they’ll lick the bowl clean. From beef to chicken, lamb and more – explore our full freeze-dried dog food range today.

Enjoy a Low Maintenance Lifestyle with Maximum Love

Looking for a low-maintenance pup doesn’t mean settling for less love - in fact, these breeds are known for giving plenty of affection without demanding too much in return. When you choose a dog that naturally fits your lifestyle, you create a happier home for both of you. From short walks to cosy couch cuddles, you’ll enjoy all the best parts of dog ownership without the stress of extra grooming or high-energy demands.

At Frontier Pets, we make the care side of things just as easy! Our freeze-dried raw dog food delivers the nutrition of a raw dog food diet in seconds - no mess, no fuss, just scoop and serve. Packed with meat, veggies, and superfoods, it’s as convenient for you as it is healthy for your pup. Explore our full range of dog food and treats online or set up a flexible dog food subscription so you’ll never run out. It’s the easiest way to give your low-maintenance dog the very best.

Best Low Maintenance Dog Breeds in Australia