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11 Dog Breeds That Are Low-Energy But High Maintenance

not all low-energy dogs are the easy pets they seem to be. Sure, they might lounge around all day, but don’t be fooled—some of these pups require more upkeep than a high-maintenance celebrity. Between their unique grooming needs, health quirks, and occasional diva-like demands, these low-energy dogs have their owners running around more than they do.

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Bulldog

A person in a pink sweatshirt is wiping the face of a bulldog with a cloth. The dog appears to be calmly tolerating the cleaning process.
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Bulldogs are known for their calm demeanor and limited exercise needs, making them perfect for laid-back households. However, they have a host of health issues, including respiratory problems due to their short snouts and skin infections from their folds. Regular vet visits and daily cleaning of their skin folds are necessary.

Basset Hound

A brown and white dog is sleeping on a blue upholstered chair, with its head resting on the padded armrest. Its body is stretched across the seat.
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Basset Hounds are low-energy, often preferring a cozy spot to lounge in rather than a brisk walk. Their long, droopy ears, however, require regular cleaning to prevent infections, and they tend to have joint issues due to their long bodies and short legs. Grooming, ear care, and watching their weight are essential for their health.

Shih Tzu

A long-haired, black, white, and brown Shih Tzu dog is lying down, looking forward. The dog's fur is well-groomed, with a glossy coat and a calm expression. The background is plain white.
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These small, relaxed lap dogs are famous for their long, luxurious coats, but their grooming needs are intense. Shih Tzus require frequent brushing, regular haircuts, and eye care due to their protruding eyes. They’re prone to dental issues as well, needing regular teeth cleaning to maintain good health.

Pekingese

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Pekingese dogs are perfectly content with minimal exercise, but their long, dense coats require frequent grooming to prevent matting. Their short snouts can lead to breathing issues, and they’re also prone to eye problems. Regular grooming, eye checks, and ensuring they don’t overheat are all part of their care.

Chow Chow

A fluffy Chow Chow dog lies on a wooden floor with a lit fireplace in the background.
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Chow Chows may seem aloof and require little exercise, but their thick double coat requires frequent brushing, especially during seasonal shedding. They’re prone to skin issues and eye problems, meaning regular grooming, skin checks, and routine vet visits are important. Additionally, they need consistent socialization to avoid behavioral issues.

Lhasa Apso

A long-haired dog stands on a path with a blurred background of grass and foliage.
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This breed enjoys lounging but has a long, flowing coat that needs extensive grooming. Lhasa Apsos are prone to eye and dental issues, so regular eye cleaning and dental care are essential. They can also be independent, requiring patient training and socialization to avoid stubborn behavior.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with tan and white fur looks up with large, expressive eyes while standing on a light-colored wooden floor.
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Calm and affectionate, Cavaliers are low-energy but prone to serious health issues, including heart disease and eye problems. Their silky coats require regular grooming, and their ears need routine cleaning to prevent infections. This breed also benefits from regular heart check-ups due to a genetic predisposition to heart issues.

French Bulldog

A brindle French Bulldog lies on a paved surface, looking up. It has a red leash attached to its collar. Its ears are perked up, and it appears relaxed.
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French Bulldogs are known for their laid-back nature and low exercise needs, but their health can be high maintenance. They are prone to breathing problems, heat sensitivity, and skin issues. Regular skin care, avoiding hot weather, and monitoring their breathing make this breed more demanding than their energy levels suggest.

Havanese

A fluffy dog with a black and white coat stands on grassy ground, tilting its head slightly to the side.
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Though generally low-energy, Havanese dogs have a thick, soft coat that requires frequent grooming to avoid matting. They’re prone to eye issues and need consistent dental care. Additionally, they are social dogs that can develop separation anxiety, requiring emotional care as well as physical upkeep.

Mastiff

A brown dog with a muscular build, wearing multiple collars, stands on a grassy field looking forward.
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Mastiffs are large, laid-back dogs with relatively low energy needs, but their sheer size brings health concerns, including joint issues and heart conditions. Regular vet visits, weight management, and attention to potential drool cleanup make them a higher-maintenance choice despite their calm demeanor.

Great Dane

A great dane dog sits on grass in a park, with a scattered picnic setup in the background.
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Known for their gentle giant nature, Great Danes are surprisingly low-energy and enjoy lounging around. However, their large size makes them prone to health issues such as joint problems, heart disease, and bloat—a potentially fatal condition requiring careful monitoring. Regular vet check-ups, high-quality diet management, and mindful exercise to avoid joint stress are essential for this breed.

12 Dog Breeds That Are Surprisingly Low Energy

A fluffy dog with cream and light brown fur is lying on a tufted beige couch with its head resting on a cushion.
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Not all dogs are bouncing bundles of energy. Some breeds prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, making them perfect companions for those who enjoy a slower pace. If you’re looking for a dog that loves to lounge or just want a furry friend who won’t demand too much exercise, these low-energy breeds might be just what you need.

Read it Here: 12 Dog Breeds That Are Surprisingly Low Energy

12 Dog Breeds You Can’t DIY Groom

A person with curly hair in an orange shirt is grooming a fluffy white and brown dog on a table using electric clippers in a bright room.
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Grooming some dogs is no easy task, and a quick trim at home just won’t cut it. These breeds need regular trips to the salon to keep their coats looking fabulous and healthy. From curly-coated cuties to fluffy giants, these pups demand professional grooming. If you’re thinking of bringing one of these adorable furballs into your life, be ready to make those grooming appointments.

Read it Here: 12 Dog Breeds You Can’t DIY Groom

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