High-maintenance dog breeds can require a lot of extra time, care and attention. High-maintenance in humans gives the impression of a needy person who requires a lot of time, money and effort to be spent on them. When it comes to dogs, it’s more nuanced.
A dog that whines, barks, and destroys the home furnishings when left alone for half an hour is obviously demanding. On the other hand, there are some dog breeds that appear low-maintenance, tough and self-sufficient, but shed their fur like crazy, requiring hours of grooming and vacuuming every week.
Or there are the high-energy dogs that maintain a strict exercise schedule of at least two hours a day, preferably morning and afternoon – that’s no picnic to keep up on a daily basis. Particularly if they relish jumping into every bog or puddle – the washing and cleaning demands are stratospheric.
And then there are those that are tricky to train and need cajoling and teasing, with short and sweet sessions to teach them commands – if they’re in the mood and if you have some of the best dog treats on hand.
Here’s a snapshot of 32 of those high-maintenance dog breeds, who are considered extra effort in any one or more of these categories: energy levels, barking or separation anxiety or grooming.
32 high-maintenance dog breeds that require a lot of care
1. Border collie
The marvelous Border Collie checks just about every box when it comes to being high-maintenance. Rated the most intelligent of all the canine species, that big brain requires a whole lot of stimulation, both physical and mental.
They are fun personalities, but that switched-on temperament can become destructive, hyperactive, or even aggressive if you don’t keep them busy and sufficiently exercised. Grooming-wise, they have double, shedding coats – keep the vacuum cleaner handy.
2. Belgian Malinois
These smart dogs have another name – the Maligator. They are quick to grab things with their teeth, so need very tactful and expert training. In the right hands, these loyal dogs can be awesome, but they aren’t ideal for all households. Besides experienced training, they need a lot of physical activity, mental stimulation, and plenty of appropriate socialization to keep them on track.
3. Komondor
A hairdo like the Komondor’s comes with a considerable grooming burden. Their long, corded coats require regular grooming, and every so often the coat clumps up and needs time-consuming separation.
They also require plenty of space, because they are a natural guardian of the flock (also making them one of the best dog breeds for protection). They bark freely, which can enrage the neighbors. But if you’ve got a remote farm, and don’t object to spending an hour or two with the dreadlocks now and again, the Komondor may find his niche.
4. Siberian Husky
There are many reasons to love Siberian Huskies. They are intelligent and athletic dogs who need an extraordinary amount of exercise every day. They can pull a sled for 100 miles, and most people are highly unlikely to cover that sort of distance in a week, let alone a day. They also thrive with an experienced handler.
They need a secure yard, or they might try to exercise themselves somewhere else; and they aren’t ideal for those with close neighbors, being a very vocal breed in all sorts of ways.
They also shed prolifically, shedding their undercoats biannually, so the vacuum cleaner will be kept busy. And if it’s hot, they’re not happy, though the cold is a breeze.
5. Chinese Crested
They may not be big and boisterous, but these delicate little dogs need a lot of maintenance. As they are largely hairless, you’ll need to apply sunscreen when it’s hot, and a coat when it’s cold. Their skin is prone to irritations and allergies, so frequent bathing is essential. Some even need moisturizer.
The Chinese crested powderpuff version – with more hair – needs regular trips to the groomer as well as daily brushing and regular bathing.
And they don’t do well left alone for long – cue worried howling as they try to call their owner home.
6. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are energetic dogs with innate herding instincts – they’ll typically round up the family pets and kids for fun. They are a high-maintenance breed due to their enormous capacity for exercise. They need a huge amount of physical activity and mental stimulation daily, plus they thrive on human companionship and interaction.
This isn’t a breed who’ll just kip on the hearth all day long; you need to have as much energy as he does to keep him entertained and not left to his own devices.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
While these little spaniels’ grooming requirements are fairly low-maintenance, they are typically a very needy, clingy breed that craves human companionship and contact. They were bred to be lap dogs, so while they aren’t going to insist you walk them for hours every day, they will demand all your attention. Luckily, they are affectionate, gentle ,and happy to sit on your lap – just don’t leave them alone for long spells.
8. Brussels Griffon
While Brussels Griffons are not too demanding on the grooming and exercise front, that all changes when it comes to training. This is not a breed that naturally wants to toe the line! They are intelligent – which often translates as stubborn – so require plenty of reinforcement and rewards-based training.
Plus, they are one of the dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety. So while they aren’t always eager to please, they don’t want you out of their sight! Health-wise, they are a brachycephalic breed, so they are susceptible to overheating and respiratory problems.
9. Cocker spaniel
A delightful breed, but one that comes with several high-maintenance requirements. Their main demand is exercise, and plenty of it. They also have a double coat which sheds constantly, so you need to brush, groom and vacuum regularly. Watch out for the floppy ears, which are prone to infection so need cleaning.
Finally, despite their gung-ho characters, this is a sensitive breed emotionally which requires a lot of affection, interaction and human companionship. Lucky they’re so cute...
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
A German Shorthaired Pointer requires a lot of exercise and stimulation or they can get bored and frustrated, which leads to whining and destructive tendencies. This is a fairly large, independent, and strong-willed breed, so needs a firm and experienced hand training.
On the other hand, that short, sleek coat is super-easy to groom – you can pretty much flick it with a brush once or twice a week and it will always look perfect.
11. Hungarian Vizsla
Vizslas are high-energy – and therefore high-maintenance. This is no couch potato. Not only do they need vigorous physical activity, but they also thrive on mental stimulation or they can turn to destructive tendencies. Plus, this is a “Velcro” dog, that likes to stick close to its owner at all times – in other words, they’re attention-seekers!
But some of the time you take up on the exercise and stimulation regime you might regain in the grooming area as the Vizsla’s fine, sleek coat is a doddle to look after.
12. Poodle
A rewarding breed, being highly intelligent and sociable. However, poodles certainly fit into the high-maintenance category. They need both daily exercise and plenty of human interaction, like most breeds, but it’s their grooming requirements that really ramp up the time and work. Poodles need consistent, expert grooming or their coats can become matted and messy. It takes a lot of effort to look this good!
13. Yorkshire Terrier
Terriers are often seen as rough-and-tumble, low-maintenance little sidekicks. Not the Yorkie. Their signature long, silky, and fast-growing coat requires intensive brushing, grooming and even trimming. But the rewards are tangible – this is a terrier who knows how to work a look.
14. Puli
Pulis have high grooming demands. Their distinctive double coat naturally forms into dreadlocks, which may look effortlessly cool, but in fact require a lot of time to maintain. The cords need to be separated, washed, and then towel-dried – it can take a whole day for the coat to dry completely!
Plus, this is a physical and intelligent dog that needs plenty of space and a job to do – they are natural guardians who thrive on activity.
15. Beagle
In many ways, the beagle is actually a low-maintenance dog. They have short fur, which although it sheds is not too onerous on the grooming front. However, their behavior is definitely demanding. They are extremely energetic, and bred to hunt, so need lots of exercise and stimulation to keep their mind and bodies happy. They naturally retain a strong hunting instinct, even if they’re just a family pet, so training needs to be firm, consistent, and expert. They are also amazing escape artists, so need a securely and high-fenced yard, or they’ll gleefully head off hunting on their own.
Oh, and they can bark, howl, and bay at an incredible decibel level, so they’re not a breed for those with nearby neighbors.
16. Akita
Akitas are not an ideal breed for a first-time dog owner as they require an experienced handler. They fit into several high-maintenance areas: grooming, training, exercise, and temperament.
Akitas are strong and athletic, requiring plenty of exercise. Bear in mind that they are natural guard dogs, and can have an aggressive side, hence the need for expert training. Early socialization with both people and other pets is essential.
Finally, that beautifully thick, fluffy coat needs maintenance – it sheds prolifically so be prepared for constant brushing and vacuuming.
17. Chow chow
The loyal and loving chow chow isn’t too demanding on the exercise front – a bit of play and gentle walks will suffice. However, that luxurious coat requires significant attention – brushing and bathing – to prevent it from matting. Be prepared to put in plenty of time in the grooming parlor, whether it’s your own home or a professional salon.
And while they are devoted to their owners, they can be distrustful of strangers so need expert training and early socialization.
18. Australian Cattle Dog
Where the Australian Cattle Dog really ramps up its maintenance needs is in the exercise department. These dogs can run all day long, and so require a high degree of activity. A gentle walk won’t fit the bill – they need to burn off their energy with vigorous exercise such as running, biking, outdoor games, and agility training.
On the other hand, their grooming needs are minimal and they don’t shed constantly.
19. Weimaraner
Looking at the Weimaraner’s super sleek coat, you can mentally count the hours you’ll save not having to groom them constantly. However, that time will be amply spent exercising them, for this is a dog that needs not just to walk but run – and a long way!
They are intelligent and quick learners, so need to be kept busy and stimulated so that they don’t misdirect their attention into bad behaviors like chewing and digging. Plus, they have a strong prey drive, so you can’t switch off while out on a walk.
20. Dalmatian
Dalmatians were bred to run alongside carriages in Regency England, so – you guessed it – they have sky-high exercise demands. If you don’t cater to their energy outlet, they may take it out on your house and garden, so make sure they get plenty of stimulation. Plus, they are prone to separation anxiety – they are natural attention-seekers, and why wouldn’t you be, with that distinctive coat?
In an athletic family with people at their beck and call, and an experienced training regime, this breed is a winner, but their daily needs are significant.
You’re not off the hook on the grooming front either. Their coats may be short, but they are big shedders.
21. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound’s impressively long and silky coat puts them firmly in the high-maintenance category on account of the grooming demands. You’ll be brushing daily – with a variety of combs and brushes – and bathing weekly, possibly hair-drying too.
Furthermore, when they’re not being groomed, Afghan hounds need exercise – lots of it. They are sighthounds, bred to run fast over long distances – and they can really shift, hitting speeds of up to 40mph.
22. Chihuahua
For a very small dog – the smallest of all – the loveable Chihuahua packs a mighty punch. While their grooming needs are fairly minimal (particularly the smooth coat) and they don’t need quite as much exercise as the hounds and gundogs, they are certainly needy when it comes to human interaction.
A few fun facts about chihuahuas are that they can whine and bark if they don’t get enough attention, and tend to follow their owner around everywhere – including the bathroom.
23. Bichon frise
Grooming is high on the agenda for this fluffy, pale-coated breed. The bichon frise needs daily brushing to prevent matting and to keep their skin tip-top. A bath is advised on a weekly basis, and a monthly trip to a professional groomer to keep their eyes and ears fuzz-free (to prevent infection).
They also tend to think the world revolves around them – and perhaps it does, in many households!
24. Old English Sheepdog
The copious shaggy coat of the Old English Sheepdog has its downsides. To prevent mats and tangles, it needs grooming every day. Otherwise, it can collect dirt and bacteria, as well as fleas, ticks, mites, and so on.
The prospect of bathing such a huge dog may be a daunting one, so trips to the grooming parlor are often on the agenda. Although regular maintenance takes a lot of time and effort, it’s vital for the health of this friendly and affectionate breed.
25. Maltese
Stunning looks often take a lot of work behind the scenes, and the Maltese requires exactly that. They need daily brushing, routine bathing, and eye cleaning to keep them looking fabulous.
Conversely, they aren’t too needy on the exercise regime and are happy with short, gentle walks and playtime.
26. Samoyed
Stunning as they are, those thick, fluffy coats need almost constant attention. Expect to groom a Samoyed every single day – and bear in mind they shed a lot. Their polar bear look requires considerable upkeep; for a full bath and grooming session, you’ll need to spare a good four to five hours. Which leaves a few hours of daylight for the copious exercise a Samoyed enjoys! This is a very active breed that thrives on a couple of hours of activity a day.
27. Shetland Sheepdog
A wonderfully intelligent and attractive dog, the Sheltie requires plenty of attention, whether it’s grooming sessions, daily exercise, or mental stimulation in the form of playtime and enrichment. They excel in agility and obedience, which is a great outlet for some of that energy and gives their busy brains a task on which to focus.
28. Lhasa apso
On the one hand, the Lhasa Apso is undemanding. They won’t beg you to head out for a two-hour jog on a daily basis (in fact, they’d rather you didn’t). However, while you might save time and effort with just a short brisk walk, you’ll need some patience when it comes to the grooming regime. Their stunning coats need considerable attention to stop them from matting, as well as regular bathing to keep them smooth and tangle-free.
29. Schipperke
Although they have a double coat that sheds, the smart Schipperke is relatively low-maintenance on the grooming side, but high-maintenance when it comes to exercise. They are very active dogs – originally bred to work (as a rat-catcher, watchdog, and even herder) – and they love to exert their sporting prowess. As well as plenty of daily exercise, they require mental stimulation in the form of playtime or enrichment or they can turn to destructive tendencies.
30. Italian Greyhound
It’s easy to look at an Italian Greyhound’s sleek coat and think of the time you’ll save on grooming. However, their fine coats are high-maintenance in other ways. With their minimal fur covering and lack of insulating fat, they are very sensitive to the cold.
You’ll need to put on rugs, blankets, coats, and jumpers to keep them warm on chilly days. They’re also needy in terms of attention, as they like their favorite human to be around all day long for cuddles, companionship, and plenty of physical activity.
31. French Bulldog
While their short coats don’t require much more than a flick of the brush, there are other grooming requirements when it comes to the French Bulldog. Their wrinkles need cleaning, as well as their bat-like ears to prevent infections harboring.
You’ll also need to watch out in hot weather as their brachycephalic head shape means their respiratory systems are compromised. Take care not to let them over-exert themselves, especially when it’s hot, and make sure you have all the cooling mats, jackets, and beds at your disposal to enable them to dissipate the heat quickly. And watch out that they don’t try to cool off quickly in a river or pool – their body shape means they are not natural swimmers.
32. Pomeranian
In common with other fluffball dogs, the Pomeranian has high grooming demands. Besides regular brushing at home, you’re likely to need to take your Pommy to the salon for professional grooming sessions as well.
Pomeranians are renowned for being a big dog in a small package. They bark, they need decent exercise and loads of playtime – this is no gentle lapdog that will sit on the sofa all day long watching TV.
If you’re a pet parent who is up for a challenge, check out the highest maintenance cat breeds for good measure.
