8 Easiest Dog Breeds to Own That Just Make Life Simpler

We hear you. Dogs can take a lot of work. But some dog breeds are certainly easier to own than others. To us, "easy" translates to a dog that's trainable, friendly, a manageable size, and doesn't need a ton of grooming or exercise. Sounds great, right? Pick one of these eight easiest dog breeds to own as your first (or next!) pet, and you won't be disappointed.

Clever and easy? Yes, it's possible for a dog to be both. The Coton de Tulear is praised as being one of the best breeds for first-time dog owners, and it's pretty clear why. They're even-tempered, friendly, adorable, and very eager to please. That means training one of these fluffy little guys won't take excessive time or effort. Um, and did we mention they're also hypoallergenic? We're sold on this fantastic breed!

Whippets look a lot like small Greyhounds, and they have a similar personality. These medium-sized dogs are calm, cuddly, and relatively quiet, but they're not lazy dogs by any means. Whippets can go from 0 to 60 in a blink of an eye. You might see one snoozing on the couch one minute, then as soon as you say "Park?" they're racing after a ball at top speed. You'll get the best of both worlds with the Whippet, and that makes them both an excellent and easy dog breed to own.

Dogs who are highly adaptable make easy pets, which is why the Papillon is on our list. They bond deeply with their owners without being overbearing. Plus, they're the perfect size to tuck under your arm or in a carrier. Papillon dogs are docile, social, and don't require extensive care. However, because of their long hair, you will have to give them a brush every now and then. But it's well worth it for an easy dog like the little Pap.

A lot of small breeds are stubborn or bossy, but not the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavies are good-natured and joyful, to boot. These cute dogs don't have a mean bone in their body, which is another reason they're such a popular breed. Not to mention, they look like royalty.

Shelties are some of the sweetest dogs out there, which makes them a pleasure to own. These gorgeous dogs are incredibly intelligent, so training them is a breeze, and they get along with most people, dogs, and other animals. The only caveat with owning a Sheltie is that they have a very long coat, which does need regular grooming. But if you're OK with routine baths and brushings, you'll find that this is one of the easiest dog breeds out there.

Are you looking for a dog breed that's more like a cat? Look no further than the Japanese Chin. Even though these petite pups need daily walks to do their business and shake out their sillies, they have all the other great (and easy!) qualities of a cat. They're independent, smart, calm, and oh so affectionate.

Chihuahuas are small, which makes them easy to own. You'll never have to worry about a Chi exceeding the weight limit for your apartment complex, and they can most definitely fly in the cabin of an airplane. But their size isn't the only trait that makes them manageable. Chihuahuas also don't need much grooming or exercise, and are happy being couch potatoes with a few short walks each day. Plus, they love cuddling right up next to you on the bed or sofa. Sounds perfect.

Everyone's favorite dog breed, the Labrador Retriever, is also one of the easiest dogs to own. Labs are incredibly friendly and do well with humans of all ages. Even though this breed can be rambunctious and needs a good deal of exercise, if you keep them physically stimulated, they're super easy. Labs are a breeze to train because they're so food motivated, and they love a good snuggle on the couch.

If you have your heart set on getting a dog, but want one that's not difficult to own, you're in luck. These breeds are some of the most easy-going dogs, which makes training and everyday life that much easier. Just know that all dogs need daily exercise and attention, regardless of their size or care level.