Dogs bring joy, companionship, and a whole lot of love into our lives. But let’s face it: some breeds come with a bit more baggage than others. These are the dogs that require constant grooming, heaps of exercise, and perhaps a little more patience than your average pooch. If you’re up for the challenge and ready to dedicate a significant chunk of your time to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy, then this list is for you. We’ve rounded up the top 15 highest maintenance dog breeds, each with their own unique quirks and habits that make them lovable yet demanding. From the magnificent Maltese to the perpetually playful Poodle, these breeds will keep you on your toes and your schedule full. So, if you’re looking for a canine companion that will truly test your commitment, read on to discover the dogs that require that extra mile.
15. Akita
Akitas are large, powerful dogs with a regal presence and a personality to match. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, but they also come with a hefty maintenance package. Akitas require regular grooming to manage their thick double coat, which sheds profusely twice a year. Exercise is a must for these energetic dogs, and they need plenty of it to keep their minds and bodies active. One of their quirks is their tendency to be quite vocal—they love to “talk” to their owners with a range of sounds, from barks to grumbles. They also have a stubborn streak that can make training a bit of a challenge.
14. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is the supermodel of the dog world, with its long, flowing coat and elegant demeanor. However, maintaining that glamorous look is no small feat. Afghan Hounds require daily brushing to prevent their hair from tangling and matting, and regular baths are a must to keep their coat in top condition. Exercise is also important for these high-energy dogs, who need plenty of room to run and play. One of their quirks is their aloof personality—they often act like royalty, expecting to be pampered and adored. Despite their regal appearance, they can be quite playful and mischievous.
13. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are known for their stunning looks and boundless energy. These dogs are natural athletes, bred for pulling sleds over long distances, and they need a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to manage shedding, which occurs in massive amounts twice a year. One of their quirks is their love for escape—Huskies are notorious for finding ways to get out of the yard, so a secure fence is a must. They are also incredibly vocal, often “talking” to their owners with a range of howls and whines.
12. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are sweet, affectionate dogs with a beautiful, silky coat. However, maintaining that coat requires a significant amount of grooming, including regular brushing and trimming to prevent matting. These dogs also need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and happy. One of their quirks is their love for water—Cocker Spaniels are known for their enthusiasm for swimming and splashing around. They are also prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears, so regular ear cleaning is essential.
11. Pekingese
Pekingese are small dogs with a lot of attitude and a luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. Their long, flowing hair needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and their faces need regular cleaning to keep them free from debris. Exercise needs are moderate, but Pekingese enjoy short walks and playtime. One of their quirks is their stubborn nature—they can be quite independent and may challenge their owners during training. They also have a distinctive “lion’s mane” appearance, which adds to their royal demeanor.
10. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are known for their striking spotted coats and high energy levels. These dogs require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy, and they thrive in an active household. Their short coat sheds constantly, so regular brushing is needed to manage the hair. One of their quirks is their love for running—Dalmatians were originally bred as carriage dogs and have a natural affinity for long runs. They are also known for their strong-willed nature, which can make training a bit of a challenge.
9. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are large, fluffy dogs with a distinctive shaggy coat. Maintaining that coat requires regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and frequent trims. These dogs also need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and happy. One of their quirks is their herding instinct—they often try to herd people, animals, and even objects around the house. They are also known for their playful and clownish behavior, which can be quite entertaining.
8. Border Collie
Border Collies are considered one of the smartest dog breeds, but with great intelligence comes great responsibility. These dogs are high-energy and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to keep them from becoming bored and destructive. Regular grooming is needed to manage their thick, double coat, especially during shedding season. One of their quirks is their intense focus—they often stare intently at objects or people, waiting for the next command. They are also known for their herding instinct and will often try to herd other animals and even children.
7. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
Poodles are known for their intelligence and elegance, but they also come with high maintenance needs. Their curly coats require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, and many owners opt for professional grooming to keep their Poodles looking their best. Exercise is essential for these active dogs, and they thrive on mental stimulation as well. One of their quirks is their love for performing—they often enjoy showing off their tricks and agility skills. Poodles are also known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions.
6. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their lion-like appearance and aloof demeanor. These dogs have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. They also need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and healthy. One of their quirks is their blue-black tongue, which sets them apart from other breeds. Chow Chows are also known for their independent nature, which can make training a challenge. They are loyal and protective of their families but can be wary of strangers.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small dogs with a big personality and a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming. Their hair needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and many owners opt for professional grooming to keep their Yorkies looking their best. These dogs also need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. One of their quirks is their feisty nature—they often act like they are much larger than they actually are. Yorkies are also known for their vocal tendencies and will bark to alert their owners to any perceived danger.
4. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are large, majestic dogs with a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. These dogs were bred to guard livestock, so they have a strong protective instinct and need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and happy. One of their quirks is their love for the outdoors—they thrive in large, open spaces and enjoy spending time outside. Great Pyrenees are also known for their calm and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families with children.
3. Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their beautiful white coats and friendly, smiling faces. However, maintaining that pristine appearance requires a significant amount of grooming. Their thick double coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles, and they shed heavily twice a year. Samoyeds also need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. One of their quirks is their love for “talking”—they often vocalize their feelings with a range of sounds, from barks to howls. They are also known for their playful and social nature, making them great companions.
2. Maltese
Maltese dogs are small, elegant dogs with long, flowing coats that require daily grooming. Their hair needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and many owners opt for professional grooming to keep their Maltese looking their best. These dogs also need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. One of their quirks is their love for attention—they thrive on being the center of their owner’s world and can become quite attached. Maltese dogs are also known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions.
1. Bichon Frise
And the number one spot goes to the Bichon Frise. These small, fluffy dogs have a beautiful curly coat that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Many owners opt for professional grooming to keep their Bichons looking their best. These dogs also need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. One of their quirks is their love for performing—they often enjoy showing off their tricks and agility skills. Bichons are also known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions.
In conclusion, these high-maintenance breeds bring a lot of love and joy into our lives, but they also require a significant amount of care and attention. Whether you’re ready to commit to regular grooming sessions, frequent exercise, or both, these breeds will reward you with their loyalty, affection, and unique quirks. So, if you’re up for the challenge, consider one of these high-maintenance dogs—you won’t be disappointed!
