20 Worst Dog Breeds for People Who Hate Cleaning: High-Maintenance Canines to Avoid
Dogs make wonderful companions, but some breeds require more maintenance and cleaning than others.
For homeowners who value a tidy living space, certain dog breeds may present significant challenges.
Selecting a dog breed that aligns with one’s lifestyle and cleaning preferences can lead to a more harmonious pet ownership experience.
This article examines 20 dog breeds that may not be ideal choices for individuals who dislike frequent cleaning and grooming tasks.
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are notorious shedders, making them a challenge for those who prefer a tidy home. Their short, dense coat releases hair continuously throughout the year, requiring frequent brushing and vacuuming.
These dogs have long, droopy ears that can drag on the ground, collecting dirt and debris. This feature necessitates regular cleaning to prevent ear infections and maintain hygiene.
Basset Hounds are known for their drooling tendencies, especially after eating or drinking. This habit can leave wet spots on floors, furniture, and clothing, demanding constant wiping and cleaning.
Their wrinkled skin folds can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to odors if not cleaned regularly. This breed’s slow metabolism and love for food can result in occasional accidents, adding to the cleaning responsibilities of their owners.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are known for their wrinkly faces and stocky builds. These features, while endearing, contribute to their high-maintenance grooming needs.
Their facial wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth and skin irritation. Owners must wipe these folds daily to remove moisture and debris.
English Bulldogs are moderate shedders, leaving hair on furniture and floors. They also drool frequently, necessitating regular wiping of surfaces around the home.
These dogs are prone to flatulence, which can create unpleasant odors in living spaces. Their short coats may need occasional brushing to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils.
English Bulldogs often struggle with obesity, potentially leading to increased shedding and skin issues. Regular exercise and proper diet are essential to maintain their health and minimize cleaning challenges.
3. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their loving nature and impressive size. These massive dogs can weigh up to 180 pounds and stand nearly 3 feet tall at the shoulder.
Their large size contributes to significant shedding and drooling. Saint Bernards have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
These dogs are prone to tracking dirt and mud into the house due to their outdoor-loving nature. Their long fur can also trap debris, which they may bring indoors.
Saint Bernards tend to slobber excessively, leaving wet spots on floors, furniture, and clothing. This drooling habit requires frequent cleaning of surfaces around the home.
Their size and strength can lead to accidental damage to household items. Regular grooming and cleaning are essential for maintaining a tidy home with a Saint Bernard.
4. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their thick, white double coats that shed heavily throughout the year. This breed requires regular brushing to manage loose fur and prevent matting.
Their large size means they track in more dirt and debris from outdoors. Great Pyrenees often drool, which can leave wet spots around the home.
These dogs have a tendency to dig and may bring mud inside if given the opportunity. Their paws can easily spread dirt across floors and furniture.
Great Pyrenees are working dogs with high energy levels. They need plenty of exercise, which can lead to more frequent bathing and cleaning of their bedding.
Their long coats can also collect burrs, leaves, and other outdoor debris. This adds to the cleaning burden for owners who want to maintain a tidy living space.
5. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their thick, water-resistant coats. These large dogs shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes, leaving fur on furniture, floors, and clothing.
Their size contributes to the cleaning challenge, as they track in more dirt and debris from outdoors. Newfoundlands also drool considerably, which can leave wet spots around the house.
These dogs love water and often make a mess after swimming or playing in puddles. Their long fur can trap mud and moisture, requiring frequent bathing and brushing to maintain cleanliness.
Newfoundlands’ thick coats also tend to collect leaves, twigs, and other outdoor debris. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and keep their fur in good condition.
6. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their distinctive lion-like mane and thick double coat. This breed sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, requiring frequent brushing to manage loose fur.
Their dense undercoat can quickly accumulate throughout the home, clinging to furniture, carpets, and clothing. Regular vacuuming becomes essential to keep living spaces clean.
Chow Chows also tend to drool, particularly after eating or drinking. This can lead to saliva stains on floors and furniture, necessitating prompt cleaning.
Their wrinkled faces may collect dirt and moisture, requiring daily wiping to prevent odors and skin issues. Additionally, Chow Chows are prone to mud-tracking due to their large, furry paws.
These dogs can be challenging for cleanliness-conscious owners, as their grooming and cleaning needs are substantial and ongoing.
7. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their shaggy, thick double coats that require extensive grooming. These large dogs shed constantly, leaving hair on furniture, floors, and clothing.
Their coats easily trap dirt, debris, and outdoor elements, which they bring inside. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
Old English Sheepdogs also drool, adding to the cleaning challenges. Their slobber can leave wet spots on surfaces throughout the home.
These dogs have a playful nature and enjoy outdoor activities. This means they often track in mud, leaves, and other outdoor messes on their long fur and large paws.
Their size and energy level can lead to accidental knocking over of objects in the home. This may result in spills or breakages that require additional cleanup efforts.
8. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are adorable companions, but they can be a challenge for those who prefer a tidy home. Their long, silky coats require frequent grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, leaving hair on furniture and floors. Regular brushing is essential to minimize loose fur around the house.
Shih Tzus are prone to tear stains, which can discolor their facial fur. This requires daily cleaning to maintain their appearance and prevent odors.
Their small size makes them susceptible to accidents, especially during house training. Owners may need to clean up occasional messes on carpets or floors.
Shih Tzus are also known for their playful nature, which can lead to scattered toys and minor messes around the home. Frequent tidying is often necessary to keep living spaces organized.
9. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are charming dogs with long, silky coats that require extensive grooming. Their hair grows quickly and can easily become matted without regular brushing and maintenance.
These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, leaving loose hair on furniture and floors. Their long fur also tends to trap dirt, dust, and debris, which they bring indoors after outdoor activities.
Lhasa Apsos are prone to eye discharge, which can stain their facial fur and require frequent cleaning. Their beard area may also collect food particles and water droplets, necessitating regular wiping.
Owners should be prepared for daily brushing sessions and frequent baths to keep their Lhasa Apso’s coat clean and tangle-free. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is often recommended to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
10. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their beautiful tri-colored coats and gentle dispositions. These large, fluffy dogs shed heavily throughout the year, with increased shedding during seasonal changes.
Their thick double coats require regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce loose hair around the home. Berners also tend to drool, which can leave wet spots on furniture and floors.
These dogs enjoy outdoor activities and can track in mud, leaves, and other debris. Their large paws may spread dirt and water throughout the house after walks or playtime.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to health issues that can lead to accidents indoors. Regular cleaning of their living areas is necessary to maintain a hygienic environment.
11. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are beloved for their gentle nature and beautiful, silky coats. However, these same coats can be a significant source of mess for homeowners who dislike frequent cleaning.
Cocker Spaniels shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding seasons. Their long, wavy fur easily collects dirt, debris, and moisture from outdoors, which can be tracked into the home.
Regular grooming is essential for Cocker Spaniels to prevent matting and reduce shedding. This breed requires frequent brushing, typically several times a week, to maintain their coat’s health and minimize loose hair around the house.
Cocker Spaniels are also prone to drooling, especially after eating or drinking. This can lead to wet spots on furniture and floors, requiring extra cleaning efforts from their owners.
12. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are renowned for their exceptional sense of smell and droopy, wrinkled faces. These large dogs have a tendency to drool excessively, which can lead to wet spots on furniture and floors.
Their long, floppy ears are prone to collecting dirt and debris, requiring frequent cleaning to prevent infections. Bloodhounds also shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.
These dogs have an oily coat that can leave residue on surfaces they come into contact with. Regular bathing is necessary to keep their coat clean and reduce odor.
Bloodhounds are known for their outdoor adventures, often tracking scents through muddy or dusty terrain. This habit can result in dirty paws and coats that require frequent cleaning after walks or playtime.
13. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, affectionately known as Scotties, are not ideal for those who dislike cleaning. Their wiry double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and shedding.
These small dogs have a tendency to dig, which can lead to muddy paws and messy floors. Their bearded faces often collect food and water, creating additional cleaning challenges.
Scotties are prone to tracking dirt and debris into the house due to their low-set bodies and long fur. Regular bathing is necessary to keep their coat clean and free from odors.
Their stubborn nature can make housebreaking difficult, potentially resulting in accidents that require thorough cleaning. Scottish Terriers also have a high prey drive, which may lead to them bringing small animals or dirt into the home.
14. Mastiff
Mastiffs are gentle giants known for their impressive size and lovable nature. These large dogs can weigh up to 230 pounds and stand nearly 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their short, dense coat sheds moderately throughout the year. Mastiffs require regular brushing to keep loose hair under control and maintain a tidy appearance.
Drooling is a common trait in Mastiffs, which can lead to messy floors and furniture. Their substantial size means they track in more dirt and debris from outdoors.
Mastiffs are not particularly active indoors, but their sheer size can inadvertently knock over objects. Their powerful tails can also clear coffee tables with a single wag.
Regular cleaning is necessary to manage the hair, drool, and dirt associated with these massive canines. While Mastiffs are loving companions, they may not be ideal for those who prefer a spotless home.
15. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are known for their distinctive appearance and regal bearing. Their long, thick double coat requires significant grooming to maintain its luxurious appearance.
These small dogs shed profusely, leaving hair on furniture, carpets, and clothing. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent matting and reduce loose hair in the home.
Pekingese are prone to eye discharge, which can stain their facial fur and surrounding surfaces. Regular cleaning of their facial folds is essential to prevent skin irritation and odor.
Their flat faces make them susceptible to drooling, adding another cleaning challenge for owners. Pekingese may also track dirt and debris into the house due to their low-hanging coats.
While charming companions, Pekingese dogs demand consistent cleaning efforts to keep living spaces tidy and hygienic.
16. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are majestic dogs known for their impressive size and thick, luxurious coats. These large canines shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes, which can lead to fur covering furniture, floors, and clothing.
Their dense double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Without proper grooming, loose fur can accumulate quickly in the home.
Tibetan Mastiffs have a tendency to drool, particularly after eating or drinking. This can result in saliva spots on floors, walls, and furniture, adding to cleaning challenges.
These dogs are not typically indoor-only pets due to their size and exercise needs. When they come inside, they may track dirt, mud, or debris on their large paws, necessitating frequent floor cleaning.
Their independent nature can make training challenging, potentially leading to behavioral issues that create additional messes. Regular vacuuming and dusting are essential for maintaining a clean home with a Tibetan Mastiff.
17. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are adorable companions, but they can be challenging for those who dislike cleaning. These dogs have long, silky coats that require frequent grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Cavaliers shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Their fur easily clings to furniture, carpets, and clothing, necessitating regular vacuuming and lint rolling.
These spaniels are prone to drooling, especially after eating or drinking. This habit can leave wet spots on floors and furniture, requiring quick clean-ups to maintain a tidy home.
Cavaliers are also known for their love of outdoor activities. They often track in dirt, mud, and debris on their paws and long fur, which can quickly spread throughout the house.
18. Havanese
Havanese dogs are known for their long, silky coats that require regular grooming. These small, sturdy canines shed minimally but need frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangles.
Their fur can easily trap dirt, debris, and outdoor allergens, bringing them into the home. Havanese also tend to have tear stains around their eyes, which may require daily cleaning to maintain hygiene.
These playful pups love to romp and play, potentially tracking in mud or dirt from outdoor adventures. Their long coat can also pick up and distribute loose hair and dander throughout the house.
Regular baths are necessary to keep a Havanese clean and fresh-smelling. Owners may need to trim the hair around their paws to reduce the amount of dirt brought indoors.
19. Dachshund
Dachshunds, known for their long bodies and short legs, can be challenging for those who dislike cleaning. These small dogs shed moderately throughout the year, leaving fur on furniture and floors.
Dachshunds are prone to drooling, especially after eating or drinking. This can result in wet spots on surfaces around the home, requiring frequent wiping.
Their low-hanging bodies make them susceptible to picking up dirt, debris, and moisture during outdoor activities. This often leads to muddy paw prints and damp fur being brought indoors.
Dachshunds can be stubborn and difficult to housebreak, potentially leading to indoor accidents. This may necessitate more frequent carpet and floor cleaning.
Their floppy ears are prone to infections, which can cause odors and require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene. This adds to the overall cleaning responsibilities for Dachshund owners.
20. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are beloved companions known for their charming personalities and adorable bat-like ears. However, they can present challenges for those who dislike frequent cleaning.
These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding periods occurring seasonally. Their short, fine hair can easily become embedded in carpets and upholstery.
French Bulldogs are prone to drooling, especially after eating or drinking. This can lead to wet spots on furniture and floors that require regular wiping.
Their wrinkled faces need daily cleaning to prevent skin infections and unpleasant odors. The folds can trap moisture, food particles, and debris, necessitating careful attention.
French Bulldogs may also experience flatulence, which can contribute to household odors. Regular grooming and a proper diet can help minimize these issues, but they still require consistent maintenance.
Grooming Needs
Some dog breeds require extensive grooming routines, while others are relatively low-maintenance. Shedding, coat type, and health considerations all factor into a breed’s grooming requirements.
High-Maintenance Breeds
Poodles top the list of high-maintenance breeds. Their curly, non-shedding coat needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Without proper care, their fur can quickly become matted and tangled.
Cocker Spaniels also demand significant grooming attention. Their long, silky coats require daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Regular trims, especially around the ears and paws, are essential to keep them looking neat.
Huskies and German Shepherds are notorious shedders. They “blow” their undercoats twice a year, resulting in massive fur loss. Daily brushing is crucial during shedding seasons to manage loose fur and prevent it from covering furniture and floors.
Popular Low-Shedding Alternatives
Labradoodles have gained popularity as a low-shedding alternative to traditional retrievers. Their coats can vary but generally require less grooming than purebred poodles. Regular brushing and occasional trims keep them looking tidy.
Maltese dogs have long, silky coats that don’t shed much. Daily brushing prevents tangles, and regular baths keep their white fur clean. Many owners opt for short “puppy cuts” to simplify maintenance.
Basenji dogs are known for their short, fine coats that shed minimally. They groom themselves like cats, reducing the need for frequent baths. A quick weekly brush is usually sufficient to keep their coats healthy and shiny.
Household Impact
Certain dog breeds can significantly affect home cleanliness and maintenance. Their impact extends beyond just shedding, encompassing various aspects of household management.
Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners
Regular grooming is essential for managing dog-related messes. Brush your dog’s coat frequently to reduce shedding and minimize loose fur around the house.
Use lint rollers on furniture and clothing to quickly remove pet hair. Vacuum carpets and upholstery at least twice a week, focusing on areas where your dog spends the most time.
Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair removal. These often come with specialized attachments for tackling fur on various surfaces.
Place washable mats near doors to catch muddy paws before they enter the house. Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after walks to prevent tracking dirt indoors.
Managing Pet Odors
Bathe your dog regularly using pet-safe shampoos to control body odors. The frequency depends on the breed and activity level of your dog.
Clean your dog’s bedding weekly to prevent odor buildup. Use enzymatic cleaners on accidents to break down odor-causing proteins.
Place air purifiers in rooms where your dog spends the most time. These devices can help filter out pet dander and reduce odors.
Deodorize carpets and upholstery by sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming. This natural odor absorber can help neutralize pet smells.
Consider using scented candles or essential oil diffusers to maintain a fresh-smelling home. Choose pet-safe options to ensure your dog’s health and comfort.
