Autism

Interesting... Maybe we don't see the same things as "work"? Very anecdotal, but my experience with 5 cats and 2 dogs since I was a kid is telling me otherwise. The way I describe dogs to anyone who asks is "eternal toddler". Even the most mature and independent dog requires daily attention, one way or another. I've yet to see a dog you can leave alone for couple of days with some food, water and a clean litter box without stressing out if they'll be fine like I've seem most cats do without breaking a sweat. The yard, you have to get them out there and back in or they'll shit on the floor at some point. The food, you need to ration, or they overeat. You see what I mean?

As for grooming, it's IMHO pretty similar, for similar fur types and sizes - short haired cat for short hair small dog, for example. The second it's bigger than a Shih-Tzu, cleaning their hair becomes a sport. Unless you want to ruin your flooring, dogs need their nails clipped very regularly. Short haired dogs also shed surprisingly abundantly, so you'll typically want to brush them often too. Their teeth need brushing, as well.

Agreed though, there's a wide variance, larger than most people tends to give them credit for, personality-wise, from one pet to another.

The work aspect can be greatly diminished if you pair a dog with a large constrictor.