While looking for dogs who don't shed may having you barking up the wrong tree (since all dogs with fur shed at least a little), you might try your luck with a short haired dog that requires minimal grooming. These dogs are all low maintenance when it comes to brushing.
20 Amazing Short-Haired Dog Breeds [Low Grooming Needs]
With long hair comes a long list of responsibilities. Dogs with flowing mane look beautiful, but much like human hair, long doggie fur needs constant care. If you are someone who cannot spare the time or effort to brush your dog’s coat regularly, then it’s borderline cruelty to get a long-haired breed.
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to short-haired dog breeds that need little to no grooming on a regular basis. Giving a dog a home is a wonderful experience. However, if you have ever had to sit down with one and brush out fur balls the size of tennis balls,, you are already familiar with the required grooming effort. This is why the most common concern when getting a new dog is “how often do they need to be groomed?” Well, it depends on the length of your dog’s fur. For example, a short hair small dog would need much less grooming time compared to a large dog with thick and long hair. Short hair small dogs also need less food and can comfortably live in small apartments. For pet parents worried about long brushing sessions, here are some breeds of short hair dogs that can go for extended periods of time without the touch of a brush.
This tiny, wispy breed is known for being calm, timid, and very easy to get along with. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making this breed a good choice for anyone looking for a great companion but not a lot of work. One thing to note about this breed: be careful when handling them, as their frail bodies make them prone to injury.
Demeanor: Timid and Caring
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 1 to 15 lbs
A quintessentially American breed, the Boston Terrier makes for a perfect companion in nearly any setting. Great with kids, these dogs love to play for hours and never get rough. Sturdily built for a tiny dog, these low-maintenance pups are ideal for a growing family.
Demeanor: Loyal and Fun-Loving
Life Span: 13 to 14 years
Level of Energy: Medium
Weight: 10 to 25 lbs
A small dog in stature, this breed is nothing if not spirited and courageous. They are highly energetic, requiring a large amount of exercise and attention for optimal development. Thankfully, because of their petite size, exercise can be provided in the confines of your living room. With their short coat and minimal need for grooming, this breed is great for someone looking for a big dog personality without having big dog space.
Demeanor: Curious and Active
Life Span: 13 to 14 years
Level of Energy: Very High
Weight: 8 to 10 lbs
This long-time hunting dog has a short, low-maintenance coat that makes them a clear choice for those averse to grooming but who wants an energetic pup that will fall in line with the family/pack paradigm.
Demeanor: Friendly and Vocal
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 35 to 45 lbs
The firehouse favorite, Dalmatians, have a short, durable coat that won’t leave remnants all over your couch. While not a great first-time-pet-parent dog, the Dalmatian is a sure fit in a home with some dedicated adults.
Demeanor: Active and Jolly
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 40 to 60 lbs
Basically, a shrunken down Greyhound, this breed has a sheer coat that only needs brushing on the odd occasion, making them some of the most low-maintenance dogs around. Just be careful when playing, as their slender frame is easily injured.
Demeanor: Kind and Loyal
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
Level of Energy: Medium
Weight: 20 to 40 lbs
The father of some of our favorite breeds, the German Pinscher is a smart, playful, and exceptionally loyal breed. Great for a growing family, this dog needs ample exercise and space to run, but as far as grooming is concerned, they couldn’t care less.
Demeanor: Courageous and Active
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 25 to 35 lbs
A playful, well-tempered, loving dog, the Basenji is best suited in a home without little children or small pets, but they are quite an amicable breed. Thanks to a short, sturdy coat, the Basenji only needs to be brushed on rare occasions, making them a fur hater's dream come true.
Demeanor: Smart and Observant
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 20 to 24 lbs
This live-wire of a breed is known for its boundless energy and friendly demeanor, especially toward kids. While they don’t always gel with other pets, the Kelpie makes for a great family pet, especially for those that don’t have time for routine brushings.
Demeanor: Hard-Working and Clever
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
Level of Energy: Very High
Weight: 31 to 46 lbs
A kind and playful companion, this breed is great in a family setting, as they can switch between being playful with the kids or just sitting by your feet as you crack open a good book. And with an easily manageable short coat, this dog takes little effort to keep them looking handsome as ever.
Demeanor: Courageous and Devoted
Life Span: 10 to 13 Years
Level of Energy: Very High
Weight: 55 to 90 lbs
An ancient hunting breed, this dog is a natural fit as a companion dog. Highly trainable, smart, and compassionate, if you take the time to train this dog, you are sure to get a high return on your investment. And with minimal grooming required, this breed is sure to make you and your furniture quite happy.
Demeanor: Hunts Instinctively and Loving
Life Span: 10 to 14 years
Level of Energy: Medium
Weight: 45 to 65 lbs
Known for their boundless energy and friendly demeanor, this breed is a naturally independent breed, making them somewhat tough to train but totally worth the effort. Their short, lustrous coat requires only the occasional once over with the brush, making them simple to keep looking fancy.
Demeanor: Free-Spirited and Caring
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
Level of Energy: High
Weight: 55 to 75 lbs
Known for their flat faces and their loving disposition, Boxers are a great family dog, as they are extremely patient with even the youngest of children and cooperative with other pets. Thanks to their easily manageable coat, these dogs are great for people that don’t have time for weekly grooming sessions.
Demeanor: Caring and Playful
Life Span: 11 to 13 years
Level of Energy: Very High
Weight: 50 to 80 lbs
Bred for their heightened ability to sniff out and hunt down raccoons, this dog is a natural hunting companion. A smart, loyal, and friendly dog, they are best in a house with strong-willed adults, as they can be a little bit rough around the edges. And with their low-maintenance coats, this breed is definitely made to work.
Demeanor: Docile and Easy-Going
Life Span: 11 to 12 years
Level of Energy: Low
Weight: 55 to 75 lbs
This mammoth breed is known for being a superb guard dog but can also double as the biggest softies, being very even-tempered and calm with children and other pets. Trained properly, this breed is loyal, friendly, and easy to groom.
Demeanor: Brave and Strong-Willed
Life Span: 8 to 12 years
Level of Energy: Low
Weight: 80 to 135lbs
Originally a hunting dog, this breed is calm, kind, and obedient. Not always the best with small kids or pets, these dogs have some ingrained hunting traits that make them prone to rough play. However, with some training, these dogs are ideal for a couple without kids, especially if they don’t have time for routine brushing.
Demeanor: Serial Sniffer and Loving
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Level of Energy: Medium
Weight: 70 to 85 lbs
A descendant of the Mastiffs of Rome, this is a humongous breed that is known for being bright, calm, and protective. A hulking dog, they make for great guards but are fine playing with kids as well. And with their short coat, the only grooming this dog is going to need is the occasional de-scrubbing of their meaty jowls.
Demeanor: Easy-Going and Strong-Willed
Life Span: 8 to 10 years
Level of Energy: Low
Weight: 110 to 150 lbs
Tipping the scales at around 200 pounds, this gentle giant is known for having a calm demeanor, except toward unwanted intruders, in which case they can chase them off with the best of ‘em. Great with kids, these dogs make awesome family pets, and because of their sheer coats, they only need to be brushed out occasionally.
Demeanor: Gentle and Calm
Life Span: 9 to 11 years
Level of Energy: Very Low
Weight: 175 to 190 lbs
Easily the largest domestic breed, this dog is known for being exceptionally easy going, but should still be trained early, as the sheer size of them is cause enough for some precaution. They are great with kids and other pets, and because of their short fur, they only need to be brushed once in a blue moon -- which is good since there is so much of them to brush!
Demeanor: Well-Behaved and Reliable
Life Span: 7 to 9 years
Level of Energy: Low
Weight: 110 to 180 lbs
The quintessential scenthound, this breed is known as the ultimate hunting companion for its keen nose. They are also great with kids, to the point where children might need to be watched to make sure they aren’t being too rough. While they are laid back, they are also tricky to train, as getting them to do anything is a chore -- but at least you won’t have to worry about routine brushing, as their short fur is as low maintenance as it comes.
Demeanor: Peace-Loving and Independent
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Level of Energy: Medium
Weight: 80 to 110 lbs
The Dog Breeds that are Perfect for Hot Weather
Summer's arrival could bring you cheer, but the warm weather and harsh Sun could get unbearable for dogs. Most dogs have a rich coat of fur insulating them, which adds to the warmth they feel in Summer. Dog parents usually take their dogs for a fur trim at the dog parlor, to keep their body temperature under control. Of course, there are ways you can help keep your dog fresh in warm weather. But why subject them to an environment they are not suited for? Some dog breeds are more capable of handling heat and scorch than others. If you happen to live in an area that has a tropical climate for the majority of the year, pick a canine companion from the breeds listed below.
Dog breeds that adjust well to heat
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American Water Spaniel – The American Water Spaniel sports a wavy coat with curls which saves them from experiencing heat from the direct rays falling from the Sun. You can trust this Spaniel not to mind warm weather. It also needs the right amount of exercise and will love the chance to accompany you outdoors.
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Chihuahua – The Chihuahua originates from Mexico. Mexico has a warm climate, and your Chihuahua won't mind Summers as much as some other dog breeds will. You can safely shelter a Chihuahua in a small space without having to worry about posing any harm to their health or temperament.
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Dalmation – Dalmations are so comfortable in heat that they often find pride in place in firefighting squads. The dog breed has a slim physique, short coat, and long snout – all physical characteristics which enable it to withstand heat and warmth. The Dalmatian dog breed also traces its origin back to Dalmatia, a region in the Mediterranean, which is well known for its warm temperatures.
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German Short-haired Pointer – The German Short-haired Pointer is another dog breed with a short coat and long snout, allowing it to cool off when the weather gets too hot. Their jacket also happens to be water-resistant, which means they love themselves an occasional swim. If you want a swimming companion during the Summer, the German Short-haired Pointer will be more than happy to accompany you. Pointers also thrive on exercise and physical activity, so you won't have to think twice before taking it out, along with you, on a walk in the park.
Not all dogs hate the Sun. Some dog breeds would like to spend as much time as possible in the shade, away from the Sun's glare. However, there are dog breeds that would enjoy nothing more than to frolic and play when the Sun is shining. Our list should help you learn about dog breeds that won't mind hot weather, so you can choose a pet that will equally enjoy summer's day by your side.
Top 5 Short Hair Breed Dogs that Make the Perfect Pets
Are you and your family eager to adopt a dog? Do you want a pooch who won’t put fur on your furniture? If so, a short-haired dog breed is your best choice, particularly for busy families and city dwellers.
Unlike their long fur friends, most short-haired dog breeds require a gentle brushing once a week. This is enough to minimize shedding and remove loose hairs. Some short-haired breeds are also hypoallergenic, making them an ideal choice for allergy sufferers.
In addition to their short grooming time, short-haired small dogs require less food than a typical long haired dog. They are also quite comfortable in small apartments.
If you and your family are excited to adopt a dog that doesn’t require too much grooming, consider welcoming any of the following five short hair dog breeds:
1. Boston Terrier
This is a classic American dog breed. The Boston Terrier is the perfect pet for all families. It’s great with children as they like long play hours and don’t get rough or out of control. Terriers are low-maintenance pooches that have a fun-loving and loyal nature. They have a lifespan of up to 14 years and can weigh up to 25 pounds. They’re the ideal pet for a young family.
2. Boxer
Boxers are instantly recognizable from their flat faces. These beautiful dogs have a loving, playful, and caring disposition. Boxers are also very patient and cooperative, which is ideal if you have small children or other pets in the home. They have an easy-to-manage coat, so if you don’t have time for long grooming sessions, a Boxer is a perfect pet for you. This dog breed has a lifespan of up to 13 years and has a high energy level. It can weigh up to 80 pounds.
3. Basenji
Basenji is a loving and well-tempered dog. They’re also very observant and intelligent. This dog has an extremely high energy level and is well suited to a home without small pets or young children. This amicable breed has a sturdy, short coat that needs brushing on rare occasions. Basenjis have a lifespan of up to 14 years and can weigh nearly 24 pounds.
4. Dalmatian
Made famous by the movie 101 Dalmatians, this jolly and active dog breed is perfect for the home with active adults. It has a durable and short fur coat, which will not leave remnants on your sofa set. Dalmatians have very high energy levels and can live up to 14 years.
5. Miniature Pinscher
If you’re looking for a pooch with high spirits and energy, then the Miniature Pinscher is your best option. Known for its larger-than-life personality and courage, this dog requires lots of attention and exercise for optimal development. Due to its small size, this can be easily provided in an apartment. They have short coat that requires minimal grooming. Pinschers are also very active and curious and can live up to 14 years, reaching nearly 10 pounds. Any of these short-haired dog breeds will make the perfect addition to your family.
Grooming short-haired dogs
Grooming a short-haired dog is fairly straightforward, but it's important to follow the above steps regularly.
Comb your dog frequently
You can use a fine-toothed comb to remove dead hair from your dog's coat. Comb their coat through at least once per day and more often if they are shedding or when you notice that their fur is matted. You can also use a wide-toothed comb to remove dead hair from the coat in between visits to the groomer or vet.
Clean their ears
In addition to cleaning their ears regularly, it's also important to check them. Ear infections are common in dogs with short hair, and they can be difficult to treat. Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to clean the inside and outside of the ear. Be sure to remove any excess hair from the ear canal as well. Avoid pushing too hard in the ear canal, since you don't want to damage your dog's eardrum or cause him unnecessary pain. If you have an extra dollar or two left over (after purchasing all of your other grooming supplies), consider investing in a dog ear cleaning solution that will make this process easier on both of you!
Brush their teeth
It's important to brush your dog's teeth regularly, and the best method is to use a toothbrush made specifically for dogs. You can get one at any pet store or online, and they're really easy to use. Just be sure to find one that fits comfortably in your hand. The toothbrush should be used at least once a week; this may seem like a lot of work, but it'll pay off in the long run!
There are many brands of dog toothpastes that are specially formulated for oral health. We recommend Dentley's Natural Dog Toothpaste because it tastes great (and comes with its own training aid), but you can also try out some other varieties from our friends at Petco:
Check for ticks
You can check for ticks by combing through your dog's fur with a brush or fine-toothed flea comb. Ticks are usually black, and about the size of a pinhead, so you may have to look quite closely.
If you find one, remove it from your dog as quickly as possible with tweezers or tick removal tools designed for use on dogs. Don't crush the tick; in order to successfully pull them off without harming your dog, they must be gently removed headfirst. It's also important that you do not touch any part of the body except where it attaches itself to your pup's skin. The mouthparts that pierce into an animal's body can transmit diseases.
Nails should be trimmed
Trimming nails is a quick and easy way to keep your dog’s paws smooth and clean. You can trim the nails yourself, but it’s safest to have a professional groomer do this for you. Nail clippers are different from human nail clippers because they have an adjustable opening that allows them to accommodate the size of your dog’s nails.
Some dogs have soft, thin nails that grow quickly with little effort on their part. Other dogs may have thick or brittle nails that require regular care, so they don't break easily. Shih Tzus and other breeds with long hair around their feet can get mats in between their toes that can become infected if left untreated. This is another reason why regular nail grooming is important! If you're unsure about how long your dog's nails should be, talk with someone at a local pet store or animal hospital for advice on what type of clipper works best for your furry friend's paws!
Bathe your dog as needed
Bathing your dog is a necessary part of grooming. Dogs should be bathed regularly, but they shouldn't smell bad. Use warm water, not hot or cold, and make sure to use a shampoo formulated for dogs. Special attention should be paid to the length of your dog's hair since it will take longer to dry than its short-haired counterparts. No matter what type of coat your pooch has, don't forget about their paws! It's important that you thoroughly rinse out those feet so that no traces of soap are left behind (this can cause irritation). Once you're done rinsing all around his body, use a towel to dry off as much excess water as possible before putting him into some cozy clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dog needs the least amount of grooming?
There is no one dog breed that requires the least amount of grooming for all dogs, as the amount of grooming a dog needs can vary depending on several factors, such as the dog's coat type, length, and density. However, there are some breeds that are known to have low-maintenance coats and thus require less grooming than others. Some examples of such breeds include Basset Hound, Beagle, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Greyhound, Pit Bull, and Whippet. Keep in mind that even low-maintenance breeds still require regular brushing to remove loose fur and maintain a healthy coat. Additionally, all dogs need to have their nails trimmed, their ears cleaned, and their teeth brushed on a regular basis, regardless of their coat type.
What short-haired dog sheds the least?
There are several dog breeds with short hair that shed minimally. Poodles are well-known for their low-shedding coats and hypoallergenic properties, making them a great choice for people with allergies. Bichon Frise is a cheerful, small breed that has a dense, curly coat that is hypoallergenic and sheds very little. Maltese is another small breed with a silky, hypoallergenic coat that sheds minimally. Despite their long hair, Yorkshire Terriers are considered a low-shedding breed thanks to their fine, silky coat that rarely sheds. Shih Tzu has a long, silky coat that is low-shedding, although regular grooming is required to keep the coat in good condition. Every dog is unique and may shed differently, even within the same breed. Additionally, the amount a dog sheds can be influenced by factors such as diet, health, and stress levels.
What small dogs don't need grooming?
There are several small dog breeds that have low-maintenance coats that don't require a lot of grooming. Chihuahuas have a smooth, short coat that is easy to care for and sheds minimally. They require only occasional brushing and bathing. The Boston Terrier has a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for and requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for and sheds minimally. They don't require frequent grooming beyond occasional brushing and bathing. Pugs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming and only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. The French Bulldog has a short, smooth coat that is low-maintenance and requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Remember that even breeds with low-maintenance coats may still benefit from regular grooming, such as bathing and nail trims, to keep their skin and coat healthy. Additionally, some individual dogs may have unique grooming needs, so it's always best to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice.
What is the easiest low-maintenance dog?
The easiest low-maintenance dog is subjective and depends on a variety of factors, including your lifestyle, level of energy, and ability to provide care. However, there are some dog breeds that are generally considered low-maintenance and are well-suited for people with busy lifestyles. Bulldogs are a low-energy breed that is known for their relaxed and affectionate nature. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance option. Basset Hounds are a low-energy breed that is known for their friendly and easy-going nature. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, and they don't require a lot of exercise. Greyhounds are a low-energy breed that is known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, and they are typically content to relax at home. Shih Tzus are a low-energy breed that is known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They have a long, silky coat that requires minimal grooming, but regular brushing is necessary to keep it in good condition. Poodles are a low-energy breed that is known for their intelligent and playful nature. They have a hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming, but they don't need a lot of exercise. Remember, every dog is unique, and their individual energy levels and grooming needs may vary, so it's important to consider the specific needs of a dog before making a decision.
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