Let’s be real — as much as we love dogs, no one dreams of their home smelling like a wet fur factory. We want the tail wags, the snuggles, and the companionship… just without the eau de “dog” wafting through the living room.
Certain dog breeds tend to have a stronger odor because they produce more natural oils in their skin. But good news: some dog breeds are as fresh as morning linen — naturally low-odor and low-maintenance in the smell department. Breeds that generate less oil are generally known to be cleaner-smelling or nearly odorless.
These breeds don’t need constant baths or fancy sprays to stay clean. Their skin and coats just don’t trap that signature “doggy smell,” making them ideal for sensitive noses, tidy homes, and anyone who prefers their pets cuddly but not musty.
Here, we’ll sniff out the best dog breeds that are clean, hygienic, and keep the air as fresh as your vacuumed carpet. Because who even wants a smelly dog?
Dog Breeds That Don’t Produce Odor
1. Basenji
The Basenji is basically the James Bond of the dog world—sleek, silent, and so clean you’d think they were part-time housekeepers.
Originating from Central Africa, these pint-sized hounds are famous for not barking, being independent thinkers, and most impressively, not smelling like a dog. If you’ve ever had a pup that brought the “wet dog” funk inside after five minutes of fresh air, the Basenji is your fragrance-free dream.
Basenjis are known for their ability to jump straight up and for their short, smooth coat paired with a tightly curled tail. Often referred to as the “barkless dog,” they are typically quiet, though they’re known for their unique vocalization known as the “Basenji yodel.”
Why Basenjis Don’t Stink:
✔ No drool, no mess: You won’t find a river of slobber trailing behind this pup.
✔ Low oil glands: Their skin produces less oil, which means fewer odors stick around.
✔ Self-grooming obsession: These dogs clean themselves like they’re prepping for a royal inspection.
✔ Bathtime? Rarely needed: They literally do most of the hygiene work for you.
Purina says they’re often described as cat-like, and not just because they clean themselves obsessively. They’re also picky, poised, and way too sophisticated to roll in something gross (unless it’s really interesting).
2. Whippet
The Whippet looks like it just stepped off a runway — slim, elegant, and built for speed. But here’s a secret: they don’t just sprint fast, they stay fresh fast, too.
Originating in Northern England, Whippets have been depicted in artwork since the Middle Ages and, by the 2000s, had become one of the most popular dog breeds.
Whippets look like miniature Greyhounds, a result of breeding the larger sprinters with smaller terriers. These athletic and spirited dogs can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour and love to release their energy in short, fast bursts.
Plus, these gentle, affectionate sprinters prefer lounging on the couch as much as chasing squirrels, which means less stinky workout funk to deal with.
Why Whippets Don’t Stink:
✔ Short, fine coat: Less hair means less chance for odors to hang around.
✔ Minimal skin oils: Their skin produces fewer oils that cause that “dog smell.”
✔ Low maintenance: Whippets rarely need baths and are naturally clean.
Thanks to their short, smooth coat and low body oils, Whippets are practically odor-free. They don’t hold onto that classic “dog smell,” no matter how many zoomies they do around the park.
3. Poodle
When it comes to staying fresh, Poodles are the royalty of the dog world. The Poodle is a dog breed believed to have originated in Germany, though it is strongly linked to France, where it enjoys immense popularity.
Poodles are exceptionally versatile and enthusiastic participants in a wide range of dog sports. They excel in activities like agility, obedience, dock diving, swimming, tracking, scent work, barn hunts, and even waterfowl hunting and retrieving.
Poodles combine brains, elegance, and hypoallergenic fur, making them perfect for those who want style and scent control rolled into one smart package.
Why Poodles Don’t Stink:
✔ Regular grooming: Keeps their coat clean, neat, and odor-free.
✔ Low shedding: Less loose hair means less dander and fewer smells.
As per Britannica, their intelligence and trainability also make them excellent service dogs. Their curly, dense coats don’t shed much, which means less dander—and that means less doggy odor.
With a little daily brushing and a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks, these pups are basically walking air fresheners.
4. Italian Greyhound
Meet the Italian Greyhound—a tiny aristocrat in the dog world who’s as sleek as a sports car and about as low-maintenance as they come.
Also known as the Italian Sighthound, the Italian Greyhound was originally developed in the Mediterranean region, primarily as a companion for the upper class. It is the smallest member of the sighthound family.
Thanks to their super short, fine coat, these pups barely shed and don’t trap those funky dog smells. Basically, it’s like having a little, odor-free statue of elegance roaming your living room.
Italian Greyhounds may come off as shy or reserved at first, but they tend to be more aloof than aggressive when meeting strangers. They are athletic, agile, and intelligent, though their stubborn streak can make house training a bit challenging.
Why Italian Greyhounds Don’t Stink:
✔ Short, fine coat: Minimal hair means minimal odor-hiding space.
✔ Low grooming needs: No constant brushing or scrubbing required.
✔ Minimal shedding: Less hair floating around, less smell hanging around.
WebMD says these dogs enjoy warm weather and love lounging or playing in the sun. However, during very hot days, they can be prone to dehydration and heatstroke, so caution is needed.
Italian Greyhounds don’t need much brushing or grooming, which makes them perfect for folks who want a low-effort, high-style companion that won’t leave your house smelling like a wet dog convention.
5. Maltese
The Maltese is a pint-sized cloud of pure joy—and odor-free bliss. This breed sports a long, silky coat, but don’t let that fool you!
Originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, Maltese dogs have been cherished companions for centuries, with mentions of the breed appearing in ancient Greek and Roman texts.
Today, these small white dogs are known for their adaptability and affectionate nature. Their silky white coat often earns them the reputation of being “hypoallergenic,” though no dog is completely free of allergens.
Maltese form strong attachments to their families and prefer constant companionship, often experiencing separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Maltese are natural lap dogs and will happily curl up with you, smelling like a fresh bouquet instead of a barnyard.
Why Maltese Don’t Stink:
✔ Silky, hypoallergenic coat: Designed to shed minimally and keep odors at bay.
✔ Regular grooming fans: A quick brush and bath keep their coat looking—and smelling—great.
✔ Skin-friendly oils: Their skin produces less of the oils that cause that “dog smell.”
Because of their small size, Maltese dogs may find the high energy of young children a bit overwhelming, but they tend to do well in families with older, more gentle kids.
With the right regular grooming and baths, Maltese dogs stay surprisingly fresh. Plus, they shed very little, meaning fewer stray hairs and less chance for doggy funk to sneak in.
6. Portuguese Water Dog
If you want a dog that’s ready to dive into adventure but won’t bring the funk back home, the Portuguese Water Dog is your go-to.
Portuguese Water Dog is an excellent swimmer, originally bred to assist fishermen along Portugal’s coasts. These fluffy, friendly dogs—with their teddy bear-like faces—are ideal companions for active owners who can keep up with their energetic lifestyle.
Known for their curly, non-shedding coat, these pups keep dander—and doggy odor—on a tight leash. Of course, if they’ve just rocked a muddy splash zone or a rainy day romp, you might notice a little “wet dog” aroma, but a good brush and bath quickly bring back that fresh, ocean-breeze vibe.
Why Portuguese Water Dogs Don’t Stink:
✔ Non-shedding coat: Less fur flying around means less odor buildup.
✔ Regular grooming buffs: Frequent brushing keeps their curls fresh and odorless.
✔ Natural water lovers: Their coat repels dirt and debris better than most.
Their coat needs regular brushing and occasional de-shedding to stay healthy and smelling clean, but with a little effort, these water-loving buddies can stay odor-free year-round.
Portuguese Water Dogs thrive when given tasks—whether it’s mastering new tricks, agility training, or playing fetch with balls and Frisbees—to stay content and engaged. Athletic and intelligent, they’re perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, walking, and swimming.
7. Havanese
The Havanese, once called the Havana Silk Dog or the Spanish Silk Poodle, is the only dog breed native to Cuba. Fully grown, these small dogs stand just under one foot.
The Havanese is a small, fluffy bundle of joy who loves people and playtime but not the stink that sometimes comes with it. They generally don’t develop odors unless they’ve had a long day of outdoor fun or a surprise rain shower.
Havanese dogs are affectionate and smart, with lively personalities. When properly socialized, supervised, and trained from a young age, they typically get along well with children and other dogs. They can be good watchdogs but might bark too much if they aren’t trained properly.
Why Havanese Don’t Stink:
✔ Moderate grooming needs: Regular baths keep them fresh without over-washing.
✔ Minimal odor buildup: They don’t naturally get that “dog smell” hanging around.
✔ Social snuggler: Loves human company and fresh laundry vibes.
With regular baths—weekly for the active and every few months for the more relaxed—these pups keep smelling like sunshine and happiness. A little grooming TLC goes a long way in keeping your Havanese looking and smelling their best.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
Don’t be fooled by their small size—Yorkies bring a whole lot of charm and a surprisingly low-maintenance scent profile. Yorkshire Terriers are among the smallest dog breeds and are often classified as toy dogs in competitions.
Originally bred as lap dogs, Yorkies can be slow to warm up to other pets. Their loyalty sometimes makes them a bit possessive, especially around other animals. However, with gradual exposure, they usually adapt well to new pets.
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Yorkies lack an undercoat and shed very little, making them a good choice for people with mild dog allergies.
With their silky, fine hair that’s more like human locks than typical fur, Yorkshire Terriers shed very little, meaning they hold onto far less of that classic “doggy odor.”
Why Yorkshire Terriers Don’t Stink:
✔ Human-like hair: Minimal shedding reduces dander and odor buildup.
✔ Consistent grooming: Keeps their coat soft, shiny, and smelling great.
✔ Small but mighty: Less surface area means less opportunity for odors to linger.
Two short walks a day, combined with occasional playtime, usually provide enough exercise to use up their energy. Obedience and agility training are also excellent activities that keep them fit and engaged.
Regular brushing and grooming keep their coats shiny and smelling sweet, making them perfect companions for city dwellers and anyone who wants a pup that’s as fresh as they are fashionable.
9. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a fluffy, cheerful dog that practically glows with freshness—if you keep up with their grooming. Adult Bichon Frises are famous for their fluffy, white coats, though puppies may sometimes show hints of colors like grey, buff, or apricot.
These dogs don’t shed much, which is great for allergy sufferers and odor control. However, skipping their twice- or thrice-weekly brushing can lead to matting—and that’s when odors start creeping in.
Why Bichon Frises Don’t Stink:
✔ Low shedding, high grooming: Regular brushing keeps mats and odors away.
✔ Health checks: Ear, skin, and dental care prevent hidden stinky issues.
✔ Allergy-friendly: Their coat traps less dander and odor than many other breeds.
This breed is prone to separation anxiety and doesn’t do well when left alone for long stretches. They thrive best in homes where someone is around most of the day.
PetPlan noted Bichon Frises can be quite vocal, so early training and socialization are important. Their curly coats shed less than many other breeds, making them a better option for some allergy sufferers.
What to Do to Prevent Dog Smell and Odors
✔ Give your dog frequent baths using a mild, dog-specific shampoo. Brush their coat regularly to remove dirt, loose fur, and prevent matting that can trap odors.
✔ Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and any fabrics they frequently use often to eliminate trapped smells.
✔ Brush your dog’s teeth regularly to prevent bad breath, which can contribute to overall odor.
✔ Regularly inspect your dog’s skin for infections, hot spots, or allergies that can cause odors and seek vet care if needed.
✔ Clean your dog’s ears regularly, as ear infections can produce strong dog odors.
✔ Feed your dog a balanced diet. Sometimes, food allergies or poor nutrition can lead to skin problems and odors.
Conclusion
For dog owners looking to avoid the dreaded wet dog smell and persistent body odor, certain smell-free breeds like the Kerry Blue Terrier, West Highland Terrier, Schnauzer, and Coton de Tulear stand out. These dogs typically have less oily fur, fewer skin folds, and are only moderate shedders, making them easier to keep fresh with minimal effort and daily grooming.
Even compact breeds like the Chihuahua help most owners steer clear of unpleasant odors—unless they roll in mud, of course. With regular professional grooming and brushing to avoid tangles, these breeds stay cleaner and more pleasant to live with.
