Have you ever shared a moment of joy with your furry friend, only to find an unexpected wet patch on your lap? While many dog lovers accept drool as part of the package, others prefer a cleaner, drier companionship. Fortunately, some breeds are naturally low-droolers, making them ideal for those who love dogs but not the mess.
Whether you’re a neat freak, allergic to excessive saliva, or just want to keep your furniture slobber-free, choosing a non-drooling dog breed can make pet ownership even more enjoyable. From small lap dogs to sturdy working breeds, there’s a perfect match for every lifestyle.
If you’re searching for the best dog that won’t leave a trail of drool behind, this guide will introduce you to some of the cleanest and most lovable companions out there. Read on to discover which non-drooling breeds might be the perfect addition to your home.
Non-Drooling Dog Breeds
1. Australian Cattle Dog
According to Britannica, the Australian Cattle Dog is a compact yet muscular breed, known for its intelligence and boundless energy. Often called the Blue or Red Heeler, these hardworking dogs were bred in Australia to herd cattle over vast, rugged terrain. With a striking coat that changes from white at birth to blue-gray or red as they mature, they are as unique in appearance as they are in temperament.
These dogs are incredibly active and thrive when given a job to do. Whether it’s herding livestock, competing in canine sports, or accompanying their owner on long outdoor adventures, the Australian Cattle Dog is happiest when engaged both physically and mentally.
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent and responsive breed that learns quickly, though its natural herding instinct may lead to nipping at animals or people. Naturally wary of strangers, Aussies have a strong guarding instinct and often bark to alert their owners. Additionally, Australian Shepherds are among the non-drooling dog breeds, making them a great choice for owners who prefer a cleaner, low-maintenance pet.
Their high energy levels and strong problem-solving abilities mean they require consistent training and plenty of challenges to prevent boredom-related mischief. Despite their working dog roots, they form deep bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and protective instincts. However, they can be reserved with strangers and require early socialization to become well-adjusted companions. With the right training and environment, they are excellent family pets, especially for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Best of all, their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they are one of the cleanest breeds when it comes to drooling. If you’re looking for an energetic, intelligent dog that won’t leave a slobbery mess, the Australian Cattle Dog might be the perfect fit.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small yet resilient breed that has charmed dog lovers for centuries. With its plush, white coat and lively personality, this breed is as delightful in appearance as it is in temperament.
The Bichon Frise, a small yet lively breed standing under a foot tall and weighing 12–18 pounds, is known for its minimal shedding, making it a popular choice for allergy sufferers. While no dog is completely allergen-free, Bichons produce fewer allergens compared to many other breeds. Their reduced drooling and shedding contribute to their reputation as a hypoallergenic breed, making them a suitable option for individuals seeking a non-drooling dog.
Beyond their pristine coats, Bichons are social butterflies. They adore spending time with their families, getting along well with children and other pets. AKC describes their personalities as curious and playful.
Their playful nature makes them wonderful companions, whether in a bustling household or a quiet apartment. Despite their small size, they have a sturdy build and a lively energy that keeps them active and engaged.
As Bichons are known for their minimal shedding and low drooling, they make them an excellent choice for those who appreciate a clean and tidy pet. Moreover, Bichons thrive in various living environments, including city apartments, as long as they get their daily walks and social interactions. Their friendly and adaptable nature ensures they can easily adjust to new situations and people. For those looking for a cheerful, low-drooling companion, the Bichon Frise is a perfect fit.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, Mexico’s national symbol, is a tiny breed with an outsized personality. As one of the oldest breeds in the Americas, these dogs trace their lineage back to pre-Columbian times, where they were cherished as companion animals.
Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas exude confidence and charm, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their petite size, ranging from 5 to 9 inches in height, makes them well-suited for apartment living.
If you’re searching for a small dog with a big personality that won’t leave a mess, Chihuahuas are a great choice. These tiny yet confident dogs, affectionately known as “Chis,” form strong bonds with their families and are incredibly loyal. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent companions and ideal lap dogs, all without the excessive drooling seen in some other breeds.
While they have relatively low activity needs, they do enjoy short bursts of playtime and daily walks. However, their small bodies can be sensitive to cold weather, requiring extra care during chilly months. Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat lengths and colors, requiring minimal grooming beyond occasional brushing and basic maintenance. Unlike many breeds, they produce little drool, making them a clean and low-maintenance choice for those who prefer a tidy home.
With their lively spirit and affectionate nature, Chihuahuas make excellent companions for dedicated owners. Their smartness and loyalty ensure they thrive in loving households, proving that great things truly do come in small packages.
4. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a tiny yet bold companion with a personality far larger than its size. Known for its fluffy coat and lively spirit, this toy breed is often compared to a miniature lion.
Despite its luxurious fur, the Pomeranian is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, requiring just a few weekly brushings to keep its coat in top shape. Best of all, unlike some breeds with loose jowls, Pomeranians do not drool, making them a great choice for owners who prefer a cleaner pet.
Pomeranians value their independence and prefer walking on their own rather than being carried. Despite their high energy levels, their small size allows them to get sufficient exercise indoors or with short walks. As a bonus, Pomeranians are among the non-drooling dog breeds, making them a cleaner choice for pet owners who prefer minimal mess.
Beyond their adorable appearance, Pomeranians are known for their smart and independent nature, as per PetMD. These small dogs are highly intelligent and eager to learn, making training an enjoyable experience. While they can be quite vocal and alert, their keen awareness makes them excellent watchdogs. Despite their tiny stature, they carry themselves with an air of self-importance, often unaware of their small size.
Perfect for families and singles alike, Pomeranians thrive in various living situations, from city apartments to suburban homes. Their playful disposition ensures they quickly bond with their owners, always eager for attention and engagement. If you’re looking for a low-drool breed that combines charm, intelligence, and a vibrant personality, the Pomeranian is a fantastic choice.
5. Papillon
The Papillon, a small yet spirited breed, is as elegant as it is smart. Named after the French word for “butterfly” due to its distinctively fringed ears, this toy breed is known for its lively personality and boundless energy.
Despite its dainty appearance, the Papillon is highly athletic and excels in agility training and canine sports, making it a fantastic choice for active owners. Known for their friendly nature, they are typically confident rather than nervous and enjoy meeting new people, especially when properly socialized from a young age.
Their clean habits and lack of excessive drooling make them a great choice for those looking for a neat and loving companion, aligning well with non-drooling dog breeds.Beyond its agility, the Papillon is also incredibly smart and eager to learn, quickly mastering tricks and commands with the right guidance.
This breed thrives on attention and companionship, making it an adorable and loyal family pet. However, they require mental and physical stimulation to stay happy, as boredom can lead to mischievous behavior.
One of the best qualities of the Papillon? No drool! Unlike some other small breeds, these dogs have tight lips that prevent excessive salivation, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a cleaner, drier pet. If you’re looking for a playful yet low-maintenance companion, the Papillon is a perfect fit.
6. Border Collie
The Border Collie is the definition of intelligence and agility, bred along the Anglo-Scottish border to herd livestock with unmatched precision. Recognized for their signature “herding eye,” an intense, focused gaze, these dogs are incredibly hardworking and thrive in environments that challenge their minds and bodies. Border Collies are a great choice for owners who prefer a drier canine companion.
Border Collies are highly energetic dogs that thrive on having a task, as they were originally bred for herding. They require at least one to two hours of daily exercise, particularly in their younger years, while older Border Collies with mobility issues may need only about 30 minutes. Despite their high energy levels, they are not known for excessive drooling, making them a suitable choice for those seeking non-drooling dog breeds.
These herding dogs are best suited to active households where they can channel their intelligence into tasks like agility training, obedience work, or even farm duties. Without proper stimulation, they can become restless and develop behavioral issues.
They excel in canine sports and love to have a job to do, making them ideal for experienced dog owners who can meet their need for both physical exercise and mental engagement.
Along with their boundless energy, Border Collies are affectionate to their families. Their medium-length double coat requires regular grooming, but they generally keep themselves quite clean. If you’re looking for a devoted, trainable, and non-drooling dog that can keep up with an active lifestyle, the Border Collie is an excellent choice.
7. Borzoi
The Borzoi, often referred to as the Russian Wolfhound, is an elegant and graceful breed known for its long, silky coat and athletic build. Despite their aristocratic appearance, Borzois are gentle, affectionate companions who thrive in calm environments. One of their most appealing traits is their minimal drooling, making them an excellent choice for owners who prefer a clean and tidy pet.
Originally bred for hunting in Russia, Borzois are sighthounds with incredible speed and keen eyesight. They have an independent yet loyal nature, forming strong bonds with their families while maintaining a dignified demeanor. While they enjoy regular exercise, they are equally content lounging in a comfortable space, making them adaptable to various living situations.
They have a lighthearted side and appreciate low-energy games that match their graceful nature. However, they can be reserved around unfamiliar people, making early socialization essential. Introducing them to different environments and experiences as puppies helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted companions. Their composed and clean nature, along with minimal drooling, makes them an excellent choice for owners seeking a tidy yet affectionate pet.
Their long, narrow heads and refined features contribute to their sophisticated look, while their soft, flowing coats require regular grooming to prevent matting. Fortunately, their lack of excessive drooling ensures they remain a low-maintenance breed in terms of cleanliness.
For those seeking a quiet, affectionate, and non-drooling dog, the Borzoi stands out as an excellent choice. Their calm temperament, combined with their regal appearance and clean habits, makes them a wonderful companion for the right home.
Conclusion
Non-drooling breeds offer all the love and companionship without the perpetual need for a drool rag. While some dogs drool excessively, breeds like the athletic Border Collie, the smartness of a Papillon, or the charming companionship of a Bichon Frise stay remarkably dry. If you admire a breed’s distinctive traits, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are also great family pets. These athletic dog breeds are known for their energy and adaptability to both hot and cold temperatures, making them ideal for various lifestyles.
Choosing a dog is about more than just their drool levels, it’s about finding the right fit for your home and heart. With so many wonderful, low-drool breeds to consider, from those that handle hot and cold temperatures well to highly trainable companions, you can welcome a furry friend into your life without worrying about soggy furniture or wet handshakes. Border Collies thrive with active owners, but which non-drooling breed has stolen your heart?
