Some dogs come with coats that practically showcase “high maintenance”. The fluffy breeds that need constant grooming, professional trims every six weeks, and brushing sessions that seem endless. Beautiful, absolutely, but also exhausting.
But what if you get a dog that barely sheds? With short hair? And no allergy-inducing quality?
GOOD NEWS!! There are short-haired dog breeds.
The dogs with smooth coats, minimal shedding, and grooming needs so low that you will wonder if you are doing something wrong.
These pups are perfect for busy families, allergy sufferers, and people who want to spend time playing fetch and less time removing loose hair from every nook of the house.
Today, we will talk about wonderful dog breeds with naturally short hair.
The dogs that are low-maintenance, easy to care for, and still very lovable.
Fun Fact!
Did you know? Basenji is literally called a “barkless dog”. Instead of barking, they make this weird yodel-like sound like a ‘baroo’. According to American Kennel Club, they have been the oldest of all AKC breeds, probably around since the times of ancient Pharaohs and were used by African hunters.
Ancient, silent and short-haired? What a combo.
Wonderful Dog Breeds With Naturally Short Hair
1. Miniature Pinscher
Bold and confident dogs, who are totally convinced they are bigger than they actually are.
The Miniature Pinscher or “Min Pins” is a small dog breed (looks like a cousin of the German Pinscher) with a sleek and short coat that takes care of itself.
Really. These little firecracker dogs boast a thin coat that lies super close to their skin. It means shedding is minimal and grooming… yeah, barely a thing. But, still, there is some.
You can keep the shedding under control with a quick brush once a week to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy.
You don’t need any fancy grooming tools. Just a gentle brushing session. Maybe some occasional baths. And, you are good to go with your doggy.
And yes, we get that low-maintenance breed vibe!! But, Min Pins have HUGE personalities. These small dogs are fearless, energetic, and always ready to protect their people.
They are ideal pets for people who want a fun-loving dog, but no fur chaos. Plus, that short fur means less vacuuming. Always a win.
2. Rat Terrier
If you want a dog that is smart, scrappy, and stupidly low maintenance, meet the Rat Terrier.
These dogs were bred to hunt rats (hence the name), which means they are quick, alert, and have a solid work ethic.
And their coat type is smooth, short, and incredibly easy to maintain.
As noted by PetMD, they have a dense coat that sheds minimally compared to long-haired breeds. A weekly brushing is enough to remove dead hair and keep their skin healthy.
Mind you!! Their skin is sensitive, and they are prone to allergies, so if you see your Rat Terrier scratching themselves, talk to a vet.
These are also amazing family dogs. They get along great with other pets, love being around people, and adapt well to different living situations.
And because they shed so little, they are a solid choice for people with allergies. They are not completely hypoallergenic dogs, but easy on allergy sufferers than most dogs.
3. Whippet
Sleek and graceful dog. Don’t they look like they were designed by someone who really loved aerodynamics?
Yeah, we thought so!
The Whippet is a dog breed that looks elegant without even trying. Their short coat is smooth and needs almost no grooming. Seriously.
These dogs are about as low-maintenance as it gets.
As noted by Purina, Whippets have a very thin coat with little body fat that is perfect for winter. Also, they have very little undercoat, which means they don’t shed much. A quick brush once or twice a week is plenty to keep their coat looking fresh and to remove any dead hair.
But they need to be brushed regularly to distribute natural oils, as noted by DryDogs.
You don’t even need frequent grooming sessions or trips to a groomer.
Keep in mind! Whippets are crazy fast dogs. They are sighthounds, which means they are bred to chase things at top speed (capable of reaching 35 mph).
So, if you are going to bring one home, just know they will need some good exercise. Long walks, a secure yard, and some solid playtime.
These dogs are super even-tempered and gentle. Great companions for family or people who want chill and elegant dogs that do NOT leave tumbleweeds.
4. Boston Terrier
The “American Gentleman”.
Boston Terriers are friendly, charming, and really goofy dogs.
And that short-haired coat? Chef’s kiss.
Minimal shedding, easy care, and a smooth coat that maintains itself. Mostly, they are a low-maintenance dog breed due to that low shedding coat.
Regular brushing (like once a week) is enough to keep their skin healthy and minimize shedding. Toss in the occasional bath and maybe get their ears cleaned now and then.
They do require regular care, but you need to add minimal effort.
Boston Terriers are also super adaptable dogs. They do well in houses, apartments, with kids, other dogs… pretty much anywhere.
They are fun-loving, loyal, and always down to hang out with their people.
And because they are a maintenance-free breed (well, that’s not free, a little grooming is still needed), they are perfect for busy families who want a dog that is easy to care for.
Plus, they are great for allergy sufferers as they don’t shed like crazy.
5. Basenji
Remember the fun fact earlier? Yeah, this is that dog.
The Basenji is one of the most unique breeds listed here. Not only do they make weird yodel-like sounds instead of barking, but they also have a short and super low shedding coat.
Perfect for people with allergies who want a dog without all the fur drama.
Basenjis have a smooth coat that is naturally clean. Like, these dogs groom themselves like cats. Weird, right?
Because of that, they barely smell, and their grooming needs are insanely low. A gentle, occasional brushing once a week to maintain the coat and avoid any skin issues.
They don’t even need to be bathed that much. Baths, once in a blue moon, are enough.
These dogs are smart, independent, aloof, and curious, and always thinking three steps ahead. That means training can be… interesting. But if you are up for the challenge, you will end up with a loyal and one-of-a-kind companion, an ancient dog breed.
And BONUS, they are one of the hairless dog breeds people think exist (and they are barkless, too), but they are not actually hairless. They just shed so little it feels like they are.
6. Dachshund
Long body. Short legs. Even shorter hair (well, some of them).
Now, Dachshunds come in a long-haired variety, too. But the short-haired Dachshund is the one you want for low maintenance. That coat is smooth, shiny, and requires barely any work to keep looking good.
A quick brush once or twice a week is all they need to remove dead hair to keep that coat healthy. No professional grooming, tangled fur, or endless seasonal shedding. Just a dog that is easy to care for and is always ready to cuddle.
Short-haired Dachshunds are also great for small living spaces, because they are a fairly small breed. So, they don’t need a lot of room and are perfectly content on the couch (or burrowing under blankets, their favorite hobby).
They are loyal, playful, and brave for such a small breed (after all, they were originally bred to be hunting dogs).
7. Italian Greyhound
Tiny and elegant dog. A living piece of art.
The Italian Greyhound looks like it is the Whippet’s smaller and fancier sibling. They have that same sleek and graceful look, and their short coat is just as easy to maintain.
Italian Greyhounds have a thin coat that sheds very little. A weekly brushing helps their skin stay healthy, and their coat looks shiny, reducing shedding.
You won’t need frequent grooming sessions or trips to the groomers as much as most other breeds that have long hair and fur. Plus, they don’t need regular baths, as the skin is too smooth.
But you should check their body daily and get their teeth brushed. That is a MUST!!
Italian Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs that love being close to their people. They are not super high energy, but they do enjoy a good sprint now and then. And yes, they do need mental stimulation and daily exercise.
They can be a bit sensitive to cold weather (because you know, no fur). So, a sweater in winter is not a bad idea.
But other than that, this short-haired breed is super easy.
Conclusion
Some dogs are just easier.
Not in a bad way.
Just in a “WOW!! I don’t have to brush you for an hour every day” kind of way.
These wonderful dog breeds with naturally short hair are perfect for pet parents who want a dog that does not have many grooming needs.
If you are dealing with allergies, living in a small space, or just don’t have time for constant coat care, these short-haired dog breeds are a lifesaver.
Other honorable dog breeds are the Great Dane, Doberman Pinscher, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Peruvian Inca Orchid, which also boast the physical characteristics of a low-shedding breed.
And you will agree, less time grooming means more time for belly rubs, walks, and all the good things in life.
So, if you want a low-maintenance dog breed that is still loyal, loving an full of life, these short-haired dog breeds are worth every second.
