22 Dog Breeds That Don't Smell or Shed: Your Easy-Care Best Friends

Are you interested in finding the perfect canine companion but worried about shedding and unpleasant odors? You’re in luck! Numerous dog breeds require minimal grooming and emit minimal odors, making them ideal pets for those sensitive to such concerns.

This article will explore 22 dog breeds that don’t smell or shed. These wonderful breeds come in various sizes and temperaments, ensuring a perfect fit for any household. Whether you live in an apartment a house with a big backyard, or have allergies, you’ll find a furry friend on this list that suits your specific needs.

So, let’s dive in and discover the low-shedding, hypoallergenic, and minimal-smelling dog breeds that can be the perfect addition to your family. Stay tuned as we reveal their names, characteristics, and what makes them the top contenders for those seeking a low-maintenance furry friend.

Contents

1 22 Dog Breeds that Don’t Smell or Shed
2 Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Breeds that Don’t Shed or Smell

22 Dog Breeds that Don’t Smell or Shed

1. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy, and friendly breed that makes a great companion. Their hypoallergenic coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, but you won’t find much hair around your home. Bichon Frises are known for their playful nature and adapt well to various living situations, making them an excellent choice for families and singles.

2. Schnauzers

Schnauzers come in three size variations: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. All of these breeds are known for their distinctive appearance and minimal shedding. The Miniature Schnauzer is popular for those who love lap dogs, while the larger varieties require more exercise. Their wiry coats shed minimally and require regular grooming to avoid any doggy smell.

3. Poodles

Available in three sizes – toy, miniature, and standard – all poodles are hypoallergenic and don’t shed. Poodles are also generally odorless dogs.

The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three varieties, standing over 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Their hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from mats. Miniature Poodles are smaller than Standard Poodles, standing between 10 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder. They also have a curly, hypoallergenic coat that needs regular grooming to maintain quality and prevent odor.

Toy Poodles stand under 10 inches tall at the shoulder as the smallest poodle varieties. Their hypoallergenic coat is also similar to the other sizes.

4. Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus have long, silky, and luxurious coats that make them stand out. Don’t let their appearance deceive you, though—these dogs are low shedders, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their glamorous look, but Shih Tzus are adaptable and well-suited for apartments or homes with limited space. Regular grooming keeps them smelling fresh.

white shih tzu with mouth open dog breeds that don't smell or shed

5. Maltese

Maltese dogs have long, silky hair that sheds minimally. Their lack of undercoat means less doggy odor, but they need regular grooming. They are perfect companions for those who suffer from allergies, as they produce minimal dander.

white maltese dog on bed why is my dog peeing on my bed

6. Basenji

The Basenji is a small, energetic dog breed known for its cleanliness and lack of odor. This breed is unique because it doesn’t bark but rather makes yodel-like vocalizations. Basenjis groom themselves like cats, which helps minimize their shedding.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them an excellent choice if you prefer a low-maintenance dog. Additionally, Basenjis have a low-shedding coat that is suitable for allergy sufferers.

7. Italian Greyhound

These slender dogs have very short fur that doesn’t shed much. Their skin also produces less oil, producing a less pronounced doggy smell.

8. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs have become more popular due to their hypoallergenic curly coats that don’t shed and high-energy personalities. As their name suggests, they love water and excel at water-based activities.

These intelligent and easily trainable dogs require regular grooming to prevent matting, but they’re a fantastic addition to families who have time to dedicate to their pet’s exercise needs.

9. Havanese

Havanese dogs are another popular non-shedding breed, boasting a silky, non-shedding coat that comes in various colors. These small dogs are affectionate and social, making them great lap dogs and easy-to-please companions. Havanese thrive on companionship, so they’re happiest around their family members.

With their soft, wavy coats, the Havanese do not shed excessively, and their hypoallergenic nature makes them great for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming ensures they remain odorless.

You might enjoy reading my articles about worst behaved dog breeds, dog breeds that look like Benji and dog breeds with low separation anxiety.

10. Bolognese

A close relative of the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese also has a fluffy, hypoallergenic coat that sheds very little and has minimal odor.

11. Airedale Terrier

The largest of all terriers, the Airedale has a dense, wiry coat that doesn’t shed much. They’re known for being one of the least smelly dog breeds.

12. Kerry Blue Terrier

These unique terriers have a wavy, hypoallergenic coat that hardly sheds. Their soft fur grows similar to human hair, minimizing odors. The Kerry Blue Terrier is an allergy-friendly breed.

13. Bedlington Terrier

This breed looks like a lamb and doesn’t shed or smell much due to its curly, woolly coat that requires regular grooming.

14. Irish Water Spaniel

Known for their curly, hypoallergenic coat, Irish Water Spaniels don’t shed excessively and are generally odorless.

15. Afghan Hound

With a long, silky coat, these dogs are surprisingly low shedders. Regular grooming can keep them free from any doggy smell.

16. Xoloitzcuintli

Also known as the Mexican Hairless, this breed either has a very short, sparse coat or is completely hairless, so shedding is minimal. They are also a low-odor breed.

17. American Hairless Terrier

As the name suggests, this breed doesn’t shed because they have no hair. They also don’t produce much body odor.

18. Peruvian Inca Orchid

Another hairless breed, the Peruvian Inca Orchid doesn’t shed and typically doesn’t carry a doggy odor.

19. Chinese Crested

This breed comes in two varieties – hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety has only tufts of hair on its head, tail, and feet, while the powderpuff has a soft double coat. These lively, affectionate, and loving dogs make terrific pets for many households.

20. Saluki

Salukis have short, silky fur that doesn’t shed much. They also don’t have the typical doggy odor.

21. Coton de Tulear

With its long cotton-like coat, the Coton de Tulear is a low-shedding breed that’s also friendly and affectionate. They have less of a doggy odor compared to other dig breeds. This breed can be a suitable option for those sensitive to allergens.

22. Whippet

Whippets are sleek, athletic dogs that do not shed much. Their short, fine coats require minimal grooming, making them low-maintenance pets. These high-energy dogs need a fair amount of exercise to stay happy, so be prepared to include them in your active lifestyle.

whippet-dog dog breeds that don't smell or shed — whippet-dog

Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Breeds that Don’t Shed or Smell

Which hypoallergenic dogs shed the least?

One of the least shedding hypoallergenic dog breeds is the Poodle. They come in various sizes, such as standard, toy, or miniature, and don’t have that typical doggy odor. Another low-shedding option is the Basenji, a breed known for its short, fine hair that sheds minimally.

What are some low-shedding and odorless large dog breeds?

If you’re looking for a large dog breed with minimal shedding and odor, consider the Siberian Husky or the Alaskan Malamute. Both breeds have thick double coats that require regular grooming but still shed less and smell less than many other large breeds.

Are there any budget-friendly dogs that don’t smell or shed?

While the initial cost of a dog may vary depending on the breed, size, and location, some budget-friendly dogs that don’t smell or shed include the Chihuahua and the Boston Terrier. Keep in mind that the total cost of owning a dog goes beyond the initial purchase price and includes ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and veterinary care.

What are some calm and low-shedding small dog breeds?

For a small dog breed that is both calm and low-shedding, consider the Bichon Frise, a gentle and cheerful breed known for its fluffy, non-shedding coat. Another great option is the Whippet, a slender and quiet breed with minimal shedding and a low-maintenance grooming routine.

Which low-maintenance dog breeds are also hypoallergenic?

Not all low-maintenance dogs are hypoallergenic, but some breeds combine the qualities of being both low-shedding and easy to care for. Examples include the Schnauzer, a low-shedding, wiry coat requiring minimal grooming, and the Chinese Crested, a largely hairless breed with minimal shedding.

What intelligent dog breeds have minimal shedding and odor?

The Poodle is a top contender if you’re seeking an intelligent dog with low shedding and minimal odor. Poodles are known for their intelligence and their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats. Another option is the Dalmatian, a smart and active breed with a short coat that sheds minimally and carries little odor.

In Conclusion

While all these breeds are known for their low-shedding and low-odor characteristics, remember that individual dogs can vary. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and good hygiene can also help keep your furry friend smelling fresh. With this list as your guide, you can find the perfect hypoallergenic and low-odor companion to suit your lifestyle.

Amanda OBrien

Amanda O’Brien is the owner of The Dog Snobs website. She is dog mad and dog aunt to Clover in London and Poppy in Sydney. She can’t wait to have a schedule that allows her to have a dog of her own (for now it is two Siberian cats) and loves learning about dog breeds and dog behavior.

22 Dog Breeds That Don’t Smell or Shed: Your Easy-Care Best Friends