Short-haired dog breeds are some of the easiest breeds to care for from a coat grooming standpoint. Usually, a quick wash and dry with a fluffy towel, and they’re good to go! Short-haired breeds come in every size, from mini handbag pups to super-sized big dogs like the Great Dane. Our list of the top five best short-haired dog breeds will shed some light on a few of the most well-loved breeds in America that won’t have you visiting the groomer often.
How did dog breeds become so diverse? A group of global scientists has harnessed a vast database of canine DNA to delve deeper into the evolution of our beloved dog breeds. The Dog10K project studied nearly 2,000 DNA samples from a diverse range of sources, including 321 different breeds of domestic dogs, wild dogs, coyotes, and wolves. All of these samples were then compared to the DNA of a German Shepherd named Mischka.
Researchers unearthed more than 48 million genetic data points. What stood out was the discovery of around three million single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) differences in each breed of dog. SNPs, often pronounced as “snips,” are essentially tiny genetic variations. They are key contributors to the rich genetic diversity seen among humans and dogs. With such a wide variety of genetic diversity, it’s hardly a wonder that some dog breeds exhibit complex and well-developed personalities in addition to specific inherited traits like short hair. As highly social creatures, dogs can have a leg up when it comes to making new friends.
With so many beautiful breeds out there, we decided it was time to show these hounds some love. Our trusted sources helped us determine the best short-haired dog breeds to call your own. Let us know your favorite short hair dog breeds in the comments below!
The List: Best Short-Haired Dog Breeds, According to Experts
1. Weimaraner
Weimaraner dogs have sleek and muscular frames and adorable floppy ears. These big German dogs require plenty of exercise to be happy but can make great family members. Pet Keen raves, “This German hunting dog comes from the Weimar region in its native country. Weimaraners are athletic and require lots of exercise. Their coats are short and they come in a variety of grey shades. Weimaraners can be perfect family dogs and can even be good with children, so long as you run their energy out adequately.”
Woman’s Day praises, “Weimaraners are sleek dogs with unique gray coats that only require occasional brushing. While Pet Finder explains their energy might be too much for small children or other dogs, they make fantastic companions for active families.”
“The Weimaraner embodies an aristocratic vibe of poise and grace with its distinguished silver-gray coat. Yet, that gorgeous coat is low maintenance; shedding is average, and only weekly brushing is needed to remove dirt. Weimaraners are faithful members of the family, and whatever you’re doing, they’re up for it,” exclaims Reader’s Digest.
2. Basenji
Basenjis are reputed to be very clean dogs thanks to their naturally short coats. These handsome fellows typically sport an up curled tail and perky ears. The Spruce Pets says, “The Basenji, which hails from Africa, has a naturally clean, smooth coat that is odor-free and requires infrequent bathing. Basenjis may even groom their coats the way cats do. Often called the ‘barkless dog,’ they are typically quiet and don’t make true barking sounds like most dogs.”
Top Dog Tips describes, “Basenjis [are] one of those rare, unique dogs who’re becoming popular. They’re an ancient breed that is said to have been bred by nature. People either love them or hate them. While they are one of the best short-haired ones, they are a high-maintenance breed… This dog is a runner and needs to have an escape-proof fence. They’re also high-energy and need lots of walks and playtime.”
“The small, quiet dog with the forehead wrinkles known as the Basenji is another great breed to add to this list. The dog’s single coat is very close-cropped from the head to the tail. Basenjis aren’t particularly muscular, but you can appreciate the dog’s bat-like ears as well as the aforementioned forehead wrinkles better, thanks to the fur length,” elaborates Stop My Dog Shedding.com.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a breed that exhibits both short and long-haired variations. These feisty and long-lived pups bond strongly with their humans. Southern Living comments, “Elle Woods [‘Legally Blonde’ (2001)] and her pup, Bruiser, might have put Chihuahuas on the pop culture map, but this petite short-haired dog breed has been winning hearts for hundreds of years. Chihuahuas have two coat lengths—long and smooth—but even the long-haired variety has a short coat.”
Nylabone adds, “Chihuahuas are extremely loyal, and their pet parents are, too! In fact, people who have a Chihuahua often have more than one in their lifetime. Smart, brave, and loving, this breed will earn—and demand—your respect. Chihuahuas are protective (or overprotective) of their pet parents. Most are good with other pets but dislike certain dog’s personalities.”
“Chihuahuas come in long or short coat varieties that can be many colors. Don’t let its size fool you, these tiny dogs surprisingly carry a lot of energy and a big dog personality. However, if you’re wanting to take fewer trips to the groomer and be able to carry your dog practically anywhere, a short-haired Chihuahua will be a perfect fit for you,” details Pet Keen.
4. Vizsla
Another strong-bodied breed, the Vizsla is a natural hunting dog and tracker. As long as they get plenty of daily exercise, these dogs can be excellent outdoor adventure companions. Woman’s Day explains, “Vizslas are incredibly active dogs that need strenuous exercise every day, making them perfect for owners who are on-the-go and enjoy the outdoors. Other than their need to run in open spaces, they require very little, so you can spend more time playing fetch and less time cleaning up fur.”
Pet Care Rx offers, “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.”
Daily Paws states, “These robust redheads are eager to accompany active owners on adventures-on land or in water. According to the Vizsla Club of America, Vizsla puppies require two hours of exercise a day, and adults need at least 45 minutes of vigorous activity daily. Bred as hunting dogs in Hungary, Vizslas were born to run and are best suited to energetic owners able to satisfy their exercise needs with plenty of time outdoors.”
5. Boston Terrier
American dogs like the Boston Terrier have a long history in the United States. The Boston Terrier in particular was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1893. Pet Care Rx claims, “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.”
“Boston Terriers present a nice blend of humorous charm and sophistication. They are a smart, alert, and high-energy breed but also enjoy hanging around the home with their family. This breed is loyal to one person although polite to all. Boston Terriers are prone to snoring because of their flat noses and narrow nostrils,” relates Nylabone.
Reader’s Digest reviews this loveable breed, “Dubbed the ‘American Gentleman’ (or lady) for its impeccable manners and tuxedo coat, the Boston terrier is a small, short-haired breed with a big personality… Their dapper tuxedo coat does shed a bit, but it doesn’t require a lot of fuss and muss to look like a show dog.”
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Sources:
- Pet Keen
- Woman’s Day
- Reader’s Digest
- The Spruce Pets
- Top Dog Tips
- Stop My Dog Shedding.com
- Southern Living
- Nylabone
- Pet Care Rx
- Daily Paws
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
My favorite is the very loving and loyal toy Fox terrier. They’re spunky and are so funny. They aim to please you and they’re extremely smart.