If you're looking for a low-maintenance furry friend, short-haired dogs are a great place to start. They require less grooming than their long-haired counterparts.
The Chinese Crested is one of the most recognizable short-haired breeds, known for its sleek, hairless body. Some owners even prefer this breed for its ease of grooming.
The French Bulldog is another popular short-haired breed, prized for its affectionate and adaptable nature. They make great companions for city dwellers and families alike.
These breeds are just a few examples of the many wonderful short-haired dogs out there.
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Popular Short-Haired Dog Breeds
The French Bulldog has a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming.
The French Bulldog typically weighs between 16 and 28 pounds and stands between 10 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
This breed is known for its affectionate and adaptable nature, making it a great companion for city dwellers and families alike.
The French Bulldog's short stature requires careful consideration of living space, as they need room to move around and exercise.
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The Australian Cattle Dog has a short, smooth coat that comes in two main colors: blue and red speckle.
They are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their strong herding instincts make them a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
The Beagle has a short, smooth coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Their friendly and curious nature makes them a great breed for families with children, but they can be prone to barking and howling if left alone for too long.
Beagles are relatively small, weighing between 18 and 30 pounds and standing between 10 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Other Short-Haired Dog Breeds
Some other breeds that fit the short-haired bill include the Beagle, the Corgi, and the French Bulldog. They're all relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
These breeds can also tolerate warmer temperatures, but it's worth noting that they can still get chilly in frigid winter weather.
Miniature Fox
The Miniature Fox is an Australian breed that's perfect for families with older kids. They make wonderful playmates, but their hunting instincts might not be suitable for households with small pets like guinea pigs or mice.
Their fearlessness and alertness make them excellent watchdogs, always on the lookout for potential threats.
Rat
Rat Terriers are a happy and friendly breed that love being part of a family and having regular close contact with their humans.
They come in two varieties – miniature and standard, with the miniature variety standing at 10-13 inches tall and the standard variety at 13-18 inches tall.
They have a smooth and dense coat that sheds very little hair, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
A short walk or a game of fetch with a ball is sufficient exercise for Rat Terriers due to their small size.
They were originally bred in North America to exterminate rats on farms, and their high energy levels still require regular exercise today.
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Dog Breed Information
Short-haired dogs are a great choice for busy families because they require less grooming maintenance.
Most short-haired dogs can tolerate warmer temperatures, but it's essential to consider their breathing difficulties if you have a brachycephalic breed like a pug, boxer, or bulldog.
If you live in a region with frigid winter temperatures, you'll need to provide your short-haired dog with outerwear to keep them warm.
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American Leopard Hound
The American Leopard Hound is a loving breed that thrives on human interaction. They make great companions for families and individuals alike.
One of the American Leopard Hound's standout characteristics is their intelligence. It's one of their very best attributes, making them highly trainable and responsive to commands.
With their loving nature, American Leopard Hounds are often described as gentle giants. They are a breed that is perfect for those who want a loyal and affectionate pet.
Their intelligence also means they can be quite energetic and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. A daily walk or run is a must for these dogs.
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Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a lively and intelligent breed from Germany.
They have a unique nickname in France, "Diablotin Moustachu", which translates to the little devil with a moustache.
Affenpinschers are loyal and affectionate, but they can also be bossy.
Their comedian antics make them the centre of attention in any home, weighing around 5kgs.
Basenji
The Basenji is one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds known. They're an ancient breed with a unique personality.
Basenjis are short-haired dogs that require lots of training and exercise. They can be quite independent, so you'll need an escape-proof backyard to keep them safe.
They're affectionate with children and can get along well with other animals, but they do require patient training. This makes them a better fit for couples and families with older, responsible kids.
Their athletic and disciplined nature makes them a popular choice for agility courses and shows.
Beagle
Beagles are a very old dog breed, dating back to the 1500s. They were originally used by the English as scent hounds for hunting small animals.
Their advanced sense of smell has made them commonly used as detector dogs for quarantine services. This is just one example of their incredible abilities.
Beagles are an active breed and need a good amount of exercise daily to stay healthy. If they don't get enough, they can become easily overweight or destructive.
A smooth short coat is one of the defining features of the Beagle breed, and it can be tricolour, red, white, or lemon. They look similar to the larger foxhound.
Beagles are friendly and make excellent family dogs.
Dog Breed Characteristics
Short-haired dog breeds require less grooming maintenance, making them a great choice for busy families.
Many short-haired dogs can tolerate warmer temperatures since they don't have long, heavy coats. This is a big plus for people who live in warmer climates or have limited time for grooming.
Brachycephalic breeds like pugs, boxers, and bulldogs may have a harder time breathing in warmer temperatures.
Boston terriers are an American breed known for their loyal, gentle, and affectionate nature, making them a great choice for families with young children or the elderly.
Their short hair coats tend to shed very little, which is a bonus for people with allergies or who prefer a low-maintenance coat.
Boston terriers are full of energy and require regular playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
If you're considering a short-haired breed, you'll want to think about their energy level and make sure it matches your family's lifestyle.
Short-haired breeds are generally a great choice for people who want to avoid frequent grooming appointments and lots of hair around the house.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small, stocky breed with a large square head and flattened face.
Their gentle, friendly nature has made them a popular choice for many families. They're also renowned for their tolerance and gentleness with young children, which makes them a great addition to any household.
French Bulldogs don't require much exercise and need to live indoors, making them a great choice for the elderly or for apartment living. They're happy to spend their days lounging around the house.
However, French Bulldogs can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, so they need consistent and patient training to help them feel secure. With the right training, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a highly elegant looking dog oozing aristocratic grace. They love cuddling up in your lap or on your bed.
They are agile and affectionate, but really need to be kept inside most of the time. This is because they are not cut out for the rough and tumble play of small children.
Only weighing between 3 and 5 kgs, Italian Greyhounds have a fine bone structure that makes them a great choice for people who live in small spaces. Their very short, low-shed coat also makes them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
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Pug
Pugs are originally from China, where they were bred as lap dogs for royal families.
Their stocky build might lead you to think they're a larger breed, but they're actually classified as toy size.
Pugs are known for their distinctive flat, wrinkly faces with large eyes.
Their short, smooth coats come in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, and apricot.
One of the downsides of their face shape is that they're prone to breathing and eye problems.
Despite these potential health issues, pugs are friendly and easy-going, making them great family pets.
Schipperke
The Schipperke breed, affectionately known as Schips, is a confident and inquisitive breed. They're naturally curious, so be prepared for them to always be on the lookout for something interesting.
Their black fur and pointed ears make them a striking sight. They have a short body, which is perfect for navigating smaller homes and yards.
They originated in Belgium, where they were bred as ratters and watchdogs. Their small yet strong and stealthy bodies allowed them to chase and catch rats with ease.
To keep a Schipperke happy and well-behaved, they need owners who can dedicate time to training, exercising, and bonding with them. If you're not prepared to put in the effort, they can become prone to excessive barking.
As long as they're walked regularly, Schipperkes can thrive in smaller homes and yards.
West Highland White
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the Westie, is a lively and friendly breed that originated in Scotland as a rat hunter.
They thrive on regular exercise and engaging games, which is essential to keeping them happy and healthy.
Westies can be great pets, but it's essential to consider their temperament around young children, as they may lack patience with rough play.
If socialized properly, Westies usually get along well with other pets of similar size.
However, they may harass smaller pets, so it's crucial to introduce them carefully.
Their low-shedding coat is a bonus for many pet owners, and their adorable faces and playful personalities are sure to win over even the hardest hearts.
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Whippet
The Whippet is a lean, athletic, and incredibly fast dog.
They are loving, loyal, and usually very gentle companions.
Whippets are very tolerant towards children and make great family pets.
However, they can be sensitive to sudden movement or noise.
Their short hair coats make them a good choice for owners who dislike lots of dog hair around the house.
Whippets love to run and can attain speeds in excess of 50 kms per hour.
They also love to lounge around the house and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.
It's essential to remember that Whippets were originally bred for hunting and love to chase moving targets.
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Jack Russell
Jack Russell terriers are intelligent workers that can be stubborn and extremely energetic. They've made a name for themselves in popular culture, appearing on-screen in films like Wishbone, The Artist, and My Dog Skip.
If you're considering bringing a Jack Russell into your family, be prepared for their high energy levels. They require a lot of activity to keep them happy and healthy.
One thing to keep in mind is that Jack Russell terriers can be a bit more challenging to care for than some other breeds, especially when it comes to grooming. However, their short coats mean they require less maintenance than dogs with long, heavy coats.
Overall, Jack Russell terriers are a great choice for active families who are looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Manchester (Standard and Toy)
The Manchester terrier is a highly intelligent breed that responds well to training and obedience challenges.
Their short hair coats require minimal grooming but they do shed hair in moderate amounts.
Manchester terriers are known for their athletic running ability, combining real speed with their terrier hunting instincts.
They come in two sizes: the standard Manchester terrier weighs up to 10 kgs, while the toy version comes in at around 5.5 kgs.
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Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a fearless and fun-loving breed that requires a lot of activity to keep them happy. They're small in size, but big on personality.
Their high-stepping gait is quite unique and gives them a confident air about them. They're often referred to as the "King of Toys" due to their regal demeanor.
Miniature Pinschers make great guard dogs, standing up to perceived intruders with fearlessness that's impressive considering their size. However, they can be resistant to training due to their independent streak.
To keep their short coat looking its best, they need brushing about once a week. This helps keep it sleek and shiny.
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Miniature Pinschers are best suited for families with older children who know how to handle small dogs, as they require an experienced dog handler.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a German hunting dog that originated from the Weimar region. They are athletic dogs that require lots of exercise.
Weimaraners come in a variety of gray shades and have a short-haired coat. They are generally a healthy breed, but like any dog, they do need regular veterinary check-ups.
These dogs are excellent with children and make great family pets, as long as you provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn off their energy.
Boxer
The Boxer is a great breed to consider if you're looking for a friendly and energetic companion. They hail from Germany and were developed in the 1800s.
Boxers are known for their high energy levels, so make sure you have enough time to give them the exercise they need. This can include daily walks, playtime, and training sessions.
Their size is relatively compact, with a height range of 15-22 inches.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed that's sure to turn heads with its unique ridge of hair running along its back.
This distinctive feature is a result of the hair growing in the opposite direction, creating a striking appearance.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback stands at a height of 24-27 inches, making it a medium to large-sized dog.
These energetic dogs weigh in at 70-85 pounds, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
As part of the Hound group, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred in South Africa for its hunting prowess, specifically for taking down lions in the wild.
They're strong-willed and require thorough training, making them more suitable for experienced owners who can provide the necessary structure and guidance.
If you're considering bringing a Rhodesian Ridgeback into your family, be prepared for an active lifestyle and a dog that's not afraid to show its independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best short haired small dog?
For a short-haired small dog, consider breeds like the Italian Greyhound, Miniature Pinscher, or Whippet, which are all low-maintenance and energetic companions. Among these, the Italian Greyhound is a popular choice for its gentle and affectionate nature.
What is the calmest short-haired dog?
The Italian Greyhound is a calm and gentle breed with a short coat that requires minimal grooming. This laid-back companion dog is perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance yet loving pet.
What is the best guard dog with short hair?
The Staffordshire Terrier is a popular and effective guard dog breed with a short, easy-to-maintain coat. Originally bred for bear and bullfighting, this breed has a reputation for being fiercely protective of its family.
What short-haired dog is hypoallergenic?
The Portuguese Water Dog is a short-haired breed that is considered hypoallergenic. This breed is a great option for those who want a low-shedding, allergy-friendly dog with a short coat.
Sources
- Dog Breeds - Types Of Dogs (akc.org)
- 43 Best Small Dog Breeds, Including Hypoallergenic Pups (goodhousekeeping.com)
- Small Dog Breeds – The Ultimate List of Dog Breeds (somerzby.com.au)
- 20 Short-Haired Dogs That Have Few Grooming Needs (thesprucepets.com)
- 20 Short-Haired Dog Breeds for Hassle-Free Grooming ... (dogster.com)
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