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13 Short-Haired Dog Breeds That Won’t Hog Your Time

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 30, 2024

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Owning a dog brings immense joy, but grooming high-maintenance breeds can be time-consuming, especially for busy people. Thankfully, short-haired dog breeds offer a perfect solution with their low-maintenance coats, making them ideal companions for those seeking an easy-care pet. These dogs have sleek, easy-to-manage coats that don’t require frequent grooming, excessive brushing, or regular trips to the groomer. Short-haired breeds are the perfect match for individuals or families who want a loyal and affectionate dog without the grooming hassle, combining minimal effort with maximum companionship.

Boxer

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Boxers are known for their energetic and playful personalities, but one thing that’s easy about owning a Boxer is their short, sleek coat. Their fur requires minimal grooming, with only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Boxers have low grooming needs but high affection levels, making them great companions for busy individuals or families. Regular exercise keeps them happy and healthy, but when it comes to grooming, they’re as low-maintenance as they come. Their smooth coat also helps to keep shedding under control, which is a bonus for those who don’t want to deal with piles of fur.

Dalmatian

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The Dalmatian, famous for its distinctive black or liver spots, has a short coat that’s easy to care for. Dalmatians have a lot of energy but don’t need much grooming. A quick brushing once a week is usually enough to keep their coat looking sleek and shiny. Because they don’t have a thick undercoat, Dalmatians shed minimally compared to many other breeds, making them a great choice for people who want a dog that’s easy to maintain. Their short fur means you’ll spend less time cleaning up your hair and more time enjoying their playful and loyal company.

Boston Terrier

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Boston Terriers are small, compact dogs with a smooth, short coat that requires very little grooming. Known for their charming “tuxedo” markings, Boston Terriers are easy to care for, with minimal shedding and quick grooming sessions. A weekly brushing will keep their coat clean and shiny, and they don’t require frequent baths unless they get into something messy. Their manageable size and low grooming needs make them ideal for apartment dwellers or anyone looking for a dog that won’t take too long. Despite their low maintenance, Boston Terriers are affectionate and full of personality.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas, especially the smooth-coated variety, have short fur that is incredibly easy to manage. These tiny dogs are big on personality but require very little in the grooming department. A light brushing once a week will keep their coat in good shape, and because they have short hair, they don’t shed as much as other breeds. Chihuahuas are perfect for people who want a small dog with minimal grooming needs. Their compact size also makes them great for city living or for those who want a dog that doesn’t require much space or time to maintain.

Whippet

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Whippets are sleek, elegant dogs with short, fine coats that require minimal grooming. Their thin fur means that shedding is rarely an issue, and a quick brush once a week will keep them looking great. Whippets are low-maintenance in grooming, but they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their graceful appearance and gentle nature make them popular for people who want a clean, easy-to-groom dog. Whippets also tend to be calm and relaxed indoors, making them an excellent companion for those seeking a low-maintenance pet.

Vizsla

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The Vizsla is a Hungarian hunting dog with a short, smooth coat that requires very little grooming. These athletic dogs are easy to maintain, with coats that don’t shed heavily. A quick brushing once a week is usually all that’s needed to keep their coat looking sleek. Vizslas are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them great companions for active families. While they need plenty of exercise, their grooming needs are minimal, allowing owners to focus more on playtime and less on upkeep.

Italian Greyhound

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Italian Greyhounds are miniature versions of their larger Greyhound cousins, and they share the same sleek, short coat. Their fur is easy to care for, requiring only the occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Italian Greyhounds have a fine, smooth coat that doesn’t shed much, making them ideal for those who prefer a low-maintenance dog. Their elegant appearance and gentle personality make them wonderful companions for those seeking a sophisticated, easy-care pet. Their small size makes them perfect for apartments or homes with limited space.

Basenji

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The Basenji is known as the “barkless dog” for its unique vocalizations, but it’s also known for its low-maintenance grooming needs. Basenjis have a short, fine coat that requires minimal upkeep. These dogs are naturally clean and even groomed like cats, so you won’t need to spend much time keeping them tidy. A light brushing once a week is enough to keep their coat looking sleek. Basenjis are also known for their independent and intelligent nature, making them great companions for owners who want a low-maintenance yet engaging dog.

Rat Terrier

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Rat Terriers are small, energetic dogs with a short, smooth coat that are easy to care for. They are low-shedding and require minimal grooming beyond occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Their sleek coat makes them a great choice for people who want a dog with low grooming needs but plenty of personality. Rat Terriers are known for being intelligent and playful, making them excellent companions for active families. With their low-maintenance coat and vibrant personality, they’re perfect for people who want a dog that’s easy to care for but full of energy.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds, particularly the smooth-coated variety, are known for their low-maintenance grooming needs. These long-bodied, short-legged dogs have sleek, shiny fur that requires occasional brushing to keep in good condition. Smooth-coated Dachshunds shed minimally, making them a great choice for busy owners who don’t want to spend too much time grooming. Dachshunds are also known for their playful and loyal personalities, making them a fun and loving addition to any home. Their compact size and easy-care coat make them perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance pet.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers, affectionately known as “Staffies,” have short, sleek coats that are incredibly easy to care for. Their fur sheds minimally and only requires occasional brushing to keep it looking healthy. Staffies are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful family pets. Their low grooming needs mean you can spend more time playing and bonding with them than worrying about coat maintenance. With their muscular build and loving personality, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are the perfect mix of strength and affection without the hassle of high-maintenance grooming.

Miniature Pinscher

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The Miniature Pinscher, or “Min Pin,” is a small dog with a sleek, short coat that’s easy to manage. Their fur requires minimal grooming, and they shed very little, making them a great choice for busy people. A quick brushing once a week is usually all that’s needed to keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Min Pins are energetic and playful, with a big personality packed into a small body. Their low-maintenance coat and lively nature make them an excellent companion for people who want a small dog with minimal grooming requirements.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

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Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for the unique ridge of hair that runs along their back, but beyond that, their grooming needs are minimal. These large dogs have short, dense coats that require little maintenance. A weekly brushing will help remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny, but they don’t shed heavily. Ridgebacks are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them great family dogs. Despite their large size, they are relatively low-maintenance in grooming, making them an excellent choice for those who want a big dog without the hassle of extensive coat care.

Low-Maintenance Grooming, High-Quality Companionship

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These short-haired breeds are the perfect solution for busy individuals or those simply looking for a dog that doesn’t require constant grooming. From the sleek and playful Boston Terrier to the elegant Whippet, each dog offers companionship without demanding too much time for grooming. Their low-maintenance coats mean less brushing, less shedding, and more time to enjoy with your furry friend. If you’re seeking a loyal, loving companion without the extra grooming fuss, these short-haired breeds are ideal for any home.