You are thinking about getting a dog, but you shy away from a strong-smelling pet? Then you have come to the right place! We have researched for you and present the top selection of dog breeds that are less prone to strong odor. In addition, there are many factors that can influence how much a dog "stinks". This can depend on the dog's diet, health, personal grooming, and even genetic predisposition. However, some breeds are known to be less prone to strong body odor than others.
In this list you will find the perfect blend of unparalleled dog love and tolerable odor that will satisfy even the most sensitive nose. It's time to dispel the myth that all dogs must smell unpleasant.
Basenji
The Basenji, often referred to as the "barkless dog," is known not only for its quiet nature, but also for emitting very little body odor. This is due to its short, fine coat that absorbs very little odor. Character-wise, the Basenji is very independent and intelligent, which can sometimes be a challenge as he likes to go his own way. Despite his headstrong nature, he loves his people and can be an excellent family dog if given enough mental and physical exercise. Because of his strong prey instincts, caution is advised when the Basenji lives with smaller pets.
Bichon Frisé
If you are looking for a charming dog that has little odor yet is full of energy and love, the Bichon Frisé is an excellent choice. Its dense, curly coat is hypoallergenic and low in odor. However, the coat does require regular grooming to keep it looking beautiful. The Bichon Frisé is known for its happy and playful nature, which makes it an ideal family dog. His adaptability and tolerance for children make him an ideal companion for families of all sizes. However, he can be a bit stubborn at times, which is why consistent training is important.
Maltese
With its long, silky mane and charming nature, the Maltese captivates many dog lovers. Surprisingly, the little four-legged friend has hardly any body odor despite its lush coat. However, the coat needs regular grooming to keep it clean and healthy. The Maltese is a loving and loyal companion who is very attached to his human. Because he is often cautious and sensitive and prefers a quiet environment, he is particularly suitable for families without small children or for older people. Despite its small size, the Maltese has a strong character and needs loving but firm leadership.
Shih Tzu
With their lush coats and large, dark eyes, Shih Tzus have often taken the hearts of their owners by storm. The amazing thing about this breed is that despite its long coat, it emits less body odor, which makes it ideal for sensitive noses. This small dog with great character is friendly and loves the company of people. Shih Tzus make excellent family dogs, as they get along well with children and other pets. However, they should be trained consistently, as they can be a bit stubborn at times.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the Westie, is a hardy and energetic breed with little body odor. Its short, dense coat not only keeps it warm, but also helps minimize odor. Westies are known for their independent and courageous nature. They are loving family dogs and get along well with older children. However, their alertness and typical terrier hunting instincts can lead them to chase smaller pets. Some caution and clear leadership are therefore appropriate.
Poodle
Poodles, large and small, are known for their hypoallergenic coats and low odor. Their curly coat absorbs little odor, but requires regular grooming. Poodles are intelligent and adaptive, making them popular dog sports and training dogs. They are loving and loyal family dogs that get along well with children and other pets. However, sometimes they can be a bit nervous or overly sensitive, so a calm and stable environment is beneficial for them.
Havanese
The Havanese, the national dog of Cuba, is growing in popularity. A real plus point of this breed is its low body odor, which makes it a good choice for people with sensitive noses. Havanese are happy and affectionate dogs that tend to bond closely with their families. Their adaptability and friendly nature make them ideal family dogs. They are patient with children and usually get along well with other pets. However, their long coat needs regular grooming to keep it looking good.
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is probably one of the most well-known dog breeds, and not just because of its distinctive markings. They are surprisingly low in odor, which makes them a good choice for sensitive noses. Formerly carriage dogs, Dalmatians are very active and need plenty of exercise. They are loyal and protective and can be excellent family dogs if given the physical and mental exercise they need. However, due to their size and energy, they are not suitable for every living situation and can overwhelm families with small children or elderly people.
Schnauzer
Whether miniature, standard or giant Schnauzer, this dog breed usually has little body odor. Their wiry coat absorbs less odors, but requires some grooming. Schnauzers are alert and courageous, making them suitable as watchdogs. Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them fantastic family members. They usually get along well with children and can live indoors as long as they get enough exercise. Their independence can sometimes be a challenge, so consistent training is important.
Chihuahua
One of the smallest dog breeds in the world, the Chihuahua has another charming characteristic: it tends to develop little body odor. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas have great personalities and are often bold and confident. They can be incredibly loyal and affectionate to their owners, which makes them great companions. Chihuahuas are well suited for single people or families with older children, as they can sometimes be intolerant of very young children. They need consistent training as they can be willful at times.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, often affectionately called a "Yorkie," is a small breed with a big personality that also barely smells. Its long, silky coat can require a lot of grooming, but helps make Yorkies less smelly than other breeds. Yorkies are often energetic and curious, but also love to snuggle on their human's lap. They can be wonderful family dogs, but are not always the best choice for families with very young children due to their size and sometimes loud nature.
Border collie
The Border Collie, known for its incredible intelligence and eagerness to work, is one of the breeds that secrete less body odor. This energetic dog is an excellent herding dog that loves to be constantly kept busy and challenged. Border Collies are incredibly loyal and affectionate dogs that fit in well with active families. They usually get along well with children, as long as they are treated respectfully. Border Collies need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise they can develop destructive behaviors.
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)
The Belgian Shepherd, especially the Malinois, is an impressive dog breed known for its high working ability and intelligence. Another advantage is that they generally have little body odor. Malinois are very loyal and protective and can make excellent family dogs. However, their high energy and need for mental stimulation require an active family willing to invest a lot of time in keeping them busy. They are not necessarily suitable for first-time dog owners, as their training and socialization requires clear guidance and consistency.
Papillon
The Papillon, also called the Butterfly Dog, is a small, elegant breed that barely smells. Papillons are intelligent, lively, curious and like to be the center of attention. Despite their small size, they are bold and confident and fit well in a family. They get along well with older children and also with other pets. However, they can be a bit stubborn at times and need gentle but consistent training.
Italian wind chimes
The Italian Windchime is a graceful and lovable breed that develops little body odor. Greyhounds are friendly, calm and generally very affectionate. They make good family dogs and get along well with older children, but can become nervous if handled roughly. Despite their athletic pedigree, Greyhounds are often content with a quiet home life as long as they have plenty of opportunity to romp and play. Because of their short coat, they can be sensitive to cold.
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, affectionately known as Shelties, usually have very little body odor and are therefore ideal for sensitive noses. Shelties are intelligent, lively and very loyal. They are very family friendly and are well suited for households with children. Their high intelligence and desire to please their owners make them easily trainable. However, Shelties tend to be somewhat reserved and wary of strangers, so early socialization is important. Another aspect to consider is their tendency to bark, which can sometimes become a problem.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. He is friendly, intelligent and versatile. Labradors have little body odor, especially if they are brushed regularly. As a family dog, they are unbeatable as they get along well with children and other animals. Labradors are active dogs that need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. When bored or underchallenged, they can be prone to undesirable behaviors such as chewing or digging.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, also called the "American Gentleman", has little body odor thanks to its short coat. Its friendly and balanced nature makes it an ideal family dog. They are intelligent, easily trainable and get along well with children and other pets. Despite their small size, Boston Terriers are bold and alert. It should be noted that they are prone to respiratory problems due to their short muzzle and do not tolerate extreme heat or cold well. For this reason, they should be kept primarily indoors.
Greyhound
The Greyhound, also known as the English Greyhound, is characterized by its short coat that emits little body odor. Characteristic of this breed is their incredible speed, but they are also known as couch potatoes. They are affectionate, gentle and get along surprisingly well with children. Despite their athletic appearance, Greyhounds don't need as much exercise as you might think. A sprint around the yard or a long walk is usually enough for them. It should be noted that this dog breed is very sensitive to cold due to the lack of undercoat.
Pygmy spitz
The Dwarf Spitz, also called Pomeranian, captivates with its fluffy, low-odor coat. With their playful and lively nature, they quickly win the hearts of their families. They are intelligent and learn quickly, but tend to be very stubborn. Although they are small, they make good watchdogs as they are very alert and brave. However, it is important to know that due to their size and sometimes naughty character, they are not always the best choice for families with very young children.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its silky coat that hardly smells. This breed is affectionate, gentle and fits well in most families, including those with children or other pets. They are very active and enjoy both physical and mental stimulation. However, it should be noted that this breed is prone to some health problems, including heart disease and patellar luxation, a disease of the knee joint.
Read more about the different breeds of dogs:
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