If you’re a dog lover with a preference for pint-sized and low-maintenance, then this guide is for you. We’ve curated a list of the best small dog breeds with short hair, designed to be your perfect companion.
Whether you’re living in a cozy city apartment or looking for a furry friend that requires minimal grooming, these shorthaired small dog breeds might just tick all your boxes. Read on to discover your potential new best friend!
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are renowned for their remarkably compact size and minimal grooming needs, making them ideal for those seeking the best small dog breeds with short hair. Their hair is short, sleek, and requires infrequent brushing. The Chihuahua’s personality is as vibrant as its size is petite, often surprising those unfamiliar with the breed.
Despite being one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, the Chihuahua doesn’t see itself that way. These dogs carry a big-dog attitude, demonstrating a fierce loyalty to their human companions. They are intelligent, vivacious, and full of character, offering endless companionship and entertainment. Truly, Chihuahuas encapsulate the saying, “good things come in small packages.”
2. Dachshund
Often referred to as “wiener dogs” for their distinct elongated bodies, Dachshunds are undoubtedly one of the best shorthaired small dog breeds. These lively and playful pets come in a variety of coat types, but the shorthaired ones are quite popular due to their low-maintenance grooming needs.
These charming little fellows are known for their bold and courageous nature, which sometimes clashes amusingly with their small stature. Coupled with their striking appearance and expressive eyes, Dachshunds make an irresistible choice for those seeking a small, shorthaired, and energetic companion.
3. American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier, a breed that truly lives up to its name, is an exceptional pick for those seeking the best small dog breeds with short hair. Free from any hair, this breed eliminates the need for grooming entirely! These dogs are energetic, intelligent, and friendly, making them perfect companions for families and individuals alike.
While their bald exterior might seem unusual to some, it only adds to their unique charm. Their skin, however, does come in a variety of colors and patterns, giving each American Hairless Terrier a unique look. Paired with their lively personality and keen intelligence, these dogs quickly become the heart of any household. An American Hairless Terrier is more than just a pet; it’s a lively and loyal friend with an incomparable character.
4. Basenji
The Basenji is a shorthaired small dog breed that’s often referred to as the “barkless dog.” This characteristic alone makes them an intriguing choice. Originating from Central Africa, they are one of the oldest breeds, carrying a rich history and unique features. These dogs are highly intelligent, affectionate, and known for their curious nature.
Their short, fine coat comes in various colors like black, red, or brindle, with attractive white markings. The Basenjis are not just easy on the eyes but also low on maintenance, making them the perfect fit for those seeking a small, shorthaired breed. With their affectionate disposition and impressive agility, a Basenji can surely turn any household into a home filled with love and excitement.
5. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound, a name synonymous with elegance and grace, is one of the best small dog breeds with short hair. This breed’s size, paired with its sleek, fine coat, exudes a delicate, regal charm. Known for their speed, these dogs also carry an air of alacrity and agility, living up to their Greyhound lineage.
But don’t be fooled by their dainty appearance; these dogs are brimming with personality. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, intelligent, and make for amiable companions. Their love for play and brisk walks, combined with their adaptability to apartment living, makes them a fantastic choice for city dwellers. An Italian Greyhound is more than just an aesthetically pleasing pet; it’s a lively bundle of joy waiting to fill your life with warmth and affection.
6. Pug
Stepping onto the stage next is the Pug, a breed that has captured hearts worldwide with its distinctive, adorable face and compact, muscular body. Pugs are known for their short, smooth coat that varies in color, predominantly showcasing shades of fawn or black. These shorthaired small dogs are the embodiment of the phrase “big things come in small packages.” Their personality is larger than life, overflowing with warmth, humor, and a captivating sense of loyalty.
Apart from their undeniable cuteness, Pugs are incredibly sociable, making them ideal family pets. They thrive on human companionship and bring a delightful sense of charm and cheerfulness to any household. With their impressive adaptability and irresistible charm, Pugs undoubtedly hold a distinguished spot among the best small dog breeds with short hair.
7. Miniature Pinscher
Unleashing a vivacious vibe with their spirited disposition, Miniature Pinschers, often referred to as “Min Pins,” are a breed to behold. With their short, sleek coat, this breed showcases an elegant grace that’s captivating. In spite of their petite stature, Min Pins possess an energetic and courageous spirit, often making them seem larger than life.
Bounding with zest, Min Pins are known for their lively personality and intelligence. These traits, combined with their profound loyalty, make them an engaging companion. Their adaptable nature fits well with both apartment living and larger homes, making them stand out among the best small dog breeds with short hair. With Min Pins, rest assured that there’s never a dull moment.
8. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier, often referred to as “TFT,” is a delightful, small breed with a short, satiny coat. Their compact size, combined with their intelligent and athletic nature, makes them an appealing choice for those seeking shorthaired small dog breeds. TFTs are overflowing with vivacity and are renowned for their playful, yet keen disposition.
In addition to their energetic personality, Toy Fox Terriers are incredibly affectionate, forming deep bonds with their human companions. With a bright, animated expression, and a glistening coat, these dogs possess an irresistible charm that can warm even the coldest of hearts. Their unique blend of intelligence, agility, and affectionate nature, undoubtedly positions them among the best small dog breeds with short hair.
9. Russian Toy
The Russian Toy, also known as the “Russkiy Toy,” is a regal breed adorned with a short, glossy coat. Exceptionally small in stature, these dogs are the epitome of elegance and class. Their perky ears, expressive eyes, and spirited demeanor add to their captivating charm. Despite being one of the smallest breeds, Russian Toys are known for their lively and courageous personality. Their ability to entertain with their playful antics makes them a favorite among those seeking the best small dog breeds with short hair.
Russian Toys are not just about beauty and charm, their intelligence and adaptability are quite admirable too. A quick learner, this breed loves indulging in activities that stimulate their mind. Their affectionate nature and strong desire for companionship make them a delightful family pet. These qualities, alongside their minimal grooming needs, unquestionably place the Russian Toy in the league of shorthaired small dog breeds.
10. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is an iconic breed with a smooth and short coat. This breed carries a robust and energetic personality within their small frame. The Jack’s bright eyes are always brimming with curiosity and their compact body is surprisingly sturdy, enabling them to be ever-ready for fun-filled physical activities. Being a breed with a rich heritage of fox hunting, their agile nature and incredible speed are beyond question. Its playful spirit and endearing affection make the Jack Russell Terrier an undeniable contender among the best small dog breeds with short hair.
Their intelligent, bold demeanor is balanced by an affectionate side that loves nothing more than spending quality time with their family. The Jack is also quite the entertainer, known to keep its owners amused with its playful and sometimes, mischievous antics. These attributes, coupled with their charming short coat, make the Jack Russell Terrier an excellent choice among shorthaired small dog breeds.
11. Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is a dynamic and lively breed that perfectly encapsulates the phrase ‘big things come in small packages’. With their sleek, short coat and compact body, they are a striking breed that captures attention wherever they go. Don’t let their elegant appearance deceive you – beneath that refined exterior is a sprightly dog brimming with enthusiasm, particularly when it comes to retrieving games and agility tasks. This exuberance, coupled with their striking coat, makes the Manchester Terrier an attractive addition to the world of shorthaired small dog breeds.
Their intelligence is equally commendable, making training a highly rewarding process. They are quick to learn new commands, and their playful nature makes each training session an enjoyable experience. Their affectionate disposition, sharp looks, and lively intelligence solidify the Manchester Terrier’s position among the best small dog breeds with short hair.
12. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested, a gem among the best small dog breeds with short hair, is famous for its unique appearance. It boasts a glorious crest of long, flowing hair on its head, tail, and feet, while the rest of its body showcases beautiful smooth, hairless skin. Though unusual, these aesthetic features give the Chinese Crested an exotic allure that’s hard to resist.
Despite their delicate looks, these dogs are robust, agile, and filled with energy. They relish interactive games and love to show off their nimbleness with tricks. Their affectionate nature and deep connection with their human companions make them excellent family pets. Their striking juxtaposition of hair and skin, coupled with their lovable personality, certainly cements the Chinese Crested’s place among top shorthaired small dog breeds.
13. Schipperke
The Schipperke, a small but mighty Belgian breed, earns its rightful place among the best small dog breeds with short hair. Often referred to as the “little black devil”, this term of endearment stems from their mischievous and energetic nature. Their dense, jet-black coat is both splendid and low maintenance, making them a perfect choice for those desiring a shorthaired companion.
Their curiosity is almost as impressive as their appearance. Schipperkes love to explore, and their keen intelligence enables them to quickly understand and navigate their surroundings. This combination of smarts and adventure makes them highly entertaining companions, never failing to bring a smile to your face. With their lively persona, striking looks, and low-maintenance grooming needs, the Schipperke undoubtedly shines in the realm of shorthaired small dog breeds.
14. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, affectionately known as the Frenchie, is an absolute charmer among the best small dog breeds with short hair. Their bat-like ears and squashed, lovable faces are signature features that easily melt hearts. Despite their small size, these Bulldogs carry an imposing muscular build, covered by a sleek, short-haired coat. Their grooming needs are minimal, which is a bonus for those seeking an easy-care canine companion.
In terms of personality, the French Bulldog is a bundle of joy that thrives on companionship. Their playful and affectionate demeanor endears them to both adults and children. Despite their playful nature, they tend to be calm and are not typically known as barkers. With their loveable looks, easy-care coat, and friendly disposition, it’s no wonder the French Bulldog is a top choice among shorthaired small dog breeds.
15. Boston Terrier
Nicknamed the “American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is a quintessential breed among the best small dog breeds with short hair. This breed boasts a distinctive tuxedo-like pattern on their short, smooth coat, adding an element of charm and elegance to their appearance. Their compact size and low-maintenance coat make them ideal for small living spaces, and their minimal shedding is a plus for clean households.
Beyond their physical attributes, the Boston Terrier is known for its affable personality. They’re naturally friendly, outgoing, and enjoy socializing with both humans and other animals. These dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. With their pleasing looks, short-haired coat, and endearing personality, the Boston Terrier holds a rightful place in the hearts of dog lovers.
16. Miniature Bull Terrier
The Miniature Bull Terrier, a compact version of the Bull Terrier, is undeniably a remarkable representative of the best small dog breeds with short hair. This breed carries a distinct egg-shaped head and expressive oval eyes that are full of mischief and character. Their thick, close-fitting coat comes in a variety of colors and requires surprisingly little maintenance, making them a perfect choice for those seeking a low-grooming pet.
Yet, what truly sets the Miniature Bull Terrier apart is their larger-than-life personality encased in a small body. These dogs are exuberant, playful, and comically energetic, always ready to join in an adventure or game. Their high spirit and zest for life, paired with their unique appearance and short-haired coat, make them a captivating addition to any household.
17. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, a small native breed from Japan, is certainly a standout contender on the list of best small dog breeds with short hair. Characterized by its fox-like face and fur that is both straight and stiff, this breed boasts a plush double coat that requires little grooming, an attribute that many owners appreciate. The Shiba Inu’s coat comes in several alluring colors, including red, sesame, black and tan, and cream.
What’s truly enamoring about the Shiba Inu, however, is their combination of liveliness and independence. These dogs are agile, energetic, and love to play, yet they also enjoy their solitude, exhibiting a cat-like demeanor that’s both intriguing and endearing. Their unique personality, coupled with their low-maintenance coat, solidly places the Shiba Inu among the top shorthaired small dog breeds.
18. Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund, a small yet robust breed from Scandinavia, nestles comfortably in our list of top shorthaired small dog breeds. Originally bred for hunting puffins on steep cliffs, these dogs are agile, hardy, and possess a double coat that is relatively short and requires minimal grooming. The coat, which can range from reddish-brown to fallow, is as charming as it is easy to care for.
Beneath this low-maintenance exterior, however, lies an affable and lively personality. The Lundehund is playful, energetic, and curious, always eager to explore and learn. Their unique physical capabilities coupled with their delightful temperament make the Lundehund an irresistible choice for those seeking the best small dog breeds with short hair.
19. Border Terrier
The Border Terrier, often mistaken for a simple, rough-coated country dog, rightfully earns its place among the best small dog breeds with short hair. These dogs sport a dense, wiry double coat that is designed to withstand all types of weather, requiring minimal grooming. The coat colors vary from red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, to even pure black.
Their physical attributes, however, are just part of their allure. The Border Terrier’s personality is a delightful mix of affection, intelligence, and eagerness to please. Highly trainable and sociable, they make excellent companions, adding a touch of joy and vitality to any household. Their charming demeanor, combined with their easily maintained coat, truly establishes the Border Terrier as a top contender in the realm of shorthaired small dog breeds.
20. Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is another standout among the best small dog breeds with short hair. Sporting a sleek, flat coat that shines in the sun, these dogs offer the perfect blend of beauty and low maintenance. The coat, which comes in a variety of colors including black, chocolate, red, and blue, sheds minimally and requires only occasional grooming.
What truly sets Rat Terriers apart, however, is their dynamic and engaging personality. These dogs are known for their alertness, intelligence, and boundless energy, making them excellent companions for active individuals or families. Their love for play and knack for learning new tricks keeps their owners entertained, while their affectionate nature makes them perfect cuddle buddies. This blend of manageable grooming and delightful personality makes the Rat Terrier a top choice in the realm of shorthaired small dog breeds.
21. Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is a gem among the best small dog breeds with short hair, boasting a dense, wiry coat that requires minimal upkeep. This coat, with its variety of colors including black, red, blue, and wheaten, adds a dash of elegance to their compact and sturdy build. These dogs exude an enchanting charm, turning heads wherever they go.
But it’s not just their looks that make them coveted pets. The Lakeland Terrier is imbued with an infectious zest for life, coupled with an intelligent and curious nature. Known for their agility and enthusiasm, they radiate a lively energy that can brighten even the gloomiest of days. Their loyal and loving disposition solidifies their status as a top contender in the world of shorthaired small dog breeds.
22. Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier, renowned for its glossy, short coat, is an endearing addition to the list of best small dog breeds with short hair. This breed’s strikingly sleek coat is paired with an equally compelling personality, making them an irresistible choice for pet lovers. Their coat, predominantly white with patches of black or brown, accentuates their chiseled, athletic build.
Brimming with a lively spirit and clever wit, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a bundle of joy. They are playful companions, always excited to embark on new adventures. Their inherent intelligence and alertness make them quick learners, always eager to please their owners. Couple this with their unyielding loyalty and you have a stellar pet, undeniably deserving of its esteemed spot among shorthaired small dog breeds.
23. Beagle
The Beagle, a beloved member of the best small dog breeds with short hair club, is instantly recognizable with its short, dense coat and soulful eyes. This breed dons a tri-colored coat that’s not only charming but also low-maintenance, a delightful blend of tan, white, and black. This, coupled with their compact and muscular build, gives them an appealing, sturdy appearance.
Don’t let their size fool you, Beagles are renowned for their unrivaled energy and spirit. Their inquisitive nature and keen sense of smell often lead them to exciting discoveries, making them exceptional playmates. Their loving and affectionate nature, combined with their resilience and willful spirit, lands them well-deserved praise among the top shorthaired small dog breeds.
24. Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier, a quintessential member of the best small dog breeds with short hair, is a charismatic and lively breed that stands out with its black and tan coat. This shorthaired small dog breed boasts a wiry, dense coat that is not only weather-resistant but also remarkably low-maintenance. This feature, combined with their athletic and sturdy frame, enhances their overall allure, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a compact yet energetic companion.
Unleashing a world of excitement, Welsh Terriers are known for their adventurous spirit and infectious zest for life. Their inquisitive nature and boundless energy make every day a new adventure. Furthermore, their loving demeanor and unwavering loyalty create a deep-rooted bond with their owners. This unique combination of characteristics firmly establishes them among the top shorthaired small dog breeds.
25. Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier, a standout among the best small dog breeds with short hair, is a bundle of dynamism wrapped in a compact frame. This breed, with its white or predominantly white coat, is a favorite for its short, smooth, and relatively low-maintenance fur. Their compact stature, coupled with their athletic build, gives them a robust and lively appearance that is almost impossible to resist.
There’s never a dull moment in the company of a Parson Russell Terrier. Known for their spirited nature and infectious enthusiasm, these dogs bring a sense of excitement and joy to every moment. This combined with their unwavering loyalty and affection makes them one of the top choices for those seeking a shorthaired small dog breed. Their energy, loyalty, and charm solidify their position among the best small dog breeds with short hair.
