If you love dogs but want one that’s easy to care for, short haired dog breeds could be perfect for you. These dogs usually need less grooming and maintenance, making them great for busy people or anyone who wants a low-fuss pet. Check out these popular short-haired breeds that are both delightful and simple to look after.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is an exceptionally attractive short haired dog breeds, known for its athletic build and graceful movements. Originally bred for hunting, these medium to large-sized short haired dog breeds display a blend of elegance and strength. They feature striking amber or blue-gray eyes and a lean, muscular physique that highlights their athletic nature. Weimaraners are loving and loyal, forging strong connections with their families. However, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation due to their high energy and intelligence. Their short coat is easy to care for, requiring just a weekly brush to keep it free of loose hairs and in good condition.
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- Origin: Germany
- Height: Males-preferred 59–70 cm (23–28 in)
Females- preferred 57–65 cm (22–26 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 30–40 kg (66–88 lb )
Females- minimum 25–35 kg (55–77 lb )
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Silver, Silver-Grey, Mouse-Grey
- Life span: 11-14 years on average
Pug
Pugs were favored by emperors and nobility. They later became popular in Europe during the 16th century. These short haired dog breeds are charming, mischievous, and affectionate dogs. They are known for their clownish behavior and love to be around people. They are adaptable and do well in apartments or large homes. These short haired dog breeds have a distinctive wrinkled face with a curled tail. Their large, round eyes give them an endearing expression.
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- Other names: Mops (Germany and Netherlands), Doguillo (Spain)
- Origin: China
- Height: Males- preferred 30–35 cm (12–14 in)
Females- preferred 25–30 cm (10–12 in)
- Weight: Minimum 6–8 kg (14–18 lb )
- Coat: Short, Smoothand Glossy Coat
- Color: Black, Fawn, Silver fawn, Apricot
- Life span: 12-15 years on average
Great Dane
Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are gentle giants known for their calm demeanor and loyalty. It is one of the best short haired dog breeds. They are chosen for tasks that require stability and strength, such as mobility assistance and providing physical support to individuals with disabilities. Their size can also be advantageous in certain situations where a larger dog is needed.
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- Other names: German Mastiff, German Boarhound, Grand Danois
- Origin: Germany
- Height: Males- preferred 76–90 cm (30–35 in)
Females- preferred 71–84 cm (28–33 in)
- Weight: minimum 50–82 kg (110–180 lb )
- Coat: Short coats and tight
- Color: Grey, Black, white, blue and mixed color
- Life span: 10.6 years on average
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, affectionately called the “Min Pin,” is a small, lively dog with a bold character. They are full of energy and confidence and these make them a fun and engaging companion. They have a sturdy build, a proud stance, and distinctive, upright ears. These short haired dog breeds are known for their playful and energetic nature. While they can be independent and a bit stubborn, they are also loyal and loving with their families. They have a strong prey drive and are quite spirited. Their short coat is easy to care for, needing just a weekly brush to manage loose hairs and keep it healthy.
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- Other names: Zwergpinscher, King of the Toys
- Origin: Germany
- Height: preferred 25–30 cm (9.8–11.8 in)
- Weight: minimum 4–6 kg (8.8–13.2 lb )
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: tricolored (black, white, and tan)
- Life span: 12-16 years on average
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a small of all short haired dog breeds. This is a graceful breed with an appearance similar to ancient greyhounds. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, they make wonderful lap dogs and companions. These short haired dog breeds have a delicate build, large, expressive eyes, and a sweet face. Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds are lively and enjoy short play sessions and exercise. Their coat is easy to care for, needing only regular brushing to keep it shiny and healthy. They don’t shed much but are sensitive to cold, so they might need a sweater in cooler weather.
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- Origin: Italy
- Height: preferred 32–38 cm (13–15 in)
- Weight: minimum 5 kg (11 lb )
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Solid black, Grey
- Life span: 10-14 years on average
Labrador
The Labrador Retriever is a highly popular short haired dog breeds worldwide. It is famous for its friendly and outgoing personality. Bred initially to retrieve game during hunts, they are versatile and make great family pets. Labs are wonderful with kids and other animals and are known for their loyalty and ease of training. They thrive in active homes and love taking part in different activities. Their coat is fairly low-maintenance, though they do shed throughout the year, with more shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps control shedding and keeps their coat in good condition.
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- Other names: Labrador, Lab
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Height: Males- preferred 56–57 cm (22–23 in)
Females- preferred 54–56 cm (21–22 in)
- Weight: Males minimum 29–36 kg (65–80 lb)
Females minimum 25–32 kg (55–70 lb)
- Coat: Short, dense weather-resistant double coat
- Color: Black, chocolate or yellow
- Life span: 13 years on average
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is an iconic short haired dog breeds, Known for its striking appearance and energetic personality. The Dalmatian has a rich history as a carriage dog and firehouse mascot. They are medium-sized dogs with a well-proportioned, athletic build. They are known for their lively and outgoing nature. They are energetic and enjoy physical activities, making them great companions for active individuals or families. These short haired dog breeds are also intelligent and curious, often needing mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their short coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring regular brushing to manage shedding and keep their coat in good condition.
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- Other names: Carriage Dog, Firehouse Dog, Spotted Coach Dog
- Origin: Croatia
- Height: Males-preferred 58–61 cm (23–24 in)
Females- preferred 56–58 cm (22–23 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 15–32 kg (33–70.5 lb)
Females- minimum 16–24 kg (35–53 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Liver & White, Black & White
- Life span: 12-13 years on average
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a strong and impressive breed recognized for its power and loyalty. These short haired dog breeds are Known for their protective nature and versatility. They are large, muscular dogs with a commanding presence. They have a broad head, deep chest, and a sturdy, powerful build. These short haired dog breeds are smart, confident, and protective, showing deep loyalty and affection to their families. To ensure they are well-behaved and comfortable with others, proper socialization and training are important. Their short coat is relatively easy to care for, requiring just weekly brushing to manage shedding and keep it healthy.
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- Other names: Rott
- Origin: Germany
- Height: Males-preferred 61–69 cm (24–27 in)
Females- preferred 56–63 cm (22–25 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 50–60 kg (110–132 lb)
Females- minimum 35–48 kg (77–106 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: tricolored (black, white, and tan)
- Life span: 8-10 years on average
Vizsla
The Vizsla is a graceful, medium-sized short haired dog breeds originally used for hunting. They are known for their smooth movements and loving nature, making them great family pets and companions. With a lean, athletic build, large expressive eyes, and a gentle yet confident demeanor. They are energetic and loyal. They enjoy being involved in family activities and thrive on human interaction. Intelligent and eager to please, they are relatively easy to train. Their short coat needs only minimal grooming—just a weekly brush to keep it shiny and healthy.
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- Other names: Hungarian Vizsla , Magyar Vizsla
- Origin: Hungary
- Height: Males-preferred 56–64 cm (22–25 in)
Females- preferred 53–61 cm (21–24 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 20–30 kg (45–66 lb)
Females- minimum 18–25 kg (40–55 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Black, Brown, Light Pink
- Life span: 12-14 years on average
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest short haired dog breeds in the world. They are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. They are famous for their big personalities despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas are alert, lively, and often devoted to one person. They are highly intelligent and can be fiercely loyal and protective. They have a distinctive apple-shaped head with large, expressive eyes.
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- Other names: Chihuahueno
- Origin: Mexico
- Height: preferred 8–23 cm (3–9 in)
- Weight: minimum 1–3 kg (2–7 lb)
- Coat: both short-coat and long-coat varieties
- Color: ranging from solid to spotted or marked.
- Life span: 12- 20 years on average
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers were developed in the late 19th century. These short haired dog breeds bred from a mix of English Bulldogs and White English Terriers (now extinct) and were originally used for ratting and pit fighting, which they quickly outgrew. They are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate companions. They have a lively and playful nature and are known for their gentle disposition. They are good with children and other pets and adapt well to apartment living. These short haired dog breeds have a square head with a short muzzle and large, expressive eyes.
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- Other names: Boston Bull, Boxwood, American Gentleman
- Origin: United States
- Height: preferred 23–38 cm (9–15 in)
- Weight: minimum 3–11 kg (6–25 lb)
- Coat: Smoth, Short and Slick coat
- Colour: Brindle with White, Seal with White, Black with White
- Life span: 12 years on average
Mastiff
The Mastiff is a large, imposing breed known for its strength and gentle nature. They are originally bred for guarding and protection. These short haired dog breeds are gentle giants with a calm demeanor and loyal disposition. They are massive dogs with a broad, muscular build and a powerful presence. Their large size and sturdy frame give them a commanding presence. They are loyal to their families and protective of their loved ones. They are generally good with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions. Mastiffs require minimal grooming, as their short coat does not mat or tangle easily. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy.
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- Other names: English Mastiff
- Origin: England
- Height: Males-preferred 76 cm (30 in)
Females- preferred 70 cm (27.5 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 73–90 kg (160–198.5 lb)
Females- minimum 54–77 kg (120–170 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Silver-Fawn, Fawn or Dark Fawn-brindle
- Life span: 9-10 years on average
German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a versatile and energetic breed known for its hunting skills and friendly nature. It is bred for various tasks, including pointing and retrieving, GSPs excel in both fieldwork and as family pets. They are medium to large dogs with a sleek, athletic build. They are known for their high energy and eagerness to please. They are intelligent and trainable, making them excellent candidates for obedience training and agility activities. These short haired dog breeds are affectionate with their families and enjoy being involved in family life. Their short coat is easy to manage, requiring only regular brushing to keep it healthy and to control shedding.
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- Other names: Vorstehhund, Kurzhaar
- Origin: Germany
- Height: Males-preferred 62–66 cm (24.5–26 in)
Females- preferred 58–63 cm (23–25 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 25–32 kg (55–70.5 lb)
Females- minimum 20–27 kg (44–59.5 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: Liver & White, Black & White, Brown
- Life span: 12-14 years on average
Dachshund
The Dachshund, often lovingly called the “ Doxie ” is a small breed with a unique long body and short legs. These short haired dog breeds are Known for their bold and playful personality. They have a distinctive look with their deep chest and short legs. Despite their small size, they are lively, courageous, and have a strong, curious nature. They are affectionate with their families and enjoy being playful and energetic. They with smooth coats are easy to groom, needing only a weekly brushing to keep their coat healthy and manage shedding.
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- Other names: Sausage Dog, Badger Dog, Doxie
- Origin: Germany
- Height: preferred 20–23 cm (8–9 in)
- Weight: minimum 7.3–14.5 kg (16–32 lb)
- Coat: smooth, long-haired and wire-haired
- Color: Solid Red, Black and Tan, Chocolate and Tan, Dapple, Brindle
- Life span: 12-16 years on average
Boxer
Boxers are known for their intelligence, loyalty and energy. These short haired dog breeds are often selected for service roles that require physical strength and alertness, such as mobility assistance and alerting to seizures or other medical emergencies. They are also appreciated for their affectionate nature, making them excellent emotional support dogs.
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- Other names: German Boxer, Deutscher Boxer
- Origin: Germany
- Height: Males- preferred 56–64 cm (22–25 in)
Females- preferred 53–61 cm (21–24 in)
- Weight: Males minimum 30–32 kg (66–70 lb)
Females minimum 25–27 kg (55–60 lb)
- Coat: Short, Shiny, Smooth, Close-lying
- Color: White and Fawn or brindle
- Life span: 11.3 years on average
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, active breed celebrated for its intelligence and agility. They are originally bred for fox hunting. These short haired dog breeds are lively and confident, with a strong desire for play and activity. They are known for their high energy and spirited nature. While These short haired dog breeds are smart and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. they can be somewhat stubborn. They are loving with their families but need ample exercise and mental stimulation to stay content. Being short haired dog breeds, their short coat is easy to care but requiring only occasional brushing to manage shedding.
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- Origin: United Kingdom
- Height: preferred 25–30 cm (10–12 in)
- Weight: minimum 5–6 kg (11–13 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: tricolored (black, white, and tan)
- Life span: 13-16 years on average
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs were bred as companion dogs and became popular in France during the 19th century. These short haired dog breeds are playful, affectionate, and known for their comical personalities. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being the center of attention. They have a compact, muscular build with a short face and distinctive “bat ears” origins in England Their smooth coat can be found in various colors, including brindle, fawn, white, and pied.
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- Other names: Bouledogue Français
- Origin: France
- Height: Males-preferred 27–35cm (12–15 in)
Females- preferred 28–36 cm (55–75 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 25–34 kg (12–18 lb)
Females- minimum 20–29 kg (45–65 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: tricolored (black, white, and tan)
- Life span: 10-12 years on average
Beagle
The Beagle is a small to medium-sized breed known for its friendly and curious nature. These short haired dog breeds are originally bred as a scent hound for hunting. They are now popular family pets due to their playful demeanor and good temperament. They have a distinctive hound appearance with large, expressive eyes and long ears.
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- Other names: English Beagle
- Origin: England
- Height: preferred 33–41 cm (13–16 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 10–11.3 kg (22–25 lb)
Females- minimum 9–10.5 kg (20–23 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat
- Color: tricolored (black, white, and tan)
- Life span: 12-15 years on average
Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its speed and agility. They are bred for hunting small game and racing. These short haired dog breeds are gentle and affectionate dogs with a refined appearance. They are affectionate with their families and are generally good with children and other pets. They are calm indoors but have bursts of energy and speed when playing or running. Their short coat is very easy to maintain. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy, but they do not shed excessively.
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- Other names: Snap Dog
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Height: Males-preferred 47–51 cm (18.5–20 in)
Females- preferred 44–47 cm (17.5–18.5 in)
- Weight: minimum 11.5–18.2 kg (25–40 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and dense coat
- Color: A wide variety of colors –Black, White, Red, Fawn, Brindle, Blue or Cream.
- Life span: 12-14 years on average
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, also known as the “Ridgeback,” is a large, elegant breed. They were originally bred to hunt lions, which gives them a powerful and dignified presence. These short haired dog breeds are known for their intelligence, independence, and loyalty. They are protective of their families but are generally reserved with strangers. They require consistent training and socialization to ensure they are well-adjusted and well-behaved. Their short coat is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hairs.
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- Other names: African Lion Dog.
- Origin: Southern Africa.
- Height: Males-preferred 63–69 cm (25–27 in)
Females- preferred 61–66 cm (24–26 in)
- Weight: Males- minimum 36.5 kg (80 lb)
Females- minimum 32 kg (71 lb)
- Coat: Smooth, Short and Close coat.
- Color: typically a rich red or wheaten color.
- Life span: 11-12 years on average
Each of these short-haired breeds brings unique qualities and charm to the table. These dogs offer a blend of beauty, low-maintenance grooming, and loving companionship. They are well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and have the time to engage with their dog. Choosing the right breed depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and the type of companionship you seek, but any of these breeds can make a wonderful addition to your family.
