13 Small Short-Haired Dogs That Don’t Need Grooming

If you’re interested in getting any of the small short-haired dog breeds that don’t shed simply because you don’t want to be grooming your pet on a regular basis, well you’re not alone. Many dog lovers simply prefer small short-haired dogs that don’t shed because they are low maintenance pets that like to cuddle.




Small short-haired dogs are definitely among the best pet companions you can own. They are quite playful and affectionate and are also a perfect fit if you live in an apartment.

If you’ve made up your mind to acquire a dog that belongs to this category of canines, here 13 are breeds you should definitely consider:

1. American Hairless

If grooming is your ultimate bane and you want a small canine that you’ll be able to play with regularly then this dog breed just has to be your top pick. The American Hairless belongs to a category of small grey dogs that are just amazing pets to own.




If fur is a deal breaker for you when it comes to dog ownership then perhaps this small canine with no fur should be a perfect match. It is also the ideal breed for those that have fur allergies so they don’t have to worry about getting abnormally puffy after cuddling with their pets.

2. Beagle

This is another awesome dog that is quite fun to own as long as it isn’t stolen from a certain man who is deadly skilled with a pencil. It is a cute and adorable canine and can be quite affectionate once it gets used to you.

Weighing less than 30lbs, the Beagle rarely sheds and is the perfect canine for anyone that dreads grooming. It can also live for up to 15 years.

3. Boston Terrier

Want a small short-haired dog that is quite energetic and playful, the Boston Terrier should be your top pick. It is also quite intelligent for a dog and is a perfect fit if you reside in an apartment. It comes in a variety of sizes so you can simply select the size that suits your living situation.

4. Chihuahua (Smooth)

Obviously, there are two variants of this breed. One that is long-haired and another less cumbersome breed with short-haired fur. The latter is definitely the best option for you if you don’t want to engage in grooming.




The average weight of this cute dog breed is about 6lbs and it stands just about 6 inches, making it one of the few dogs that are ideal for traveling.

5. Chinese Crested (Hairless)

This is a hairless variant of the popular breed, which often has a packed fur. The hairless version, however, is as plain and smooth as a canine can be. Like the Chihuahua, this breed belongs to a group of toy dogs that are often acquired as a status statement. This version of the Chinese Crested is just so much convenient to own as it doesn’t require grooming. You may have to brush the hair around its head, though, to prevent it from getting frizzy.

6. Dachshund

Want a small hound that is easy to care for and an ideal fit for apartment living? Then the Dachshund is the best option for you. Weighing just about 11lbs, this canine belongs to an impressive group of hunting dogs that don’t shed. This also makes it the best pet that’ll help you get rid of vermin in your home.

7. French Bulldog

Want a smaller, tamer, and cuddlier version of a Bulldog? Then why not go French. This canine is an adorable breed that is both calm and affectionate. Weighing just about 25lbs, the miniature Bulldog doesn’t shed and requires no grooming. It is also an ideal fit for an apartment and can be trained to perform multiple tasks.

8. Italian Greyhound

This is another cute canine that belongs to the toy dog breeds. Like the other breeds in this category, it is a quite portable dog that is perfect if you travel a lot. It is also a hairless breed so you don’t have to worry about grooming the animal.

9. Parson Russell Terrier

The Terrier is one of the most adorable groups of canines you’ll ever see. Unfortunately, most Terriers are quite hairy and may not be ideal if you want a small dog with short-haired fur. Thankfully, there is a breed of Terrier that perfectly fits these criteria.




The Parson Russell Terrier is one cute-looking canine and a dog that doesn’t shed. So you’re entirely safe from any sort of grooming.

10. Miniature Pinscher

This is another small canine that is perfect for you if you don’t want to engage in any grooming activity. It belongs to the toy dog group, weighing as little as 10lbs. It is a quite active dog that likes to run around a lot. This means you’ll have to take it out for a walk from time to time. It can be a tad too curious too so you must keep any dangerous item away from its reach.

11. Prague Ratter

Basically looks like a twin of the Miniature Pinscher, though, it doesn’t belong in the same category as its more “chubbier” relative. The Prague Ratter is the perfect canine for a dog lover who lives in an apartment and doesn’t want to groom.

12. Pug

This is a cuddly dog that is both adorable and friendly. It is definitely one of the best options to pick from if you’re in search of a small short-haired dog. It can weigh up to 18lbs and lives up to 12-14 years.

13. Xoloitzcuintli

Want to kick things up a notch with an exotic dog breed then this canine with the weird name is the best choice you can make. Its fur coat is technically non-existent and it can stand as tall as 14 inches.

So if you’re going for a peculiar dog breed that requires little to no grooming the Xoloitzcu…whatever is the best option for you.