If you’re sensitive to smells but still dream of having a dog, you’re in luck—some breeds are naturally low-odor and perfect for fresh, clean homes. Breeds like the Basenji, Poodle, and Maltese are known for their minimal scent and easy-to-manage coats. These pups are great choices for people with allergies or just a strong nose. With regular grooming and good hygiene, these breeds stay clean and pleasant to be around. So, you can enjoy all the cuddles without worrying about any unwanted doggy odor!
Poodle
Poodles are not just about fancy haircuts and high intelligence; they’re also one of the least smelly breeds you’ll find. Their curly, hypoallergenic coats don’t trap odors the way other dogs’ fur might, making them perfect for homes where sensitive noses rule. Poodles come in three sizes—toy, miniature, and standard—so there’s a fit for every space and lifestyle. Their low-shedding coat does require regular grooming, but the reward is a clean-smelling house. If you want a dog that’s clever, affectionate, and, most importantly, doesn’t make your living room smell like a kennel, the poodle is a top contender. Plus, they’re great for people with allergies.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is like a living cotton ball with a joyful personality. What makes these little dogs stand out—besides their adorable looks—is their remarkable lack of odor. Their soft, curly coats shed very little and don’t trap smells, so your home stays fresh. Bichons are known for being playful and loving, making them wonderful companions, especially for families with kids or elderly members. Grooming is important to keep their coats healthy, but that’s a small price to pay for an odor-free cuddle buddy. If you want a cheerful lap dog who won’t offend your nose, the Bichon Frise is a brilliant pick.
Basenji
If you’re looking for a dog that’s virtually scentless, the Basenji might be your dream pup. Often called the “barkless dog,” Basenjis are also famous for their cat-like grooming habits. They clean themselves meticulously, so their coats rarely carry that typical dog smell. Basenjis are energetic, smart, and a bit mischievous, so they’ll keep you on your toes. Their short fur is easy to care for, and they shed minimally. With a Basenji, you get a quiet, clean, and odor-free companion who’s always up for an adventure.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Kerry Blue Terriers are as unique as their blue-tinged coats. Not only are they striking in appearance, but they’re also renowned for their low odor. Their single-layer, wavy hair doesn’t trap smells or shed much, making them an excellent fit for scent-sensitive homes. They do require regular brushing and trimming, but their loyalty and playful spirit more than make up for the effort. If you want a dog that’s equal parts elegant and lively—and won’t leave a trace of doggy scent behind—the Kerry Blue Terrier could be your perfect match.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog makes waves not just in water but in odor-free living. Originally bred to help fishermen, these dogs have a waterproof, curly coat that naturally repels dirt and smells. They’re energetic, intelligent, and love being part of the family. Regular grooming keeps their coats at their best and your home smelling fresh. Portuguese Water Dogs are especially good choices for active families who want a loyal companion without the hassle of lingering pet odors.
Maltese
With their silky white hair and gentle nature, Maltese dogs are a favorite among those who want a clean and odor-free pet. Their lack of an undercoat means less shedding and less smell, as their hair doesn’t hold onto dirt or oil. The Maltese is a devoted lap dog, known for being friendly, quiet, and perfect for apartment living. Regular brushing is a must, but you’ll be rewarded with a dog that looks—and smells—lovely all year round.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus may look high-maintenance, but when it comes to odor, they’re impressively low on the scale. Their luxurious hair, which is more like human hair than fur, doesn’t trap odors or dander. Shih Tzus are affectionate and thrive on companionship, making them ideal for families and seniors alike. Their coats do need regular grooming, but if you’re looking for a small dog that won’t make your home smell, a Shih Tzu is a wonderful choice.
Havanese
The Havanese is Cuba’s gift to dog lovers, and it comes with a sweet, scent-free bonus. These dogs are known for their silky, hypoallergenic coats that don’t hold onto smells. They’re lively, social, and adore being with their humans. Havanese are also quite trainable, making them great for first-time dog owners. With regular grooming, they’ll keep looking and smelling fabulous, no matter how many snuggles you share.
Whippet
Whippets are the “clean freaks” of the dog world. Their short, fine coats don’t trap dirt or odors, so they stay pleasantly scentless even after a day of running around. Whippets are gentle, quiet, and make excellent indoor pets—they’re like sleek little race cars that love a comfy spot on the couch. They rarely shed and require minimal grooming, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying their sweet company.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, pack a lot of personality into a tiny, odor-free package. Their long, silky hair is similar to human hair, which means it doesn’t retain the oily smells that can make some dogs unpleasant to be around. Yorkies are bold, affectionate, and perfect for small spaces. They do require regular brushing to keep their hair tangle-free, but their lack of doggy odor makes them a top pick for scent-sensitive homes.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are dainty, elegant, and, best of all, nearly odorless. Their sleek, short coats don’t hold onto smells, and their clean habits make them very easy to live with. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. They’re also low shedders, so cleaning up around the house is a breeze. If you want a dog that’s as clean as it is graceful, the Italian Greyhound is a top contender.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds come in two varieties—hairless and powderpuff—but both are known for their lack of doggy odor. The hairless type, in particular, is almost entirely free of fur, so there’s nowhere for dirt or scent to hide. Even the powderpuff’s fine coat doesn’t trap smells. These quirky, affectionate dogs are perfect for people who want something a little different. Regular bathing is needed for the hairless variety, but the result is a clean, odor-free companion.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, with their dignified looks and sturdy build, are another breed that doesn’t bring that typical doggy smell into your home. Their wiry double coat resists dirt and odors, keeping them—and your furniture—fresh. Scotties are fiercely loyal and independent, often forming deep bonds with their families. They do require some grooming to maintain their classic look, but their odor-free nature makes them a favorite for those with sensitive noses.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolos, also known as Italian water dogs, have a curly, woolly coat that doesn’t shed much or trap odors. Originally bred to hunt truffles, these dogs are energetic, intelligent, and love to please. Their unique coat does need regular trimming, but with that comes the benefit of a dog that stays fresh and clean-smelling. Lagottos are excellent for families looking for a playful companion that won’t leave a scent trail behind.
West Highland White Terrier
Westies, as they’re affectionately called, are spirited little dogs with a big heart—and hardly any smell. Their coarse, white coats shed minimally and don’t hold onto dirt or odor. Westies are known for their cheerful personalities and adaptability to both small apartments and larger homes. Regular brushing keeps their coats in top shape and your nose happy. For scent-sensitive dog lovers, the Westie is a delightful, odor-free friend.
Choosing a low-odor dog breed is a game-changer for scent-sensitive households. With the right pup and a little routine grooming, you can enjoy all the love without the lingering smells. Whether you’re after a playful companion or a calm cuddle buddy, there’s a fresh-smelling breed that fits your lifestyle. So go ahead—breathe easy and bring home a dog that keeps things clean and cozy!
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
