While most people find that “new puppy smell” irresistible, having a stinky adult dog will have folks “turning their noses up.” While some “doggy odor” is normal, extreme stinkiness can be an indicator of bigger issues.
In this post, we will explore the facts behind Fido’s “funky” fur and what can be done about it (aside from good bathing). Plus, we will also dig into those doggy breeds that are naturally odor-free with our list of top 10 dog breeds that don’t smell.
Let’s get started.
Why Some Dogs Smell
Whether it be to drooling, droopy ears, or facial folds that hold onto dirt and debris, some dogs are just born to smell, no matter how much you bathe them. However, if you have a pooch that has just started to stink, then you may want to take a closer look at the following reasons why some dogs smell.
1. Gas
Dogs can clear a room when they “let air.” If your pup has flatulence, check into his diet. There may be an ingredient that isn’t agreeing with his tummy like grains, a specific protein, or certain table scraps. If Fido continues to “toot” even after a dietary switch, consult with your veterinarian to rule out potentially serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
2. Atopy - Oily Skin
Another dietary cause of a stinky dog could be atopy. This condition is when food or seasonal allergies cause an inflammation of your dog’s skin, which then leads to an over-production of oils. The odor emitted is musty. Dogs can also get yeast infections which will also produce a stench. Poor diets high in carbohydrates and over-processed foods are usually the culprit. Try switching your canine to a high protein food to see if it helps.
3. Dental Issues
Does your dog have really bad breath? It might be her teeth. The buildup of plaque and tartar can give Fluffy smelly breath. Some breeds are prone to a condition called Gingival Hyperplasia where the gums will over-grow. When this happens, small bits of food can get caught, which produces a rotting smell.
4. Anal Sacs
The anal glands are found on your dog’s bottom and are used for scent marking. When these sacs release, a very smelly, oil-like secretion is produced which can get stuck onto your dog’s fur. If your dog is scooting his bottom on the floor or ground, he may be trying to release impacted anal gland sacs. Make an appointment with your veterinarian.
5. Ear Infections
If your dog’s ears smell, he could have an ear infection caused by yeast, allergies, or bacteria. Be sure to keep your pup’s ears clean to avoid infections, especially with floppy-eared breeds like Bassets and Cocker Spaniels.
Now that we know what can cause your canine companion to stink, let’s explore the top 10 dog breeds that don’t smell (at least those that don’t naturally emit an odor).
Top 10 Dog Breeds That Don't Smell
Havanese
The only dog breed that’s native to Cuba, this adorable little fella has a long flowing coat that is pleasing to both the touch and the nose (it doesn’t produce a smell). The Havanese has been nicknamed the “Velcro dog” because of its loving and devoted nature.
But don’t think a cuddly pup is all you’re getting in this companion pooch, the Havanese is highly trainable, very energetic, and also makes a great watchdog. They have even been known to excel in dog sports, assisting the disabled, and as performers in the circus.
The Havanese does well in all types of settings from a country home to city highrise. However, either way, he loves to view his little corner of the world from up high, so be sure to place a comfy chair by the window, so he can appreciate his surroundings.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
- Height: Up to 11.5 inches
- Lifespan: 14 to 16 years
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkie has been voted the “most popular toy breed” in the US and for good reason. Not only does this cute-as-a-bug-in-a-rug pooch have no natural odor, but it is also devoted to its pet parents. Its long silky coat is more hair-like, so it’s great for those that have mild allergies to dogs.
As far as personality goes, the Yorkshire doesn’t take a backseat to any pooch and has been called a “big dog in a small package.”
Aside from their brave nature, the Yorkie loves to be loved and needs to be a part of the family unit, so if you’re away from home for long hours, the Yorkie will notice.
Experts of the breed recommend housing your Yorkie with older children (due to this pups small size), and if raised with other pets, the Yorkie is very accepting of its furry companions.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
- Height: Up to 9 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Shih Tzu
With big round eyes, a pushed-in muzzle and a devoted nature, the Shih Tzu are bred to be a companion. Whether you keep this dog’s coat full to the floor, or in a jaunty puppy-cut, the silky texture and low to no-smell is perfect for snuggling.
The personality of the Shih Tzu will melt the hearts of all he meets and he’s happiest when he’s giving and receiving love from his favorite human. Even though he will alert you to someone at the door, the Shih Tzu is not overly yappy.
Even though the Shih Tzu is a loyal and trustworthy pet, it is not recommended for toddlers. However, if you are interested in obedience and agility, this breed has competed in these categories with some success - just be careful not to over-exercise your pooch in very warm weather.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 9 to 16 years
- Height: Up to 10 inches
- Lifespan: 10 to 16 years
Maltese
The Maltese have a beautiful snow-white coat that can be kept long and flowing or in a shorter cut. This breed is fearless, yet gentle, making friends with all who greet him with respect and loving care. His favorite pastime is doing anything with his pet parent and other family members.
If you think the Maltese are nothing but a love-puddle, guess again. This breed also does well as a therapy dog and in doggy sports such as agility, obedience, rally, and tracking.
No backyard? No problem as the Maltese is highly adaptable and can live in apartments, as long as they get daily exercise. The one thing breeders don’t recommend with the Maltese? Small children or toddlers, as this purebred pooch is small-sized and somewhat delicate.
Fast Facts
- Weight: Up to 7 pounds
- Height: 8 to 10 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Bichon Frise
With a pure-white fluffy coat, black nose, and dark, round eyes, the Bichon Frise resembles a child’s toy more than a devoted dog. However, when you’re out-and-about with your Bichon, folks probably won’t mistake your pup for a toy, but they might think it’s a Poodle.
Bichon’s make loving companions that like nothing better than snuggling with its pet parent. And even though they may appear to be delicate, this breed is actually quite hardy - it’s been placed in the classification of Non-Sporting Group with the AKC.
This breed loves to play and is always ready for a game of fetch or a long walk. Bichons are also very intelligent, so teach them a trick or two to help stimulate their minds. They can also be used for therapy work, because of their docile and kind nature.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
- Height: 9 to 11 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Dachshund
Longer than taller, the Dachshund (or wiener dog) always makes people smile when he comes trotting along with his super-short legs and adorable face. With three varieties of coat choices (smooth, wire and long), this no-smell pooch has something for everyone.
Even though the Dachshund is “vertically-challenged,” it is by no means a wimpy dog. It was bred in Germany to hunt badgers. In fact, its name literally means badger (Dachs), dog (hund).
The Dachshund continually tops the list of “most popular” dog breeds in the US, probably because of his playful nature and stunning good looks. If you were to dive deeper into its personality, you would also discover it just wants to spend all day long with its pet parent. However, be prepared for a pooch that also has a mind of its own and to be a bit on the stubborn side.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 16 to 32 pounds
- Height: 8 to 9 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Basenji
Not being smelly is only one of the awesome qualities of this African-bred pooch - they also don’t bark! But that’s only two things you may love about the Basenji. This purebred has a short, muscular body, short coat, pointy ears, and a tightly curled tail that falls over one hip. If that’s not cute enough, its wrinkled brow gives the Basenji a concerned or quizzical expression.
This breed is highly intelligent, but also tends to be on the stubborn side, so pet parents will want to be on their toes when training this dog (willing to please is not in this breed’s vocabulary).
You will also want to keep your Basenji supervised when out in the yard, as they can (and will) quickly figure out how to escape its enclosure or get over the fence.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 22 to 24 pounds
- Height: 16 to 17 inches
- Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Whippet
A sleek fast and compact pooch, the Whippet has been named the "poor man's Greyhound." Research speculates this breed was most likely created in the 18th century to poach rabbits and other small game.
Today, the Whippet enjoys life as a family pet and a fierce competitor in flyball, agility, and lure-coursing arenas. Although this breed does show a stubborn streak, they can still perform well in obedience trials.
The Whippet sports a short, dense coat that is available in a wide range of colors and markings. And, of course, their low-to-no odor makes them a joy to be around.
Personality-wise, you can't go wrong with a Whippet. This breed is friendly, quiet, gentle, and loving, which makes it a great companion for children. However, due to the Whippet's strong prey drive, a household without cats or other small fuzzy animals is recommended.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 18 to 48 pounds
- Height: Up to 22 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
West Highland White Terrier
A cute and confident pooch all rolled into a compact body, the West Highland White Terrier (or Westie to his friends), is a no-smell, adorable dog. It's affectionately nicknamed "the big dog in a little dog's body" because he fearlessly goes through life with a bounce in his step and curiosity in his eyes.
Westies were originally developed for hunting and ratting, so know they still retain that strong prey drive. They are also work-driven so to avoid having a bored Westie on your hands, get your pup involved in agility and obedience trials. They also make excellent therapy dogs, and some have even found their way into search-and-rescue.
This breed makes a great companion for both young and seasoned adults, as it is social, devoted, loving, and affectionate with all it meets.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 13 to 22 pounds
- Height: Up to 11 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Poodle
This breed is so wonderful it comes in three sizes to suit all lifestyles (toy, miniature, and standard). At first glance, folks may think this fluffy dog with its top-knot and "foo-foo" hairdo is all show. However, the Poodle is nobodies showpiece. This dog was bred to hunt waterfowl and still retains its ability to do so today.
Although you're less likely to see this pooch in the forest hunting game, you will see them out strolling in the park, or enjoying a relaxing nap on the front porch of its favorite pet parent.
Poodles are an ancient breed but are still popular today because of their intelligence, easy-to-maintain coat, and their playful and obedient nature.
Fast Facts
- Weight: 5 to 70 pounds
- Height: 10 to 15 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
No Smell Dogs Are the Best!
Don’t want to live with that “doggy smell?” Then why not look into adopting one of the top 10 breeds that have no odor?
If you are living with a dog that smells, then be sure to look into the reasons that could be the cause. Whether it be dietary, skin issues or its butt or ears, having a stinky dog is usually a solvable issue.