What is the cleanest dog breed

The 17 Cleanest Dog Breeds (with Pictures)

Most people fall into one of two categories dog people or cat people. Although we love cats, here at Hepper, we are crazier about dogs. Cats have many things going for them. But the one thing they have over dogs is that they are hygienic animals who clean themselves regularly.

But, there are a few dog breeds that are cleaner than others. So, if you want a dog, but youre having a hard time thinking about their sometimes dirty habits, these guys could be your saving grace. Lets take a closer look at the cleanest dogs.

The 17 Cleanest Dog Breeds

1. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a cute little guy who is often described as more feline than canine. Not only does he clean himself fastidiously like a cat, but he also jumps up on shelves and perches himself there all day. He is graceful and quiet too. So, if you cant decide between a dog or a cat, the Japanese Chin is your best bet.

2. Xoloitzcuintli

Despite being 3,000 years old, the Xoloitzcuintli is a very clean dog. He comes in either two varieties, either coatless or coated, and the coated type is super smooth and slick. No matter which coat he picks, he never smells and rarely gets mucky. All he needs is sunblock and a jumper in the winter, and hes a happy hairless bunny.

3. American Hairless Terrier

Here we have another hairless dog breed, who can also inherit a very short coat that is barely there. This means little chance of picking up dirt or smells, and he rarely needs a wash. He makes an excellent option for those with slight dog allergies. The only consideration you need to take is that he needs sunscreen and jumps just like the pup above.

4. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is our clean canine cloud option. His cotton-like coat is soft and silky, meaning it rarely holds onto the dirt. He is also a hypoallergenic dog breed that sheds very little. So, if you like hairy dogs but you dont like too much hair on your outfit, this lovely guy is a fluffy doggy dream.

5. Chow Chow

You might be thinking, there is no way that this big ball of fluff is a clean dog breed. But he is, very much so. Like the Japanese Chin, he spends a lot of time grooming himself with that blue tongue of his. This means you have to do very little on the grooming front, just a regular brush to prevent his coat from matting.

6. Poodle

The Poodle is also a hypoallergenic dog that sheds very little. The Poodle is one of the most commonly mixed dogs for this reason. His hair is long and curly, so all you have to do is brush him regularly with a slicker brush to prevent any tangles from forming. And no matter how much he loves to jump into the water, he will not get that damp doggy smell as some others do.

7. Dalmatian

The Dalmatian might be spotty, but he is very clean indeed. His short and sleek hairstyle means that dirt doesnt stick to him. It is also water-resistant, meaning that rain and pond water just slide off him. Although he needs fewer baths than most, he is a moderate shedder all year round, which means he needs regular grooming.

8. Basenji

The Basenji has a very tight coat, meaning that he doesnt collect dirt easily. And his ears are short too, which means they arent dirt collectors either. He is a hygienic pooch who takes pride in his appearance and cleanliness. If you can keep up with this guys energy, he is a sweet-smelling pooch.

9. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a Japanese fox-lookalike who has a water-repellant coat. So he is protected from the elements, making him one of the cleanest dogs going. He has zero drooling potential, and he takes time out of his day to clean his coat. He is also known to lick his doggy friends too, cleaning up everyone as he goes along.

10. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua, be that the long-haired or the short-haired is a teeny tiny pooch that carries little dirt. He is full of personality and sass, and he likes to keep himself clean to keep up with his charismatic demeanour. It takes less than five minutes to groom his body thoroughly, and he is easy to care for.

11. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky has an ice, water, and weather-proof coat, and he is one of the cleanest of them all. Hell get muddy and dirty, but itll fall off as he is running about. And as soon as he gets home, hell clean himself, and hell be sparkly clean in no time. As long as you can put up with his shedding, youll get along brilliantly.

12. Greyhound

The Greyhound has a really short and smooth coat, almost like velvet, and it rarely gets mucky. This guy is the fastest dog on record too, so even if he gets a spot of dirt on it, itll fall off in the wind. This sensitive pup loves nothing more than to cuddle up with his mom and dad, and youll happily cuddle up to him too with his clean coat.

13. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a rare dog, but distinctive thanks to his sheep-like coat and head shape. His coat is thick and woolly, and dirt doesnt get it into his jacket easily. He is a hypoallergenic dog and sheds little too. Youll have to take him to the groomers regularly to trim his coat because it grows so fast, but overall, hes super clean.

14. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is often described as King of the Toy dogs. He is bursting with character and hasnt got enough time to get dirty. Instead, hes too busy trying to make his family laugh. He loves to cuddle up to his owner, and his soft and silky coat feels lovely and squeaky clean. Again, because he is so small, it takes just minutes to brush him from head to paw.

15. Whippet

The Whippet is the smaller version of the Greyhound, meaning that not only is he just as clean, but its also quicker to brush him too. Again, this clean boy loves to snuggle with his family. And because he is so clean, you wont mind him jumping up onto the sofa with you. Invest in some doggy jumpers for him because he feels the cold easily.

16. Maltese

The Maltese is another small and cloud-like dog who is hypoallergenic. He doesnt shed much and keeps up with his own grooming regime. All you need to do is make sure his that his coat doesnt tangle, and to regularly trim his fast-growing fur. This heavenly puppy is super sweet, and his cleanliness is the cherry on top.

17. Pharoah Hound

The Pharoah Hound is the dog of the Egyptians. He is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, and in that time, he has learnt the art of outstanding cleanliness. He is a rare dog, and you can be sure that youll be the only person in the neighborhood with a Pharaoh Hounds. The Egyptians were cat people for sure, but this pooch impressed them with their skills, with cleanliness being one of them.

The Wrap Up

So, thats a wrap! With 17 of the cleanest dog breeds, you can be sure that there is a canine personality here for everyone. Some shed a lot, some shed very little, but all are super squeaky clean. Youll rarely have to wash these guys because they take care of it themselves. So, if it is the doggy mess that is putting you off, you now have no excuse to get yourself a Fido.

See also:

Featured Image Credit: monster_code, Shutterstock

18 of the Cleanest Dog Breeds for Neat Freaks

Did you know dogs, apart from being the friendliest, are also one of the cleanest pets that you can have? Sure, there can be some exceptions but if you want to get home a companion who also is a clean freak like you, there are plenty you can find.

Here are eighteen of the cleanest dog breeds that you need to know about. You can probably give it a thought and get one of these adorable breeds home!

American Hairless Terrier

If you want a clean yet intelligent and courageous dog, think no further and get home the American Hairless Terrier. These are small to medium-sized dogs who love activity. So, expect no dull moments!

In fact, these dogs are known to be territorial of their master and you can expect them to desire some much-needed time with you. This is probably the reason they may chase away smaller animals. Hence, you need to keep them separately from your other pets.

The American Hairless Terriers do not shed hair and hence, do not create any dander. The other grooming needs you must consider include bathing your dog weekly, cutting their nails and occasionally cleaning their ears and teeth.

You need to give them plenty of exercise and keep them engaged. However, this breed is susceptible to certain allergies and sunburns so you need to be mindful of that and you are good to go!

Basenji

Originally found in Congo, these dogs have a history of serving as hunting dogs and flushing out rodents from villages. In contemporary times, they make for perfect family pets.

This dog breed is known to be attentive, endearing and loving and can adjust wonderfully in your home if you are a first-time dog owner. They are not too needy and adapt well in a single-owner household where the owner leads a busy life.

The amount of shedding is almost negligible so there arent any major grooming needs. They are a healthy breed with no susceptibility to particular health problems. They are easy to groom and will enjoy a good exercise session with you.

The Basenji possess a shiny short coat, a curled tail and beautiful almond-shaped eyes that contain a sea of emotions in them. They dont bark much but will let you know their displeasure in innovative ways.

They make excellent playmates!

Also Read: 15 Amazing Dog Breeds With a High Prey Drive

Bedlington Terrier

Resembling a lamb, the Bedlington terrier is blessed with a multidimensional personality. It is entertaining and a rather strong dog breed that will keep you engaged at all times.

In addition to being excellent watchdogs, these are also known to be entertaining and welcoming towards guests and adapt well into families unless, of course, someone falls on their wrong side.

Though they can be good companions to your kids, you must exercise caution in the initial days to watch if anything untoward happens. However, these are intelligent creatures that are easy to train so casualties should not take place.

It is a healthy breed with no special susceptibility towards particular diseases. It is also a clean breed that requires minimum grooming. It doesnt shed much which makes grooming easier.

All you need to ensure for these dogs is regular grooming, including dental hygiene and trimming of nails occasionally. This is the least that you have to do with any pet, so nothing over the top!

Bichon Frise

First off, this is an incredibly cute dog breed that can totally melt your heart just by looking at you. Small and compact, these dogs truly turn around a bad day into a pleasant one.

The Bichon Frise has a pleasant disposition and makes for excellent pets for those who live even in small apartments. So, no need to avoid this breed if you dont have a big garden.

However, do not get fooled by their size because they are incredibly hardy and love moving around. These are happy dogs who enjoy playing around and keeping everyone at home happy.

White in color, they shed a little but still not too much to worry you! They are also known for their propensity for cleanliness and hence, you would need to invest in their grooming.

Since it has a white coat, you will have to bathe him every time he muddies himself. This could be after a play session or a good exercise session. You also need to cater to your dogs dental hygiene, ear cleaning and nail trimming on a regular basis.

Also Read: Which Dog Breeds Look Like Ewoks From Star Wars?

Chihuahua

Small dog, big personality! If there was a tagline to describe the Chihuahua, this would be it. Compact, light and graceful, this dog breed will certainly add a distinct charm to your home.

It is an excellent playmate and loves to enjoy its time moving. Dont expect your Chihuahua to sit quietly and laze around. That is not in its nature. It is an intelligent dog that has a propensity to please its owners.

The smooth-coat Chihuahua has minimal grooming needs and is known to be love and appreciate cleanliness. You will need to brush its coat occasionally, trim its nails and maintain a regular brushing schedule.

You will also have to pay special attention to your ears because they are prone to developing ear infections at times. Look out for excess wax and maintain a regular schedule for the same.

Also Read: 24 of the Best Dog Breeds for Anxiety

Chow Chow

If you love dogs who have a regal air around them, look no further than the Chow Chow. It is a unique breed that is adorable. It is not hyperactive but instead likes to be aloof and is serious in its demeanor.

They dont have aggressive training and exercise needs that make it easy for busy professionals to have them as pets.

It has a thick mane that gives it the appearance of a lion, adding to the air of regality it exudes. Its deep almond eyes only add to the charm, making it an enviable dog breed. You are sure to have friends and family drool over this superstar in your home when they come visiting.

They come in regal colors and you will have a good amount of options to choose from. They are also known to be an incredibly clean dog breed that gels well with the regal vibes.

They have very little dog odor, to begin with. You may, however, have to watch out for ticks and clean their mane regularly.

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are one of the most popular dog breeds out there. They are loved by dog lovers across the world for their looks but also for the traits they embody.

To begin with, it is a highly active and highly intelligent dog breed. Because of this, you would also need to invest in their training and teach them appropriate norms of behavior.

It can get rambunctious at times so toddlers and very small children need to be kept away unless it is trained well.

Dalmatians do not have a strong dog odor, have a clean coat that is dirt repellent. You will see them enjoying the outdoors, playing in the mud, but then they clean themselves and the shiny coat is for everyone to see and admire.

If possible, brush their teeth daily to avoid any gum issues. You also need to maintain their ear cleanliness and nail length.

German Pinscher

If you want to strike the perfect balance between a companion and an energetic pet, you should get home a German Pinscher. They make for lovely home pets and integrate well into the family dynamics.

They can be imposing and aggressive so training and good training at that is a must. Once you get that in order, you will have a devoted life companion.

You will also have to spend considerable time in their exercise and have to spend time with them to keep them engaged and happy.

The German Pinscher is a generally healthy breed, one that is also a very clean dog breed. It is an average shedder and doesnt have aggressive grooming needs. You need to take care of their dental hygiene, nail care and ear wax and thats about it.

Greyhound

Known for their agility, the Greyhounds make for popular pets across the globe. They are also expert racers and love a good running session. But this is not the only trait that makes it endearing to dog owners.

Some of its key traits are that it is affectionate, it is loyal and also loving to its owner. They also gel well with strangers and have a friendly demeanor overall.

Their high energy levels are perhaps their key feature and one that distinguishes it. Therefore, you will have to set aside time for its training and activity needs because it will get restless otherwise. It is not the type of dog you can keep chained.

They are a healthy breed who like to be mid-level engaged. It is a lesser-known fact, but the Greyhound has a propensity towards cleanliness and is a clean breed.

They are prone to shedding and you will, therefore, have to groom them daily without fail.

Japanese Chin

A sensitive yet intelligent dog, the Japanese Chin is a great companion to have. It is also a dog breed that is known to be reserved. Do not expect your Japanese Chin to become instantly friendly with strangers and guests.

They have average exercise needs and you dont have to invest a lot in walking or exercising them. In addition, these are also dogs that have a great propensity towards cleanliness.

You will need to maintain a grooming schedule that includes tending to its long coat at least twice every week, cleaning its ear wax, trimming its nails and ensuring its gums and teeth are healthy.

You also have to be mindful of their exposure to the severe sun as they dont take well to heat and may show signs of irritability and may even fall ill.

Though it is one of the most popular breeds in Japan, it is slowly finding suitors across the world.

Also Read: 18 Most Popular Flat-Faced Dog Breeds

Maltese

Resembling a white furball, the Maltese is a cute dog that will make your dull days bright because of its oozing cuteness.

Not only this, they are known to be refined in their manners, joyful and intelligent. It makes for a wonderful lap dog and can adjust well in small houses. In fact, it can be a perfect traveling companion as well.

It is a friendly and extremely affectionate dog that adjusts well with family dynamics. It is sensitive and also mindful of other pets. You dont have to invest greatly in its exercise needs, which are usually moderate.

It has a low tendency to bark and is also known to be a lover of cleanliness. It likes to be clean and this really adds to its charm. You just need to maintain a regular grooming schedule without doing a lot.

Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound is the national dog of Malta and is treasured across the globe by dog lovers for its many traits.

They are great family dogs and are sure to win everyones trust. They are super affectionate and also possess high levels of intelligence.

You can choose to give a bath to the Pharaoh Hound as is the need. The call is yours to take as long as you are giving it a light brushing often to maintain its coat.

If you see their nails rattle when they walk, it is a sign that you need to trim them. Ensure that the situation doesnt come to this and you maintain a regular grooming session and pay attention to its ears and nails.

They dont normally have an odor, so watch out for signs if that happens. A yearly checkup with a vet is always a good idea!

Poodle

If you have a penchant for showy dog breeds, you need a Poodle in your life. These are cute, almost like a toy and will fill your heart with affection. You are sure to invite envy of onlookers while traveling with your Poodle.

Poodles come in sizes between 10-15 inches. But dont just think of them as a small thing of beauty because Poodles are very intelligent dogs. They can be trained to do a number of things. In fact, this is a breed known for its athleticism if handled by a good trainer.

Poodles are also known to be an incredibly clean dog breed. They are devoid of strong dog odor. When it comes to their grooming needs, you need to go for it every 6 weeks or 8 weeks. So, the cycle is not too much and can be easily managed.

You need to take care of their feet, ears and nails for them to feel neat and clean.

Also Read: 62 of the Cutest Large and Small Poodle Mixes

Shiba Inu

If you have a penchant for small, cute dogs, you are definitely going to love the Shibu Inu. They are adorable and have a loving disposition that makes them endearing to people.

But dont let their cuteness fool you because beneath this demeanor is a fierce personality. It is bold, alert and also good natured, all traits that make it a great family dog.

However, it is a difficult breed to train and is also prone to becoming very possessive of its owner. You also need to walk the dog daily as they dont like to be confined in the four walls of home 24*7.

The Shiba Inu is an incredibly clean dog breed and likes to be neat and well put out at all times. These dogs shed heavily which translates into the need for regular grooming.

Also Read: 19 Small Calm Dog Breeds You Will Love

Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)

Another small, compact and incredibly cute dog breed on our list is the Xoloitzcuintli. It is literally a fur of happiness that will make your life joyous.

Popularly found in their native place of Mexico and Central America, these dogs are also known to be revered for their cuddles. People with ailments such as arthritis even stand to benefit from these cuddles!

Owing to their small size, they adjust well in small apartments. They are sensitive and incredibly affectionate.

They love being clean. So you would need to wash their feet and hands regularly preferably twice every week to keep their sebaceous glands clean and sweat-free. Bathing sessions need to happen once every two weeks and just pay attention to any signs of discomfort.

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is one of the most loyal dog breeds out there. If you are looking for a companion, this is one breed that will never disappoint you. It is known for its compact size, endurance and fastidiousness, traits that can make any dog truly amazing!

You can expect them to chase small animals at the house and because of their friendliness, you cant expect them to be vigilant watchdogs.

Another thing that distinguishes this dog breed is that it loves to be clean. They are self-cleaning and you need to give them a few bathes over the course of a year. You need to brush its coats weekly so that it maintains its sheen.

Nail trimming and dental hygiene are other key areas of consideration when it comes to grooming.

Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher comes from Germany and is loved and adored because of its toy-like demeanor. They make great family dogs because they are affectionate, energetic and also fearless.

Though they can adjust in small settings and you dont need to have a garden in your house if you want them as pets, you will have to spend time and energy on their exercise needs.

It is an elegant dog but one that you need to train for meeting people. They have high energy but a moderate temperament that makes them wonderful companions. It is a breed that does not take very well to cold weather.

The Miniature Pinscher loves to be clean and therefore, you need to be particular of their grooming needs else they wont like it. But dont bathe it regularly because that makes its skin dry and flaky.

Whippet

The Whippet has a slender body and is known to enjoy hunting rabbits and fowls. It has a highly athletic body that can give you an idea about its abilities.

Not just in terms of agility but this dog is also known for its playfulness that will keep you at your toes. If you like a playful friend, this is the dog you need to get home.

Whippets are also known for their sharp mind and independent streak. They love to be in control of things and can boss around the house.

Whippets love to be clean and therefore, it is important to maintain a grooming schedule for the dog. A period of 4-6 weeks is good enough and pay special attention to ears, anal glands and nails.

Also Read: 15 Dog Breeds That Can Jump High

The Final Word

Dogs are one of the fiercest friends human beings can have. They are also perfect companions who are sure to be by your side as you battle the vicissitudes of life.

We hope you get home one of the breeds discussed above and find your perfect friend and companion while not having to worry too much about their cleanliness.