The Top 15 Dogs That Smell as Fresh as They Look

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While some dogs are known for their strong, pungent odor, others seem naturally blessed with a freshness that keeps them smelling great with minimal effort. These breeds are ideal for owners who want a clean, odor-free home without spending countless hours on grooming or dealing with unpleasant smells. From short-haired dogs that require little maintenance to those with special low-oil coats, these pups are famous for their consistently fresh scent. They make perfect companions for anyone who values a sweet-smelling, low-maintenance furry friend that won’t leave a lingering doggy odor.

Poodle

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Poodles are known for their elegant appearance and hypoallergenic coats, which contribute to their low odor. Their curly, dense fur doesn’t produce as much oil as other breeds, meaning they’re less likely to have that classic “doggy smell.” Additionally, Poodles shed very little, so they don’t leave hair or dander lying around to collect odor. With regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and mat-free, Poodles stay fresh and clean. They’re also incredibly intelligent and adaptable, making them one of the most beloved breeds for those who want a sweet-smelling, smart, and stylish companion.

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises are small, fluffy dogs that practically radiate cleanliness. Their soft, curly coats are similar to that of the Poodle and are also low in natural oils, which keeps them smelling fresh. Regular grooming and trimming help maintain their pristine, white fur and ensure that any potential odor is kept at bay. Bichon Frises are known for their playful and cheerful personalities, and their hypoallergenic qualities make them a popular choice for families with allergies. With a bit of regular grooming and a good bath every once in a while, Bichons are the epitome of a clean, cuddly companion.

Basenji

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The Basenji is famously known as the “barkless dog,” but it could also be known as the “odorless dog.” These sleek, short-haired dogs are meticulous self-groomers, almost like cats, and rarely emit a doggy smell. Their coat is fine and low-maintenance, and they produce very little oil, which keeps odor at a minimum. Basenjis are incredibly clean animals, and their grooming habits make them ideal for people who are sensitive to strong smells. On top of that, they’re energetic and curious, bringing joy and adventure to their owners without any unpleasant aroma tagging along.

Shih Tzu

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Despite their long, flowing coats, Shih Tzus are surprisingly low-odor dogs. Their hair is more similar to human hair than typical dog fur, which means it doesn’t trap odors or produce excess oil. However, to maintain their fresh smell, regular grooming is essential to prevent mats and keep their skin healthy. Shih Tzus are affectionate and friendly, often described as “lap dogs extraordinaire,” and they thrive on attention and pampering. With a little grooming and TLC, these dogs will smell just as fabulous as they look, making them perfect companions for those who love both cuddles and cleanliness.

Maltese

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Maltese dogs are small, elegant, and adorable, but they’re also known for being one of the least smelly breeds. Their long, silky coat doesn’t produce much oil, which means they stay smelling fresh. Like the Shih Tzu, their hair is more like human hair, requiring regular grooming to keep it smooth and odor-free. Maltese dogs are sweet, playful, and love to be pampered, making them wonderful pets for those who value cleanliness and charm. With their regal looks and delightful personalities, Maltese dogs prove that looking and smelling good can be a full-time job.

Whippet

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Whippets are sleek, graceful dogs that have a naturally clean and odor-free coat. Their short, fine fur requires minimal grooming, and they don’t produce a lot of oil, so they rarely have that classic doggy smell. Whippets are also known for being relatively low-shedding, which helps keep your home fresh and clean. These dogs are quiet, gentle, and incredibly affectionate, making them excellent companions for those who prefer a dog that won’t leave behind a trail of fur or odor. Whippets love to snuggle and will happily lounge on the couch with you, smelling fresh and looking fabulous.

Yorkshire Terrier

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Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are tiny dogs with big personalities and very little odor. Their long, silky coats don’t produce as much oil as other breeds, which keeps them smelling fresh. However, Yorkies do need regular grooming to prevent their fine hair from getting tangled or dirty. These small dogs are brave, feisty, and incredibly loving, making them excellent companions for both city dwellers and families. With their hypoallergenic coat and minimal shedding, Yorkies are perfect for people who want a sweet-smelling, fashionable pup who also happens to think they’re ten times their actual size.

Dalmatian

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Dalmatians are known for their striking black-and-white spotted coat, but they’re also known for being one of the cleaner dog breeds. Their short, sleek fur produces minimal oil, making them less likely to develop a strong odor. While Dalmatians do shed quite a bit, regular brushing can help keep their coat clean and minimize any loose hair. They are energetic, intelligent, and love being active, so they’re best suited for families who can keep up with their lively personalities. As long as they get regular baths and grooming, Dalmatians will stay fresh and ready for any adventure.

Portuguese Water Dog

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Portuguese Water Dogs have a curly, water-resistant coat that doesn’t shed much, which helps keep them clean and relatively odor-free. Their coat is similar to that of a Poodle, so it requires regular grooming to stay healthy and fresh. These dogs are energetic and playful, loving any activity that involves water, but their coat’s low oil production keeps that wet-dog smell to a minimum. Portuguese Water Dogs are loyal, intelligent, and great family pets, especially for those who want a dog that doesn’t bring an overpowering odor into the house. They’re always ready to make a splash without leaving a scent.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with short coats (or long, depending on the variety) that don’t produce much odor. Their small size means they’re easy to bathe and groom, and they don’t require frequent baths to stay fresh. Chihuahuas are known for being sassy, confident, and devoted to their owners, making them entertaining little companions. While they may have big personalities, they won’t bring a big smell into your home. Regular brushing and dental care (since they’re prone to dental issues) will keep your Chihuahua looking and smelling their best, ready to rule the household with their tiny, odorless paws.

Papillon

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Papillons are small, elegant dogs with large, butterfly-like ears and a beautiful, odor-free coat. Their fine, silky fur doesn’t trap odors or produce much oil, which keeps them smelling fresh. Papillons are highly intelligent and energetic, making them great companions for active families or individuals. They require regular brushing to keep their coat looking pristine, but they don’t need frequent baths to maintain their fresh smell. Papillons are known for their cheerful and outgoing nature, and they’ll charm anyone they meet with their delightful demeanor—and, of course, their fresh, clean scent.

Siberian Husky

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Despite having a thick double coat, Siberian Huskies are surprisingly low-odor dogs. Their fur is designed to repel dirt and doesn’t produce a lot of oil, which means they rarely have a strong doggy smell. Huskies are clean dogs who often groom themselves, much like cats, and they shed heavily only twice a year. Regular brushing will help manage their shedding and keep their coat looking its best. Siberian Huskies are energetic, friendly, and love the great outdoors, but they’ll always come back looking and smelling fresh, ready for the next adventure with their pack.

Italian Greyhound

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Italian Greyhounds are small, elegant dogs with a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming and produces very little odor. They are known for their cleanliness and often act more like cats, keeping themselves tidy. Italian Greyhounds are sensitive, affectionate, and love being close to their owners, often curling up in a warm lap. Because of their lack of an undercoat, they don’t shed much, making them perfect for people who want a clean and odor-free pet. With their sleek appearance and natural freshness, Italian Greyhounds are charming companions who will happily share your space without stinking it up.

Samoyed

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Samoyeds are fluffy, friendly dogs known for their beautiful white coats and perpetual “Sammy smile.” Despite their thick, fluffy fur, they are relatively low in odor. Samoyeds have a coat that repels dirt and doesn’t produce much oil, so regular brushing is often enough to keep them fresh. They are social, playful dogs who love spending time with their families, and their gentle nature makes them great with children. While they do shed quite a bit, Samoyeds are famously clean dogs, and their stunning, odor-free coats make them a joy to have around the house.

Havanese

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Havanese dogs are small, cheerful companions with a silky, odor-free coat that doesn’t produce much oil. Their fur is more like human hair, meaning it doesn’t hold onto smells or leave behind a strong doggy scent. Regular grooming, including brushing and the occasional bath, keeps them looking and smelling their best. Havanese are known for their playful, affectionate personalities and their love of being around people, making them excellent family pets. They are happy, adaptable dogs who bring joy to any household—without bringing an unpleasant odor along for the ride.

The Fur-eshest Pups Around

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When it comes to smelling fresh, these dog breeds truly excel. From the odorless Basenji to the always-clean Papillon, they’re perfect for people who want a sweet-smelling companion without dealing with overpowering doggy odors. While they do require regular grooming to keep their coats beautiful, their low-oil fur and naturally clean habits ensure a pleasant scent around the home. Whether it’s the regal Maltese or the sleek Whippet, these breeds prove you can have a dog who’s as fresh as they are adorable—and always ready for a cuddle session.