All dogs have a smell, but certain dog breeds are generally less smelly than others.
American Kennel Club's (AKC) chief veterinary officer, Dr. Jerry Klein, told Newsweek that "certain breeds that tend to be 'smellier' because of higher oil production."
According to him, these breeds need higher oil production for the function they were bred to do, "like retrievers that need slick, water repellant coats when swimming".
The AKC vet also noted that dogs with longer haired coats can sometimes retain the smell of urine so "be sure to keep your dog groomed well to avoid that," he added.
Dr. Klein also advises that any dog that has a strong odor needs to be checked out by a veterinarian "because oftentimes, the smell can come from underlying issues.
"Skin problems, ear infections, bad teeth, fungal infections between the toes and under the tail all can contribute to a bad smell."
Here are 10 breeds that tend to not have a strong smell:
Bichon Frise
The hypoallergenic Bichon Frise is one of the world's great personality dogs, and a great choice for those who prefer a small dog that doesn't shed much or have a strong smell.
That said, no dog is 100 percent hypoallergenic but the possibility of getting allergies with these type of dogs is quite low.
Their velvety fur needs regular maintenance with a good brushing at least 2-3 times a week, "but every day is best," AKC says.
Basenji
An easy to care breed when it comes to grooming, they are one of the cleanest dogs around and known for their cat like mannerisms: clever, independent and a bit reserved.
The Basenji has little to no body odor but they are slight shedders, so brushing every few days is recommended.
Chihuahua
Every single Chihuahua type are low maintenance on the grooming front and they are also pretty much odor free.
However the Chihuahua does love being brushed on a regular basis as they enjoy the attention, this will also help to keep their coat and skin in perfect condition. Just like other breeds, they will shed more during the spring and then again in the fall.
Dachshund
The lively and cheerful Dachshund is one of the least smelling dogs; however, they may not be the best breed for an allergic person.
Known for being big barkers, the Dachshunds have an unusual body shape that adds more character to their big personalities.
Havanese
The only dog breed native to Cuba, the Havanese is not only smell free but a super friendly, intelligent, and outgoing dog with a big heart.
The Havanese sheds little and has a double-layered silky coat that needs to be brushed daily with a soft brush. The AKC also recommends to "bath the Havenese occasionally as needed."
Maltese
A small lap dog designed to coexist with humans, the Maltese is great for small apartment living. They don't smell much, are small and hardly shed.
The white coat requires daily gentle brushing and combing to the skin to avoid mats and tangles. Maltese also have fast-growing nails that should be trimmed regularly.
Papillon
The Papillon is a pint-size hypoallergenic dog with a huge personality and a low stink factor.
The breed is also low maintenance when it comes to grooming despite their long, silky hair and it is easy to keep their fur odor-free. The AKC recommends grooming every month or so, but it advises to give a good brushing between grooming to keep mats from forming.
Schnauzer
Schnauzers are also one of those breeds that do not carry a doggy odor, so they are a good fit for people who suffer from dog allergies and react to pet dander.
They do need regular grooming to keep their distinctive double-coat in good condition, but they do shed very little by nature.
Whippet
The gentle and elegant Whippet is very similar to a greyhound, except that the Whippet is a middle-sized dog that rarely barks.
Their sleek short and smooth coat needs little maintenance and when it comes to smell, Whippets are practically odorless and possibly the least smelly of dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
Another small dog with a big personality that hardly sheds or smells and very popular in the United States .
They have been bred for generations to create the perfect lap dog so not surprinsingly, they are stink free.
Their coat is very similar to human hair and if the coat is kept long, the AKC recommends daily brushing. Yorkies love their owner and will always show them endless love, even if they may surprise you with their unkind manner towards strangers, dogs, or other family members.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.