Let’s face it, not everyone has the time for the extensive grooming some large and fluffy dog breeds require. Some of us also live in areas where the summers are simply too hot for a furry companion to handle.
That’s where our favorite short-haired, big buddies come in! They give you all the love and fun of a large dog with way less time spent on grooming.
So, what are some large dog breeds with short hair?
Large dogs like the Great Dane, Rottweiler, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Weimaraner, American Bulldog, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Greyhounds have short hair. Additionally, the Mastiff, Bullmastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, Cane Corso, Boerboel, Belgian Malinois, Broholmer, Anatolian Shepherd, Bloodhound, Bull Arab, Beauceron, Boxer, Doberman, Catahoula Leopard Dog, Bracco Italiano are also some large breeds with short hair.
Our list of 30 large breeds with short coats will not only help you get a better idea of what sort of maintenance these dogs need but also how suitable they are for your lifestyle, whether they need an experienced owner or not, how active they are and how well they can adjust within a family setting.
Let’s get started!
1. Great Dane
Ah, the Great Dane – a true gentle giant in the canine world! Possessing a short and sleek coat, this breed is often found in an array of colors from solid black, blue, or fawn to brindle or harlequin patterns. Their coat is low-maintenance, requiring just a weekly brush to remove loose hair and keep them looking their best.
Despite their formidable size, Great Danes are gentle and friendly, known for their loving nature and patient demeanor. If you’re not a big fan of long-haired breeds, but you still want a substantially large dog to cuddle with then you might be pleasantly surprised by how fond of cuddling Great Danes are and being close to their human family.
Their exercise needs are moderate, a couple of shorter walks and some playtime daily should be enough for a large breed like this one, especially since too much exercise can be dangerous for their hips.
When training your Great Dane remember to focus on positive reinforcement and keep in mind their sensitive nature. Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure they’re comfortable in various situations.
Despite being one of the many breeds that can reach over 100 pounds, you may find Great Danes easy to train as a first-time owner, especially compared to many other giant dog breeds on our list, but their size and strength will still be great challenge so prior experience is advised.
2. Mastiff
Majestic and muscular, the Mastiff sports a short, dense coat that comes in fawn, apricot, or brindle. While their coat is low-shedding, it does require a quick brushing every few days while during periods of heavy shedding, more frequent sessions with a strong, toothed comb are recommended by AKC.
Mastiffs are a gentle and protective breed, making them excellent family pets. These dogs are laid-back and require moderate exercise to maintain their health and happiness, but because of their size, you need to be aware of their sensitive joints and hips.
Although they are intelligent, training might require patience due to their somewhat stubborn nature. Mastiffs are not typically recommended for first-time owners due to their size and strength, but with proper training and socialization, they can be an incredible addition to the right family.
It’s crucial to socialize Mastiffs from an early age to ensure they grow into well-rounded, confident dogs. Despite their imposing size, they are known for being “gentle giants” and they tend to be more on the lazy/sleepy side.
3. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a powerful and strong breed with a short, dense coat that comes in fawn, red, or brindle. Their coat is easy to maintain, needing only a brush twice a week to keep it looking neat. They’re not heavy shedders, but like most dogs, will shed more during seasonal changes.
Bullmastiffs are loyal, protective, and gentle with their families. They have a calm demeanor but need daily moderate exercise to keep fit. Training these dogs requires consistency and firmness since they can be a bit stubborn, but they are rebels against forceful methods, so make sure you use reward-based training!
While Bullmastiffs are incredibly loyal and loving, their size and protective nature might make them challenging for first-time dog owners. They need early socialization to become comfortable with other dogs and strangers. Despite their intimidating size, they are known to be great with kids and make an excellent family dog, under constant supervision of course.
4. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a robust and powerful breed, sporting a medium-short, dense coat that’s predominantly black with distinctive mahogany markings. Weekly brushing and regular baths will keep their coat shiny and reduce shedding, particularly during the seasonal shedding periods.
Rotties, as they are affectionately known, are confident, calm, and courageous. They are quick to learn and eager to have a job to do, which makes training a pleasure, though they do best with consistent, firm guidance. While not typically recommended for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed nature and territorial tendencies, in the right hands, a Rottweiler can be a loyal and affectionate family companion.
Unlike many large mastiff-type dogs on our list rottweilers are active dogs and need daily exercise to maintain their muscular physique. While their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs, this also means they require thorough socialization from an early age.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a remarkably powerful and muscular breed with the most adorable wrinkly face. They sport a short, fine, and soft to the touch coat that comes in shades of fawn to mahogany, often with a black or brown mask.
While the coat isn’t high maintenance, the Dogue de Bordeaux needs a full bath once a month and you can make sure they look presentable and smell great by wiping them down with a damp towel between baths. You can also reduce shedding by using a rubber curry or shedding blade regularly.
Known for their loyalty and courage, the Dogue de Bordeaux is calm and balanced with a high stimulus threshold. They may seem lethargic at times, but they do enjoy regular, moderate exercise that is suitable for their size and physical needs.
Training should be consistent and based on mutual respect, as they can be somewhat willful. Early and extensive socialization is crucial to prevent them from becoming overly suspicious or fearful. They can be challenging for a first-time owner due to their stubborn and protective nature, but for experienced owners, they can make excellent companions.
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, or the African Lion Dog, boasts a short, dense coat that shines in a beautiful light wheaten to red wheaten color. Their unique feature is a ridge of hair running along their back in the opposite direction. A quick brush every week should suffice to keep their coat healthy and glossy as well as an occasional bath.
Ridgebacks have incredible hunting skills, and they are extremely fast, so being this active means that they need an owner that can keep up with their exercise needs. Training can be a challenge due to their independent nature, and protective instinct, so a firm, consistent hand is essential.
Ridgebacks are dignified and somewhat aloof dogs, yet loyal and loving with their families, in the right hands of course. They need extensive socialization to ensure a well-balanced temperament.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks may not be the best choice for first-time owners because they can be stubborn and require a confident handler. Nonetheless, with the right training, they make an intelligent, protective, and family-loving pet.
7. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner, often referred to as the “Grey Ghost” due to its unique coat color, is a breed that truly stands out. Their short, sleek, mouse-gray to silver-gray coat is easy to care for, requiring only weekly brushing with a bristle brush.
Weimaraners are known for their boundless energy and intelligence. They’re eager to please, making training a joy, but they also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior.
Regular, vigorous exercise, a minimum of two hours every day is a must for this breed – they’re fantastic running, hiking, or hunting companions. Weimaraners are known to be affectionate, loyal, and good with children.
You will also discover that your Weimaraner will often use their mouth to communicate with you, either by picking up something for you, or they will use their mouth to initiate play or get you to take them for a walk!
While their high energy levels and exercise requirements may not make them the best choice for first-time dog owners, in an active home and with proper socialization, a Weimaraner can be a wonderful family pet.
8. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) sport a short, dense coat that’s typically liver (a rich brown), either solid or mixed with white. Their coat is water-resistant and requires minimal grooming, according to AKC, “requiring only a good once-over with a brush or grooming glove every few days.”
GSPs are known for their energy, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, making them well-suited for active families or hunting enthusiasts.
Training should be consistent and positive, as they’re eager to please but can get bored with repetition. Socialization is essential to ensure they’re comfortable in different environments.
They can be a bit too energetic for first-time owners, but if you have previous experience with dogs and can offer your German Shorthaired Pointer the right care, they make excellent companions.
9. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a muscular, sturdy breed with a coat that is short and typically white or white with patches of brindle, black, or red. A weekly brush is usually all it takes to keep their coat looking great.
They’re known for their strength, but they’re also loving, loyal, and full of fun. This breed is active and requires a good amount of exercise to maintain their robust physique, from jogs, hikes, tug-a-war games, to training exercises.
Training is generally straightforward as they are eager to please, but remember, early socialization is key to a well-rounded dog. The American Bulldog can be a good choice for first-time dog owners who are ready to invest in training and who lead an active lifestyle. With their loving nature, they can make great family pets.
10. Greyhound
Greyhounds, famed for their incredible speed and sleek appearance, are the epitome of grace and elegance. They have a very short, thin coat that comes in a wide variety of colors and requires minimal grooming, making coat care a breeze. You do however need to trim their nails when necessary, check their ears for wax buildup and brush their teeth daily if possible!
Despite their reputation on the race track, Greyhounds are known as “45 mph couch potatoes” because they love a good snooze! That being said they do need regular exercise, but they’re quite happy to relax at home once that exercise is over.
Training is usually smooth, but remember, they can be a bit independent. Early socialization helps them to become well-adjusted adults. While they are gentle and can make great pets for first-time owners, potential adopters should bear in mind their strong instinct to chase due to their sighthound nature, so leash-free walks are off the table.
11. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is an Italian breed that is both impressive in stature and heart. Their short, thick coat comes in black, fawn, and brindle variations. Weekly brushing will keep their coat in top condition.
Cane Corsos are known for their balance, being both powerful and gentle. They need regular, robust exercise to keep their large bodies healthy and happy. Training these intelligent dogs can be challenging since they can be dominant and protective, but due to their size and strength, a firm and consistent hand is required.
It’s important to socialize them early and thoroughly. While they are deeply loyal and protective of their families, their size and protective instincts do not make them suitable for first-time dog owners.
12. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a breed that’s often mistaken for a German Shepherd due to its similar appearance. Sporting a short, weather-resistant coat that’s fawn to mahogany with a black overlay, this breed requires weekly brushing, and according to AKC, “a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will keep the dog looking his best, and promotes new hair growth and distributes skin oils throughout the coat as well.”
The Malinois is known for its intelligence, high energy level, and love for jumping. They are keen to work and need plenty of physical and mental stimulation, along with consistent training from an early age. Socialization is essential to ensure they grow into a confident and well-adjusted dog.
Given their high energy levels and need for intensive training, they might not be suitable for first-time dog owners. But for those ready for the challenge, the Belgian Malinois can be an incredibly rewarding breed to own, forming a tight bond with their human family.
13. Argentine Dogo
The Argentine Dogo, also known as Dogo Argentino, boasts a sleek, short white coat that’s striking to behold. Their coat requires only minimal care – a weekly brush should keep it looking their best.
Dogos are known for their strength, yet they are also very protective and loyal to their families. They’re intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent, positive training methods. Socialization from a young age is crucial for this breed, ensuring they are well-adjusted and confident in a variety of situations.
Argentine Dogos require a substantial amount of exercise to maintain their muscular physique, so an active lifestyle suits them best. Despite their loving nature with family, their strength and protective instincts mean they’re not usually recommended for first-time dog owners.
14. Boerboel
The Boerboel, a powerful breed originating from South Africa, sports a short, dense coat that comes in a range of colors, from fawn and red to brindle. A weekly brush should keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Boerboels are known for their protective nature, combined with a calm and confident demeanor. Early and comprehensive socialization is key to prevent them from becoming overly protective or territorial.
They need a good deal of exercise to keep them healthy and content. Training should be consistent and firm due to their strong-willed nature. Due to their size, strength, and protective nature, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners, but in experienced hands, they can make a loyal and loving family pet.
15. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds are a magnificent breed originating from Turkey, known for their durability and strong protective instincts. They have a short to medium-length double coat that comes in a variety of colors and requires weekly brushing.
These dogs are independent and intelligent, a result of centuries spent as livestock guardians, bred to help monitor and protect livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle. This means that they are used to being independent and they often feel more comfortable being off by themselves so that they can do their jobs properly.
Their independent nature and size make them a challenging breed for first-time dog owners, and while they are an affectionate breed the Anatolian Shepherds are not the cuddliest. However, for those experienced in handling large, protective breeds, an Anatolian Shepherd can be a loyal and dedicated companion.
Training an Anatolian Shepherd requires a consistent, firm, yet understanding hand. Early socialization is crucial to help them differentiate between threats and non-threats. They require moderate exercise, but mental stimulation is equally important, so make sure they have something to do instead of being bored.
16. Brazilian Mastiff
Also known as the Fila Brasileiro, the Brazilian Mastiff sports a dense, smooth coat that comes in a wide range of colors. Their coat requires minimal grooming – a quick weekly brush is all it takes to keep it looking great.
Brazilian Mastiffs are loyal, protective, and have a natural instinct to guard. They are energetic dogs and require daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy. Training should be firm but respectful, and it’s crucial to socialize them extensively from a young age.
Due to their protective nature and size, Brazilian Mastiffs are not typically recommended for first-time dog owners, but with the right training and care, they can make excellent companions for experienced handlers.
17. Bloodhound
Sporting a short, dense coat in various colors from black and tan to liver and tan, or red, the Bloodhound is a breed known for its exceptional tracking skills. Their coat is low maintenance, requiring only a weekly brush to keep it clean and shiny.
Bloodhounds are famously gentle and affectionate, creating deep bonds with their families. They require regular exercise to stay healthy, but they’re also perfectly content to lounge around the house. Bloodhounds benefit from long daily walks, while kept on a leash, as they may not respond to commands if they found an interesting scent to follow.
Training can sometimes be a challenge due to their independent nature, but with patience, and at the hands of an experienced dog owner this breed can thrive, just make sure you have the time and energy to meet their exercise needs.
18. Alano Español
The Alano Espanol, or Spanish Bulldog, is a large, powerful breed with a short, thick coat that comes in various colors. Their coat is low maintenance, with a weekly brushing usually enough to keep it in good condition.
Alano Espanols are known for their calm, brave, and protective nature. Regular exercise is needed to keep this breed healthy and happy. Training needs to be consistent and firm but respectful, and it’s essential to socialize them from a young age.
Due to their size and protective instincts, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners, but with experienced handling, they can make incredibly loyal and loving companions.
19. Presa De Canario
The Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Mastiff, is reminiscent of a few breeds on our list like the boxer, or cane corso, thanks to the breed’s robust and calm demeanor, covered with a short, coarse coat in various colors from fawn to brindle. Their coat is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing.
Presa Canarios are known for their strong protective instincts and dedication to their families. They require regular exercise to maintain their muscular physique. Training should be firm and consistent, with early socialization vital to ensure they grow into a well-rounded adult.
Because of their protective nature and willful character, they may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners, but in the right hands, they can make affectionate and devoted pets.
20. Bull Arab
The Bull Arab is an Australian breed developed for pig hunting. Sporting a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, its grooming needs are minimal – a quick brush every week should keep their coat looking great.
Bull Arabs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and agility. They’re energetic dogs and require a good amount of exercise. Training is generally straightforward as they are eager to please, but remember, early socialization is key to a well-rounded dog no matter the breed, but especially for large dogs.
Due to their hunting origins and energy levels, Bull Arabs are not the best choice for first-time dog owners, but with the right care and training, they make excellent companions for active families.
21. Beauceron
The Beauceron is a versatile French breed with a short, dense double coat, typically black and tan or harlequin. Their coat requires weekly brushing to stay in top condition, but keep in mind that despite having a short coat Beaucerons shed a lot.
Known for their intelligence and versatility, Beaucerons excel in various tasks, from herding to police work. They’re active dogs and require plenty of exercise, both physical and mental. Consistent, positive training methods work best for this breed.
Beaucerons need extensive socialization from a young age to grow into well-adjusted adults. While they can be a bit independent and protective, which might be challenging for first-time owners, they make loyal and affectionate companions in the right hands.
22. Black And Tan Coonhound
Renowned for their excellent tracking skills, Black and Tan Coonhounds sport a dense, short coat that is, as their name suggests, black and tan. Their grooming needs are minimal, and a weekly brushing should suffice.
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their laid-back, gentle nature. While these dogs are active, they are also content to relax at home. Training should be consistent and patient, as this breed can sometimes be stubborn.
Early and thorough socialization helps them become well-rounded dogs. While their exercise and training needs may be a bit demanding for some first-time owners, their good-natured temperament makes them an excellent companion for those who lead an active lifestyle.
23. Boxer
Boxers are an energetic and playful breed, boasting a short, smooth coat that’s fawn, brindle, or white. Having a short coat doesn’t always mean minimal grooming needs, but in the case of Boxers that’s exactly what their coat needs, a quick brush weekly should keep it looking its best.
Boxers are known for their friendly, exuberant nature and love of their families. Some Boxers can have a higher prey drive than others, but if trained and socialized from a young age, they can do well with cats and small animals.
They require plenty of exercise to burn off their boundless energy, and they appreciate mental stimulation as well.
Training should be positive and consistent, as they respond well to reward-based methods. Early and thorough socialization is important for this breed. Boxers are a good choice for most first-time dog owners, thanks to their patience, tolerance, and devotion to their people, which make them great for families and multi-pet households.
24. Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano, also known as the Italian Pointer, is a large sporting breed with a short, dense coat that comes in colors like white, chestnut, or roan. Their coat requires minimal grooming – a quick weekly brush should suffice. Their long ears, however, require routine cleaning to minimize the risk of ear infections.
Known for their exceptional hunting skills and friendly demeanor, Braccos are intelligent and easily trainable. They’re active dogs and require plenty of exercise to stay fit and content.
Training should be consistent and positive, and early socialization is essential. The Bracco Italiano is more suited for experienced owners since they can be demanding and given they are a “large, potentially boisterous companion, it is recommended that a level of basic training is also put in place by every owner to avoid potential situations, such as being knocked over”.
25. Broholmer
Originating from Denmark, the Broholmer sports a short, dense coat that comes in yellow, black, or golden red. Their coat requires weekly brushing to keep it in top condition.
Broholmers are known for their calm, friendly nature and make excellent family pets. They require a moderate amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Training should be positive and consistent, and early socialization helps them grow into well-rounded adults.
While lovable and incredibly cuddly dogs, Broholmers can be a challenge to train, and they’re not suitable for the inexperienced owner, but they can be great companions under the guidance of a mature trainer.
26. Catahoula Leopard Dog
Named for their distinctive spotted coat, Catahoula Leopard Dogs have a short, single-layer coat that comes in a myriad of colors. Their coat is low maintenance and requires only weekly brushing and the occasional bath.
Known for their high energy levels and versatility, Catahoulas are working dogs that require regular physical and mental exercise, so if you enjoy running then this dog will be able to keep up with you and some more. They respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training. Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure they become well-adjusted adults.
Due to their high energy levels and independent streak, Catahoulas may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners, but they can make loyal and dedicated companions in experienced hands.
27. Curly Coated Retriever
Recognizable for their unique curls, the Curly Coated Retriever is probably the most unusual-looking breed on our list, at least when it comes to its coat which is dense, water-resistant and it requires occasional grooming to keep the curls in good shape. Their coat actually protects them from harsh environmental elements that would normally harm other breeds.
Curly Coated Retrievers are known for their intelligence, independence, and athleticism. They require a good deal of exercise to stay fit and mentally stimulated. Curly Coated Retrievers are tireless swimmers, so don’t be afraid to take them with you on your swimming adventures! Curlies are actually famous for being versatile gun dogs and fearless swimmers.
Consistent, positive training methods work best with this breed, and early socialization is vital. Their independent nature might be a bit challenging for first-time owners, but for those ready to meet their exercise and training needs, they make loyal and affectionate companions.
28. Doberman Pinscher
Known for their sleek, athletic build, the Doberman Pinscher sports a short, thick coat that comes in colors like black, red, blue, or fawn, usually with rust markings. Their coat is low maintenance and requires only occasional brushing to keep it looking its best.
Dobermans are known for their loyalty and they tend to really bond with their owner. They are also very intelligent and have strong protective instincts. They’re active dogs and need regular exercise to keep them fit and content. Training should be consistent and positive, obedience training and early socialization are vital to ensure a well-rounded Doberman.
While their intelligence and loyalty make them good companions they require someone who has prior experience and you should be someone who is ready to meet their exercise, training, and socialization needs.
29. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is probably one of my favorite dog breeds, and I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned that a few times before. This is a large breed with a short, dense coat that comes in colors like blue, black, mahogany, and tawny. Their coat requires weekly brushing to keep it clean and shiny, but you mostly find yourself checking and cleaning their eyes and ears as well as their many skin folds to avoid any infections.
Known for their calm, protective nature, Neapolitan Mastiffs make excellent guard dogs. They require moderate exercise to stay healthy but are also content to relax at home. Training should be consistent and respectful, and early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into a well-adjusted adult.
Due to their size and protective instincts, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners, but with experienced handling, they make incredibly loyal and loving companions.
30. Tosa
The Tosa, also known as the Tosa Inu or Japanese Mastiff, sports a short, dense coat that comes in colors like red, fawn, black, and brindle. Their coat is low-maintenance and requires only occasional brushing.
Tosas are known for their quiet, reserved nature and strong protective instincts. They require regular exercise to stay fit, but they are also quite content with a relaxed lifestyle. Training should be firm and consistent, and socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure a well-rounded adult.
Due to their protective nature and size, Tosas are definitely not the best fit for first-time dog owners, but in the hands of an experienced handler, they can make affectionate and devoted pets.
Closing Thoughts
One distinct advantage of choosing a large dog breed with short hair is the relatively low-maintenance grooming requirement. Although the 30 breeds on our list still need regular care, you can save considerable time compared to breeds with longer hair that require intensive grooming routines.
So, here’s to finding your perfect canine companion among these majestic large dog breeds with short hair!
