17 Skinny Dog Breeds with brilliant personality traits

Nadine Oraby

Are you one of those rare dog lovers who prefer an active, tall, and muscular dog rather than one layered with fur? 

Even though skinny dogs might not look as adorable as chubby dogs, they have brilliant personality traits. Skinny dogs can prove excellent companions for active humans; their low body fat makes them agile and energetic. This is why they were the best hunters. Hounds are a type of dog breed specialized for hunting, and most of our list includes this breed. 

In this article, we’ve included all types of skinny dog breeds in one place for you. You can choose between several colors, physiques, and personalities.

Let’s get started with our list of 17 skinny dog breeds in the world:

1. Greyhound 

Out of all skinny dog breeds, this is often the first to come to mind. Greyhound is one of the most energetic dogs on our list, with a body fat of only 13 percent!

The male dogs can weigh up to 70 pounds, and their height can be as much as 27 inches. They were initially bred as hunters, so they will need proper training to be tolerant of other animals and stop hunting.

To meet their active lifestyle, you must take them for walks daily. Lucky for you, greyhounds are more of a sprinter than long-distance runners, so the hikes will take a little of your time.

This breed is perfect for indoor living due to its quiet and calm nature. They love cuddling and being affectionate with their owners. Your neighbors, too, won’t be complaining because greyhounds don’t bark that much.

2. Afghan Hound

Who wouldn’t want a long-haired dog with a silky coat? This regal look makes them one of the most expensive dogs in the world.

A male Afghan hound weighs up to 60 pounds, and their height is up to 27 inches. This breed is famous for being independent due to its history of being a hunting dog. 

That doesn’t stop an Afghan hound from having fun with people.

Some describe an Afghan hound’s personality as ‘clownish,’ but only with their owners. These dogs are loyal to the point that it’s hard for them to adjust to new people. That’s why exposing them to people of different ages from an early stage is essential.

If your family loves long strolls, there is no one better than this one for your family. An Afghan hound can accompany you to the park for hours and not get tired. 

Another interesting fact about this dog breed is its hypoallergenic trait. It’s one of the few fluffy dogs that don’t shed that much, and with proper care and grooming, it can be a fantastic new addition to your family.

3. Bavarian Mountain Hound

Bavarian Mountain hound is an exciting dog on the list as it’s recognized as a scent hound. Its ‘cold nose’ tracking ability makes this breed stand out amongst other hunter dogs.

The male Bavarian Mountain Hound weighs 66 kg and could be as tall as 20 inches. This breed of dog loves going for long walks and isn’t overly shy or aggressive. They’re also quite vocal and chatty yet calm at the same time, making them perfect for loud and happening families.

Being loyal, loving, and intelligent are also some of its plus points.  

4. American English Coonhound

These dogs are one of the most athletic and energetic in the world. If you’re looking for a partner to keep you moving, look no further.

This canine has to start training early to stay active and healthy. If you own a big yard, that’s even better because this bud will make the most of it. 

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Despite its size of up to 26 inches and 65 pounds, it remains calm around strangers. This breed wins many hearts owing to its mesmerizing brown eyes, deep chest, and medium-length coat. 

However, if you’re determined to adopt one, you’ll need lots of patience to train this super-energetic dog with an active prey drive.

5. Pharaoh Hound

If you love a smiling doggy, this is your best bet. Pharaoh hound is a complete cutie who blushes when happy or excited.

It’s not fit as a guard dog because of its friendly nature, but it will warn you and your family about anything suspicious. It will also bark when bored or left alone for an extended period.

If you’re not looking for a lot of activity and just some more laughs, then a pharaoh hound’s playful, gentle, and patient personality is precisely what you need.

Along with a tan coat with matching leather on the nose, eye rims, and ears, it also has striking amber eyes and a good physique. The male weighs about 55 pounds, with a height of about 24 inches.

6. Ibizan Hound

Ibizan Hound is one of the world’s fastest and healthiest dog breeds. Running and hunting are their favorite activities; you will have to dedicate at least 30 minutes to this pup.

The male dog’s weight is under 50 pounds, and its height is up to 27 inches. You can choose between a reddish brown Ibizan hound and a white one. 

They are affectionate but protective. Avoid bringing any small pets because this dog breed is an instinctive hunter.

7. Italian Hound

The Italian hound will be a good fit if you want to show off your bud’s talent in a rally competition. These dogs are admired for their beauty and athleticism. 

They are super affectionate, so only get one if you can dedicate a lot of time playing and showing love to this pup.

8. Borzoi

A calm dog that would prefer being a couch potato than going out any day. If you want company Netflixing, this bud’s got your back. 

Borzois are low on energy and will prefer a sprint rather than a marathon. They can go 35-40 miles per hour. Even though they’re large and the male dog weighing up to 105 pounds with at least 28 inches in height, they’re not very good at protecting you.

Borzoi needs a lot of grooming and sheds heavily at times.

9. Azawakh

Outwardly, Azawakh will look like an elegant, sleek, and expressive dog but don’t be fooled. As an instinctive hunter, its fierceness and speed are far greater than expected. 

Azawakh has proven to be a great companion and a guardian. These dogs have short coats and can be found in several patterns and colors. Their body weight can go as much as 55 pounds, and they can be as tall as 29 inches.

10. Kanni

This breed is similar to a greyhound (as mentioned early in the article) but smaller. The Kanni breed is only around 35 pounds and is often fed porridge as the main food source. 

They’re remarkably smart and very energetic, so make sure to give them plenty of exercises to relieve some of that energy level.

11. Saluki

Saluki dogs have made a name for themselves in being faithful pets.

They love playing around; however, they won’t follow anyone’s commands because they have mastered the art of being lazy.

They are a true example of skinny dogs and have furry coats in some areas. Their average height is 23 to 28 inches, and the maximum weight is up to 70 pounds.

If you want to train this dog, then positive reinforcement is the only way to do it.

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12. Whippet

This breed has a slender and trim body with a short coat. This makes them easy to maintain. They only need occasional brushing. 

This gentle and calm breed needs to be indoors with the owner, especially if you live in a cold region. It’s not only because of the cold but also because it can’t be separated from its owner for a long time.

A whippet’s obedience and peaceful personality make it perfect as a family dog. Even the training is easy.

13. Sloughi

Sloughi is pretty similar to greyhounds physically. The slim build, long legs, short fur, and fast running ability. They have calm personalities and usually love being around children.

This medium to large dog breed is up to 29 inches in height and weighs 62 pounds. You need a big yard to meet Sloughi’s physical activity needs. 

These dogs love so hard, but only the people they like, and can be the complete opposite in front of strangers. 

An advice to first-time parents would be to avoid going for this breed because their stubbornness can put you off.

14. Doberman Pinscher

If you’re looking for an excellent skinny guard dog, this can be a good option.

Doberman Pinscher is a bright and fearless canine that will scare off anyone who comes close. Its athletic physique packed with exceptional muscles gives away its strength. 

The beast stands over two feet tall, and the male can weigh up to 28 inches. 

15. Vizsla

Is your family active and energetic, and can you dedicate enough time to your dog? Well, you might want to consider a Vizsla.

A vizsla is a highly intelligent dog who frequently requires social interaction. Behind its strong and muscular build, Vizsla is as soft at heart as it gets:

If you’re not around him for a while, he may experience separation anxiety. Do you hear the thunder? Go to him because he might be scared.

16. English Pointer

English pointers have a unique, sculpted face with long muzzles. You might look at them and want one immediately.

But that might not be a good idea:

Due to the high energy levels and physical activity needs, adopting one is quite a task. Their stubborn personality makes it even worse, so they’re usually raised for shows.

They grow to be up to 28 inches and no more than 75 pounds. They’re short-coated, so grooming isn’t a problem in this breed.

17. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are beautiful gray creatures with gray varying from silver gray to mouse gray. They’re even called ‘the gray ghost’ by some.

They are large-sized dogs weighing up to 90 pounds and as tall as 27 inches for a male. Their physique is large and muscular because they’re meant for work and to run with high endurance.

As you may have guessed, Weimaraners require great physical activity, given their history as hunters. Despite this, they prefer quality time with their owners and can even become destructive if left alone for a long time. 

Is it healthy for dogs to be skinny?

Yes, dogs live longer when they’re at a healthy weight, so choosing a skinny dog breed will save you many vet visits. 

A 14-year-long study found that dogs with a restrictive diet live 2 years more than those without. Additionally, they had lower blood pressure, a better immune system, and fewer signs of aging. 

How do I fatten up my dog naturally?

If you’ve consulted a vet and they’ve given you the go-ahead to make changes to make your dog gain weight, then you can follow these steps:

  • Exercise
  • Add high protein and fat
  • Add wet/fresh food
  • Human food
  • Balance meals in a day
  • Give food before sleeping