9 Dog Breeds That Don’t Drool Everywhere

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A dog sticking its tongue out and licking its lips.
Amy Rene / Shutterstock.com

A good dog can make a great companion. But you likely don’t want one that’s going to cause more trouble than you can handle. Some pet owners may draw that line at drool.

It’s thick, goopy and harbors bacteria.

If you’re looking for a new furry friend but are averse to slobber, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has the information you need.

The AKC rates dog breeds on many aspects, one being how drool-prone they are. Using a scale from one to five, the AKC takes note of which dogs “can leave ropes of slobber on your arm or big wet spots on your clothes.”

According to them, the following are some of the breeds that’ll leave you much drier.

Dutch shepherd

Dutch Shepherd standing on an old tree at the beach.
Viktorija Zar / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 2 out of 5

Dutch Shepherds are usually affectionate, loyal and trainable companions. They get along well with kids and other pets. But they’re also very high-energy and need consistent exercise — perfect for an active owner.

Also known as Dutch herders, this breed was in high demand in the Netherlands during the 19th century due to its herding abilities.

Akita

Akita dog at an outdoor park.
Kseniia Kolesnikova / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 1 out of 5

Not only are Akitas less drooly, but they’re also less likely to bark, snore and dig around your yard.

Akitas were originally bred as working dogs in the northern Japanese mountains. The Japanese government went on to designate the breed as a “natural monument” in 1931, and Helen Keller brought the first Akita to America a few years later.

English toy spaniel

A King Charles Spaniel portrait.
Karel Stipek / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 2 out of 5

The English Toy Spaniel, which can go by various names depending on the color of its coat, was popularized during Britain’s Tudor era. Royals and aristocrats favored the breed, including King Charles II — hence the name King Charles for the black and tan variety. Charles II even prohibited any public places from barring Spaniels from entering.

Despite the love English Toy Spaniels famously got in Britain, the breed is believed to originally come from Japan or China.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagotto Romagnolo
Ricantimages / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 2 out of 5

Historically, the Lagotto Romagnolo was used to hunt ducks. More recently, its excellent sense of smell has made it a favorite choice for truffle hunting.

Boston terrier

Boston Terrier playing with tennis ball at the park.
rebeccaashworthearle / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 1 out of 5

True to its name, the Boston Terrier was developed in 19th-century Boston. It’s a combination of the English Bulldog and a white English terrier.

The Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds that originate from the U.S. and is described as affectionate and gentle.

Japanese Chin

Long-haired Japanese Chin dog outside.
Sue Thatcher / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 1 out of 5

Japanese Chins were originally bred in Asia and have been furry, friendly companions for more than a thousand years. They were once very popular in Chinese and Japanese imperial courts.

This breed is a good match for apartment dwellers and novice pet owners. They’re playful dogs that don’t like to be left home alone for too long.

Aside from their habit of climbing, they’re easygoing and mild-mannered.

Borzoi

A group of Borzoi Russian dogs.
volofin / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 1 out of 5

Borzois are a type of hound dog bred in Russia for pursuing wolves, and the breed is sometimes known as a Russian wolfhound.

They’re calm and gentle pets but like running and require more than 40 minutes of exercise a day.

Cirneco dell’Etna

A Cirneco dell'Etna dog running on the beach.
DragoNika / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 0 out of 5

The Cirneco dell’Etna is a medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 17 and 26 pounds, and has moderate exercise needs. So, it can be a great choice for more active apartment dwellers.

They’re also very friendly and cuddly, even with children. Despite their friendliness, these dogs are still independent in nature.

This is an old breed originating from Italy. Reportedly, dogs resembling the Cirneco dell’Etna are depicted on coins from Italy made as long ago as 500 B.C.

Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever

A group of three Nova Scotia duck-tolling retrievers outside.
Aneta Placha / Shutterstock.com

Level of drool to expect from this dog breed: 2 out of 5

As the name implies, this breed was developed in 19th-century Canada to lure ducks in for hunters. It has a thick coat that helps protect it from cold and icy water since the Nova Scotia duck-tolling retriever often did its work along the shore.

They’re considered a great family pet, trainable and friendly.

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