You may be surprised at how many skinny dog breeds there are out there. From tall skinny dogs to small and big skinny dogs, this article showcases 10 of those breeds in no particular order or preference. By learning about different skinny dog breeds, you will realize that they have certain similarities, but there are definitely differences with each breed too. Some breeds you probably have heard of, while others may not be as common.
The 8 Skinny Dog Breeds:
1. Greyhound
Almost everyone has seen these dogs in action. They have been clocked running at 44 miles per hour on the racetrack, and many people adopt retired racers. Despite the fact that they can run fast, they do well in many different home environments, from the city to the country.
Their typical weight ranges from 50 to 70 pounds, and they have long, lean bodies with a short, smooth coat. An occasional bath and weekly rubdowns with a damp cloth will keep them looking sleek and neat. Regular exercise is good for them, especially offering them a chance to run full-out so they use their body to the full extent.
The Greyhound can become bored easily and require mental stimulation. They are affectionate with their families but can be standoffish with strangers. They would rather do things with you than work for you.
Fun fact: Greyhounds are an ancient Egyptian breed that can be traced back to 3000 B.C.
2. Kanni Dogs
The Kanni breed resembles the Greyhound but is smaller in size, usually weighing between 35 and 48 pounds. They are shy dogs but loyal and protective of their family. They have short coats and will be black and tan in color.
They are considered a royal indigenous breed in India and are recognized by the Kennel Club of India. The Kanni make good pets if provided with at least an hour of exercise per day, since they have a great deal of energy. They were bred to work independently, so they can be willful and territorial at times. On a positive note, these dogs are intelligent and fairly easy to train.
Fun fact: The Kanni is traditionally fed milk for breakfast, corn porridge at lunch, and a Ragi porridge (millet porridge) at tea time.
3. Whippet Dogs
The Whippet is like a greyhound with curves. They have long and slender legs with a trim waist and a deep chest. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal maintenance and sheds occasionally. They don’t carry a large amount of body fat, so they are not fond of cold weather and would rather cuddle in a warm bed. Give them a warm, sunny day, and they are ready to expend their energy. Jumping and climbing are not difficult undertakings for their agile frames, and they love to run and chase things. But once playtime is over, the Whippet is ready for relaxation time and will happily curl up on the couch.
A Whippet enjoys spending time with you, but they don’t make good guard dogs since they are gentle and non-aggressive. Being obedient comes second nature to them, and you shouldn’t expect them to be the socialite in the room.
Fun fact: Whippets are the most popular sighthound in the United States.
4. Sloughi
Known for its hunting skills and speed, the Sloughi is a breed that originated in Northern Africa. They have a short, fine coat that sheds infrequently and only requires weekly brushing to maintain. This breed has fine manners that complement their sleek, athletic body.
They don’t always have to be exercising either, as it’s not unusual to find them sedately resting at home with their loved ones. The Sloughi enjoys being with their family and is somewhat aloof to strangers. The color of the coat can be cream to mahogany, with or without black markings.
Fun fact: The first Sloughi was imported to the United States in 1973.
5. Ibizan Hound
These hounds are bred to hunt rabbits and small game, and you will still find them hunting in Spain today. Though some of the other hounds enjoy relaxation time, this breed would rather run and hunt over anything else. They resemble greyhounds except for their large ears, and they will be red, white, or a combination of both.
The Ibizan do well with plenty of vigorous exercise, so they are an ideal jogging companion. The Ibizan is even-tempered, loyal, and affectionate, making them a great addition to an active family. If this hound happened to get loose on a chase, it would be difficult to get them back home.
Fun fact: This breed can jump five or six feet from a standing position.
6. Saluki
The Saluki is a thinner, more angular hound with long, silky hair on their ears, tail, toes, under their chins, and on their legs. You will find this breed in many colors and patterns. They are among one of the oldest breeds and have been used as hunting hounds for kings and other nobility.
Mental and physical stimulation is a must for these dogs, and they enjoy sports like lure coursing and agility. They are serious hunters who love to run and chase but can be quiet and gentle too. Lounging for hours is also part of their daily agenda.
Fun fact: Due to the Saluki’s tremendous speed, they have been used for hunting down gazelles.
7. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound weighs 45 to 55 pounds when full grown, and they are tan in color with amber eyes. They are nicknamed “the blushing dog” because when they become happy or excited, their face takes on a glowing appearance.
Running at high speeds on rocky terrain while remaining graceful is their strong suit. People confuse the Pharaoh and the Ibizan hound due to their similar appearance, but the Pharaoh hound is smaller in size. This hound needs to run at least 15 to 20 minutes twice per day to stay happy and healthy.
Fun fact: The Pharaoh Hound is also known for its smile because they can be taught how to show a “happy” face.
8. Azawakh
This breed originates from West Africa and is known as a tough and durable hunter. They are very lean, and you will see their bone structure beneath the skin. Vision and speed aren’t their strength, but they are highly intelligent and very independent.
Daily exercise is important for their body and mind development, so they are ideal running companions. They enjoy being playing and snuggling with their owners. They were only recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2019 even though this breed has been around for thousands of years.
Fun fact: The Azawakh was introduced in Europe in the 1970s and then to the United States in the late 1980s.
Conclusion
Being skinny helps these dogs remain fast and agile so they can be efficient hunting dogs. They enjoy being active even if they aren’t hunting and can be great companions for active people. Most of these skinny dogs are fiercely loyal but can appear aloof to people they haven’t formed a bond with.
Featured Image Credit: Liliya Kulianionak, Shutterstock
