For many pet lovers, the idea of sharing their home with a furry companion is delightful, but concerns about shedding and potential allergies can often stand in the way. If you’re dreaming of a canine friend who won’t leave a trail of hair on your furniture and clothes, you’re in the right place. Finding the best indoor small dogs that don’t shed or even larger breeds that are low-maintenance when it comes to shedding is a common goal for homeowners. The good news is that many wonderful breeds fit this description, offering companionship without the constant cleanup.
This guide will introduce you to some of the top indoor dog breeds that are known for their minimal shedding, making them ideal for apartment living, clean homes, and even those with mild allergies. We’ll delve into what makes these dogs low-shedders and provide essential tips for living harmoniously with your chosen breed.
Understanding “Non-Shedding” for Indoor Dogs
While the term “non-shedding” is often used, it’s important to understand that no dog is truly 100% shed-free. All dogs, just like humans, lose some hair. However, certain breeds have coats that shed significantly less than others, or their hair gets trapped in their coat rather than falling out easily. These are often referred to as “hypoallergenic” breeds, a term that broadly means they produce fewer allergens. It’s not just hair that carries allergens; dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine also contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. However, dogs that shed minimally also release less dander into their environment, making them a much better fit for sensitive individuals and for maintaining a cleaner indoor space.
The breeds highlighted in this article are recognized for their low-shedding qualities, making them excellent choices for indoor living where hair management is a priority.
Top Indoor Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (or Shed Minimally)
Choosing the right dog for your indoor lifestyle means considering not only their shedding habits but also their temperament, exercise needs, and size. Here are some of the most popular and suitable breeds known for being excellent indoor companions with minimal shedding.
1. Poodle
White Poodle with curly coat walking through lush green grass
Poodles are perhaps the quintessential low-shedding breed, famous for their elegant appearance and exceptional intelligence. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, there’s a Poodle to fit almost any indoor living situation, from spacious houses to cozy apartments. These dogs boast a dense, curly coat that sheds very little, making them an excellent choice among the best indoor small dogs that don’t shed. Their coats do require regular grooming to prevent matting, including frequent brushing and professional trims every 4-6 weeks. Poodles are highly trainable and enjoy being active with their families, thriving on mental stimulation and playtime.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Blue and tan Yorkshire Terrier lounging comfortably on an upholstered armchair
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are petite dogs with big personalities. Their long, silky hair is more akin to human hair, meaning it sheds minimally. This makes them one of the most beloved options for those seeking small, indoor, low-shedding dogs. Yorkies are adaptable and can thrive in various home environments, from large houses to studio apartments, provided they receive ample attention and love from their owners. Despite their small stature, they are spirited and affectionate companions who enjoy being at the center of family life.
3. Shih Tzu
Brown and white Shih Tzu relaxing on a living room floor, looking calm
The Shih Tzu, an ancient companion breed, is celebrated for its luxurious, flowing double coat that sheds very little, placing it high on the list of ideal indoor dogs that don’t shed. These charming little dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, making them wonderful family pets. While their thick coats are low-shedding, they do demand consistent grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Owners should also be aware of potential health issues common in flat-faced breeds, such as breathing difficulties and tear stains. Regular eye cleaning can help manage tear stains and keep their faces looking pristine.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer wearing a pink harness in a park setting
Miniature Schnauzers are robust, intelligent, and versatile dogs that fit well into many indoor living situations. Their wiry, low-shedding coat makes them a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a clean indoor environment. Standing no more than 14 inches tall and typically weighing between 10–20 pounds, Miniature Schnauzers are small enough for apartments but possess a lively spirit that requires at least an hour of daily exercise. They are quick learners and eager to please, making them enjoyable companions for active owners.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
Black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red maple leaf bandana by the water
Originally bred to assist fishermen, Portuguese Water Dogs are a medium-sized breed known for their thick, curly, and remarkably low-shedding coats. This characteristic makes them a fantastic option for those looking for dogs that don’t shed much medium size for indoor living. Highly intelligent and trainable, these dogs thrive on activity and mental stimulation. They are friendly and devoted companions who excel in homes where they can receive plenty of regular exercise, including swimming, which they adore. Their energy levels mean they are best suited for owners who can commit to an active lifestyle.
6. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodle lying calmly on a couch with a person sitting in the background
Goldendoodles are a relatively new but incredibly popular “designer” breed, resulting from a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding coat, making them an excellent choice for indoor environments. These friendly, intelligent, and often playful dogs make wonderful family pets and are known for their gentle nature. While their coats come in various colors and textures, regular grooming with a slicker brush is crucial to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. Goldendoodles are generally considered to be good family dog breeds that don’t shed due to their amiable disposition and low-shedding qualities.
7. Maltese
Woman gently holding a small white Maltese dog on a bed
The Maltese is another charming small breed renowned for its luxurious, flowing white coat that sheds very little. These affectionate and playful companions thrive on human interaction and are perfectly suited for indoor living. While their long coats are stunning, they require diligent grooming to prevent tangles and maintain their pristine appearance. Many Maltese owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify daily care. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them an ideal choice for those seeking a devoted, low-shedding indoor dog.
8. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise dogs are small, cheerful, and affectionate pups with a curly, hypoallergenic coat that sheds minimally. Their playful nature and high intelligence make them quick learners, easily mastering basic training and even fun tricks. Bichons are excellent indoor companions, adapting well to various living spaces, and they thrive on being part of family activities. Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential to keep their fluffy white coats in top condition, free from mats and tangles.
9. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a distinctive small breed known for its unique appearance, which comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless type has smooth skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in a soft, silky coat. These playful and affectionate dogs are wonderful indoor companions, known for their devoted nature. Their unique grooming needs depend on the variety; hairless Cresteds require skin care, while powderpuffs need regular brushing to maintain their fine coats.
10. Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, originally water retrievers from Italy, possess a dense, curly, woolly coat that offers protection in cold waters and sheds very little. Although less common, these dogs are excellent family pets, known for being good with children and other animals. Their intelligent and eager-to-please nature makes them highly trainable. While they don’t shed much, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its distinctive texture, ensuring they remain comfortable and clean as indoor companions.
11. Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a smart and energetic dog with a low-shedding coat. These dogs inherit the intelligence and vivacity from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and engaging companions. However, their high energy means they require significant exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors. For active individuals or families who can provide ample playtime and enrichment, the Aussiedoodle can be one of the dogs that don’t shed and don’t need grooming (though they do need grooming, their shedding is minimal).
12. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a hybrid of two hypoallergenic breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This combination results in a low-shedding dog with a coat that can be curly or wavy. Schnoodles are known for their playful, intelligent, and affectionate personalities, making them delightful indoor pets. Their minimal shedding is a huge plus for those who prioritize a clean home environment. Like their parent breeds, Schnoodles benefit from regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
Essential Tips for Living with a Low-Shedding Indoor Dog
Bringing a low-shedding dog into your home is a fantastic way to enjoy canine companionship with fewer worries about hair and dander. However, even these breeds require specific care to keep your living space clean and ensure your dog’s health.
Keep Up With Grooming
“Low-shedding” doesn’t mean “no-grooming.” In fact, many low-shedding breeds have coats that continue to grow, making regular grooming essential to prevent matting and maintain skin health.
- Regular Brushing: Brush your dog several times a week to remove loose hair (which often gets trapped in their coat rather than falling out) and prevent tangles.
- Bathing: Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks with a dog-specific shampoo. For allergy sufferers, specialized dander-reducing shampoos can be particularly helpful.
- Professional Trims: Many low-shedding breeds, especially those with continuously growing coats like Poodles and their mixes, will need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for trims and maintenance. Factor this into your budget and time commitment.
Maintain a Clean House
Even with a low-shedding dog, maintaining a clean home environment is crucial, especially for those with allergies.
- Vacuum Regularly: Focus on areas where your dog spends the most time.
- Dust Surfaces: Dust and wipe down surfaces to remove any accumulated dander.
- Wash Bedding: Regularly wash your dog’s bedding, as well as your own bedding if your dog shares your sleeping space, to minimize allergen buildup.
- Air Purification: Using air purifiers can help filter out airborne allergens and keep your indoor air quality high. Ensure good ventilation in your home.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you or a family member has allergies, consulting with a healthcare provider is an important step. They can offer personalized advice on managing symptoms and preventing allergic reactions while living with a dog. Treatment options can include medications, nasal sprays, or allergy injections. It’s also wise to avoid close contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also trigger allergic responses.
Bringing one of the best indoor dogs that don’t shed into your home can significantly enhance your quality of life, allowing you to enjoy the unparalleled joy and companionship of a pet without the constant battle against hair and dander. With the right care and a little planning, you can create a happy, healthy, and clean home for everyone.
For more information on selecting the perfect low-shedding companion, explore articles on best inside small dogs that dont shed and dogs that dont shed and don t need grooming.
