For many dog lovers, the idea of sharing their home with a furry companion is delightful, but the reality of constant shedding can be a significant drawback. Excess dog hair can be a challenge for cleanliness, maintenance, and especially for individuals with allergies. Thankfully, numerous small dog breeds offer the affectionate companionship of a lap dog without the heavy shedding. These breeds provide the perfect solution for those seeking a tidy home and a snuggly friend. If you’re searching for the best lap dog that doesn’t shed, this comprehensive guide will introduce you to several wonderful options, each with unique personalities and grooming needs.
Understanding that “non-shedding” doesn’t necessarily mean “maintenance-free” is crucial. While these breeds won’t leave piles of fur around your home, many require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. This commitment to grooming often replaces the need for constant vacuuming, offering a different kind of care. Explore the world of low-shedding small breeds, and you might just find your ideal canine partner. If you are exploring different types of canines, you might be interested in breeds of dog that don’t shed.
Affenpinscher
Often described as “monkey-like terriers,” Affenpinschers are charming and intelligent little dogs that live up to their name in both appearance and wit. Despite their small stature, these Toy breed dogs are fearless watchdogs, always alert to their surroundings. One of their most appealing characteristics is their wiry coat, which sheds very little and also boasts an almost imperceptible “doggy” odor. This makes them an excellent choice for those sensitive to dog smells or shedding. To keep an Affenpinscher’s distinctive shaggy yet neat appearance, a simple twice-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and comb is usually sufficient. Known for their sense of humor and engaging personalities, Affenpinschers are low-maintenance companions that bring a lot of joy into their homes.
Affenpinscher dog with a shaggy yet neat coat
Basenji
For individuals who appreciate the elegant nature of hounds but prefer to avoid their characteristic odor and shedding habits, the Basenji presents a compelling option. This unique small dog breed is a minimal shedder, with a short, fine coat that requires very little care beyond an occasional brushing. Basenjis are also famously quiet, rarely barking, which makes them highly suitable for apartment living, provided they receive adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their clean habits and independent yet affectionate nature make them a fascinating choice for those seeking a dog that is both low-shedding and distinctive.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is truly a prime example of a non-shedding small dog breed, making it an excellent candidate if you’re looking for the best lap dog that doesn’t shed. These dogs are celebrated for their playful and affectionate temperaments, making them ideal companions for individuals and families alike, especially those with allergies. While they are hypoallergenic and don’t shed fur around the house, they are not entirely maintenance-free. The Bichon Frise’s hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, necessitating frequent grooming, daily brushing, and regular baths. This consistent care is essential to maintain their signature powder-puff appearance and to prevent matting, ensuring they always look their best. Their cheerful disposition and cuddly nature make the grooming effort well worth it for a truly lovable lap dog.
Bolognese
Much like their close relatives, the Bichon Frise, Bolognese dogs possess a distinctive fluffy coat composed of hair rather than fur. This means the Bolognese does not shed, offering a clean home environment for their owners. However, their beautiful, cotton-like coat does require dedication to grooming. Dead hair must be brushed out regularly, and their coat demands daily attention to prevent tangles and mats. With consistent care, these lovable lap dogs maintain their endearing appearance. Their calm and devoted nature makes them an excellent companion for those who cherish quiet companionship and are committed to routine grooming.
Brussels Griffon
Despite their diminutive size, Brussels Griffons are surprisingly sturdy dogs that do not demand excessive pampering. Available in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, both types are minimal shedders, which is a significant plus for many owners. They thrive with regular grooming to keep their coats in top condition. Due to their small size, a daily walk combined with indoor playtime is typically sufficient to meet their exercise requirements. These loyal and affectionate little dogs form strong bonds with their families and are happiest when they are frequently in the company of their human companions, making them wonderful lap dogs that don’t shed.
Fluffy white Bichon Frise with a playful expression
Chinese Crested
For those aiming to completely avoid shedding, selecting a hairless small dog breed like the Chinese Crested is an option. Chinese Crested dogs come in two distinct coat types: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety has hair primarily on their heads, tails, and feet, while the powderpuff is adorned with a fine, full coat of hair that sheds very minimally. Hairless breeds do require special attention to their skin, as they lack the natural protection of a full coat. This means they need protection from sun exposure and cold temperatures and can be more susceptible to skin irritations. Both varieties offer unique charm and a loving personality.
Coton De Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is easily recognizable by its long, fluffy, and exceptionally soft coat, which is often described as feeling like cotton. This beautiful coat is considered hypoallergenic, making the Coton de Tulear an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and anyone seeking a small dog that doesn’t shed excessively. While their coats are low-shedding, they do require daily grooming to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive texture and appearance. Coton de Tulears are known for their lighthearted, gentle, and affectionate natures, always eager to please their owners. Their cheerful disposition and adaptability make the grooming effort a small price to pay for such a delightful and cuddly companion.
Havanese
These native Cuban dogs are celebrated for their patented spunky charm and their non-shedding coats. This desirable trait means less time spent lint-rolling furniture and more quality time romping and cuddling with your playful Havanese. Their silky, often long, coat does require weekly brushing and regular baths to keep it clean, healthy, and free of tangles. Havanese are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities, making them excellent family pets and adaptable companions for various living situations. Their joyful demeanor and low-shedding qualities make them a top contender for the best lap dog that doesn’t shed. You might also be interested in other fluffy dogs that don’t shed a lot.
Elegant white Maltese dog with long, silky hair
Maltese
Maltese dogs have captivated human hearts for an astonishing three millennia. This ancient breed from Malta has retained much of its original charm over the centuries, perhaps in part due to their long, flowing white coats that shed very little. This minimal shedding makes them an ideal candidate for a classic lap dog, perfect for curling up with their owners. While their coats are low-shedding, they do demand consistent care, requiring regular brushing to prevent mats from forming and occasional baths to keep their silky hair clean and free of debris. Their gentle, affectionate, and elegant nature makes them truly beloved companions.
Lhasa Apso
Hailing from the high altitudes of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that makes an exceptional companion. They possess a balanced temperament, being calm and serene yet also playful and spirited. Lhasa Apsos enjoy both brisk walks and leisurely rests in their owner’s lap. Crucially, these dogs do not shed their coats, but their long, flowing hair does require significant maintenance to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to manage their Lhasa Apso’s coat more easily, reducing the need for daily extensive grooming and brushing while still enjoying a non-shedding pet.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, highly trainable, and wonderfully cheerful little dog. They strongly resemble their larger Standard Schnauzer cousins but come in a more compact package. This Terrier breed sheds very little, making them a fantastic choice for those seeking a low-shedding companion. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, whether it’s a bustling city apartment or a sprawling country home, as long as their beloved human companions are nearby. To keep Miniature Schnauzers looking their best, weekly brushing and regular professional grooming are essential parts of their care routine. Their robust health and spirited personality make them a fantastic, non-shedding addition to any family.
Intelligent Miniature Poodle with a well-groomed coat
Poodle
When people think of small dogs that don’t shed, Poodles are often the first breed that comes to mind, and for good reason. Poodles are renowned for being non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them one of the most popular choices for allergy sufferers. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer these desirable qualities in petite, intelligent packages, differing from their Standard counterparts only in size. All Poodles are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them remarkably easy to train. They are active, proud, and require regular professional grooming to maintain their iconic coats. Their cleverness and elegant appearance, combined with their non-shedding nature, solidify their status as a top choice for the best lap dog that doesn’t shed.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as a Scottie, is a Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, self-assurance, and sizable personality packed into a small body. Their wiry, weather-resistant coat sheds very little, which is a significant advantage. However, Scotties do need regular brushing, professional grooming, and occasional hand-stripping to keep their unique coats healthy and maintain their distinctive breed outline. These dogs are clever and possess an independent streak, alongside a strong prey drive, so owners must be mindful around smaller animals. Loyal and spirited, a Scottie is a devoted companion for those who appreciate a dog with character and a low-shedding coat.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is another breed with an exceptionally long and storied history. As the favored house pet of the Tang Dynasty, these “little lion dogs” come in a beautiful array of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding and looks incredibly regal when brushed out, truly befitting their royal lineage. This Toy breed is sturdy, lively, and often described as having an arrogant carriage due to their proudly held heads and curling tails. Shih Tzus were specifically bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting nature makes them exceptional and affectionate companions, perfectly suited for the role of a lap dog that doesn’t shed.
Regal Shih Tzu with long, flowing hair and a proud carriage
West Highland White Terrier
The coarse, pure white hair of the West Highland White Terrier, fondly referred to as Westies by their admirers, sheds very little, making them another excellent choice for a low-shedding companion. These sturdy little dogs are intelligent, intensely loyal, perpetually happy, and consistently entertaining. Westies are curious dogs with moderate energy levels, but they also possess an independent streak common among all Terriers. This can sometimes make training a bit of a delightful challenge, requiring patience and consistency. However, their charm and minimal shedding make them well worth the effort for a vibrant and clean companion.
Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and relatively rare breed that appears in both hairless and coated varieties. The hairless type typically retains a small amount of hair on their heads, while the coated variety sports a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally. As with any hairless breed, the Xolo requires extra care for their skin, needing protection from the elements like sun and cold. Xolos are known for being attentive watchdogs and remarkably affectionate companions. While they enjoy physical activities such as walks and vigorous play, they are also highly regarded for their tranquil and calm personalities when at home, making them a unique and low-shedding choice.
Sprightly Yorkshire Terrier with a silky coat and expressive eyes
Yorkshire Terrier
Sprightly, full of personality, and undeniably affectionate, the Yorkshire Terrier, often simply called a Yorkie, is a Toy breed brimming with spirit. These spunky lap dogs are among the most popular breeds, and for excellent reasons. Yorkshire Terriers do not shed, and their long, silky coats are exceptionally beautiful when brushed out daily. Their small size makes this daily grooming an easy task. Don’t be misled by their regal appearance; Yorkies have working-class origins. These fearless terriers once hunted rats in English clothing mills, though today they are equally content whether they are chasing a toy or snuggled comfortably on their owner’s lap. Their non-shedding coat and vibrant personality make them a prime example of the best lap dog that doesn’t shed.
Other Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
The Terrier group, in general, is a treasure trove of small dogs that either don’t shed or shed minimally. Wiry- and coarse-haired Terriers typically shed far less than many other breeds, positioning them as ideal small dogs for individuals who prefer a cleaner home environment. Beyond the breeds detailed above, there are many other non- or low-shedding Terrier breeds available, each with their own unique characteristics and charms. If you are keen on learning more about small dog breeds, you might find our article on the smallest breed of dog in the world insightful.
Ultimately, while there are many fantastic breeds of small dogs that don’t shed, it’s vital to remember that a non-shedding coat doesn’t equate to zero maintenance. Every dog, regardless of its shedding habits, requires dedicated care. Take the time to thoroughly research various non-shedding dog breeds to find the canine companion whose personality, activity level, and grooming needs best align with your lifestyle. Additionally, to ensure the health and well-being of your future pet, always acquire a dog from a reputable breeder, feed them a high-quality diet, and ensure they receive regular veterinary checkups. Selecting the right lap dog that doesn’t shed means finding a loving companion that brings joy and comfort to your home for years to come.
