Not everyone enjoys cleaning up copious amounts of dog hair, especially those with allergies or limited time for extensive grooming. If you’re searching for a compact canine companion that is both low-shedding and won’t break the bank, you’re in luck! While “cheap” can be a relative term depending on whether you’re considering adoption fees, breeder costs, or long-term maintenance, several small dog breeds naturally require less extensive grooming and can often be found through rescue organizations, potentially reducing initial expenses.
This guide explores various small dog breeds that are known for their minimal to non-shedding coats and their ability to thrive in smaller living spaces. We’ll also touch upon how factors like grooming requirements and adoption avenues can contribute to a more budget-friendly pet ownership experience. From truly non-shedding breeds to those who shed minimally, these pint-sized pups are perfect for families looking for a clean, affectionate addition without the constant battle against dog hair.
Affenpinscher
Affenpinscher with a wiry black coat looking attentive
The Affenpinscher, whose name delightfully translates to “monkey-like terrier,” lives up to its moniker with an intelligent and expressive appearance. Despite their diminutive size, these Toy breed dogs possess a fearless spirit, making them excellent little watchdogs without being overly yappy. A significant advantage of the Affenpinscher is its wiry coat, which sheds very little and produces almost no characteristic “doggy odor,” making it a superb choice for those seeking cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small. To maintain their shaggy yet neat look, a twice-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and comb is typically all that’s required, minimizing the need for expensive professional grooming. This low-maintenance coat contributes to their appeal as a more affordable option in terms of ongoing care.
Basenji
Curious Basenji dog with a short, smooth brown and white coat
For individuals who appreciate the elegant lines of hounds but prefer to avoid their distinctive odor and shedding tendencies, the Basenji offers a unique solution. Known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis are famously quiet, making them an ideal small dog for apartment living, provided they receive daily exercise and engaging playtime. Their short, fine coat sheds very minimally, requiring little more than an occasional brushing to keep it in prime condition. This simple grooming routine can be easily managed at home, significantly lowering potential grooming expenses, which makes the Basenji an attractive option when considering cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small. Their self-cleaning, cat-like habits also contribute to their low-maintenance reputation.
Bichon Frise
Fluffy white Bichon Frise with a cheerful expression
The Bichon Frise is truly a poster child for non-shedding small dog breeds. These playful, affectionate, and charming dogs are an ideal breed for people with allergies due to their hypoallergenic coats. While they are non-shedding, it’s important to note that their continuously growing hair requires regular grooming. This means frequent brushing and occasional baths are essential to maintain their iconic powder-puff appearance and prevent mats. Owners can learn to do much of this grooming themselves, which can considerably cut down on costs, aligning with the goal of finding cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small. Their cheerful disposition and suitability for various living situations add to their widespread appeal.
Bolognese
Elegant Bolognese dog with a long, fluffy white coat
Similar to the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese boasts a distinctive fluffy coat composed of hair rather than fur. This means the Bolognese does not shed in the traditional sense, although dead hair must be brushed out regularly to prevent tangles and mats. Daily grooming is crucial to keep these lovable lap dogs looking their best. While this grooming commitment is necessary, it’s often a task owners can perform at home with basic tools, thereby avoiding costly professional grooming sessions. Their small size and gentle nature make them wonderful companions for those seeking a tranquil, non-shedding small dog. The ability to manage their coat care yourself is a key factor for those looking for cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small.
Brussels Griffon
Cute Brussels Griffon with a scruffy brown coat and expressive eyes
Despite their tiny stature, Brussels Griffons are surprisingly robust and do not require excessive pampering. Available in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, both types are minimal shedders and thrive with regular grooming. The rough-coated Griffons may require occasional hand-stripping, which can be a DIY task for dedicated owners or a professional service. Their small size means that their exercise needs are modest, typically satisfied with a daily walk and indoor play, which keeps activity-related costs low. This loyal and affectionate little dog forms strong bonds with its family and is happiest when frequently in their company, making them great for families who are often home. Their low-shedding nature and manageable exercise requirements contribute to their suitability for those looking for cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small.
Chinese Crested
Elegant Chinese Crested dog with hair on its head, tail, and feet
For ultimate low-shedding, one might consider the Chinese Crested, a small dog breed that comes in two distinct varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety has hair only on its head, tail, and feet, making shedding virtually nonexistent. The powderpuff, on the other hand, is covered with a soft, fine coat of hair that sheds very minimally. While hairless breeds inherently eliminate shedding concerns, they do require extra care for their skin, necessitating protection from sun and cold, and are prone to skin irritations. This skin care can involve specific lotions and clothing, adding a unique cost factor. However, for the powderpuff variety, grooming is relatively simple, focusing on regular brushing. Both types are small, affectionate, and can be considered for those prioritizing minimal shedding.
Coton De Tulear
Fluffy white Coton de Tulear with a cheerful face
The Coton de Tulear, known for its distinctive, long, fluffy coat, is often considered a hypoallergenic breed, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and those who desire a small, non-shedding dog. While their luxurious coat means less vacuuming, it does require daily grooming to prevent matting and keep it looking pristine. Dedicated owners can learn to manage this grooming at home, saving on professional salon visits. Their lighthearted, gentle, and intelligent nature makes the grooming effort worthwhile, as they are eager to please and easily trained. Their size and adaptable temperament make them wonderful companions for various households, particularly for those who can commit to regular home grooming to keep overall costs down.
Havanese
Playful Havanese dog with a long, silky white and brown coat
These charming native Cuban dogs offer their owners a delightful combination of spunky charm and a non-shedding coat, translating to less time spent lint rolling furniture and more quality time romping with these playful companions. The Havanese’s silky double coat requires weekly brushing and regular baths to keep it clean, healthy, and tangle-free. While professional grooming is an option, many Havanese owners enjoy learning to groom their dogs themselves, transforming a potential expense into a bonding activity. Their small size, adaptability to apartment living, and low-shedding quality make them ideal for many lifestyles, positioning them well for individuals seeking small, non-shedding, and potentially more affordable dog options through owner-managed care.
Maltese
Elegant Maltese dog with a long, flowing white coat
Maltese dogs have captivated humans for millennia, and their enduring popularity is no surprise. This ancient breed of Malta has remained largely unchanged, partly due to their long, white coats that shed very little, making them ideal lap dogs. Their luxurious coats do demand regular attention, requiring daily brushing to prevent mats and an occasional bath to keep their silky hair clean and radiant. Like many long-haired, non-shedding breeds, the key to keeping maintenance costs down with a Maltese is consistent home grooming. Their small stature and loving demeanor make them perfect indoor companions, and their low-shedding attribute means a cleaner home environment. The Maltese perfectly fits the criteria for those seeking small, non-shedding, and potentially cheap dogs, especially if grooming is a self-managed task.
Lhasa Apso
Calm Lhasa Apso with a long, flowing brown and white coat
Hailing from the high altitudes of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that makes an excellent, serene yet playful companion. They enjoy a brisk walk as much as a cozy nap in their owner’s lap. Lhasa Apsos are renowned for being non-shedding, but their magnificent coats are high-maintenance. To simplify care and avoid the need for daily grooming and brushing of their long hair, many owners opt to keep their Lhasa Apsos in a shorter “puppy cut.” This trim can be maintained with regular professional grooming, which adds to the cost, but savvy owners can learn to do basic trims themselves or find a groomer who offers more affordable maintenance cuts. Their robust health and long lifespan also make them a valuable, long-term companion.
Miniature Schnauzer
Alert Miniature Schnauzer with a distinctive beard and eyebrows
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, trainable, and cheerful little dog that strongly resembles its Standard Schnauzer cousin. As a Terrier breed, they shed very little, which is a significant plus for allergy sufferers and those who prefer a tidy home. Their adaptability makes them equally at home in the bustling city or the quiet countryside, as long as they are close to their human companions. To keep Miniature Schnauzers looking their best, weekly brushing and regular grooming are essential. Their wiry coat benefits from stripping or clipping, which can be done professionally or learned by diligent owners to manage costs. Their robust health, eagerness to learn, and minimal shedding make them an attractive option for those seeking small, non-shedding dogs.
Poodle
Graceful Poodle with a curly white coat, looking intelligent
Poodles are often the first breed that comes to mind when considering small dogs that don’t shed, and for good reason. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer the same non-shedding and hypoallergenic qualities as their Standard counterparts, simply in a more petite package. All Poodles are highly intelligent, making them exceptionally easy to train, and they are known for being active, proud, and elegant. While their curly hair does not shed, it grows continuously and requires regular professional grooming to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive look. However, for owners dedicated to saving money, learning basic Poodle clips and regular brushing at home can significantly reduce expenses. Their bright minds and playful nature make them wonderful, albeit grooming-intensive, companions.
Scottish Terrier
Dignified Scottish Terrier with a wiry black coat
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as a Scottie, is a Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, confidence, and formidable personality. Their wiry, weather-resistant coat sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for minimal shedding. While they do require regular brushing and grooming to keep their coats healthy and maintain the classic Scottie outline, many aspects of their care can be managed at home. Occasional hand-stripping, a traditional grooming method for terriers, can be learned by owners or performed by a professional groomer. Scotties are clever and independent dogs with a strong prey drive, so owners must be mindful around smaller animals. Their hardy nature and low-shedding coat make them a strong contender for those looking for cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small, especially if you embrace home grooming.
Shih Tzu
Regal Shih Tzu with long, flowing brown and white hair
The Shih Tzu is another breed with a long and storied pedigree, once the favored house pet of the Tang Dynasty. These “little lion dogs” come in a variety of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding and looks exceptionally regal when brushed out, befitting their royal ancestry. This Toy breed is sturdy and lively, with a carriage often described as arrogant 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 companions. Like other long-haired, non-shedding breeds, consistent daily brushing at home is key to preventing mats and managing grooming costs, making them a suitable option for those seeking small, non-shedding, and potentially more affordable companions.
West Highland White Terrier
Energetic West Highland White Terrier with a coarse white coat
The coarse, brilliant white hair of the West Highland White Terrier, fondly known as Westies, sheds very little. This sturdy little dog is intelligent, loyal, happy, and highly entertaining. They are curious dogs with moderate energy levels and an independent streak common among all Terriers, which can make training a delightful challenge at times. Their low-shedding coat requires regular brushing and occasional professional grooming or hand-stripping to maintain its texture and appearance. For budget-conscious owners, learning to perform basic grooming tasks at home can help manage expenses. Westies are robust and typically healthy, making them a good long-term companion for those who appreciate their spirited nature and minimal shedding.
Xoloitzcuintli
Alert Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless dog breed, standing
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and rare breed that comes in both hairless and coated varieties. The hairless type, naturally, offers virtually no shedding, retaining only a small amount of hair on their heads. The coated variety has a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally. As with any hairless breed, the Xolo requires a little extra attention when it comes to their skin, needing protection from the elements and specialized skin care, which can be an ongoing cost. However, compared to grooming costs for other breeds, their hairless or short coat is very low maintenance. Xolos make attentive watchdogs and affectionate companions. While they enjoy physical activities, they are also known for their tranquil personality around the home, making them unique, low-shedding small dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
Spirited Yorkshire Terrier with a long, silky blue and tan coat
Sprightly, tomboyish, and affectionate, the Yorkshire Terrier, often called the Yorkie, is a Toy breed brimming with personality. These spunky lap dogs are incredibly popular, and for good reason. Yorkshire Terriers do not shed, and their silky coats are beautiful when brushed out daily. Their small size makes this daily brushing relatively easy and quick, often reducing the need for frequent professional grooming if owners are diligent. Don’t let their regal carriage fool you – Yorkies have working-class roots, having hunted rats in English clothing mills. Today, they are just as happy to sit on their owner’s lap as they are pursuing imaginary rodents. Their non-shedding coat and manageable size make them a premier choice for those seeking cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small.
Other Considerations for Cheap, Non-Shedding Small Dogs
The Terrier group, in general, is a treasure trove of small dogs that don’t shed or shed minimally. Wiry- and coarse-haired Terriers typically shed less than other breeds, making them ideal for individuals sensitive to dog hair. Other excellent non- or low-shedding Terrier breeds include:
- Border Terrier: A hardy, plucky terrier with a wiry, low-shedding coat.
- Cairn Terrier: Known for their shaggy, weather-resistant outer coat that sheds minimally.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: A playful, affectionate breed with a soft, silky coat that sheds very little.
Understanding “Cheap” in Dog Ownership
When seeking “cheap dogs that don’t shed and stay small,” it’s vital to broaden the definition of “cheap.” The initial cost of acquiring a dog can vary significantly; adopting from a shelter or rescue organization often involves a lower fee than purchasing from a reputable breeder. However, the true cost of dog ownership lies in long-term expenses, including:
- Grooming: While many non-shedding breeds require regular grooming, learning to brush and trim at home can save hundreds of dollars annually.
- Veterinary Care: Routine check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and unexpected medical emergencies are essential costs for any dog, regardless of breed.
- Food: A high-quality diet is crucial for a dog’s health and can prevent costly health issues down the line. Small dogs generally eat less, reducing this expense compared to larger breeds.
- Training and Socialization: Investing in early training can prevent behavioral problems that might require costly intervention later.
There are many breeds of small dogs that don’t shed, but just because your dog doesn’t shed doesn’t mean your pet requires zero maintenance. Take the time to carefully research non-shedding dog breeds to find the dog that best matches your lifestyle, personality, and budget for ongoing care. To avoid health problems and support ethical practices, always consider adopting from a reputable rescue or purchasing a dog from a responsible breeder, feed your dog a high-quality diet, and ensure your pet receives regular veterinary checkups. Choosing a dog that fits your life and your wallet means focusing on both initial and long-term expenses.
