Are you a dog lover who also suffers from allergies, or perhaps you’re simply tired of constantly battling dog hair around your home? Finding a small dog breed that sheds minimally, or not at all, can be a game-changer. Fortunately, there are numerous breeds that fit the bill, offering companionship without the overwhelming shedding. This guide explores some of the most popular small dog breeds known for their low-shedding coats, helping you find the perfect canine companion that suits your lifestyle and minimizes your cleaning efforts.
Affenpinscher
The “monkey-like terrier,” as its name suggests, is an intelligent and fearless toy breed. Despite its small stature, the Affenpinscher is vigilant, making it a good watchdog. Its wiry coat sheds very little and has minimal odor. Regular brushing twice a week with a slicker brush and comb is sufficient to maintain its shaggy yet neat appearance. Affenpinscher puppies are available for those interested in this charming breed.
Basenji
Often called the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is known for its unique vocalizations that sound more like yodeling. For those who appreciate hounds but dislike their typical odor and shedding, the Basenji is an excellent choice. It sheds minimally, and its short, fine coat requires only occasional brushing. Basenjis are also quiet, making them suitable for apartment living, provided they receive adequate daily exercise. You can find Basenji puppies if this breed captures your interest.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a genuinely non-shedding small dog breed, making it an ideal dog breed for people with allergies. These playful and affectionate dogs, however, do require consistent grooming. Their hair grows continuously and needs frequent brushing and occasional baths to maintain their signature fluffy appearance. If a Bichon Frise sounds like the right fit, consider looking for Bichon Frise puppies.
Bolognese
Similar to the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese boasts a distinctive fluffy coat that is considered hair rather than fur. This breed does not shed, though dead hair needs regular brushing. Daily grooming is essential to keep their lovable appearance intact. For those interested, Bolognese puppies can be a wonderful addition to the family.
Brussels Griffon
Don’t let their small size fool you; Brussels Griffons are not delicate dogs. Both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties are minimal shedders and thrive with regular grooming. Their exercise needs are typically met with a daily walk and indoor play. This loyal breed does best with families who are home frequently. You can explore Brussels Griffon puppies if this breed appeals to you.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested offers a unique solution to shedding by being a hairless breed. They come in two coat types: hairless, with hair only on their head, tail, and feet, and powderpuff, which is covered in fine hair that sheds minimally. Hairless varieties require special skin care, including protection from the sun and cold, as they are more prone to skin irritations. Those seeking Chinese Crested puppies should be prepared for this unique care requirement.
Coton De Tulear
With its distinctive, long, fluffy coat, the Coton de Tulear is considered hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. While these dogs do require daily grooming to maintain their coats, their lighthearted and gentle nature makes the effort rewarding. Interested individuals can find Coton De Tulear puppies.
Havanese
These charming dogs from Cuba possess a spunky personality and a coat that doesn’t shed, meaning less time spent cleaning lint rollers and more time enjoying playtime. Their coat needs weekly brushing and regular baths to stay clean and healthy. If you’re looking for Havanese puppies, you’ll be welcoming a delightful companion.
Maltese
The Maltese has been enchanting people for millennia with its long, white coat that sheds very little, making it an ideal lap dog. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats, and occasional baths help keep their silky hair clean. You can find Maltese puppies if this ancient and elegant breed suits your fancy.
Lhasa Apso
Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso makes an excellent companion, known for being calm yet playful. These dogs don’t shed, but their coats require maintenance. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify grooming. If you’re interested in Lhasa Apso puppies, you’ll be choosing a devoted friend.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, trainable, and cheerful dog that strongly resembles its larger Standard Schnauzer cousin. This breed sheds very little and is adaptable to both city and country living, as long as their human companions are nearby. Weekly brushing and regular grooming are recommended. You can find Miniature Schnauzer puppies to add this lively breed to your home.
Poodle
Poodles are perhaps the most well-known small dogs that don’t shed and are considered hypoallergenic. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer these traits in petite, intelligent packages. All Poodles are highly intelligent, making them easy to train, and they are an active, proud breed. Their hair requires regular professional grooming. For those interested, Poodle puppies are a popular choice.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is a bold, confident, and big-personality terrier. Their wiry, weather-resistant coat sheds very little but requires regular brushing, grooming, and occasional hand-stripping to maintain its health and the breed’s outline. Scotties are clever and independent with strong prey drives. If you’re considering Scottish Terrier puppies, be mindful of their hunting instincts.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, often called “little lion dogs,” boasts a long pedigree and a very low-shedding, silky coat that looks regal when brushed. This sturdy and lively toy breed has a gentle and trusting nature, making them exceptional companions. You can find Shih Tzu puppies if you’re seeking a devoted lap dog with a noble bearing.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as Westies, has a coarse, white coat that sheds very little. These sturdy dogs are intelligent, loyal, happy, and entertaining, with moderate energy levels and an independent streak common to terriers. Finding West Highland White Terrier puppies means bringing home a delightful and spirited companion.
Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient breed that can be hairless or coated. The hairless variety has minimal hair on its head, and the coated variety has a short, fine coat that sheds minimally. Like other hairless breeds, Xolos need extra skin protection. They make attentive watchdogs and affectionate companions, known for their tranquil personality at home. If you’re interested in Xoloitzcuintli puppies, they offer a unique and loyal companionship.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a spunky, affectionate toy breed full of personality. These popular lap dogs do not shed, and their silky coats are beautiful when brushed daily, a task made easy by their small size. Despite their refined appearance, Yorkies have working-class roots as rat hunters. You can find Yorkshire Terrier puppies for a spirited and affectionate companion.
Other Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
The Terrier group, in particular, is a rich source of small dogs that shed minimally or not at all. Wiry- and coarse-haired terriers are excellent choices for those seeking low-shedding companions. While many small breeds don’t shed, it’s crucial to remember that no dog is entirely maintenance-free. Thorough research into non-shedding breeds is vital to find a dog that truly matches your lifestyle and personality. To ensure your pet’s well-being, always purchase from a reliable breeder, provide a high-quality diet, and schedule regular veterinary checkups.
