For many prospective pet parents, the dream of a canine companion often comes with a hidden concern: dog hair. While the joy a dog brings is immeasurable, the constant battle against shedding can be a significant deterrent. Fortunately, if you’re looking for a delightful furry friend that won’t leave a trail of hair across your furniture and clothes, you’re in luck! There’s a wonderful world of dogs that don’t shed and are small, offering the perfect blend of compact size and minimal fur fallout. These breeds are ideal for apartment dwellers, individuals with allergies, or anyone simply preferring a tidier living space. Choosing a small, non-shedding dog means more quality time with your pup and less time spent lint rolling. dogs that don t shed and stay small
This comprehensive guide will introduce you to some of the most charming and low-shedding small dog breeds available. We’ll delve into their unique characteristics, grooming needs, and why they might be the perfect addition to your family. From the playful Bichon Frise to the elegant Maltese, prepare to discover a world of small canines that promise big love without the big mess.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, whose name translates to “monkey-like terrier,” truly lives up to its moniker with its intelligent gaze and distinctive appearance. Despite their small stature, these Toy breed dogs possess a fearless demeanor that belies their size, making them excellent little watchdogs. With an Affenpinscher in the house, you can rest assured that unexpected visitors won’t go unnoticed. Beyond their alert nature, one of the most appealing traits of the Affenpinscher is its wiry coat, which sheds very little and is virtually free of the typical “doggy” odor that some breeds possess.
Grooming an Affenpinscher is remarkably straightforward, requiring only a twice-weekly brushing session with a slicker brush and a comb to keep their shaggy-yet-neat appearance in top condition. This low-maintenance coat, combined with their renowned sense of humor and affectionate personality, makes the Affenpinscher a delightful companion for many households. Their sturdy build and confident attitude mean they enjoy interactive playtime and can adapt well to various living situations, provided they receive adequate mental and physical stimulation. They thrive on companionship and are known for forming strong bonds with their families.
Affenpinscher dog with dark, wiry coat and expressive eyes
Basenji
For those captivated by the elegance and independent spirit of hounds but are less keen on their characteristic odor and shedding habits, the Basenji presents a compelling alternative. Often referred to as the “barkless dog” due to their unique yodel-like vocalizations rather than traditional barking, the Basenji is an exceptional small dog that sheds minimally. Their short, fine coat is incredibly easy to maintain, typically requiring little more than an occasional brushing to keep it pristine. This makes them one of the top choices among dogs that don’t shed and are small for individuals seeking a low-fuss grooming routine.
Basenjis are known for their fastidious nature, often grooming themselves much like a cat. This, coupled with their minimal shedding, contributes to their overall cleanliness. They are also famously quiet, a trait that makes them an ideal apartment dweller, provided they receive sufficient daily exercise and opportunities for engaging playtime. These intelligent and energetic dogs need mental stimulation to prevent boredom, and consistent training is key to managing their independent streak. A daily brisk walk or a good run in a secure area will keep a Basenji happy and healthy, making them a fantastic choice for active individuals or families.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is the quintessential small, non-shedding dog breed, beloved for its cheerful disposition and iconic powder-puff appearance. These playful, affectionate dogs are celebrated as an ideal choice for individuals with allergies, thanks to their hypoallergenic coat. However, it’s important to note that while they don’t shed, Bichon Frise are not entirely maintenance-free. Their continuously growing hair requires consistent grooming, which includes frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles, along with regular professional trims and occasional baths to maintain their signature fluffy look.
Despite the grooming commitment, the Bichon Frise’s charming personality makes them incredibly rewarding companions. They are known for their joyful and sociable nature, thriving on human interaction and often displaying an endearing “Bichon buzz” or burst of energy. Their small size makes them well-suited for various living environments, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive daily exercise and mental engagement. With their sweet temperament and playful antics, Bichons bring immense happiness to their families, proving that a little extra grooming is a small price to pay for a dog that combines charm, companionship, and a virtually shed-free home. small dogs that dont shed and don t need grooming
Bichon Frise with fluffy white coat and happy expression
Bolognese
Much like their close relative, the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese boasts a distinctive, fluffy coat composed of hair rather than traditional fur. This crucial characteristic means that the Bolognese is a non-shedding breed, making them an excellent option for those seeking dogs that don’t shed and are small. Their unique coat contributes to a cleaner home environment and can be beneficial for individuals with sensitivities to dog dander. However, this beautiful coat does come with its own set of grooming requirements.
While they don’t shed, dead hair must be regularly brushed out, and their luxurious coat demands daily grooming to prevent matting and keep these lovable lap dogs looking their absolute best. The Bolognese is known for its calm and devoted nature, forming strong bonds with its family members. They are gentle, intelligent, and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Their moderate energy levels can be satisfied with short daily walks and indoor play, making them an ideal companion for quieter households or those living in smaller spaces. Their charming personality and elegant appearance make the grooming effort worthwhile for a truly devoted and shed-free companion.
Brussels Griffon
Don’t let the small size of the Brussels Griffon fool you; this breed is far from fragile and doesn’t require excessive pampering. Known for their unique, almost human-like facial expressions and confident demeanor, Brussels Griffons are robust little dogs. They come in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, and both types are minimal shedders, thriving with consistent, regular grooming. This makes them a great choice among dogs that don’t shed and are small for those who appreciate their distinctive looks without the burden of constant hair cleanup.
Their minimal shedding is a significant advantage, and their grooming needs typically involve weekly brushing and occasional professional stripping for the rough-coated type to maintain coat health and texture. Due to their compact size, a daily walk and engaging indoor play are usually sufficient to meet their exercise requirements, making them adaptable to urban living. The Brussels Griffon is fiercely loyal and deeply devoted to its human companions, doing best in homes where family members are frequently present. Their intelligent and sometimes mischievous personality ensures there’s never a dull moment with these charming small dogs.
Chinese Crested
For those actively seeking to avoid shedding altogether, the Chinese Crested offers a unique solution as a small hairless dog breed. This fascinating breed comes in two distinct coat types: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. The Hairless variety truly minimizes shedding to almost nothing, featuring hair primarily on their heads (the crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). The Powderpuff, conversely, is covered with a soft, fine coat of hair that sheds very minimally, still appealing to those looking for dogs that don’t shed and are small.
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs require special care and attention when it comes to their skin, which is exposed to the elements. They need protection from harsh sun and cold temperatures, often benefiting from sunscreen, moisturizers, and clothing. They are also more prone to skin irritations, necessitating a gentle grooming routine. Powderpuffs, while having more hair, also require regular brushing to prevent matting. Both varieties are known for their affectionate, playful, and intelligent personalities, forming strong bonds with their owners. They thrive on companionship and can be excellent apartment dogs, adapting well to indoor living.
Coton De Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a captivating small dog breed, instantly recognizable by its distinctive, long, and exceptionally fluffy coat. This unique coat is not only beautiful but is also considered hypoallergenic, making the Coton de Tulear an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and anyone seeking a small dog that doesn’t shed. Their soft, cotton-like hair is a hallmark of the breed and a major reason for their popularity among those looking for a clean household.
Despite their non-shedding nature, Coton de Tulear dogs do require daily grooming to maintain their luxurious coats. This typically involves thorough brushing to prevent mats and tangles, as well as regular baths and occasional trims. While this might seem like a commitment, their lighthearted, gentle, and eager-to-please nature makes the effort incredibly worthwhile. Cotons are known for their cheerful disposition, adaptability, and strong desire to be close to their human companions. They are intelligent and relatively easy to train, thriving on positive reinforcement. Their moderate exercise needs can be met with daily walks and indoor play, making them well-suited for various living environments, including apartments.
Havanese
These spirited native Cuban dogs offer their owners a delightful combination of spunky charm and a coat that doesn’t shed. The Havanese is a dream come true for anyone tired of lint rolling furniture, offering more time for romping and playtime and less time cleaning up hair. As a premier example of dogs that don’t shed and are small, their soft, silky coat is a significant draw, contributing to a cleaner home and making them a favorite among those with mild allergies.
While the Havanese is a non-shedding breed, their beautiful coat does require consistent care to keep it healthy and free of mats. This typically involves weekly brushing to detangle their long hair and regular baths to keep them clean and looking their best. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify grooming. Havanese are known for their outgoing, playful, and affectionate personalities. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being the center of attention, often exhibiting a lively and mischievous sense of humor. They are intelligent and trainable, making them excellent family pets that adapt well to various living situations, provided they receive daily exercise and plenty of love.
Maltese
For three millennia, Maltese dogs have captivated and charmed their human counterparts, maintaining a revered status. This ancient dog breed from the island of Malta has seen little change over the past 28 centuries, a testament to its enduring appeal and ideal qualities. Perhaps a significant factor in their long-standing popularity is their long, flowing white coats, which shed very little, solidifying their reputation as an ideal lap dog and one of the most sought-after dogs that don’t shed and are small.
The Maltese’s luxurious, silky coat is a hallmark of the breed, requiring regular grooming to prevent mats and maintain its pristine appearance. This includes daily brushing and occasional baths to remove dirt and debris, keeping their beautiful white hair sparkling. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are surprisingly sturdy, lively, and playful dogs. They are affectionate, intelligent, and eager to please, making them wonderful companions that form deep bonds with their families. Their small size makes them perfect for apartment living, and their moderate exercise needs can be met with indoor play and short daily walks. The Maltese truly embodies elegance and charm without the hassle of excessive shedding.
Maltese dog with long white hair and a bow on its head
Lhasa Apso
Hailing from the high altitudes of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that makes an exceptional companion. Known for their calm yet playful demeanor, Lhasa Apsos enjoy a balance of brisk walks and restful periods curled up in their owner’s lap. They are another excellent example of dogs that don’t shed and are small, making them a popular choice for those seeking a low-shedding household member. Their long, dense coat is designed to protect them from the harsh Tibetan climate and, while beautiful, does require dedicated maintenance.
Lhasa Apsos do not shed in the traditional sense, but their continuously growing hair does need significant attention to prevent matting and tangles. Many owners opt to keep their Lhasa Apsos in a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify daily grooming and brushing, which can otherwise be quite time-consuming. Beyond their grooming needs, Lhasa Apsos are known for their intelligent, assertive, and sometimes stubborn personalities. They are independent thinkers but are also deeply devoted to their families, acting as alert watchdogs. With proper socialization and consistent training, they can be wonderful, long-lived companions, bringing a regal presence and minimal shedding to any home.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, highly trainable, and cheerful little dog that strongly resembles its larger Standard Schnauzer cousin. This robust Terrier breed is renowned for shedding very little, making it a favored choice among dogs that don’t shed and are small. Their distinctive wiry coat, combined with their spirited personality, makes them stand out. The Miniature Schnauzer’s adaptability allows them to be equally at home in bustling city apartments or sprawling country residences, as long as their beloved human companions are nearby.
To maintain the Miniature Schnauzer’s iconic appearance and coat health, a routine of weekly brushing and regular professional grooming is essential. This often includes clipping or hand-stripping to preserve the texture and shape of their coat. Beyond their grooming, Schnauzers are known for their alert, intelligent, and often mischievous nature. They are highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in dog sports and obedience. Their moderate energy levels require daily exercise, such as walks and playtime, to keep them happy and well-behaved. Loyal and affectionate, the Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful, low-shedding companion for active families.
Poodle (Miniature and Toy)
When the topic of dogs that don’t shed and are small arises, Poodles almost invariably come to mind, and for good reason. Poodles, in all their sizes, are famously non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer these highly desirable qualities in petite, intelligent packages, differing only in size from their Standard counterparts. Their elegant appearance is matched by their sharp minds, making them one of the most intelligent and trainable dog breeds.
All Poodles are highly intelligent, contributing to their reputation as easy-to-train dogs that excel in obedience and various dog sports. They are active, proud, and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. While their coats don’t shed, they do require regular professional grooming, including clipping and brushing, to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive look. This commitment to grooming is a small trade-off for a clean home and a highly engaging, affectionate, and virtually shed-free companion. Whether Miniature or Toy, a Poodle brings boundless joy and sophistication to any household. small dogs that don t shed and are hypoallergenic
Poodle dog with fluffy white coat and a friendly expression
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as a Scottie, is a Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, unwavering confidence, and incredibly big personality packed into a small frame. This makes the Scottie a distinctive choice among dogs that don’t shed and are small. Their wiry, weather-resistant double coat sheds very little, making them a great option for those seeking a cleaner home environment. However, their unique coat does require consistent care to maintain its health and characteristic outline.
Grooming a Scottie involves regular brushing to prevent tangles, professional grooming for clipping, and occasional hand-stripping to maintain the coat’s texture and natural appearance. Beyond their grooming, Scotties are clever and independent dogs with strong prey drives, a trait common among Terriers. This means owners must be mindful around smaller animals and provide a secure environment. Despite their independent streak, Scotties are deeply loyal to their families and can be surprisingly affectionate. Their moderate exercise needs can be met with daily walks and engaging playtime. With their dignified carriage and spirited nature, Scottish Terriers offer a unique and low-shedding companionship.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is another breed with a long and illustrious pedigree, tracing its origins back to ancient Tibet and becoming the favored house pet of Chinese royalty during the Tang Dynasty. These “little lion dogs” come in a stunning variety of colors and patterns, captivating all who meet them. Their long, silky hair is famously low-shedding, looking exceptionally regal when brushed out, truly befitting their royal ancestry. This makes the Shih Tzu a top contender for anyone desiring dogs that don’t shed and are small with an aristocratic charm.
As a Toy breed, the Shih Tzu is sturdy and lively, often described as having an arrogant carriage due to their proudly held heads and curling tails. Despite this dignified appearance, they were specifically bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting nature makes them exceptional and devoted companions. While their hair sheds minimally, it requires daily brushing to prevent mats and keep it looking its best. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify grooming. Shih Tzus thrive on companionship and enjoy being pampered, yet they are also playful and adaptable, making them ideal for apartment living and families seeking a loving, low-shedding lap dog.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known by fans of the breed as Westies, boasts a coarse, distinctive white coat that sheds very little. This makes them a fantastic choice among dogs that don’t shed and are small for individuals seeking a lively companion without the constant cleanup of shed hair. These sturdy little dogs are intelligent, fiercely loyal, happy, and highly entertaining, bringing a joyful energy to any home. Their bright, curious eyes and playful demeanor are irresistible.
While their coat is low-shedding, it does require regular grooming to maintain its characteristic texture and appearance. This typically involves weekly brushing, professional grooming every few months, and occasional hand-stripping to keep their coat healthy. Westies are curious dogs with moderate energy levels, enjoying daily walks and engaging play sessions. They also possess an independent streak, common among all Terriers, which can sometimes make training a delightful challenge. However, with consistent positive reinforcement and patience, Westies are eager learners. Their robust health and spirited personality make them a wonderful, low-shedding addition to active families.
Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and rare breed of dog with a history spanning thousands of years. This unique breed offers varieties that are either hairless or coated, catering to different preferences for dogs that don’t shed and are small. The Hairless variety, as its name suggests, retains only a small amount of hair on its head, tail, and feet, making shedding virtually nonexistent. The coated variety possesses a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally, still a great option for those seeking a low-shedding dog.
As with any hairless breed, the Hairless Xoloitzcuintli requires extra attention to their skin to protect them from the elements, such as sun exposure and cold temperatures. This may involve using sunscreen, moisturizers, and protective clothing. Both varieties of Xolos make attentive watchdogs and affectionate companions. While they enjoy physical activities like walks and vigorous play, they are also well known for their tranquil and calm personality around the home, making them adaptable to various living situations. Their unique appearance and loyal nature make the Xolo a truly special and low-shedding companion.
Yorkshire Terrier
Sprightly, tomboyish, and full of affection, the Yorkshire Terrier, often simply called the Yorkie, is a Toy breed brimming with personality. These spunky lap dogs are consistently ranked among the most popular dog breeds, and for excellent reasons. Yorkshire Terriers are famously non-shedding, and their long, silky coats are a vision of beauty when brushed out daily – a task made easy by their small size. This makes them an outstanding choice among dogs that don’t shed and are small for those who desire elegance without the mess.
Don’t be fooled by their regal carriage; Yorkies have working-class roots. These fearless terriers were originally bred to hunt rats in English clothing mills, demonstrating a tenacity that belies their delicate appearance. Today, they are just as happy to snuggle on their owner’s lap as they are to chase after a toy. While they don’t shed, their luxurious coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and maintain its health and shine. Yorkies are intelligent, confident, and deeply loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living, and their lively spirit ensures there’s never a dull moment. dogs that dont shed and stay small
Yorkshire Terrier dog with a long, silky coat and a confident expression
Other Notable Small Dogs That Don’t Shed
The Terrier group, in general, is a treasure trove of small dogs that don’t shed or shed only minimally. Breeds with wiry and coarse hair typically shed less than other coat types, making Terriers an ideal category for individuals who wish to avoid excessive shedding. While we’ve highlighted many popular choices, several other non- or low-shedding Terrier breeds are also excellent candidates for a fur-free home. Remember that even non-shedding breeds still require grooming to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting. small and medium dogs that dont shed
Making the Right Choice: Beyond Shedding
While finding dogs that don’t shed and are small is a fantastic starting point for many, it’s crucial to remember that a non-shedding coat doesn’t equate to zero maintenance. Every dog, regardless of its shedding level, requires consistent care, training, and affection. Non-shedding breeds often have continuously growing hair that needs regular brushing, professional grooming, and occasional baths to prevent matting and maintain skin health.
When selecting your new companion, take the time to thoroughly research each breed’s temperament, exercise requirements, and specific grooming needs to find a dog that truly matches your lifestyle and personality. Consider their energy levels, how they interact with children or other pets, and their overall health tendencies. To ensure you welcome a healthy and well-adjusted dog into your home, always seek puppies from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their animals. Provide your dog with a high-quality, balanced diet and commit to regular veterinary check-ups to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life together. Choosing a dog is a long-term commitment, and careful consideration will lead to a rewarding companionship for years to come.
