Choosing a canine companion is an exciting journey, especially when you’re looking for a specific set of traits. For many prospective dog owners, the appeal of a small dog that doesn’t shed and stays compact is undeniable. Whether you suffer from allergies, dislike the constant chore of cleaning up dog hair, or simply prefer a pint-sized pal, a non-shedding small dog can be the perfect addition to your home. These breeds offer the joy of dog ownership with minimal fuss over shedding, often making them excellent choices for apartment living and families seeking a low-maintenance grooming routine in terms of hair fall.
Finding the right breed involves understanding not just their shedding habits but also their temperament, grooming needs, and exercise requirements. This comprehensive guide highlights some of the most beloved small dog breeds with low shedding that remain small throughout their lives, helping you find a furry friend that perfectly matches your lifestyle.
Affenpinscher
Affenpinscher dog looking alert and intelligent
The Affenpinscher, whose name translates to “monkey-like terrier,” is a spirited and intelligent toy breed known for its distinctive facial expression and fearless personality. Despite their small stature, these dogs possess a confident demeanor, making them excellent watchdogs. One of their most appealing features for those seeking low-shedding companions is their wiry, dense coat. This texture sheds minimally and is also celebrated for having very little “doggy odor.” Regular brushing, about twice a week with a slicker brush and comb, is usually sufficient to keep their shaggy yet neat appearance in top condition. Affenpinschers are playful and known for their sense of humor, bringing endless entertainment to their families.
Basenji
Basenji dog standing gracefully with short, fine coat
Often referred to as the “barkless dog” due to their unique yodel-like sounds, the Basenji is a distinctive breed that appeals to hound lovers who prefer minimal shedding. Their short, fine coat requires very little maintenance beyond occasional brushing, making them one of the easiest breeds in terms of shedding. Basenjis are also renowned for their meticulous self-grooming habits, often likened to cats. Active and intelligent, they thrive on daily exercise and playtime, making them suitable for apartment living as long as their energy needs are met. Their independent nature and quiet disposition add to their charm, offering a unique canine experience.
Bichon Frise
Fluffy white Bichon Frise with a playful expression
The Bichon Frise is an embodiment of cheerfulness and is truly one of the truly non-shedding small dogs. These affectionate and playful dogs are an ideal choice for individuals with allergies, as their hair-like coat traps dander effectively. While they don’t shed, their continuously growing coat does require dedicated maintenance. To maintain their signature “powder-puff” appearance and prevent matting, Bichons need frequent grooming, daily brushing, and regular baths. Their joyful disposition and eagerness to please make the grooming effort well worth it, as they are wonderful companions who adore being the center of attention.
Bolognese
Gentle white Bolognese dog with a soft, fluffy coat
Sharing a similar lineage with the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese also boasts a distinctive fluffy coat composed of hair rather than fur, making them an excellent non-shedding option. These lovable lap dogs are known for their calm and gentle nature, forming strong bonds with their families. Although they do not shed, their cotton-like coat requires diligent daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats and ensure they look their best. The Bolognese thrives on companionship and is a wonderfully adaptable breed, happy in various living situations as long as they receive plenty of affection and attention.
Brussels Griffon
Charming Brussels Griffon with a distinctive facial expression
Don’t let their small size fool you; Brussels Griffons are sturdy little dogs with big personalities, far from needing excessive pampering. Available in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, both types are minimal shedders, especially the rough-coated ones. They thrive with regular grooming, which helps maintain their coat health and characteristic appearance. Their compact size means that their exercise needs are modest, typically satisfied with a daily walk and indoor play. Loyal and affectionate, the Brussels Griffon forms deep bonds with its family and prefers to be a constant companion, making them ideal for households where someone is often home.
Chinese Crested
Elegant Chinese Crested dog showing its unique hairless and tufted coat
For those seeking an almost entirely shedding-free experience, the Chinese Crested offers a unique solution. This breed comes in two varieties: the hairless, which has hair only on its head, tail, and feet, and the “powderpuff,” which has a soft, fine coat that sheds very minimally. The hairless variety requires special attention to skin care, including protection from sun and cold, and is more prone to skin irritations. However, both types are affectionate, playful, and thrive on human companionship. The Chinese Crested is an exotic and elegant breed that brings charm and liveliness to any home.
Coton De Tulear
Coton de Tulear dog with long, soft, cotton-like white hair
Hailing from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is celebrated for its distinctive, long, fluffy coat that resembles cotton, from which its name is derived. This coat is considered hypoallergenic, making the Coton an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and anyone seeking a small dog that doesn’t shed. While their lighthearted and gentle nature makes them delightful companions, their beautiful coats do require daily grooming to prevent matting and keep them pristine. Cotons are known for their loving disposition, adaptability, and amusing antics, bringing joy and warmth to their families. Their desire for companionship makes them ideal family pets.
Havanese
Playful Havanese dog with long, silky fur bounding outdoors
The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese offers a delightful combination of spunky charm and a non-shedding coat, making them one of the most popular adorable low-shedding dogs. This means less time spent lint-rolling furniture and more time enjoying the playful antics of these lively companions. Their long, silky coats require weekly brushing and regular baths to keep them clean, healthy, and tangle-free. Havanese are highly social, intelligent, and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They thrive on human interaction and are well-suited for families who can provide them with plenty of love and attention.
Maltese
Elegant Maltese dog with long, flowing white coat
With a history spanning three millennia, the Maltese has long captivated human hearts. This ancient dog breed from Malta is a prime example of an ideal lap dog, largely due to its long, white, silky coat that sheds very little. While their exquisite coats are low-shedding, they do require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles, as well as occasional baths to keep them sparkling white and clean. Maltese are known for their gentle, affectionate, and charming personalities. They are playful yet calm, making them wonderful companions for both individuals and families. Their small size and quiet nature make them adaptable to various living environments.
Lhasa Apso
Regal Lhasa Apso dog with long, luxurious hair covering its eyes
Originating from the mountains of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was bred to be an indoor sentinel for monasteries and noble families. This small dog breed makes an excellent companion, combining a calm demeanor with a playful spirit. Lhasa Apsos do not shed, but their long, flowing coats demand significant maintenance. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to simplify daily grooming and brushing. Despite their aristocratic appearance, they enjoy brisk walks and are equally content resting in their owner’s lap. They are loyal, intelligent, and protective, forming strong bonds with their families.
Miniature Schnauzer
Alert Miniature Schnauzer with its characteristic beard and eyebrows
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, trainable, and cheerful little dog that strongly resembles its Standard Schnauzer cousin. This robust Terrier breed is known for its distinctive wiry coat that sheds very little, making it a favored choice among owners looking for minimal shedding. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both city apartments and country homes, provided they are close to their human companions. To keep Miniature Schnauzers looking their best, weekly brushing and regular professional grooming, including stripping or clipping, are essential. They are courageous, devoted, and make excellent watchdogs, offering a lively and loving presence in any household.
Poodle
Elegant Poodle with its curly, dense coat
When the topic of small dogs that don’t shed comes up, Poodles are often the first breed that comes to mind, and for good reason. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer the same non-shedding and hypoallergenic qualities as their larger Standard counterparts, just in a more petite package. All Poodles are renowned for their exceptional intelligence, making them highly trainable and versatile. They are an active, proud breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their distinctive curly coats demand consistent grooming, including brushing and professional clipping, to prevent matting and maintain their elegant appearance. The Poodle’s combination of brains and beauty makes them truly outstanding companions.
Scottish Terrier
Proud Scottish Terrier dog with its wiry coat
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the Scottie, is a Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, confidence, and large personality packed into a small frame. Their wiry, weather-resistant double coat sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for those seeking minimal shedding dog breeds. However, they do require regular brushing, grooming, and occasional hand-stripping to maintain coat health and their classic breed outline. Scotties are clever and independent dogs with strong prey drives, which means they may require careful supervision around smaller animals. Loyal and affectionate with their families, they are charming companions with a spirited nature.
Shih Tzu
Long-haired Shih Tzu dog looking regal and friendly
With a long and illustrious pedigree, the Shih Tzu was once the favored house pet of the Chinese Tang Dynasty, earning the affectionate moniker “little lion dog.” These charming Toy breed dogs come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding and looks exceptionally regal when brushed out, befitting their royal ancestry. Shih Tzus were specifically bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting nature makes them exceptional and devoted companions. Sturdy and lively, with a proudly held head and curling tail, they often carry themselves with an air of aristocratic confidence.
West Highland White Terrier
Energetic West Highland White Terrier with its coarse white hair
The West Highland White Terrier, or “Westie” as they are fondly called, possesses a coarse, white double coat that sheds very little. These sturdy little dogs are intelligent, loyal, happy, and immensely entertaining. Westies are curious dogs with moderate energy levels and a notable independent streak, characteristic of many Terriers. This independent nature can sometimes make training a delightful challenge, requiring patience and consistency. They are adaptable and make wonderful family pets, bringing a lively and loving spirit to any home. Their robust health and minimal shedding add to their widespread appeal.
Xoloitzcuintli
Hairless Xoloitzcuintli dog with a unique dignified appearance
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and rare breed that can be found in both hairless and coated varieties. The hairless Xolo retains a small amount of hair on its head, while the coated variety has a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally. Similar to other hairless breeds, the Xolo needs extra attention to skin care, including protection from sun, cold, and potential irritations. Xolos are known for being attentive watchdogs and affectionate companions. While they enjoy physical activities, they are equally celebrated for their tranquil and calm personalities within the home, making them adaptable to various lifestyles.
Yorkshire Terrier
Tiny Yorkshire Terrier with long, silky, dark coat
Sprightly, tomboyish, and incredibly affectionate, the Yorkshire Terrier, often simply called a Yorkie, is a Toy breed brimming with personality. These spunky lap dogs are among the most popular breeds, and for good reason. Yorkshire Terriers do not shed, and their long, silky coats are remarkably beautiful when brushed daily—a task made easy by their small size. Despite their regal carriage, Yorkies have working-class roots, originally hunting rats in English clothing mills. Today, they are just as content to cuddle on their owner’s lap as they once were chasing rodents, making them fearless yet loving companions.
Beyond the List: More Small, Low-Shedding Terriers
A lively Border Terrier looking inquisitive
The Terrier group is a fantastic resource for discovering breeds of dogs that don’t shed a lot. Breeds with wiry and coarse hair, common among Terriers, typically shed much less than those with other coat types. This makes many Terriers ideal small dogs for individuals who prefer minimal hair around the house. In addition to the Scottish Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, and West Highland White Terrier already mentioned, other notable low-shedding Terrier breeds include the Border Terrier and the Cairn Terrier, each offering their unique blend of spirit and charm with the added benefit of minimal shedding.
Choosing Your Perfect Small, Non-Shedding Companion
Selecting a dog is a significant commitment that goes beyond just shedding habits and size. While the breeds listed here are known for being small and low-shedding, each has its own unique temperament, grooming needs, and exercise requirements. For instance, some may thrive in quieter homes, while others need more active engagement. As you explore the wonderful world of canine companions, you’ll discover a fascinating array of breeds, each with their own unique traits and even distinctive breed names.
It’s crucial to thoroughly research each breed to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle, available time for grooming, and energy levels. Remember that “non-shedding” doesn’t mean “zero maintenance”; these breeds often require consistent brushing and professional grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. To avoid potential health problems and ensure you’re getting a well-socialized puppy, always seek out a reputable breeder. Providing your new companion with a high-quality diet and regular veterinary check-ups will also contribute significantly to their well-being and happiness for years to come.
