Bringing a new canine companion into your home is an exciting journey, but it comes with responsibilities. For many prospective owners, the ideal dog is one that blends seamlessly into their lifestyle, requiring less intensive care while still offering abundant affection and companionship. If you’re seeking a furry friend that won’t leave a trail of hair on your furniture and is relatively easy to care for, you’re in the right place. This guide focuses on dogs that don’t shed and are low maintenance, exploring breeds that fit these desirable criteria and providing insights into what makes a dog truly effortless to integrate into your life. We’ll delve into various factors, from grooming needs and energy levels to overall health and temperament, to help you find the perfect low-shedding, easy-care companion.
Understanding “Low Maintenance” and “Non-Shedding”
Before we dive into specific breeds, it’s crucial to understand what “low maintenance” and “non-shedding” truly mean in the context of dog ownership. “Low maintenance” is a relative term, encompassing various aspects like energy levels, grooming requirements, training needs, and general health. A low-maintenance dog typically requires less vigorous exercise, minimal grooming, is relatively easy to train, and possesses a robust health profile. However, what one person considers low maintenance, another might not. For example, a highly energetic dog might be high maintenance for someone with mobility issues, while a quiet, shedding dog might be high maintenance for someone with allergies or a tight grooming budget.
The term “dogs that don’t shed” is often sought after by allergy sufferers or those who simply prefer a cleaner home environment. While no dog is truly 100% non-shedding, certain breeds shed significantly less than others, often due to their hair-like coats rather than fur. These minimal-shedding breeds typically require regular brushing or professional grooming to prevent matting, but they don’t continuously drop hair around the house. It’s important to distinguish between “non-shedding” and “hypoallergenic”; while many non-shedding breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they produce less dander, it’s the dander (skin flakes), not the hair itself, that triggers most allergies. Therefore, for truly non-shedding and low-maintenance characteristics, we look for a combination of manageable coat types and easy-going temperaments.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed and Are Low Maintenance
Here are 18 dog breeds that are often considered low maintenance, with a focus on their shedding characteristics and why they might be a great fit for your lifestyle. While some on this list may have very minimal shedding, or require specific grooming to manage it, they balance it with other low-maintenance traits.
1) Dachshund
Affectionate smooth-haired Dachshund, a low-shedding and low-maintenance dog breed, snuggled on a couch.
Also affectionately known as “sausage dogs,” Dachshunds stand out as one of the best choices for those seeking a low-maintenance pet that doesn’t shed excessively. Their small to medium size, coupled with a generally short and smooth coat (for the smooth-haired variety), results in minimal shedding, making them ideal for allergy sufferers or tidy homes. Dachshunds are incredibly loving and enjoy nothing more than cuddling up on the couch. Their short legs and long bodies mean they only require a moderate amount of exercise, avoiding excessive running or jumping. While they can have a stubborn streak, basic training provides the structure they need to be well-behaved companions.
Breed overview:
Temperament: Clever, devoted, courageous, playful, independent
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Height: Miniature (13-15cm) Standard (20-23cm)
Weight: Miniature (up to 5kg) Standard (7.5kg)
Colours: Black, black and tan, chocolate and tan, chocolate and cream, cream, tan, red
Coat: Smooth, long haired or wire haired
Energy level: Medium
2) Greyhound
Elegant retired racing Greyhound, a gentle and low-maintenance dog with a sleek coat.
Despite their reputation as athletic racing dogs, Greyhounds are surprisingly docile and make excellent low-maintenance pets. They adore lounging around and are highly affectionate, earning them the nickname “45 mph couch potatoes.” Greyhounds are intelligent, gentle, and possess a quiet disposition. Their short, smooth coat is incredibly easy to maintain, requiring minimal grooming and contributing to low shedding. They are known for their robust health and typically don’t bark excessively, making them wonderful family dogs. Owners should, however, provide soft bedding due to their minimal body fat to prevent pressure sores. For those considering large dogs that don’t shed a lot, Greyhounds are a fantastic choice.
Breed overview
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, family friendly, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 68-76cm
Weight: 26-40kg
Colours: White, brindle, fawn (pale tan to dark deer-red), black, red, grey
Coat: Smooth, short, dense
Energy level: Low to moderate
3) Italian Greyhound
Small Italian Greyhound looking attentive, showcasing a minimalist non-shedding coat.
The Italian Greyhound is a petite, elegant breed that is not only low maintenance but also genuinely hypoallergenic, making it perfect for allergy sufferers. As a tiny version of the standard Greyhound, this breed boasts a short, smooth coat that virtually eliminates shedding. Italian Greyhounds thrive in smaller living spaces, like apartments, and are content with indoor activities, requiring less interest in long walks. Their main need is companionship, as they tend to be quite clingy and dislike being left alone for extended periods.
Breed overview
Temperament: Loving, sensitive, affectionate
Life expectancy: 14-15 years
Height: 32-38 cm
Weight: 3-6.5kg
Colours: Grey, black, red, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, sable, black or combination
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: Low to moderate
4) French Bulldog
Playful French Bulldog sitting outdoors, a compact and low-shedding companion.
French Bulldogs are a popular choice for their low-maintenance nature, largely due to their compact size and minimal exercise requirements. A short walk or a brief play session is usually enough to keep them happy. Their calm demeanor makes them ideal apartment dwellers, yet they possess a vigilant nature that makes them excellent watchdogs. With a short coat, French Bulldogs are minimal shedders and only need occasional baths, further contributing to their easy-care profile. Potential owners should be aware that, like other brachycephalic breeds, they can be prone to breathing issues and may require vet visits for skin care.
Breed overview
Temperament: Friendly, sociable, non-sporty
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Height: 28-33 cm
Weight: 7-10.9kg
Colours: White, cream, fawn, piebald, black, white
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: Low to moderate
5) Basset Hound
Patient Basset Hound with long ears, a calm and good-natured dog.
The Basset Hound is known for its quiet, good-natured temperament, making it a lovely, calm pet for families or individuals. These patient and loyal dogs can be quite lazy, preferring to take their time with everything, including walks, often stopping to follow interesting scents. While their short coats might suggest minimal shedding, Basset Hounds do shed and require weekly brushing to manage it effectively. This makes them less “non-shedding” but their low energy and calm disposition still qualify them as generally low maintenance in other aspects.
Breed overview
Temperament: Calm, stubborn, good-natured
Life expectancy: 8-12 years
Height: 25-35 cm
Weight: 18-27 kg
Colours: Brown, white, tricolour
Coat: Medium length, double coated, silky, flat
Energy level: Low
6) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a sweet and affectionate companion with moderate grooming needs.
One of the most affectionate dog breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is truly happiest when cuddling. These loving and gentle dogs are perfect for families, retirees, or singles seeking a sweet, devoted companion. As a small to medium-sized breed, they are generally easy to train. While they are considered moderate shedder and are not strictly “non-shedding,” their shedding can be managed with consistent grooming, including regular brushing, ear cleaning, and occasional professional trims. Owners should also be aware of potential breed-specific health conditions such as heart disease.
Breed overview
Temperament: Soft, calm, affectionate, quiet, easy to train
Life expectancy: 9-14 years
Height: 30-33 cm
Weight: 5-5.8kg
Colours: Black, tan, ruby, blenheim, tricolour
Coat: Moderately long, feathering on ears, tail, chest and legs, slightly wavy and silky
Energy level: Low to moderate
7) Beagle
Alert Beagle with classic tri-color markings, a friendly and energetic breed.
Beagles are cheerful and affectionate dogs that adapt well to various owners. They are known for their cuddly nature, friendliness, and sociability. While Beagles are generally considered low maintenance due to their robust health and short coats that don’t require expensive professional grooming, it’s important to note that they do shed, particularly seasonally. However, regular brushing can help manage their shedding. Their primary “high maintenance” aspect is their energetic nature, requiring significant exercise and socialization to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Breed overview
Temperament: Gentle, adventurous, independent, energetic, enthusiastic, lively, tolerant
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 33 – 38cm
Weight: 8-13.5kg
Colours: White, tan, tricolour
Coat: Smooth, short
Energy level: High
8) Boston Terrier
Charming Boston Terrier with expressive eyes, a compact and adaptable companion.
Boston Terriers are small, gentle dogs perfectly suited for indoor living. Their affectionate and devoted nature makes them excellent companions, though they can sometimes be wary of unfamiliar dogs. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartments or homes with smaller yards. While Boston Terriers are highly adaptable and easygoing, they are generally low-shedding with their glossy, short coats, requiring minimal grooming. They do possess a playful and energetic nature, so they appreciate regular activity despite their small stature.
Breed overview
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
Height: 38cm – 43cm
Weight: 5-11kg
Colours: Black and white, seal and white, brindle and white
Coat: Glossy, short
Energy level: High
9) Brussels Griffon
Curious Brussels Griffon with a distinctive beard, an affectionate and small-sized dog.
Brussels Griffons are deeply affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their owners, thriving on companionship. Their petite size and generally calm demeanor make them well-suited for small yards, apartment living, and families. While they are not considered completely non-shedding and can be prone to shedding, particularly the smooth-coated variety, their minimal size and need for moderate exercise contribute to their low-maintenance appeal. Regular grooming is necessary, especially for the rough-coated type, to manage their fur. Consistency in obedience training is important due to their sometimes stubborn nature.
Breed overview
Temperament: Sensitive, affectionate, stubborn
Life expectancy: 13-15 years
Height: 25-28cm
Weight: 4-6kg
Colours: Red, black, black and tan, beige
Coat: Rough and wiry or smooth and straight
Energy level: Moderate
10) Shih Tzu
Long-haired Shih Tzu with a topknot, a hypoallergenic and low-shedding companion.
Despite their lovely, long double coats, Shih Tzus are excellent dogs that don’t shed and are low maintenance, particularly for those with allergies. They are known for being hypoallergenic and shedding minimally, making them a top choice for a clean home. While energetic and vibrant, they are also incredibly content to sit around for hours, with only small daily exercise requirements. Regular weekly brushing and occasional professional trims are key to keeping their coats healthy and tangle-free. Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to please, making training relatively straightforward.
Breed overview
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful, loyal
Life expectancy: 10-16 years
Height: 23cm – 27cm
Weight: 5-7.5kg
Colours: Black and white, brindle, liver and white, liver
Coat: Long, double coat
Energy level: Moderate
11) Chihuahua
Small, alert Chihuahua with smooth coat, a tiny and portable companion.
Chihuahuas, being tiny dogs, naturally qualify as low-maintenance due to their minimal space requirements, small appetites, and limited need for extensive exercise. They are perfect lap dogs and are known for their cleanliness. While both long-haired and smooth-coated Chihuahuas do shed, their small size means the amount of hair is significantly less compared to larger breeds. Regular brushing for long-haired varieties and occasional baths every three to six weeks will keep their coats tidy.
Breed overview
Temperament: Lively, alert, loyal, companionable
Life expectancy: 12-20 years
Height: 15- 23cm
Weight: 1.4-2.7kg
Colours: Black, tan, cream, fawn, white, blue, silver, chocolate
Coat: Smooth and long
Energy level: Moderate
12) Maltese
Fluffy white Maltese with flowing hair, an affectionate and non-shedding lap dog.
The Maltese is a truly low-maintenance breed that happily thrives indoors, requiring no large backyard. They need minimal exercise, often content to play with toys or relax on the couch for hours. This breed is loyal but can be reserved around strangers. Crucially, Maltese dogs are non-shedding, making them excellent for allergy sufferers. However, their beautiful, long, silky coats require regular trimming, brushing, and professional grooming to prevent matting, which is their primary grooming consideration. For pictures of medium sized dogs that don’t shed that might fit a similar profile, you might explore other companion breeds.
Breed overview
Temperament: Affectionate, alert, loyal
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 18- 23cm
Weight: 1.4-3.6kg
Colours: White, cream, ivory, light orange
Coat: Smooth and long
Energy level: Moderate
13) Mastiff
Large, majestic Mastiff with a dark muzzle, a gentle giant with low energy.
Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are surprisingly low maintenance when it comes to activity levels, appealing to those who prefer less strenuous walks and runs. These gentle giants are often playful and goofy, making excellent family dogs. While they are generally moderate shedder, their short, sleek coats don’t require extensive grooming, just an occasional brush and bath. They grow quickly but become calmer and eat less than expected once they reach adulthood. If you’re looking for dogs that don’t shed and are big with a calm demeanor, the Mastiff might be considered, with the caveat of their manageable shedding.
Breed overview
Temperament: Gentle, loyal
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Height: 76-84cm
Weight: 72-104 kg
Colours: Fawn, apricot, brindle, dark mask on ears and muzzle
Coat: Short and sleek
Energy level: Low
14) Bullmastiff
Noble Bullmastiff with a watchful expression, a protective and low-grooming companion.
Bullmastiffs are quiet and require minimal grooming, making them another surprisingly low-maintenance large breed. Despite their size, they are gentle and highly valued as family members. They are protective and enjoy cuddling on the couch. Their short, dense coats do shed moderately but are easy to maintain with regular brushing, not requiring extensive grooming. Their calm and companionable nature offsets their shedding, positioning them as an excellent choice for those seeking a large, easy-care dog.
Breed overview
Temperament: Gentle, quiet, fearless, companionable
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Height: 60-68cm
Weight: 45-60kg
Colours: Fawn, red, brindle
Coat: Short and dense
Energy level: Moderate
15) Pug
Charming Pug with a wrinkled face, a friendly and compact companion.
Pugs are friendly and affectionate dogs, perfect for families or individuals seeking a small, less energetic companion. They possess big personalities but are generally quiet and don’t require extensive exercise or complex grooming. While their short, smooth coats do shed considerably, particularly seasonally, this can be managed with regular brushing. Their “low maintenance” appeal comes more from their moderate energy levels and compact size than their shedding characteristics. Owners should be aware of their brachycephalic facial structure, which can predispose them to health and breathing problems.
Breed overview
Temperament: Friendly, sociable, cuddly
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 26-33cm
Weight: 6-8kg
Colours: Black, fawn, silver fawn, apricot
Coat: Short and smooth
Energy level: Moderate
16) Whippet
Lean and graceful Whippet, a gentle and adaptable dog with minimal grooming needs.
Whippets are like smaller versions of Greyhounds, known for their gentle and highly affectionate nature, making them ideal family pets. They enjoy lounging at home but also love to run and play outdoors, requiring regular exercise to burn off their moderate to high energy. Their grooming needs are minimal, thanks to their sparse and fine coats that shed very little, contributing significantly to their low-maintenance appeal. This breed offers a good balance for those seeking an active but easy-to-care-for companion.
Breed overview
Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, affectionate, friendly, elegant, quiet
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Height: 45-55cm
Weight: 11-15kg
Colours: Black, fawn, blue, brindle, white, black and white, blue and white
Coat: Sparse and fine
Energy level: Moderate to high
17) Shiba Inu
Regal Shiba Inu with curled tail, an independent and clean dog.
The Shiba Inu is an affectionate and intelligent breed that generally gets along well with children and other dogs. This dog is low maintenance in terms of bathing requirements, as they are naturally clean animals. However, it’s crucial to note that Shiba Inus have a double coat and are prone to significant shedding, especially during seasonal coat blows. Regular brushing throughout the year and increased grooming during shedding seasons are highly recommended. Their independent nature means they won’t be overly clingy, suiting owners who appreciate a dog with self-reliance, though this is a trade-off with their shedding.
Breed overview
Temperament: Independent, affectionate, clean, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Height: 30-40cm
Weight: 7-10kg
Colours: Orange red, cream, white, black and red
Coat: Thick, double coat
Energy level: High
18) Newfoundland
Fluffy black Newfoundland dog, a gentle giant with a love for water.
Despite their massive size, Newfoundlands are sweet, calm, and dignified dogs. While they do possess a lot of energy and thrive in homes with large backyards or access to water (which they adore), they are equally happy snuggling on the couch for hours. This breed makes an ideal family pet due to their affectionate and protective nature. Known for their intelligence, Newfoundlands respond well to training and have a reputation for alerting to danger. However, they have a long double coat that sheds considerably and requires regular brushing to prevent matting and manage hair around the house. Their gentle temperament and trainability contribute to their “low maintenance” aspect, despite their extensive grooming needs. For more on non-shedding big dogs that might suit a larger home, there are other options to explore.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Low-Shedding, Low-Maintenance Dog
Selecting the right canine companion, especially when prioritizing low shedding and low maintenance, involves careful consideration of several factors. Your lifestyle is paramount in this decision. Think about your work commitments, mobility level, home environment (apartment vs. house with a yard), and budget. A dog’s energy level, for instance, should ideally match your own; an active person might enjoy a moderately energetic dog like a Whippet, while a more sedentary individual might prefer a Greyhound.
Beyond shedding, grooming needs can vary widely. While many non-shedding breeds don’t drop hair, their hair-like coats often grow continuously and require regular brushing, trimming, or professional grooming to prevent matting. Breeds like the Maltese or Shih Tzu are prime examples: minimal shedding but high grooming demands. Conversely, breeds with short coats that shed moderately, like a French Bulldog, might require less time at the groomers but more frequent vacuuming. Always research specific breed health predispositions, as some, like French Bulldogs and Pugs, can be prone to brachycephalic syndrome, requiring attentive veterinary care. Consider their trainability and need for socialization, as even the calmest breeds benefit from early training. By aligning a dog’s natural traits with your personal capacity and preferences, you can ensure a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your new furry family member.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect dog is about discovering a companion whose needs align with your ability to provide care. For many, this means seeking dogs that don’t shed and are low maintenance – breeds that offer companionship without excessive grooming demands or constant activity. As we’ve explored, while truly “non-shedding” dogs exist (like the Italian Greyhound or Maltese), and many others shed minimally, their overall “low maintenance” status is a blend of their coat type, energy level, temperament, and health.
Whether you’re drawn to the quiet dignity of a Greyhound, the affectionate nature of a Shih Tzu, or the compact charm of a French Bulldog, remember that every dog requires love, attention, and basic care. The breeds highlighted in this guide offer a fantastic starting point for those aspiring to a cleaner home and a more relaxed pet-parenting experience. By carefully considering your lifestyle and the unique characteristics of each breed, you can confidently choose a canine friend that will bring joy and fit seamlessly into your life. Explore more articles on Dog Care Story to find the ideal companion for you!
