Bringing a dog into your home is a joyous occasion, yet for many, the reality of constant shedding can dampen the experience. Whether you suffer from allergies or simply prefer a cleaner living space, finding good house dogs that don’t shed is often a top priority. The good news is that numerous breeds offer the companionship and charm of a canine friend without leaving a trail of fur everywhere. These low-shedding breeds can make apartment living easier, reduce allergens, and simplify your cleaning routine, making them ideal family members.
It’s important to understand that while no dog is entirely “non-shedding” or “100% hypoallergenic,” some breeds have coats that shed significantly less dander and hair than others. This difference can be life-changing for individuals with sensitivities, or for those who simply appreciate a tidier home. From tiny lapdogs to majestic larger breeds, the world of low-shedding dogs offers a diverse range of personalities, sizes, and activity levels to fit nearly any lifestyle. For those seeking miniature companions, exploring the smallest dog breeds that don’t shed can narrow down the choices significantly.
Understanding “Low-Shedding” vs. “Hypoallergenic” Dogs
The terms “low-shedding” and “hypoallergenic” are often used interchangeably, but it’s crucial to grasp the subtle distinction. All dogs produce allergens, primarily from dander (flakes of dead skin), saliva, and urine. The primary trigger for human allergies is often airborne dander that attaches to shed hair.
Hypoallergenic dogs are generally those breeds that produce less dander, shed minimal hair, or have hair-like coats that trap dander rather than releasing it into the environment. While they can significantly reduce allergic reactions, no dog is completely allergen-free. Even hairless breeds still produce dander, saliva, and urine, all of which contain allergenic proteins. However, for many allergy sufferers, owning a low-shedding dog is a viable and fulfilling option that allows them to enjoy the love of a canine companion with fewer symptoms. The key is finding a breed whose coat type and grooming needs align with your desire for less shedding and easier maintenance.
Top Good House Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you’re looking for a furry friend that won’t leave a carpet of hair on your floors, here’s a comprehensive list of good house dogs that don’t shed, categorized by size to help you find your perfect match.
Small Low-Shedding House Dogs
These compact companions are perfect for apartment living or homes with limited space, all while keeping shedding to a minimum.
1. Poodle (Toy/Miniature)
A white Standard Poodle, a good house dog that doesn't shed, gracefully walking through green grass.Poodles come in three sizes, and both Toy and Miniature Poodles are renowned for their low-shedding, curly coats. These intelligent and elegant dogs are highly trainable and make wonderful family pets. Their unique coats require regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to maintain their distinctive look and keep them comfortable. Despite their sophisticated appearance, Poodles are playful and thrive on human interaction and mental stimulation.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
A charming blue and tan Yorkshire Terrier lounging comfortably on an armchair.Known for their spunky personality and luxurious, silky coat that resembles human hair, Yorkshire Terriers are tiny powerhouses of affection. They shed very little, making them excellent choices for allergy sufferers. Yorkies adapt well to various living situations, from spacious houses to small apartments, as long as they receive ample attention and daily exercise. These traits make them excellent candidates among good small house dogs that don’t shed. Regular grooming is essential to keep their long coats tangle-free and healthy.
3. Shih Tzu
A friendly brown and white Shih Tzu resting peacefully on a living room floor.An ancient companion breed with a regal yet charming demeanor, the Shih Tzu boasts a flowing double coat that sheds minimally. They are known for their friendly temperament and affectionate nature, making them wonderful lapdogs. While their long coats require daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent matting, their low-shedding quality is a major plus. Owners should be aware that their flat faces can predispose them to certain health issues like overheating and breathing difficulties, and tear stains can be common, requiring regular eye cleaning.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
A salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer, a diligent low-shedding house dog, wearing a pink harness in a vibrant park.The Miniature Schnauzer is a robust and intelligent small dog with a wiry, low-shedding coat. They are lively, alert, and devoted companions that adapt well to various environments, provided they receive consistent exercise and mental engagement. Standing no more than 14 inches tall, these dogs are packed with personality. Their distinct beard and eyebrows require regular trimming, and their coat benefits from hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain its texture and minimize shedding.
5. Bichon Frise
A fluffy white Bichon Frise, a cheerful low-shedding companion, looking inquisitively in the grass.With their playful spirit and soft, curly white coats, Bichon Frise dogs are quintessential low-shedding house pets. Their dense, velvety coats are designed to trap loose hair and dander, making them excellent for allergy sufferers. Highly intelligent and eager to please, Bichons are easily trained with positive reinforcement. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being the center of attention, making them charming and affectionate family members. Regular brushing and professional grooming are vital to prevent matting.
6. Chinese Crested
A unique black hairless Chinese Crested dog, a distinct low-shedding house pet, looking directly at the camera.The Chinese Crested is an unconventional yet captivating small breed known for its unique appearance and low-shedding qualities. It comes in two varieties: the Hairless, with smooth skin and tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws; and the Powderpuff, covered in a soft, silky double coat. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. They are playful, affectionate, and make excellent companions, especially for those seeking a dog with a distinct look and minimal shedding. Hairless varieties require skin care, while Powderpuffs need regular grooming to prevent tangles.
7. Affenpinscher
A close-up of a charming black Affenpinscher dog, showcasing its distinctive monkey-like expression.The “monkey-like terrier,” the Affenpinscher, is a small, comical dog with a dense, wiry coat that sheds very little. They are confident, curious, and amusing companions, often forming strong bonds with their families. While their low-shedding coat is a significant advantage, it does require dedicated care, including regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to maintain its texture and health. Their expressive faces and spirited personalities make them unique and enjoyable house dogs.
8. Bolognese
A fluffy white Bolognese dog, an affectionate low-shedding breed, sitting in an enchanting autumn forest.Originating from Italy, the Bolognese is a cute, easygoing, and affectionate small dog with a long, fluffy white coat that barely sheds. Despite their somewhat messy appearance, their coat requires diligent grooming to prevent matting and keep it clean. Bolognese are known for getting along well with children and other pets, making them versatile companions for various living situations. They thrive on companionship and prefer to be close to their human family members.
9. Maltese
A woman gently holding a pristine white Maltese dog, a beloved low-shedding companion, on a comfortable bed.The Maltese is famous for its luxurious, silky white coat that cascades to the floor and sheds very little. These small, elegant dogs are playful, affectionate, and utterly devoted to their owners. While their long coats are stunning, they require significant daily grooming to prevent tangles and matting. Many Maltese owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance more manageable. Their gentle nature and minimal shedding make them ideal house dogs for those who can commit to their grooming needs.
10. Coton de Tulear
A delightful white Coton de Tulear, a small low-shedding breed, sitting in green grass with its hair gently blowing in the wind.Hailing from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a charming small dog known for its soft, cotton-like coat that sheds minimally. These easygoing and affectionate pups are excellent family dogs, getting along well with children and other pets, especially with proper introductions. Cotons are highly adaptable and thrive on companionship, making them joyful additions to any household seeking a low-shedding, lovable pet. Regular brushing is necessary to keep their unique coats free of tangles.
11. Bedlington Terrier
A distinctive white Bedlington Terrier, a low-shedding and energetic dog, playfully running through fresh snow.Often described as a “lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed with a distinctive appearance, including a unique topknot and pom-pom ear tufts. Their low-shedding coat is a major plus for allergy sufferers. Bedlingtons are affectionate and loyal to their families, enjoying close companionship. They are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their sensitive nature means they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
12. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
A sleek black Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli), an ancient low-shedding breed, standing alertly in green grass.One of the oldest and rarest breeds, the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced Sho-lo-eets-kweent-lee) is available in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and two coat types: hairless and coated. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless type has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail, while the coated variety has a very short, dense coat. Xolos are intelligent, calm, and devoted to their families, making them unique and loyal house dogs.
13. Shorkie
A cute tan and black Shorkie, a low-shedding mixed breed, sitting on a scenic hiking trail.The Shorkie is a charming crossbreed of a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, combining the best low-shedding traits of both parent breeds. These small dogs are typically playful, affectionate, and friendly, inheriting a soft coat that sheds minimally. Shorkies are wonderful companions for various households and can adapt well to apartment living. Like their parent breeds, they require consistent grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free.
14. Shih-Poo
A close-up of a tan and black Shih-Poo dog, a popular low-shedding mixed breed.A delightful mix between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (often a Toy Poodle), the Shih-Poo is a small, low-shedding companion dog. They typically inherit a soft, wavy or curly coat that sheds very little, making them a great choice for those seeking a less messy pet. Shih-Poos are adaptable, affectionate, and can thrive in almost any living situation, provided they receive daily exercise and regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats.
15. Malshi
A tricolor Malshi dog, a happy low-shedding companion, enjoying time in green grass.The Malshi, a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, is a small, happy, and affectionate low-shedding dog. They thrive on human companionship and love being close to their families, making them ideal lapdogs. Malshis typically have soft, flowing coats that shed minimally but require regular grooming to prevent mats and keep them looking their best. Their gentle nature and eagerness to please make them wonderful indoor pets.
16. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Small)
A majestic Peruvian Inca Orchid dog, an elegant hairless breed, in a natural outdoor setting.Though rare, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is a fascinating low-shedding breed primarily known for its hairless variety, which comes in small, medium, and large sizes. As the national dog of Peru, this ancient breed is graceful, alert, and affectionate with its family. Their lack of a coat significantly reduces shedding and dander, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Coated varieties also exist, featuring a very short, single coat that sheds minimally.
Medium Low-Shedding House Dogs
For those who want a dog with a bit more presence but still prefer minimal shedding, these medium-sized breeds offer a fantastic balance.
1. Poodle (Standard)
A white Standard Poodle, a good house dog that doesn't shed, gracefully walking through green grass.The Standard Poodle is the largest of the Poodle varieties, known for its highly intelligent and friendly nature, along with its famous curly, low-shedding coat. Originally bred as a water retriever, they are active and enjoy various dog sports. Standard Poodles make excellent family dogs and require significant mental and physical stimulation. Their dense coats need regular brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting and maintain their health.
2. Standard Schnauzer
A distinguished gray Standard Schnauzer standing alertly in a field.The Standard Schnauzer shares the desirable low-shedding qualities of its smaller Miniature counterpart, but in a more substantial, medium-sized package. Weighing up to 45 pounds, these dogs are sturdy, intelligent, and highly devoted to their families. They are energetic and thrive on daily walks, playtime, and engaging activities like puzzle toys. Their wiry coats require regular grooming, including brushing and occasional hand-stripping or clipping, to keep shedding at bay.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
A black and white Portuguese Water Dog, a friendly low-shedding breed, wearing a red maple leaf bandana in front of calm water.Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, athletic breed with a thick, curly, waterproof coat that sheds minimally. They are highly intelligent, energetic, and eager to please, making them very trainable. PWDs are friendly and bond strongly with their families, thriving on regular exercise, especially activities involving water like swimming. Their unique coats require consistent grooming to prevent matting. Many low-shedding breeds, including some discussed here, are also renowned for their intelligence, making the quest for the smartest dog breed that doesn’t shed a rewarding one.
4. Labradoodle
A friendly brown Standard Labradoodle, a popular low-shedding mix, walking in a park.A popular crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally developed to be a hypoallergenic service dog. They inherit the friendly nature of the Lab and the low-shedding coat of the Poodle, resulting in a dog that is intelligent, sociable, and sheds minimally. Labradoodles make excellent family pets, are highly trainable, and are known for their gentle demeanor, especially when well-socialized from a young age. Their coats can vary and require regular brushing and grooming.
5. Goldendoodle
A joyful Goldendoodle, a popular low-shedding companion, lying on a couch with a person sitting in the background.Another beloved “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are cherished for their friendly, outgoing personalities, high intelligence, and low-shedding coats. While many feature a beautiful golden hue, their coats come in various colors and textures, all requiring frequent grooming to prevent matting. Goldendoodles are highly adaptable and make wonderful family companions, known for their affectionate nature and playful energy.
6. Lagotto Romagnolo
Two intelligent Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, known for their low-shedding coats, lying in the dirt and staring intently at the camera.Hailing from Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient breed originally used as a water retriever and truffle hunter. They possess a distinctive curly, woolly coat that is low-shedding and provides excellent protection from cold water. Lagotti Romagnoli are intelligent, eager to please, and generally good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. Their coats require regular clipping and brushing to keep them in good condition and prevent felting.
7. Irish Water Spaniel
A majestic brown Irish Water Spaniel, a powerful low-shedding water dog, captured in profile.The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive, medium-to-large breed known for its dense, crisp, liver-colored coat of tight curls that sheds very little. These intelligent, friendly, and highly trainable dogs were bred for retrieving game from water and possess a high energy level. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their unique coat. With their playful nature and boundless energy, Irish Water Spaniels thrive in active households where they can receive ample exercise and mental stimulation.
8. Aussiedoodle
A beautiful standard Aussiedoodle dog, an energetic low-shedding hybrid, standing confidently on a beach.An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, combining the intelligence and energy of both breeds with the low-shedding qualities of the Poodle. These dogs are highly intelligent, playful, and energetic, requiring plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Aussiedoodles are known for their striking coats, which come in a variety of colors and patterns, and require regular grooming.
9. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
A charming Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog, a medium-sized low-shedding breed, sitting on a weathered log.As their name implies, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers possess a silky, wavy coat that feels incredibly soft and sheds minimally. This medium-sized Irish breed is known for its joyful and exuberant “Wheaten Greetin'” upon meeting new people. Wheatens maintain a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample exercise and mental engagement to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their beautiful coats need daily brushing to prevent matting.
10. Schnoodle
A close-up of a distinguished gray Schnoodle dog, showcasing its unique low-shedding coat.The Schnoodle is a designer dog breed that combines two low-shedding breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a truly low-shedding companion. Their coats can be curly or wavy, depending on which parent they favor, but are consistently low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate dogs that adapt well to various living environments, provided they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
11. Whoodle
A playful tan Whoodle puppy, a charming low-shedding mix, playfully dragging a washcloth.A Whoodle is a delightful cross between a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, resulting in a friendly, intelligent, and low-shedding dog. They inherit the intelligence and affectionate nature from both parent breeds, making them wonderful family companions. Whoodles typically have soft, wavy to curly coats that require regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain their healthy appearance. They are energetic dogs that enjoy active playtime and human interaction.
12. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Medium)
A majestic Peruvian Inca Orchid dog, an elegant hairless breed, in a natural outdoor setting.The medium-sized variety of the Peruvian Inca Orchid offers the same low-shedding benefits as its smaller counterpart. These dogs are slender, graceful, and known for their loyalty and calm demeanor. The hairless type is highly suitable for individuals sensitive to dander, while the coated variety with its very short coat still ensures minimal shedding. They are intelligent and bond closely with their families, making unique and devoted house dogs.
Large Low-Shedding House Dogs
Even if you prefer a larger canine presence, you don’t have to compromise on a low-shedding coat. These breeds prove that big dogs can also be clean companions. While these breeds are larger, there are also numerous dogs that don’t shed and stay small, catering to diverse preferences and living situations.
1. Giant Schnauzer
A striking black wet Giant Schnauzer, a powerful low-shedding breed, wearing a blue bow collar and standing confidently in a park.As the largest of the Schnauzer breeds, the Giant Schnauzer can reach heights of over 27 inches and weigh up to 85 pounds. Despite their size, they possess a dense, wiry coat that sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a large, low-shedding dog. Giant Schnauzers are powerful, intelligent, and require extensive exercise and mental stimulation, such as long walks, runs, and games of fetch, to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their strong protective instincts make them excellent guardians.
2. Bernedoodle
A large Bernedoodle dog, a friendly low-shedding family pet, lying contentedly in the grass with its tongue out.A cross between the sturdy Bernese Mountain Dog and the intelligent Poodle, the Bernedoodle offers a wonderful combination of gentle demeanor, affectionate nature, and a low-shedding coat. These large, friendly dogs are popular for families with children and other pets. Bernedoodles require plenty of exercise to stay active and healthy, inheriting a coat that can range from wavy to curly and needs regular grooming to prevent matting.
3. Afghan Hound
A majestic gray and tan Afghan Hound, an elegant low-shedding breed, looking directly at the camera.The Afghan Hound is renowned for its striking aristocratic appearance, featuring a long, flowing coat that, surprisingly, sheds minimally once fully grown. While their coat is low-shedding, it demands extensive grooming to prevent tangles and mats. These dogs are built for speed and endurance, making them one of the fastest dog breeds. Afghan Hounds are loving and devoted to their families but can be aloof with strangers, highlighting the importance of early and consistent socialization.
4. Barbet
A close-up of a curly red Barbet dog's face, highlighting its distinctive shaggy coat and beard.The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful and robust French water dog known for its shaggy, woolly, and low-shedding coat. Their name, derived from the French word “barbe” (beard), refers to their characteristic hairy chin. Barbets are intelligent, friendly, and love to swim, making them ideal companions for active families. Their protective curly coats require regular brushing (two to three times a week) and professional grooming to maintain their condition and prevent matting, especially after water activities.
5. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Large)
A majestic Peruvian Inca Orchid dog, an elegant hairless breed, in a natural outdoor setting.The large size of the Peruvian Inca Orchid provides a significant presence while maintaining its characteristic low-shedding coat (or lack thereof). These dignified dogs are known for their loyalty and quiet intelligence. As with their smaller counterparts, the hairless variety is excellent for those with allergies, offering a virtually dander-free experience. Their sleek appearance and devoted nature make them striking and unique house dogs.
Essential Tips for Living with a Low-Shedding Dog
While choosing a low-shedding breed is a great first step, successful ownership involves ongoing care and management to ensure a clean home and a healthy pet.
Consistent Grooming is Key
Even low-shedding dogs require regular grooming to maintain the health and appearance of their coats. For many of these breeds, minimal shedding means that loose hairs are trapped within their dense or curly coats rather than falling out. Without proper grooming, these trapped hairs can quickly lead to painful mats and skin irritation. Daily or every-other-day brushing is often recommended to remove loose hair, distribute natural oils, and prevent tangles. Regular bathing, typically every 4-6 weeks, using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, can also help reduce dander and keep the coat clean. Some breeds, especially those with intricate coats like Poodles or Shih Tzus, will also benefit from professional grooming every few weeks for trimming, clipping, or hand-stripping. It’s wise to budget for these regular grooming appointments or commit to learning how to groom your pup at home. Beyond grooming costs, potential owners should also consider the broader financial commitment of pet ownership, including understanding the variation in costs such as all breeds of dogs price in India or in other global regions, to ensure responsible pet care.
Maintaining a Clean Home Environment
Even with a low-shedding dog, maintaining a clean home is crucial for minimizing any remaining allergens. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner can effectively remove pet dander from carpets and upholstery. Dusting surfaces frequently, especially those where your dog spends time, also helps. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in living areas and bedrooms to capture airborne allergens. Washing dog beds, blankets, and your own bedding regularly in hot water can significantly reduce dander accumulation. Keeping your dog off furniture and out of bedrooms (if you have allergies) can also create allergen-free zones within your home.
Managing Allergies (If Applicable)
If you or a family member have allergies, choosing a low-shedding dog is a significant step, but it’s important to approach pet ownership with a comprehensive allergy management plan. Consult with your healthcare provider or an allergist to discuss potential treatments, which may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, nasal sprays, or even allergy injections (immunotherapy). While low-shedding dogs produce less dander, remember that allergens are also present in saliva and urine. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid close contact with a dog’s face, and always wash your hands after petting. By combining the right dog breed choice with consistent grooming, home maintenance, and medical advice, individuals with allergies can indeed enjoy the profound joy and companionship that a dog brings.
Conclusion
Choosing a low-shedding dog means inviting a companion into your home who brings all the love and joy of canine ownership with significantly less fuss over shedding and allergens. From the playful Bichon Frise to the stately Standard Poodle, there’s a good house dog that doesn’t shed for every preference and lifestyle. Remember that diligent grooming and maintaining a clean environment are essential for a harmonious household. By understanding their needs and committing to their care, you can create a happy, healthy, and fur-minimal home with your new best friend.
References
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- Veterinary Partner
- PetMD.com
- The Merck Veterinary Manual
