For many dog lovers, the idea of a furry companion is delightful until the reality of constant shedding sets in. Dealing with dog hair on furniture, clothes, and floors can be a significant drawback. If you’re dreaming of a small dog but prefer a home free from excessive fur, you’re in luck! There’s a wonderful array of best dogs to own that don’t shed or shed minimally, making them ideal choices for allergy sufferers or those who simply prefer a cleaner living space. While no dog is truly “non-shedding” as all animals lose some hair, many breeds have coats that either don’t shed traditionally or shed so little that it’s barely noticeable, making daily cleanup a breeze.
This guide will introduce you to several fantastic miniature dog breeds known for their low-shedding qualities, helping you find the perfect pint-sized pal. These breeds often require specific grooming routines to keep their coats healthy and mat-free, but the effort is well worth the reduced hair around your home.
Affenpinscher: The Fearless, Monkey-Like Terrier
The Affenpinscher, whose name charmingly translates to “monkey-like terrier,” lives up to its moniker with its intelligent gaze and playful antics. Despite their small stature, these Toy breed dogs are incredibly fearless and make excellent watchdogs, always alert to new arrivals. What’s even better for cleanliness-conscious owners is their wiry coat. Affenpinschers shed very little and are also renowned for having almost no doggy odor. A simple twice-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and comb is usually sufficient to maintain their unique shaggy yet neat appearance. This low-maintenance little canine is celebrated for its sense of humor and engaging personality.
Affenpinscher dog looking at the camera
This breed’s minimal shedding and distinct character make them a popular choice for those seeking a charming and tidy companion. Their intelligence also means they are often quite trainable, thriving on interaction and mental stimulation from their human families.
Basenji: The Quiet, Minimal Shedder
If you’re drawn to hounds but are put off by their characteristic shedding and scent, the Basenji might be your ideal miniature companion. Known as the “barkless dog” due to their unique yodel-like sounds, Basenjis are also incredibly clean. This breed sheds very minimally, and their short, fine coat requires little care beyond an occasional brushing to keep it sleek. Basenjis are famously quiet, which makes them an excellent choice for apartment living, provided they receive daily exercise and playtime. Their independent yet affectionate nature appeals to many who appreciate a dog with a bit of a cat-like personality.
Bichon Frise: The Playful Powder-Puff
The Bichon Frise is a truly non-shedding small dog breed, making them one of the top 10 dogs that don t shed for many allergy sufferers. These playful and affectionate dogs are an ideal breed for people with allergies, but it’s important to note that “non-shedding” doesn’t mean “maintenance-free.” The Bichon Frise’s hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, necessitating frequent professional grooming, regular at-home brushing, and occasional baths. This consistent care is essential to maintain their iconic powder-puff appearance and prevent mats and tangles from forming in their dense, curly coats.
Bolognese: A Fluffy, Non-Shedding Lap Dog
Much like their cousin the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese boasts a distinctive fluffy coat composed of hair rather than traditional fur. This means the Bolognese does not shed in the conventional sense, although dead hair must still be brushed out regularly. Their beautiful, cotton-like coats require daily grooming to keep these lovable lap dogs looking their best and to prevent matting. These gentle and charming dogs are known for their devotion to their families, making them wonderful companions for those seeking a calm yet engaging pet. Their low-shedding quality adds to their appeal, particularly for indoor living.
Brussels Griffon: A Small Dog with a Big Personality
Despite their small size, the Brussels Griffon is a robust and spirited dog that thrives on interaction rather than pampering. This breed comes in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, both of which are minimal shedders. Regular grooming is essential for both coat types to keep them in prime condition. The Brussels Griffon’s compact size means that their exercise needs can often be met with a daily walk and indoor play, making them suitable for various living situations. These loyal little dogs form strong bonds with their families and are happiest when they have frequent companionship, demonstrating a big personality in a tiny package.
Chinese Crested: The Unique Hairless Option
For those looking to entirely avoid shedding, the Chinese Crested offers a unique solution as a small hairless dog breed. This fascinating breed comes in two distinct coat types: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety sports hair only on its head, tail, and feet, while the powderpuff is covered in a soft, fine coat of hair that sheds very minimally. Hairless dog breeds, however, require extra care and attention when it comes to their skin. Without the protection of a full coat, they need diligent protection from the sun and cold and are more prone to skin irritations.
Chinese Crested dog with hair on head, tail, and paws
Owners often use sunscreen in summer and sweaters or coats in winter to ensure their Chinese Crested remains comfortable and healthy. Both varieties are affectionate and playful, making them captivating and devoted companions.
Coton De Tulear: The Hypoallergenic Cotton Dog
The Coton de Tulear, often referred to as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” possesses a distinctive, long, fluffy coat that is considered hypoallergenic. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and anyone seeking a big dogs that don t shed a lot (while the Coton is small, the principle of low-shedding applies) in a compact form. Coton de Tulears do require daily grooming to maintain their luxurious coats, preventing mats and keeping them looking their best. However, their lighthearted, charming, and gentle natures make the grooming effort a joyful bonding experience. These cheerful dogs are known for their playful personalities and their ability to adapt wonderfully to various family environments.
Havanese: Cuba’s Charming, Non-Shedding Companion
These delightful dogs, native to Cuba, offer owners both their patented spunky charm and a coat that doesn’t shed. This desirable trait means less time spent lint-rolling furniture and more time enjoying playful romps with your Havanese. While they are low-shedding, their beautiful double coat does require weekly brushing and regular baths to keep it clean, healthy, and free of tangles. The Havanese are intelligent and outgoing, known for their affectionate nature and their ability to be excellent family pets. Their cheerful demeanor and adaptable nature make them a popular choice for many households looking for a vibrant, low-shedding companion.
Maltese: The Ancient Lap Dog with Silky Coats
Maltese dogs have captivated human hearts for an astonishing three millennia. This ancient dog breed from Malta has maintained its elegant charm over 28 centuries, partly due to their long, white coats that shed very little, making them ideal lap dogs. While their shedding is minimal, their silky white coats do require regular brushing to prevent mats from forming and occasional baths to keep their pristine appearance. The Maltese are known for their gentle, intelligent, and playful disposition. They are incredibly devoted to their owners and thrive on companionship, making them a luxurious and low-shedding addition to any family.
Maltese dog with long white silky hair
Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are quite hardy and lively, enjoying walks and playtime as much as cuddling on a soft lap. Their consistent appeal throughout history speaks volumes about their endearing qualities.
Lhasa Apso: The Calm Yet Playful Tibetan Companion
Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that makes an excellent companion. Known for their calm yet playful demeanor, Lhasa Apsos enjoy both brisk walks and peaceful resting periods on their owner’s lap. Importantly, Lhasa Apsos do not shed, but their long, flowing coats do require significant maintenance to prevent matting and tangles. Many owners opt to keep their Lhasa Apsos in a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify daily grooming and brushing. These independent yet loyal dogs were originally bred as guardians of Tibetan monasteries, and they retain a watchful, confident air. They are a most trainable dogs that don t shed once you understand their independent spirit, forming deep bonds with their human companions.
Miniature Schnauzer: Smart, Trainable, and Adaptable
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, highly trainable, and cheerful little dog that bears a strong resemblance to its larger Standard Schnauzer cousin. This popular Terrier breed sheds very little, making it a favorite among those who prefer minimal hair cleanup. Their adaptability allows them to be equally at home in a bustling city apartment or a sprawling country estate, as long as their beloved people are close by. To keep Miniature Schnauzers looking their best, a routine of weekly brushing and regular professional grooming is essential for their wiry double coat. They are known for their lively spirit, intelligence, and a spirited, albeit manageable, temperament.
Poodle (Miniature & Toy): The Iconic Non-Shedders
When people think of small dogs that don’t shed, Poodles are often the first breed that comes to mind, and for good reason. Poodles are famously non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for individuals with allergies. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer these desirable qualities in petite, intelligent packages, differing only in size from their Standard counterparts. All Poodles are highly intelligent, eager to please, and respond exceptionally well to training, making them incredibly versatile pets. They are active, proud dogs whose curly hair requires regular professional grooming and at-home brushing to maintain its health and characteristic appearance.
Miniature Poodle with curly white fur
Their elegant appearance belies a playful and energetic nature, making them suitable for a variety of activities from canine sports to being cherished family pets.
Scottish Terrier: Bold, Confident, and Wiry
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as a Scottie, is a Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, confidence, and surprisingly big personality packed into a small frame. Their wiry, weather-resistant double coat sheds very little, making them a good option for those seeking a low-shedding companion. Although minimal shedders, Scotties do require regular brushing, professional grooming, and the occasional hand-stripping to keep their coats healthy and maintain their distinctive breed outline. Scotties are clever and independent dogs with a strong prey drive, which means owners should be mindful when introducing them to smaller household animals. Their loyalty and unique character make them devoted family members.
Shih Tzu: The Royal “Little Lion Dog”
The Shih Tzu is another breed with a long and regal pedigree. Historically the favored house pet of the Tang Dynasty in China, these “little lion dogs” come in a beautiful variety of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding and looks exceptionally regal when brushed out, truly befitting their royal ancestry. This Toy breed is sturdy and lively, often described as having an arrogant carriage due to their proudly held heads and curling tails. Shih Tzus were specifically bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting, and affectionate nature makes them exceptional companions for families. In many parts of the world, including regions like India where dog ownership is growing, breeds like the Shih Tzu are highly sought after due to their charm and low-shedding qualities, making them a best breed of dog in india with price consideration for many.
West Highland White Terrier: The Sturdy, Happy Westie
The coarse, brilliant white hair of the West Highland White Terrier, fondly referred to by fans as Westies, sheds very little. This sturdy little dog is intelligent, loyal, happy, and incredibly entertaining, bringing boundless joy to their households. Westies are curious dogs with moderate energy levels and an independent streak, a common trait among Terriers, which can sometimes make training a delightful challenge. However, their intelligence ensures they learn quickly with consistent, positive reinforcement. Their minimal shedding and robust health make them a popular and enduring choice for families looking for an energetic and clean companion.
Xoloitzcuintli: The Ancient Mexican Hairless
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “sho-lo-eats-kweent-lee”) is an ancient and rare breed of dog that can be found in both hairless and coated varieties. The hairless varieties typically retain a small amount of hair on their heads, while the coated variety has a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally. As with any hairless breed, the Xolo requires a little extra attention when it comes to their skin, needing protection from the elements like sun and cold. 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 a unique and low-shedding pet.
Yorkshire Terrier: Sprightly, Affectionate, and Fearless
Sprightly, tomboyish, and deeply affectionate, the Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately called the Yorkie, is a Toy breed brimming with personality. These spunky lap dogs are incredibly popular, and for good reason: Yorkshire Terriers do not shed. Their long, silky coats are beautiful when brushed out daily, a task made easy by their small size. 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, although today they are just as happy to sit on their owner’s lap as they are to chase down a toy. Their non-shedding coat and vibrant personality ensure they remain a cherished companion.
Important Considerations for Non-Shedding Breeds
While the prospect of a low-shedding or non-shedding dog is appealing, it’s crucial to understand that “non-shedding” does not equate to “zero maintenance.” Many of these breeds, particularly those with continuously growing hair, require regular and often extensive grooming. This can include daily brushing, frequent professional trims, and baths to prevent matting, maintain coat health, and keep them looking their best.
Before welcoming any dog into your home, take the time to carefully research the specific needs of non-shedding dog breeds to ensure you find a canine companion that best matches your lifestyle and personality. Always prioritize purchasing a dog from a reliable and reputable breeder to avoid potential health problems. Furthermore, feeding your dog a high-quality diet and ensuring regular veterinary check-ups are essential for their overall well-being. Choosing a low-shedding breed can indeed reduce household cleanup, but commitment to their grooming and care is paramount for a happy, healthy pet.
