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, clothing, and every corner of your home can be a significant challenge. If you’re seeking the joy of a small dog without the extensive clean-up, you’re in luck. There are numerous small breed dogs that don’t shed, or shed very minimally, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a tidier living space or suffer from allergies. These breeds often come with unique personalities and diverse grooming needs, proving that a low-shedding coat doesn’t mean a lack of character. Finding the perfect canine companion involves more than just shedding habits; it’s about matching a dog’s temperament and care requirements to your lifestyle. To explore more options for companions that require less cleanup, consider researching dogs that don’t shed and are low maintenance.
Understanding the different types of coats and their maintenance is crucial. Some breeds, like the hairless varieties, naturally avoid shedding, while others have hair that grows continuously, similar to human hair, and needs regular grooming rather than just brushing out loose fur. This guide will introduce you to several wonderful small dog breeds known for their minimal shedding, helping you discover a breed that perfectly fits your home and heart.
Affenpinscher
Affenpinscher, a small, shaggy-haired dog with a curious expression
The Affenpinscher, whose name translates to “monkey-like terrier,” lives up to its moniker with an intelligent and spirited demeanor. Despite their compact size, these Toy breed dogs possess a fearless attitude, making them excellent little watchdogs. One of their most appealing characteristics is their wiry coat, which sheds very little and is also known for having almost no “doggy” odor. This low-maintenance coat typically only requires a twice-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and comb to keep them looking shaggy yet neat. Beyond their charming appearance and minimal shedding, Affenpinschers are celebrated for their playful sense of humor, bringing endless amusement to their families.
Basenji
Basenji, a sleek, short-haired dog with erect ears and a curled tail
For those who admire hounds but are deterred by their typical shedding and distinctive scent, the Basenji offers an intriguing alternative. This small breed sheds very minimally, and its short, fine coat requires little more than occasional brushing to maintain its pristine condition. Basenjis are also renowned for their quiet nature, often referred to as “barkless” dogs, making them an excellent choice for apartment living. However, their calm indoor demeanor needs to be balanced with daily exercise and engaging playtime to satisfy their energetic spirit and prevent boredom.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise, a fluffy white dog with a playful expression
The Bichon Frise is truly a poster child for non-shedding small dog breeds. These delightful, affectionate, and playful dogs are an ideal choice for individuals with allergies due to their hypoallergenic coats. While they don’t shed, their continuous hair growth means they are not maintenance-free. To preserve their signature powder-puff appearance, Bichon Frise dogs require frequent grooming, regular brushing, and occasional baths. This dedication to grooming ensures their coat remains healthy, knot-free, and as charming as their personalities.
Bolognese
Bolognese, a small white dog with a fluffy coat and dark eyes
Similar to the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese boasts a distinctive fluffy coat composed of hair rather than fur, which means they do not shed. However, this beautiful coat requires consistent attention. Dead hair must be brushed out regularly, and daily grooming is essential to keep these lovable lap dogs looking their absolute best. Their calm and devoted nature makes the grooming effort a rewarding part of having a Bolognese as a cherished family member.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon, a small dog with a prominent beard and expressive eyes
Despite their diminutive size, Brussels Griffons are surprisingly robust and do not demand excessive pampering. This breed comes in both smooth-coated and rough-coated varieties, both of which are minimal shedders and thrive with regular grooming. Their small stature means that a daily walk combined with indoor play is usually sufficient to meet their exercise requirements. Loyal and affectionate, the Brussels Griffon forms strong bonds with its family and is happiest in homes where companions are frequently present.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dog, a hairless variety with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and feet
For those looking to completely avoid shedding, the Chinese Crested offers a unique solution. This breed comes in two distinct coat types: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety features skin that is largely exposed, with tufts of hair typically adorning their heads, tails, and feet. The powderpuff, on the other hand, is covered with a fine, soft coat that sheds very minimally. Hairless breeds require special skincare, including protection from sun exposure and cold temperatures, and are more susceptible to skin irritations. Both varieties make captivating and devoted companions.
Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulear, a small, long-haired white dog with a cheerful disposition
The Coton de Tulear is characterized by its distinctive, long, fluffy coat, which is considered hypoallergenic. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals with allergies or anyone seeking a small dog that doesn’t shed. While their lighthearted and gentle personalities are highly appealing, their beautiful coats do demand daily grooming to prevent matting and maintain their pristine condition. For many owners, the effort invested in their Coton’s grooming is a small price to pay for such a delightful and affectionate companion.
Havanese
Havanese, a fluffy dog with long, wavy hair and a friendly face
These charming dogs, native to Cuba, are celebrated for their spunky personalities and non-shedding coats. A Havanese means less time spent lint rolling furniture and more opportunities for playful romps with this lively breed. Their flowing coats require weekly brushing and regular baths to keep them clean, healthy, and tangle-free. The Havanese adapts well to various living situations, thriving on companionship and bringing boundless joy to their families with their cheerful disposition.
Maltese
Maltese, a small white dog with long, silky hair and a gentle expression
Maltese dogs have enchanted humans for thousands of years, with a lineage stretching back three millennia. This ancient breed from Malta has largely maintained its elegance, partly due to its long, white coat that sheds very little, making it an ideal lap dog. However, their magnificent coats do require regular brushing to prevent mats and occasional baths to keep their silky hair clean and free of debris. Their gentle and intelligent nature makes them cherished companions in any home.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso, a small dog with a long, flowing coat and a wise expression
Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that makes an exceptional companion. They possess a balanced temperament, being both calm and playful. Lhasa Apsos enjoy brisk walks and are equally content resting comfortably on their owner’s lap. While they do not shed, their long, luxurious coats require consistent maintenance. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to manage their hair, significantly reducing the need for daily grooming and brushing while still showcasing their endearing qualities.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer, a sturdy dog with a distinctive beard and eyebrows
The Miniature Schnauzer is a smart, easily trainable, and cheerful little dog that shares a strong resemblance to its Standard Schnauzer cousin. This Terrier breed sheds very little, making them an attractive option for those seeking a low-shedding companion. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive equally well in bustling city apartments or tranquil country homes, as long as they are close to their human companions. To keep Miniature Schnauzers looking their best, a routine of weekly brushing and regular professional grooming is essential for maintaining their distinctive wiry coat.
Poodle
Poodle, a elegantly groomed dog with curly fur and an intelligent gaze
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 renowned for being non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Miniature and Toy Poodles offer these desirable qualities in intelligent, petite packages, differing only in size from their Standard counterparts. All Poodles are highly intelligent, which makes them remarkably easy to train. They are also an active and proud breed whose curly hair requires regular professional grooming to stay healthy and maintain its iconic appearance.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terrier, a compact dog with a wiry black coat and alert eyes
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the Scottie, is a distinguished Terrier breed celebrated for its boldness, confidence, and formidable personality. Their wiry, weather-resistant coat sheds very little, contributing to their low-shedding reputation. Although minimal shedders, Scotties do require regular brushing, grooming, and occasional hand-stripping to maintain the health of their coats and preserve their characteristic breed outline. These clever and independent dogs possess strong prey drives, which means owners should exercise caution when they are around smaller animals. Their tenacious spirit makes them intriguing and loyal companions. For those interested in understanding the lineage of such breeds, exploring breeds of hunting dogs with pictures can offer fascinating insights into their historical roles.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu, a small dog with long, silky fur and a dignified expression
The Shih Tzu is another breed with an ancient and regal lineage, having been the favored house pet of the Tang Dynasty. These “little lion dogs” come in a wide array of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding, and when properly brushed, it looks exceptionally regal, befitting their royal ancestry. This Toy breed is surprisingly sturdy and lively, often described as having an arrogant carriage due to their proudly held heads and curling tails. Shih Tzus were originally bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting nature makes them truly exceptional companions, thriving on human interaction and affection.
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terrier, a cheerful white dog with a wiry coat
The coarse, distinctly white hair of the West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as Westies by their admirers, sheds very little. These sturdy little dogs are intelligent, loyal, happy, and highly entertaining companions. Westies are naturally curious with moderate energy levels and exhibit an independent streak, a common trait among all Terriers. This independence can occasionally make training a bit of a delightful challenge, but their charming personalities and minimal shedding make them a popular choice for many households.
Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless dog with smooth skin and intelligent eyes
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and rare breed that can appear in either hairless or coated varieties. The hairless Xolo typically retains a small amount of hair on its head, while the coated variety possesses a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally. As with any hairless breed, the Xolo requires extra care for its skin to protect it from environmental elements like sun and cold. Xolos are attentive watchdogs and affectionate companions, enjoying physical activities such such as walks and vigorous play, but they are equally well-regarded for their tranquil personalities when at home.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier, a small dog with long, silky fur and a confident stance
Sprightly, tenacious, and incredibly affectionate, the Yorkshire Terrier, commonly called the 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 strikingly beautiful when brushed out daily—a task made easy by their small size. Despite their regal appearance, Yorkies have working-class roots, having historically hunted rats in English clothing mills. Today, they are just as content to cozy up on their owner’s lap as they are to chase down a playful toy. For a deeper look at their diverse appearances, you might enjoy exploring pictures of different types of Yorkies.
Other Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
The Terrier group, in general, is a treasure trove of small dogs that either don’t shed or shed minimally. Breeds with wiry and coarse hair typically shed less than those with other coat types, making Terriers an excellent option for individuals who prefer to avoid excessive shedding. While this article highlights several prominent examples, many other non- or low-shedding Terrier breeds exist that could be a perfect match for your home.
Choosing a small dog that doesn’t shed can significantly reduce the amount of pet hair in your home and may be beneficial for allergy sufferers. However, it’s crucial to remember that “non-shedding” does not equate to “zero maintenance.” Many of these breeds require consistent grooming, including regular brushing, bathing, and sometimes professional clipping, to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting. Always take the time to thoroughly research specific non-shedding dog breeds to find one that not only matches your lifestyle and personality but also aligns with the level of grooming commitment you’re prepared to offer. To ensure the health and well-being of your new companion, always consider acquiring a dog from a reputable breeder, provide a high-quality diet, and schedule regular veterinary check-ups.
