Many dog lovers desire a companion with an agreeable temperament who also leaves minimal hair around the house. The good news is that numerous intelligent and gentle dog breeds shed very little, making them ideal for families and individuals seeking a clean home environment without sacrificing companionship. These low-shedding breeds often possess specific coat types, such as curly or wiry hair, that retain loose fur rather than releasing it into your surroundings.
While no dog is completely shed-free, many breeds are considered “hypoallergenic” because they produce less dander and shed significantly less hair, thereby reducing potential allergens. Beyond their low-shedding qualities, many of these breeds are also renowned for their easy-to-train nature, adaptability, and affectionate personalities, making them truly well-behaved additions to any household. If you’re looking for a delightful canine companion that doesn’t constantly leave a trail of fur, explore this list of dogs that are hypoallergenic and dont shed and discover your perfect match.
Understanding Low-Shedding and Well-Behaved Traits
The term “hypoallergenic” is often associated with low-shedding dogs. These breeds don’t necessarily produce fewer allergens, but their hair traps dander and shed fur, preventing it from spreading as widely. This characteristic, combined with a trainable and friendly disposition, defines a “well-behaved dog that doesn’t shed.” Temperament plays a crucial role; a well-behaved dog is typically intelligent, responsive to training, calm in various situations, and good with family members and other pets.
Even with a low-shedding breed, consistency in training, early socialization, and regular grooming are vital to nurturing a well-behaved pet. Many breeds known for their low-shedding coats also happen to be highly intelligent and eager to please, simplifying the training process. This combination makes them excellent choices for first-time dog owners or families looking for a less demanding grooming routine and a harmonious living situation.
Exceptional Well-Behaved Dog Breeds with Minimal Shedding
Finding a dog that fits both the “well-behaved” and “low-shedding” criteria can significantly enhance the pet ownership experience. These breeds offer the joy of companionship without the constant battle against dog hair and often come with temperaments that make them a pleasure to live with.
1. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)
Poodles are perhaps the quintessential example of a well-behaved, low-shedding breed. Available in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—they are consistently ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, making them highly trainable and eager to learn. Their distinctive curly coats shed minimally, and while they require regular grooming to prevent matting, their cooperative nature often makes grooming sessions manageable. Originally bred for hunting, the Standard Poodle is an agile and intelligent companion, while Miniature and Toy Poodles retain the same brainpower in a smaller package, adapting well to various living situations.
A white Standard Poodle walks gracefully through a field of green grass
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Little Yorkies are charming, spunky, and affectionate dogs known for their beautiful, silky coats that shed very little. Despite their small size, they possess big personalities and are quite adaptable, thriving in everything from large homes to cozy apartments, provided they receive ample attention and mental stimulation. Their intelligence and desire to please their owners make them relatively easy to train, contributing to their reputation as well-behaved companions. They are often described as confident and courageous, yet devoted to their families.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, an ancient companion breed, boasts a thick, flowing coat that is low-shedding, though it does require consistent grooming. These small dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing temperaments, making them excellent family pets. They are generally good-natured and enjoy being lap dogs, making them perfect companions for those seeking a loving and relatively low-energy friend. Their affectionate disposition and manageable size contribute to their status as a well-behaved household member.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
The smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is a robust and intelligent dog with a distinctive wiry coat that sheds little. Standing no more than 14 inches tall, these alert and spirited dogs fit well into many different living environments, from city apartments to suburban homes. Miniature Schnauzers are known for their loyalty and trainability, eager to participate in family activities and respond well to consistent training. They are typically good with children and make vigilant watchdogs without being overly aggressive.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Sharing many of the appealing traits of its smaller cousin, the Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized, low-shedding breed that offers a slightly larger presence. These intelligent dogs thrive on activity and mental engagement, loving long walks, games of fetch, and problem-solving toys. Their keen minds make them highly trainable and adaptable, performing well in various dog sports and obedience. With proper socialization and exercise, Standard Schnauzers are devoted, protective, and well-behaved family members.
6. Giant Schnauzer
For those seeking a large, low-shedding dog with a commanding presence, the Giant Schnauzer is an excellent choice. These impressive dogs are highly intelligent and require substantial exercise and mental stimulation to be content and well-behaved. They excel in activities like long walks, runs, and hikes, and their protective nature, combined with their trainability, makes them excellent guardians and loyal companions for active families.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful, and affectionate pup with a curly, low-shedding coat. Known for their playful demeanor and high intelligence, Bichons are highly trainable and quickly master basic commands and fun tricks. Their endearing personalities and ability to bond closely with their families make them wonderfully well-behaved and adaptable companions, suitable for various living situations. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their fluffy appearance.
8. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique small breed that comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both are considered low-shedding. The hairless variety has smooth skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in long, silky hair. Both are playful, affectionate, and make great companions. Their gentle nature and desire to be close to their owners contribute to their well-behaved disposition.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed with a thick, curly, low-shedding coat. These dogs are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and friendly, making them popular choices for active families. Their energetic nature means they thrive with regular exercise, including swimming, which they naturally love. A well-exercised Portuguese Water Dog is a happy, well-behaved, and devoted companion. These breeds of medium sized dogs that don t shed are especially popular among active owners.
A black and white Portuguese Water Dog wears a red maple leaf bandana, sitting calmly by the water
10. Labradoodle
A popular crossbreed, the Labradoodle combines the intelligence of a Poodle with the friendly nature of a Labrador Retriever. These dogs were initially bred as hypoallergenic service dogs and are known for their minimal shedding coats, friendly disposition, and high intelligence. Labradoodles are highly trainable and gentle, making them excellent family pets, especially when well-exercised and socialized from an early age. Their cooperative nature ensures they are generally well-behaved.
11. Goldendoodle
Another beloved “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, they shed very little, possess a friendly nature, and are highly intelligent. Goldendoodles are known for their gentle and patient demeanor, making them wonderful family dogs. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities. Frequent grooming is necessary to prevent their coats from matting.
A beautiful brown Goldendoodle sits attentively on a cozy couch
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originating as water retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolo dogs have a curly, woolly coat that is low-shedding and protects them from cold water. Though less common, they are known for being good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable and generally well-behaved, especially with consistent training and mental engagement.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small dogs with a distinct, monkey-like appearance and a dense, wiry coat that produces fewer allergens and sheds minimally. Despite their playful and sometimes mischievous nature, they are generally affectionate and loyal to their families. Their small size makes them adaptable to apartment living, and with proper training and socialization, they are charming and well-behaved companions.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
These friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable water dogs boast a thick, curly, liver-colored coat that requires regular grooming but sheds little. Irish Water Spaniels have high energy levels and require substantial exercise to remain happy and well-behaved. Their playful nature and eagerness to retrieve make them excellent partners for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
15. Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic low-shedding dog. Their bright minds and active dispositions mean they thrive with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. When their needs are met, Aussiedoodles are affectionate, loyal, and well-behaved companions who enjoy being part of family activities and learning new tricks.
16. Bolognese
Hailing from Italy, Bolognese dogs are cute, low-shedding pups with long, fluffy white coats that, despite their messy appearance, require consistent grooming. These playful and easygoing dogs have a reputation for getting along well with children and other pets, making them adaptable to various living situations. Their gentle and devoted nature ensures they are a well-behaved and loving presence in the home.
17. Maltese
The Maltese is a small, elegant low-shedding dog known for its luxurious white coat. These affectionate and playful companions thrive on human interaction and make devoted pets. While their long hair requires dedicated grooming, many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify maintenance. Their charming personalities and eagerness to please make them highly trainable and well-behaved.
A woman lovingly holds a fluffy white Maltese dog on a comfortable bed
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
This medium-sized Irish breed has a silky, incredibly soft coat that sheds minimally. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers maintain a high energy level throughout their lives, requiring ample exercise and mental stimulation to ensure they are on their best behavior. They are known for their joyful and affectionate nature, often greeting family members with their signature “Wheaten greeting,” a happy bounce and lick. With consistent training, they are highly adaptable and friendly.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, Cotons de Tulear are small, easygoing, low-shedding dogs. Their good nature makes them a good fit for other pets and children, especially when properly introduced. They are known for their cheerful and outgoing personalities, thriving on companionship and adapting well to various home environments. Their desire to please their owners makes them quite trainable and generally well-behaved.
20. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a designer breed combining two low-shedding breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. Their coat can be curly or wavy, but it is always low-shedding. Schnoodles inherit the intelligence and affectionate nature of both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and wonderful companions. They are often described as playful and devoted, adapting well to family life with proper socialization and exercise.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often likened to a “lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired, low-shedding breed known for its distinctive appearance. These dogs thrive on human companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Their affectionate nature and active minds mean they enjoy learning and participating in family activities. With proper training and plenty of attention, they are loyal and well-behaved pets.
22. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
One of the oldest and rarest dog breeds, the Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or have a short coat. Both varieties are low-shedding. Xolos are known for their calm, loyal, and attentive nature, making them excellent companions. They bond deeply with their families and are generally well-behaved, though they can be reserved with strangers.
23. Whoodle
A cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, the Whoodle is a friendly, low-shedding dog that inherits intelligence and an affectionate nature from both parent breeds. These active and playful dogs enjoy being involved in family life and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Their adaptable and eager-to-please disposition makes them a generally well-behaved and joyful companion.
24. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a crossbreed of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, resulting in large, low-shedding dogs with friendly, affectionate natures and gentle demeanors. These qualities make them a popular choice for families with children and other pets. While they need plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, their intelligence and desire to please ensure they are highly trainable and generally well-behaved companions.
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a mixed breed combining two low-shedding dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. They embody the best traits of both breeds—small, playful, friendly, and affectionate. Shorkies are devoted companions who thrive on human interaction. Like most dogs on this list, they benefit from a regular grooming routine to maintain their coat and are generally well-behaved with consistent care.
26. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are striking dogs known for their long, flowing coats that, surprisingly, are low-shedding with proper care. While famous for their elegant appearance, these dogs are also among the fastest breeds. They are loving toward their families but can be aloof with strangers, necessitating early and consistent socialization. With their independent spirit, consistent training is key to fostering their well-behaved nature.
27. Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful pup with a shaggy, woolly, low-shedding coat. Named for the French word for “beard,” these dogs love to swim, thanks to their protective curly fur. Barbets are intelligent, friendly, and eager to please, making them highly trainable and generally well-behaved companions. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coat in good condition.
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo is a mixed breed resulting from a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (often a Toy Poodle). This small, low-shedding pup adapts well to almost any living situation, provided they receive daily exercise and regular brushing. Shih-Poos are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, thriving on companionship and making charming, well-behaved additions to the family.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Peruvian Inca Orchids are rare, low-shedding dogs thanks to their nearly hairless bodies (though coated varieties exist). This ancient breed comes in three sizes and is the national dog of Peru. They are known for their alert, intelligent, and affectionate nature, forming strong bonds with their families. With consistent training and socialization, they are loyal and well-behaved companions.
30. Malshi
A cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small, low-shedding dog. They thrive on close companionship and are known for their affectionate and playful demeanor. Malshis are generally easygoing and eager to please, making them good candidates for training and ensuring they are well-behaved members of the family. Their delightful personalities bring much joy to their owners.
Tips for Living with a Low-Shedding, Well-Behaved Dog
While choosing a low-shedding, well-behaved breed is a great start, consistent care and attention are crucial to maintaining a harmonious home.
Keep Up With Grooming
Even low-shedding dogs require dedicated grooming to prevent matting and manage dander. Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils and removes any loose hairs, keeping their coat healthy and your home cleaner. Ideally, dogs should be groomed weekly and bathed every four to six weeks. For those with sensitivities, using a specialized dander-removing shampoo can further minimize allergens. Many low-shedding breeds also need professional trimming or hand-stripping, so factor this into your budget or learn to do it yourself.
Maintain a Clean House
To minimize allergens and maintain a fresh environment, regular house cleaning is essential. Vacuum, dust, and wash bedding frequently. Using air purifiers and ensuring good ventilation can also help reduce airborne allergens. While your dog may not shed much, dander and other potential allergens can still accumulate, so a consistent cleaning routine complements the benefits of a low-shedding breed.
Consult a Veterinarian and Trainer
Managing your dog’s health and behavior effectively often involves professional guidance. Consult with your veterinarian for routine care, dietary advice, and any health concerns specific to your breed. For behavioral aspects, consider working with a professional dog trainer. Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to nurturing a truly well-behaved dog, ensuring they integrate seamlessly into your family and community.
Bringing home a low-shedding, well-behaved dog can significantly enhance the quality of life for families, offering the joy and companionship of pet parenthood without the challenges of excessive shedding and difficult temperaments. With proper care, training, and a loving environment, these breeds can become cherished members of your family.
