For dog lovers seeking a furry companion, small dog breeds that don’t shed can be a great choice. These breeds often offer the warmth and companionship of a dog while minimizing cleaning hassles. Choosing a low-shedding breed can lead to a cleaner home and less allergy-related issues for family members.
Many small dog breeds are known for their playful and loving nature. They come in various personalities and temperaments, making it easier for individuals and families to find a fitting match. Whether for companionship or as a family pet, considering a dog that doesn’t shed can bring joy without the stress of constant grooming.
Basenji
The Basenji is a small dog breed known for its unique traits. It is often called the “barkless dog” because it does not bark like other dogs. Instead, it makes a yodel-like sound.
This breed has a short, fine coat that sheds very little hair. This quality makes the Basenji a good choice for those who prefer a cleaner home. Regular brushing is enough to keep their coat healthy.
Basenjis are intelligent and independent. They enjoy being active and require regular exercise to stay happy. Training can be a challenge due to their strong-willed nature.
Despite being small, they are known for their alertness. They can be good watchdogs, always aware of their surroundings.
These dogs generally weigh between 21 and 24 pounds. They are compact and have a playful demeanor. With proper care and attention, the Basenji can be a loving companion.
2) Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a charming small dog breed known for its friendly nature. Weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, this breed is often playful and affectionate.
One of the Bichon Frise’s key features is its curly coat, which helps trap dander. This makes the breed a good option for allergy sufferers. Despite their fluffy appearance, they do not shed much hair.
Bichon Frises are also known for their easy-going attitude. They typically adapt well to different living situations, whether in an apartment or a house. Their cheerful disposition makes them great companions.
These dogs enjoy being around people and often get along with children and other pets. Regular grooming helps maintain their coat and keeps them looking their best.
With the right care, the Bichon Frise can be a loving and loyal family pet.
3) Havanese
The Havanese is a small dog known for its friendly nature and playful demeanor. This breed has a soft, silky coat that does not shed much. This quality makes it a popular choice for people looking for a low-shedding dog.
Havanese dogs are also highly social and thrive on companionship. They get along well with families and other pets. Their affectionate nature makes them great lap dogs.
Training a Havanese is generally easy, as they are eager to please. They enjoy learning new tricks and can be quite clever. Regular exercise keeps them happy and healthy, so short daily walks are beneficial.
This breed is also known for its adaptability. Havanese can live comfortably in various environments, whether in a large house or a small apartment. They do well in both city and country settings.
With proper care and attention, Havanese dogs can live for around 14 to 16 years. Their lively spirit and loving nature make them wonderful companions for any dog lover.
4) Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a small, elegant breed known for its sleek appearance. Weighing between 7 to 14 pounds, this dog is easy to manage, making it great for smaller living spaces.
They are recognized for their short, fine coat that sheds very little. This characteristic makes them suitable for homes where low shedding is a priority.
Italian Greyhounds are generally quiet and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their owners.
Due to their gentle nature, they are good around children and other pets. Regular exercise is important for them, as they are energetic and playful. Short walks and playtime can help keep them healthy and happy.
This breed is also known for its graceful movements and keen intelligence. With proper training and socialization, they can thrive in various environments.
5) Maltese
The Maltese is a small breed known for its charming personality. This dog is gentle, affectionate, and thrives on human companionship.
With a silky, hypoallergenic coat, the Maltese sheds very little. This makes it an excellent choice for people with allergies.
Originating from Malta, this breed has a long history as a companion dog. They are playful and energetic, needing regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Maltese dogs are intelligent and easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tricks.
This breed loves to be around people and can be a great lapdog. They often form strong bonds with their families and are known for their loyalty.
Overall, the Maltese is a delightful small dog that fits well in many homes. Their affectionate nature and minimal shedding make them a popular choice for dog lovers.
6) Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog known for its cheerful nature and intelligence. It is a member of the schnauzer family, resembling its larger cousin, the Standard Schnauzer.
These dogs are typically friendly and easy to train. They enjoy being part of family activities and are good with children.
Miniature Schnauzers have a distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows, giving them a unique appearance. Their coat is hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to cause allergies in sensitive individuals.
Grooming is important for this breed. Regular brushing and trips to the groomer help maintain their coat and minimize hair around the home.
They are usually active and love to play, making them great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
With their intelligence and playful nature, Miniature Schnauzers make excellent pets for various lifestyles. Their low-shedding coat is an added benefit for families who prefer less pet hair in their homes.
7) Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, often called Scottie, is a small dog known for its bold personality. This breed has a distinctive wiry coat that sheds very little.
Scotties are strong and confident. They enjoy being part of the family and can be loyal companions. Their playful nature makes them great for families with children.
While they may bark to alert their owners, they are generally quiet dogs. This trait, combined with their low shedding, makes them suitable for apartment living.
Scottish Terriers need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy. Their cheerful and spirited demeanor makes them a favorite among dog lovers.
With a lifespan of around 12 years, they can provide many joyful moments for their owners. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy daily walks or playtime.
8) West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, often called a Westie, is a small, friendly dog. They typically weigh around 15 to 20 pounds and stand about 10 to 11 inches tall.
Westies are known for their beautiful, white coat, which requires regular grooming to stay in good condition. Even though they do not shed much, they still need brushing to prevent matting.
This breed is energetic and enjoys playing, making them great companions for active families. They are also known for their playful and confident nature.
West Highland White Terriers are generally good with children and other pets. Their friendly personality and low-shedding coat make them suitable for many living situations, including apartments.
These dogs thrive on companionship and need daily exercise to stay happy. The Westie combines charm and personality with a coat that can be easier to manage than other breeds.
9) Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, often called a Yorkie, is a small breed known for its charming personality. They typically weigh around 4 to 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 8 inches tall.
Yorkies have a silky, long coat that does not shed much, making them a good choice for those who want a dog with low shedding. Regular grooming helps keep their fur looking its best and prevents matting.
These dogs are energetic and love to play. They enjoy spending time with their families and can adapt well to apartment living.
Yorkies are known for their loyalty and can form strong bonds with their owners. They are also known to be alert, making them good watchdogs despite their small size.
This breed is generally friendly and does well with children and other pets. However, proper socialization is important to help them get along with others.
10) Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small dog known for its friendly and loving nature. This breed has a soft, cotton-like coat that is mostly hypoallergenic. Because of this, it is a great choice for people with allergies.
Coton de Tulears typically weigh about 8 to 15 pounds. They are playful and enjoy being around their families. These dogs thrive on attention and companionship.
Grooming is important for a Coton de Tulear. Regular brushing is needed to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. While they do not shed much, their long hair can tangle if not cared for properly.
This breed is also known for being relatively quiet. They bark only when necessary, making them good pets for those living in apartments or smaller homes. Their gentle disposition makes them great with children and other pets.
Coton de Tulears adapt well to different living environments. They enjoy walks and outdoor play but also love lounging with their owners at home. This makes them versatile companions for various lifestyles.
11) Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique and small dog breed. It is known for its charming looks and playful personality. This breed comes in two types: hairless and powderpuff.
The hairless variety has soft skin with hair only on the head, tail, and feet. It does not shed fur, making it a great choice for those with allergies. The hairless coat requires some extra care to protect the skin from sun exposure.
The powderpuff type has a full coat of soft, long hair. While this version does shed, it sheds minimally. Regular brushing helps manage this shedding and keeps their coat healthy.
Chinese Cresteds are known for being lively and affectionate. They bond well with their families and enjoy being social. This breed is suitable for apartments and smaller living spaces due to its size.
In summary, the Chinese Crested is a charming, low-shedding option for dog lovers. It fits well into various living situations and makes a great companion.
12) Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small breed known for its friendly and outgoing nature. This dog typically weighs between 9 to 16 pounds, making it a perfect companion for families and individuals alike.
Their long, flowing coat is one of the most recognizable features. While they do shed less than many breeds, regular grooming is essential to keep their fur healthy and tangle-free.
Shih Tzus are playful and enjoy spending time with their owners. They adapt well to apartment living, as they don’t require extensive exercise. Short daily walks and playtime are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.
Despite their small size, they can be brave and confident. Socialization during early stages is important to help them develop a well-rounded personality.
This breed is also known for being relatively quiet, making them suitable for those who prefer a calm environment. With proper care and attention, Shih Tzus can be wonderful companions for many years.
13) Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small dog known for its unique appearance and friendly personality. This breed has a distinct face, often described as human-like, which many find charming.
Brussels Griffons come in two coat types: rough and smooth. The rough variety has a wiry coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its texture. The smooth type has fewer grooming needs and does not shed much.
These dogs are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are known to form strong bonds and can be quite loyal. They adapt well to various living situations, making them suitable for apartments or homes.
While they are playful, Brussels Griffons are not typically known to be excessive barkers. This quality makes them ideal for those who prefer quieter small dog breeds.
With regular exercise and mental stimulation, they thrive and remain happy. They have a playful nature and enjoy interactive play and walks. This breed can make a great addition to families or singles looking for a loving companion.
14) Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is known for its friendly and energetic nature. This breed is both intelligent and eager to please, making it a great companion.
They have a dense, curly coat that helps protect them while swimming. This coat does not shed much, which is appealing for those looking for a low-shedding dog.
Portuguese Water Dogs are often used for water-related tasks. They enjoy activities like swimming and retrieving. Their love for water makes them suitable for active families.
These dogs require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy. This helps prevent matting and keeps them looking tidy.
Overall, the Portuguese Water Dog is a versatile breed that thrives on companionship and exercise. Their non-shedding coat and playful personality make them a popular choice for many dog lovers.
15) Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that originated in Tibet. Known for their long, flowing coats, these dogs do not shed much. This makes them a great choice for people who prefer low-shedding pets.
Lhasa Apsos are friendly and loyal companions. They were originally bred to guard Tibetan monasteries, which explains their alert nature. These dogs are known to bark at strangers, providing an early warning to their owners.
Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and manageable. Many owners choose the “puppy cut” to make care easier. This style allows for more freedom of movement and less grooming time.
The Lhasa Apso can adapt well to different living situations, including apartments. They enjoy moderate exercise and playtime, which can be achieved through walks and indoor activities. These dogs can make great family pets and are known to bond closely with their owners. Their combination of charm and personality makes them a popular choice among small dog breeds.
16) Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is known for its striking blue-gray coat and minimal shedding. This breed is a medium-sized dog, usually weighing between 30 and 40 pounds.
Originating from Ireland, Kerry Blues were initially bred for hunting and farm work. Their unique coat requires regular grooming to keep it in good shape.
Kerry Blue Terriers are energetic and intelligent. They often excel in various dog sports and activities, making them a great choice for active families.
These dogs are also known for their friendly and playful nature. They tend to get along well with children and can be good companions.
This breed’s low-shedding coat makes it a suitable option for people with allergies. However, potential owners should be prepared for grooming needs.
17) Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a small breed known for its playful and friendly nature. This dog typically weighs around 11 to 12 pounds and stands about 10 inches tall. They have a wiry, weather-resistant coat that requires regular grooming.
Norwich Terriers are energetic and enjoy activities like walking and playing. They are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes training easier. This breed is also known for being good with children and other pets when socialized well.
While they are not entirely non-shedding, they shed less than many other breeds. Their coat helps minimize hair around the house, making them a suitable choice for people with allergies.
These dogs are alert and make excellent watchdogs. They might bark to alert their owners, but they are generally not excessive barkers. The Norwich Terrier thrives on companionship and enjoys being part of family activities.
18) Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a small breed known for its unique appearance and playful personality. With a coat that doesn’t shed much, it is suitable for those looking for a low-maintenance dog.
This breed stands about 9 to 11 inches tall and typically weighs between 6 to 13 pounds. Their long, textured fur gives them a distinctive, monkey-like look.
Affenpinschers are known for being fearless and curious. They can be a bit stubborn, but their intelligence makes training possible.
They bond closely with their families and are loyal companions. Despite their small size, they often act bravely and will defend their home.
These dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. Brushing a few times a week helps to prevent matting and keeps them looking their best.
Affenpinschers are perfect for individuals or families who want an affectionate, spirited dog. They are lively and thrive on interaction and play.
19) Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a small and energetic breed. They are known for their wiry coat, which sheds very little. This makes them a great option for those looking to minimize dog hair in their homes.
This breed is friendly and affectionate. They typically bond well with families and can adapt to various living situations. Border Terriers are also known for their playful nature and enjoy regular exercise.
They have a strong hunting instinct, so it’s essential to socialize them early. Training is important as they can be stubborn at times. Positive reinforcement works best with this breed.
Border Terriers usually weigh between 11 to 15 pounds. They stand about 10 to 11 inches tall. Their small size makes them suitable for apartments or smaller homes.
Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and can reduce any minor shedding. This breed is lively and will thrive with daily activity and companionship.
20) Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier is a small breed known for its fine, silky coat. They usually stand about 9 to 10 inches tall and weigh between 8 to 10 pounds.
These dogs are friendly and energetic. They enjoy being part of the family and are often very loyal to their owners. Their playful nature makes them good companions for both kids and adults.
Silky Terriers do not shed much, making them suitable for people who want a cleaner home. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy and free from tangles.
They are intelligent and can be trained easily. Consistent training and socialization help them grow into well-mannered pets.
Silky Terriers are also quite alert and make good watchdogs. They tend to be curious and attentive, always aware of their surroundings.
This breed thrives on human interaction and does best in active homes. Owners should be prepared to give them plenty of attention and playtime.
21) Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a small breed known for its playful and energetic nature. It typically weighs between 13 and 14 pounds, making it a good fit for various living situations, including apartments.
This breed has a distinctive shaggy coat, which is double-layered. Despite its furry appearance, the Cairn Terrier is considered low-shedding. Regular grooming helps keep its coat healthy and reduces loose hair around the home.
Cairn Terriers are intelligent and curious. They enjoy training and mental challenges, making them fun companions for active owners. They are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.
These dogs are great for families and do well with children. However, they need supervision around smaller pets due to their strong prey drive. Regular exercise is important to keep them happy and healthy.
22) Wheaten Terrier
The Wheaten Terrier is a friendly and affectionate small dog breed. They are known for their soft, silky coat that requires regular brushing. This breed has a warm disposition, making it a great companion for families.
Wheaten Terriers do not shed much, which is ideal for those looking for a low-shedding dog. Their coat can come in various shades of beige, gold, or tan. This provides a unique appearance that many find appealing.
They are energetic and enjoy playtime, so daily exercise is important. Wheaten Terriers are also known for their playful nature, which can keep both kids and adults entertained.
This breed is intelligent and eager to please. With consistent training and socialization, they can adapt well to different living environments. Their gentle temperament makes them good with children and other pets.
Wheaten Terriers are relatively healthy but can be prone to some genetic conditions. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can help maintain their well-being.
23) Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small, sturdy dog known for its curly, wooly coat. This breed stands about 17 to 19 inches tall and typically weighs between 28.5 to 35 pounds.
Lagotto Romagnolos are recognized for being low-shedding. Their unique coat helps to keep allergies at bay, making them suitable for some allergy sufferers.
They are also known for their friendly and affectionate nature. This breed is intelligent and eager to please, which makes training easier.
In addition to their friendly personality, they are active dogs. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks or playtime in the yard is essential.
While they don’t shed much, regular grooming is important. Their coat can mat if not trimmed and brushed regularly.
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. They enjoy being part of daily activities and love to spend time with their owners.
24) Poodle (Toy)
The Toy Poodle is a small breed known for its intelligence and playful nature. It typically measures around 9 to 10 inches tall and weighs between 4 to 6 pounds. This breed is well-regarded for its non-shedding coat, making it a popular choice for those seeking a low-maintenance dog.
Toy Poodles come in various colors, including white, black, apricot, and gray. Their curly fur requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best and to prevent matting. Owners often schedule trips to a groomer every few weeks.
This breed is not only affectionate but also eager to please, making them easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement, which helps highlight their smart nature.
Home environments with children or other pets are usually great for Toy Poodles, as they enjoy companionship. They can adapt well to apartment living but still require daily exercise. Regular walks and playtime keep them happy and healthy.
Toy Poodles thrive on social interaction, so they enjoy being with their families. They are also known for their alertness and can make good watchdogs despite their small size.
25) Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is a small breed known for its friendly and playful nature. They typically weigh between 20 to 24 pounds and stand about 14 to 16 inches tall.
This breed has a long, dense coat that is hypoallergenic. They shed very little, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
Tibetan Terriers are intelligent and easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy engaging activities.
These dogs thrive on companionship and can be very affectionate with their families. They are known to be loyal and protective, making them great family pets.
Regular grooming is needed to keep their coat in good condition. Brushing a few times a week helps prevent mats and tangles.
They are active dogs and require daily exercise. Walks and playtime help them stay healthy and happy.