Perhaps you’re an apartment dweller looking for a low-maintenance pooch. Or you’ve got allergies, yet been itching to own a pup. Either way, small dog breeds that don’t shed is just the right choice for you. But with so many options to choose from, how can you pick just one?
If what you want is a pooch that hardly ever sheds, the Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dog) does not disappoint. It’s pretty much the same situation with a Chinese Crested, with the exception of a few tufts of hair on the head. Or how about a low-shedding fur ball such as a Bichon Frise?
Fur haters and tiny dog fans are sure to love these pups in our list of the 36 small dog breeds that don’t shed. Have a look at these cuties who have so much to offer except for random hairballs on your couch!
36. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, an ancient Mexican hairless dog breed, resembles somewhat like the Chinese Crested as it can be a coated or a hairless variety. Coated ones have some hair but are very short and fine. As for the hairless Xoloitzcuintli, they need additional attention to keep their skin protected from harsh elements.
These dogs are tranquil and loving. They do enjoy some playtime but can also be content just staying by your side while you watch TV or take a nap.
35. Bichon Frise
Next up, we have the cute and cuddly Bichon Frise. A zero-shedding tiny pooch, the Bichon is space-friendly and great for folks with allergies. However, they still need some maintenance by keeping their hair brushed and groomed daily to stay nice and clean.
These are playful little fellows who just want to have fun. At the end of the day, however, they love to curl up like a ball on your lap.
34. Basenji
What’s unique about the Basenji is not only their impressive lack of shedding but also their odor. It’s not stinky at all but more like a “signature Basenji odor.” These pups have fine, short coats that only require occasional brushing and bathing.
Another thing that Basenjis don’t have aside from shedding issues is barking. These charming dogs hardly ever bark, which makes them ideal for apartment living.
33. Toy Poodle
They may have curly coats but surprisingly, they are non-shedding. This is why Poodles are one of the most hypoallergenic pups out there. And with their compact sizes, you can easily fit this pup in your home and your purse!
Toy Poodles make your life easier in every single way. Gone are the days that you have to pick dog hair or vacuum everyday. As a bonus, they are intelligent and obedient, so it’s also a breeze to train these curly pups.
32. Shih Poo
Part Shih Tzu, part Toy Poodle, the Shih Poo is another classic tiny dog that doesn’t shed. This is not surprising because both parents are non-shedders, after all. Even with a thick coat, they make sure they keep their hair right where it should be.
But this is not all that you’ll love about the Shih Poo. These small dogs also have a big heart. They are one of the most loving and sweetest tiny canines there are.
31. Shih Tzu
A pedigree with a long history, the Shih Tzu was originally bred as companion pups for royalties in China. They have been coined as “small lion dogs” because of their abundant hair that covers their eyes and mouths… Just like a lion.
Often thought of as arrogant pooches because of their curled tails and heads held up high, these are actually among the most affectionate dogs on the planet. They want nothing more than to be by your side and be your loyal best friend for years to come.
30. Havanese
A tiny dog with a Cuban heritage, the Havanese is famous for its spunky character and a virtually zero-shedding thick coat. But that does not mean you should park that brush forever. Even if they shed less than the average densely-coated pooch, they still need weekly brushing. Otherwise, their fluffy coats may end up in a hot tangled mess.
Playful and giddy, life with a Havanese is pretty stress-free. They are always up for fun and games, as well as hours of cuddles.
29. Labradoodle
A designer dog that’s a mix between a Toy Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, the Labradoodle is a hypoallergenic pooch. These canines don’t shed, which keeps the allergies at bay. But you still need to brush their coats regularly just to keep them nice, smooth and shiny.
If you like a Lab’s outgoing nature and a Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat, this hybrid pooch is for you.
28. Yorkipoo
Another Poodle mix that’s hypoallergenic is low-shedding, the Yorkipoo is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and Toy Poodle. They are under 15 lbs and barely a foot tall. Although they have thick, medium-length hair, it does not shed.
Yorkipoos are agile and outgoing creatures. They love to play just as much as snuggling up to their favorite humans. However, these canines can be a little tricky to train because of their inherent stubborn streak.
27. Australian Silky Terrier
Famous for their long, flowing and silky hair, the Australian Silky Terrier is a low-shedding dog breed. Despite their floor-length coats, these are surprisingly easy to groom and maintain. Only a bi-weekly brushing should keep it under control and tangle-free.
Brushing these tiny pups should be stress-free. After all, they are teeny tiny, so that should not take long to do all that brushing and bathing for these pooches.
26. Maltese
Maltese dogs may be considered as ancient but they have really not changed much at all. They are still the same tiny, fluffy-coated pups with a big heart. Maltese have immaculate white coats that barely shed, which is a great thing for allergy sufferers.
One thing to note about their coats is that they need regular brushing. This should help keep the tangles away while removing unwanted debris and dirt.
25. Cockapoo
An offspring of the Cocker Spaniel and Toy Poodle, the Cockapoo is a small pup. They inherit the soft and silky wavy hair of the Cocker Spaniel, which is surprisingly low-shedding. This makes these dogs easy to care for and maintain.
As for their personality, it is hard not to fall in love with the mild and mellow Cockapoo. These small dogs are great with kids and people of all ages. They enjoy spending time with their families and do perfectly well in agility training, as well.
24. Affenpinscher
A monkey-like pooch, the Affenpinscher is a unique-looking breed that’s loved by allergy sufferers. And why wouldn’t they? This dog has zero doggy odor and hardly ever sheds at all. They may have a wiry coat but shedding is only kept to a very minimal degree.
With their low-maintenance coats, these dogs are perfect for apartment dwellers and allergy sufferers. They are also a good choice for seniors because of how gentle these dogs are. Plus, they are highly trainable, too!
23. American Hairless Terrier
If a non-shedding dog is what you’re looking for, the American Hairless Terrier will not disappoint. These dogs have very little hair while others have a short, sheer coat. So, keeping these pups nice and neat is not a problem at all.
For folks who are not a fan of long walks, this pup is a perfect companion without a doubt. They don’t have a ton of energy, so they should be more than satisfied with short walks around the park.
22. Border Terrier
Known for their “otter head”, the Border Terrier is one extraordinary-looking pup. Their small bodies are covered in a wiry coat, usually in shades of wheaten, blue and tan, grizzle and red. Their hair also sheds minimally, which is a great thing for people with allergies.
As pets, Border Terriers are affectionate and mild-tempered. They are easy to train, as well, and you can even teach them tricks to keep you entertained. Love to cuddle? These pups won’t say no to that!
21. Tibetan Terrier
Just because they have thick hair does not mean they shed like crazy. In fact, Tibetan terriers are among the few small dog breeds that don’t shed. These fluffy pooches keep their hair intact instead of letting it mess up your couch, rugs, and so on!
Because of their history as companion dogs, Tibetan Terriers are mild and gentle. They are amazing family dogs that should do well with kids and adults alike.
20. Coton de Tulear
Despite its long and fluffy coat, Coton de Tulears are actually non-shedding dog breeds. In fact, these canines are hypoallergenic, which makes them great for folks with allergies. So, if you want a pooch that does not shed and will not trigger your allergies, Cotons are a great choice for you.
Aside from being a low-shedder, there is another thing to love about these pups – they are absolutely sweet and gentle. These dogs are always ready to greet you with a big smile and lots of kisses!
19. Australian Terrier
They may be small but not at all frail. With their long torso and strong legs, Australian Terriers are made for all season. To add to their hardy character, they have a harsh and resilient coat that barely sheds at all. Thus, it should be a breeze to keep them well-maintained and groomed.
Aussies are excellent watch dogs. They are alert and quick to learn commands. But true to their Terrier nature, these canines love to chase small animals. So, it is best to keep your tiny pets away from these curious pups.
18. Komondor
The thick and massive pile of hair may seem like they could shed profusely but it actually doesn’t! Well, not as much, that is. Komondor has its infamous dreadlock-looking coat that requires no brushing – just occasional bathing to keep the dirt away.
A great family dog, this canine is an absolute charmer. They are laid-back and mellow, which is another thing that makes them such a low-maintenance pooch.
17. Sealyham Terrier
Barely a foot tall, Sealyham Terriers are another small dog breed that don’t shed. Their hair is usually white and has an impressive weatherproof quality. But most importantly, these dogs are low-shedders and hypoallergenic.
Overall, Sealys are affectionate and outgoing creatures with a bit of a stubborn personality. Fortunately, they are obedient to their owners, so training should not be too much of a challenge even for first-timers.
16. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Another terrier that does not shed, the Dandie Dinmont is a unique-looking pup. These dogs have a big head covered by a blanket of white, silky hair. Their bodies usually come in various coat colors including pale fawn, reddish brown or silvery gray. Even with all that hair, though, Dandies shed quite minimally.
Just like many Terriers, the Dandie Dinmont is a bundle of energy. They love to play and spend time with their families. A brisk walk each day should help them exhaust all that energy they naturally possess.
15. Welsh Terrier
A sturdy small pooch, the Welsh Terrier is famous for its jaunty beard and rectangular head. Their coat is usually a combination of black and tan, and it sticks closely to their body. No wonder this canine does not shed!
With their long legs, these canines look taller than they are at 15 inches. But deep down, they will always be a puppy at heart – playful, affectionate, and eager for adventures.
14. Lhasa Apso
A Tibetan dog, the Lhasa Apso usually sports its long, silky, sometimes floor-length hair. Even with all that hair, however, this pup does not shed. However, owners have an option to give these dogs the so-called “puppy cut”, which makes grooming and maintenance easier.
Lhasas are affectionate and loving creatures. They enjoy cuddling up with their favorite humans and staying on their laps.
13. Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers are an allergy sufferers dream – low dander-producing and low-shedding. But you need to comb their hair once a week just to prevent it from matting and tangling up.
Personality-wise, Bedlingtons are curious and eager little pups. They love to play and take some walks a few times a week. Need a fun outdoor or road trip companion? These dogs are always up for that!
12. Miniature Schnauzer
A smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer, the Miniature Schnauzer is much like its larger cousin – low-shedding and easy to maintain. But to keep them looking their absolute best, you need to include weekly brushing as part of their routine.
Mini Schnauzers are cheerful fellows. They can easily adapt to any situation, which means you can live in the country or the city and not have to worry about these pups not fitting in.
11. Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers have a double coat, yet they shed very little. The hair on top is wiry while the bottom is fluffy and soft to the touch. Regular brushing should keep the dirt away while keeping the hair nice and smooth.
These pups love to keep busy whether it is digging, running, or playing. But at the end of the day, they love to stay on your lap. After all, these are sweet little lap dogs that absolutely adore their owners.
10. Lagotto Romagnolo
An Italian pup, the Lagotto Romagnolo is also coined as a “Truffle Dog.” They have an impressive sense of smell that makes them great at spotting truffles in the wild. These rugged workers are hardy and all-weather – always ready to explore.
Lagotti are double-coated dogs with waterproof hair. They also have an abundance of thick curls all over their body. But don’t worry – they shed minimally and will not leave a pile of hair behind.
9. Brussels Griffon
Aside from their small stature, another thing that makes Brussels Griffons popular among dog owners is their low-shedding coat. Whether it is a rough-coated or a smooth-coated Brussels, you can count on them not shedding as much.
Because they are tiny, it should not be tough keeping these pups in an apartment. They do enjoy some physical activities from time to time. Yet, a small yard or a modest space at home should suffice to give them the exercise they need.
8. West Highland White Terrier
Also known as Westies, these canines are famous for their coarse, yet low-shedding white hair. They are perfect for people with allergies, as well as folks who live in an apartment. And yes, they’re a great fit for fur-haters, overall!
Terriers are known for their stubborn streak, and Westies are not an exception. This is why this dog breed is a better fit for experienced owners.
7. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
As the name implies, this breed is covered with a lovely wheaten, wavy coat. They are not heavy shedders at all, yet it is important to brush and groom them occasionally to prevent matting. So, if you want a low-maintenance small dog, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is for you.
With their inherent stubbornness, it can take time to train these cuties. Thankfully, they also have a strong desire to please their owners. This is why all that effort you make when training them is absolutely worth it.
6. Löwchen
This “Little Lion” is a popular small dog breed in Europe. They are compact, charming, and non-shedding. In fact, these are hypoallergenic breeds that come in different color combinations that are all equally adorable.
Lively and energetic, there is never a dull moment with this breed. It is also easy to train them as these dogs are intelligent and obedient.
5. Bolognese
With a hair for their coat instead of fur, the Bolognese is a fluffy, hypoallergenic dog. They are non-shedders, although regular brushing is a must to get rid of dead hair and debris. With daily grooming, they should stay their adorable selves at all times.
Bolognese are mellow dogs. They get along with all members of the family and are excellent with children. And with their compact size, these are amazing lap dogs that are always eager to shower you with love and affection.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
These sprightly tiny pups are a popular breed for a number of reasons – they are adaptable, affectionate, and non-shedding. They do have long, silky coats, yet they do not shed at all. But it is worth brushing them daily to keep them smooth.
With their historical roots are rodent hunters, it is still typical for the modern-day Yorkie to chase some small animals. It is best to keep them in a fenced area to prevent them from wandering about in your neighborhood.
3. Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dogs may either be a powder puff with tufts of fine hair on their head or completely hairless. Both of these, however, are low-shedders, which makes them suitable for allergy sufferers.
Extra care is required, though, for hairless varieties. Since there is no hair to cover their bodies, these dogs would need additional protection from harsh weather. Skin irritation is also common with these canines because of their delicate skin.
2. Wire Fox Terrier
As the name implies, the Wire Fox Terrier is a 16-pounder bundle of wiry hair. They usually have white coats with a rough texture. Even with the semi-thick coat, Wire Fox Terriers are low-shedders. Got allergies? These dogs won’t be a huge problem for you.
A delightful pooch, this breed is suitable for couples, singles, and families who prefer an upbeat canine. They have a strong prey drive, though, so be sure to keep them in a fenced area to prevent them from running too far away!
1. Scottish Terrier
Also called Scottie, this small dog breed hardly ever sheds. They have thick, wiry coats with a weather-resistant quality, so they’re perfect rain or shine! Since they don’t shed as much, all you need is to brush them regularly to keep their coat from matting.
Aside from shedding minimally, life’s easy with a Scottie because of its agreeable personality. This pooch is pleasant, gentle, and a genuine cuddle bug.
Related Questions
What’s The Worst Shedding Small Dog? Pomeranians are heavy shedders. They shed their undercoat to make room for the growth of new hair. In fact, they shed almost every single day. Poms have three phases of shedding such as during their puppy stage, during their adulthood, and after weaning (for females).
What Is The Best Low Maintenance Family Dog? Overall, the best low maintenance family dog is one that sheds minimally, easy to train, and affectionate. For small breeds, the Bichon Frise rightfully belongs in this category and ticks all of the boxes. They have fluffy coats that never shed and training them is a breeze because of their inherent obedience and intelligence.
What Is The Cheapest Hypoallergenic Dog Breed? Bichon Frise and Fox Terriers are inexpensive hypoallergenic dog breeds that should cost you around $300. Not too far behind is the Yorkie, Cairn Terrier, and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier at about $500.
