As dog lovers, we all appreciate the unconditional affection and loyal companionship our furry friends provide. However, managing shedding hair can sometimes become an annoying task. For many, the ideal pet would be one that offers all the perks but doesn’t cover furniture, clothes, and carpets with hair. This makes small dogs who don’t shed a perfect choice.
Low-shedding small dogs
These adorable dogs are great for those with allergies, families with small children, or simply those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of dog hair all over their living space. Below, we will explore some of the small dogs who don’t shed to help you choose the best non-shedding canine companion for your home.
Affenpinscher
Believed to have German roots and standing less than a foot tall, the Affenpinscher — also known as a Monkey Dog or Monkey Terrier — is an intelligent toy breed. Star Wars enthusiasts often compare the looks of this pooch to that of the Wookies or Ewoks from the movies. The breed is relatively low-maintenance due to its nearly odor-free and dense, low-shed coat. Other than regular stripping to control shedding, these tiny canines only require brushing with a slicker brush and comb twice a week to maintain a shiny and tidy coat.
Bichon Frise
For those seeking small dogs who don’t shed, the Bichon Frise is an ideal choice. Despite the pup’s small stature, this cute, hypoallergenic pet is as strong and resilient as much larger ones. The breed’s most unique feature is their silky white, hypoallergenic coat. Regular grooming is a must for this high-maintenance breed to keep their fur plush. As such, due to the animal’s double-layered coat, minimal hair will scatter around your living space.
Chinese Crested
Choosing a small, hairless dog can be an effective way to avoid shedding. One such breed is the Chinese Crested, which has two variants — the hairless and the powderpuff. The hairless type of Chinese Crested dogs have hair only on their heads, tails, and feet, while the powderpuff type possesses a fine coat of hair which barely sheds.
It should be noted, however, that hairless dog breeds demand additional care, particularly for their skin. Due to the absence of hair, these dogs require protection from the sun and cold temperatures, and they also have a higher tendency towards skin irritations.
Basenji
Also referred to as Africa’s barkless dog, the Basenji breed does not bark like traditional dogs. Instead, they produce a yodeling sound or a howl. What’s more, this small canine has a shoulder height of approximately 17 inches.
That said, the Basenji is a peaceful dog breed who sheds minimally and requires very little grooming due to their short, fine brown and white coat. They are also recognized for their meticulousness. Much like a cat, they groom themselves, which helps in maintaining the cleanliness of your home.
Bolognese
The Bolognese — also known as Bolos — is a small dog breed with a soft, white coat. These pups have a great fondness for human company, second only to their love of play. Although they are hypoallergenic and don’t shed a lot, they are a high-maintenance breed and need frequent grooming to get rid of dead hair. Nonetheless, a bonus for prospective owners — this breed doesn’t drool!
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, easy-to-train, and cheerful small breed. They closely resemble their Standard Schnauzer counterpart. These dogs don’t shed much, and their flexibility means they can be comfortable in both city and country settings, as long as their owners are near. Like other canines, regular grooming and weekly brushing are important to keep Miniature Schnauzers looking neat and clean.
Scottish Terrier
Known for their confidence and large personality, the Scottish Terrier — or Scottie — is a distinctive Terrier breed. They have a wiry, weather-resistant coat that hardly sheds but needs regular grooming, brushing, and occasional hand-stripping to maintain coat health and the breed’s specific outline. Scotties are smart, self-reliant dogs with a robust prey drive. Consequently, owners should be cautious around smaller animals.
Lhasa Apso
Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso breed makes a superb canine companion. They balance a laid-back nature with playful tendencies, and find joy in energetic walks and cozy rests in their owner’s laps. While Lhasa Apsos are small dogs who don’t shed, their coats need upkeep. To avoid regular grooming and brushing of their long hair, many owners opt to keep them in a shorter “puppy cut.”
Mexican Hairless (Xoloitzcuintli)
The Mexican Hairless — also known as the Xoloitzcuintli — is a unique and ancient dog breed. This breed can be either hairless or coated and is notable for their calm demeanor. The minimal grooming requirements — particularly for the hairless variety — make this dog breed quite low-maintenance. However, you must still take precautions to protect their skin from environmental harm.
While the mostly hairless variation of the Xoloitzcuintli still has some hair on their heads, the coated variant’s hair is primarily short and flat. Those looking for a small, energetic pet who doesn’t shed will find the Mexican Hairless an excellent choice.
Miniature Poodle
If you adore Standard Poodles, the miniature version is probably going to steal your heart all the more! Poodles — regardless of size — are known for their minimal-shedding coats. As a matter of fact, these smart pups are hypoallergenic because their double-layered coats means hair sheds inward, not outward. However, Poodle hair is characterized as thick, curly or wavy, that requires regular grooming.
They have coats that vary in color, such as white, apricot or black. With a history as hunting dogs, it’s understandable why they possess an athletic and muscular build. Miniature Poodles are around 10–15 inches tall at the shoulders, and on average, they weigh up to 15 pounds.
Yorkshire Terrier
Ranked as America’s seventh most popular dog breed, these lively lap dogs are often described as “big dogs in small bodies” due to their larger-than-life personalities. Typically weighing under seven pounds, Yorkshire Terriers are known for their adventurous spirit. Despite their long, silky coats, Yorkies don’t shed as one might assume. Their coat is similar in texture to human hair and when regularly brushed, it adds to their overall appeal.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a breed with a rich pedigree who served as house pets during the Tang Dynasty. Also known as “little lion dogs,” they are found in multiple colors and patterns. They sport long, low-shedding, silky hair that when brushed, looks extremely royal — in line with their noble ancestry. This toy breed is robust and energetic. That said, their mild and trusting disposition makes them an ideal canine companion.
Maltese
Weighing in at a petite seven pounds, this ancient Greek breed is the epitome of a “lap dog.” In fact, endless cuddling sessions with the Maltese won’t have you reaching for a tissue — thanks to their hypoallergenic, low-shedding, all-white coats. Their soft fur can either be cut short for a more sporty look or left to grow out — based on your preferred level of maintenance.
Fun without the fuzz: Small dogs who don’t shed
Low-shedding small dogs make perfect companions, particularly for those with allergies or those who don’t have the time for high maintenance pets. These pooches provide all the affection, companionship, and joy that one seeks from pet ownership without the challenge of cleaning up dog hair. Despite their lack of shedding, these dogs still require appropriate care, love, and attention to thrive. Always ensure to consider your lifestyle and specific needs before choosing the breed. After all, every dog, whether they shed or not, deserves a loving and suitable home.
