Introduction
Are you tired of finding dog hair all over your couch, clothes, and floor? You’re not alone! Many pet lovers dream of owning a cute dog without the mess of shedding. That’s why small dog breeds that don’t shed have become so popular. They’re adorable, easy to manage, and perfect for apartments or allergy sufferers. In this post, we’ll explore 40 small dog breeds that don’t shed, so you can find your perfect, low-maintenance furry friend.
In This Article
Why Choose Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
If you love dogs but can’t stand the endless cleaning, small dog breeds that don’t shed are a dream come true. These breeds are usually hypoallergenic, meaning they produce less dander and loose fur. Plus, they fit perfectly in small homes and don’t require as much space to play. With the right grooming routine, you can enjoy the company of a cute companion without the extra work of vacuuming every day.
Characteristics of Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
Most small dog breeds that don’t shed have special coat types — like curly, silky, or wiry fur — that trap loose hair instead of letting it fall off. Regular brushing helps keep their coats clean and prevents tangles. Even though these dogs shed very little, they still need proper grooming to stay healthy and comfortable. Their coats often require trimming every few months to maintain that soft and shiny look.
The 40 Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
Group 1 – Popular Family-Friendly Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Maltese
The Maltese is one of the most charming small dog breeds that don’t shed. Known for its long, silky white coat, this breed is affectionate and gentle. Maltese dogs are great companions for families and apartment dwellers. They love attention, enjoy playtime, and hardly shed — though their luxurious coat needs regular brushing.
- Miniature Poodle
The Miniature Poodle is smart, stylish, and almost completely non-shedding. As one of the most intelligent small dog breeds that don’t shed, it’s easy to train and perfect for allergy sufferers. Their curly coat traps loose hair, and they come in fun colors like black, apricot, and white.
- Shih Tzu
This adorable little companion is famous for its royal history and charming looks. The Shih Tzu’s double coat doesn’t shed much, making it ideal for people who want a cute lap dog. They love cuddles and adapt well to small homes, making them one of the most loving small dog breeds that don’t shed.
- Bichon Frise
Fluffy, cheerful, and hypoallergenic — the Bichon Frise is a delight to have around. Its soft, curly coat hardly sheds, and its friendly nature makes it great with kids and other pets. Regular grooming keeps the Bichon’s coat in perfect condition, making it one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for families.
- Havanese
Originating from Cuba, the Havanese is affectionate, playful, and very loyal. This breed has a long, silky coat that doesn’t shed much and can be styled in many cute ways. It’s perfect for apartment living and enjoys being around people all the time.
Group 2 – Playful and Active Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Miniature Schnauzer
With its signature beard and bold personality, the Miniature Schnauzer is a confident little dog. Its wiry coat sheds very little, making it one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for active families. It’s intelligent, obedient, and loves to play outdoors.
- West Highland White Terrier (Westie)
The Westie is known for its cheerful attitude and distinctive white coat. Though it looks fluffy, this breed sheds very little when groomed regularly. Westies are full of energy and love adventure, making them a fun companion for active owners.
- Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
The Yorkie’s fine, silky coat makes it one of the most popular small dog breeds that don’t shed. Despite their tiny size, Yorkies are brave, loyal, and full of personality. Their hair grows like human hair, so regular trimming keeps them neat and stylish.
- Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is dignified, independent, and surprisingly affectionate. Its dense, wiry coat sheds very little, which makes it an excellent choice for tidy homes. Known for their loyalty and courage, Scotties form strong bonds with their owners.
- Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is clean, quiet, and almost odorless. This breed has a short, fine coat that barely sheds. It’s one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for people who prefer a calm, low-maintenance pet.
Group 3 – Calm and Gentle Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Lhasa Apso
Originally bred to guard Tibetan temples, the Lhasa Apso is loyal and confident. Its long, flowing coat is beautiful and low-shedding. Regular brushing keeps this little guardian looking neat and healthy.
- Coton de Tulear
This breed’s name comes from its cotton-like coat, which is soft and fluffy but doesn’t shed much. The Coton de Tulear is friendly, gentle, and loves spending time with its family. It’s one of the most affectionate small
- Chinese Crested
Known for its unique look — often hairless with tufts of fur on its head and feet — the Chinese Crested is an affectionate and playful breed. It sheds almost nothing and enjoys being pampered, making it perfect for stylish pet lovers.
- Brussels Griffon
Small in size but big in personality, the Brussels Griffon is a loyal companion. Its wiry coat sheds very little, and it’s known for its expressive face. They love human company and make great indoor pets
- Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is elegant, graceful, and extremely low-shedding. Its short coat requires minimal care, and it’s gentle and loving with its family. This breed is ideal for people who want a quiet, cuddly friend that doesn’t shed fur everywhere.
Group 4 – Smart and Trainable Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Toy Poodle
Just like its larger cousins, the Toy Poodle is intelligent, friendly, and hypoallergenic. Its curly coat makes it one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed. Toy Poodles are great for training and love learning new tricks.
- Border Terrier
This energetic little dog has a dense, wiry coat that sheds very little. Border Terriers are affectionate and make wonderful companions for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
- Cairn Terrier
Famous as Toto from The Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is brave, curious, and loyal. Its thick, shaggy coat sheds minimally and protects it from harsh weather, making it perfect for active owners.
- Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is one of the most cheerful small dog breeds that don’t shed. It’s friendly, easy to train, and gets along well with other dogs. Its coat needs only light grooming, making it simple to maintain.
- Toy Fox Terrier
Small but fearless, the Toy Fox Terrier has a smooth, short coat that sheds very little. It’s smart, playful, and loves being part of family activities. Ideal for those looking for a tiny yet confident companion.
Group 5 – Hypoallergenic Companions for Allergy Sufferers
- Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, known as the “Monkey Dog,” has a dense, wiry coat that hardly sheds. It’s playful, alert, and loves being the center of attention. This tiny pup is one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for allergy-prone homes, thanks to its minimal dander and easy grooming routine.
- Bolognese
The Bolognese is a calm, affectionate companion with a soft, fluffy coat that barely sheds. Its gentle nature makes it perfect for apartment living. Regular brushing keeps its coat smooth and free from mats, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a low-shedding friend.
- Silky Terrier
This Australian breed looks similar to a Yorkie but has a slightly longer, shinier coat. The Silky Terrier’s fine hair doesn’t shed much and grows continuously, just like human hair. Lively and loyal, it’s one of the most elegant small dog breeds that don’t shed.
- Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is brave, intelligent, and full of energy. Its rough coat is weather-resistant and low-shedding, perfect for active owners who love outdoor fun. With its cheerful nature, this breed makes every day brighter
- Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier’s tight, wiry coat traps loose hair, keeping your home clean. It’s smart, adventurous, and loves to play. Regular hand-stripping helps maintain its signature coat texture, making it one of the most classic small dog breeds that don’t shed.
Group 6 – Elegant and Stylish Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Miniature Pinscher
Nicknamed the “King of Toys,” the Miniature Pinscher is confident, bold, and full of energy. Its sleek coat barely sheds, and its small size makes grooming easy. This breed’s spirited personality and neat appearance make it a favorite among dog lovers.
- Toy Manchester Terrier
This small, athletic dog has a smooth, shiny coat that sheds very little. The Toy Manchester Terrier is intelligent, loyal, and loves to stay active. If you’re looking for stylish small dog breeds that don’t shed, this elegant terrier is a perfect match.
- Xoloitzcuintli (Toy Variety)
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli has little to no fur, which means virtually zero shedding. Calm, affectionate, and unique, this ancient breed is perfect for allergy sufferers who want something rare and special.
- Löwchen (Little Lion Dog)
The Löwchen gets its name from its lion-like haircut and brave personality. This affectionate breed has a soft, wavy coat that doesn’t shed much and is easy to maintain. It’s one of the most loving small dog breeds that don’t shed and thrives on companionship.
- American Hairless Terrier
As its name suggests, the American Hairless Terrier has no coat at all — meaning no shedding, ever! Playful and alert, it’s great for families who want a truly allergy-friendly dog with a fun, outgoing spirit.
Group 7 – Adorable Designer and Rare Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Cavapoo
A mix between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, the Cavapoo combines intelligence with sweetness. Its curly, low-shedding coat makes it a top pick among small dog breeds that don’t shed. Cavapoos are gentle, social, and love everyone they meet.
- Yorkipoo
The Yorkipoo is a designer mix of a Yorkshire Terrier and a Poodle. It’s small, energetic, and incredibly affectionate. Its hypoallergenic coat doesn’t shed much, and it’s easy to train — perfect for first-time dog owners.
- Maltipoo
This adorable blend of a Maltese and a Poodle is a crowd favorite. The Maltipoo’s soft, curly coat sheds very little, making it ideal for people with allergies. Friendly, intelligent, and loving, it’s one of the most popular small dog breeds that don’t shed.
- Schnoodle
The Schnoodle combines the playful Miniature Schnauzer and the smart Poodle. It’s known for its happy personality and curly, low-shedding coat. Loyal and adaptable, the Schnoodle thrives in families that enjoy both play and cuddles.
- Havapoo
Another lovable designer breed, the Havapoo mixes Havanese and Poodle traits. Its coat is wavy and soft, and it sheds very little. Havapoos are gentle, affectionate, and make excellent companions for people of all ages.
Group 8 – Lesser-Known Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
- Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier has a unique, bushy coat that sheds very little. It’s brave, independent, and loyal to its family. Regular grooming keeps its coat in top condition, and its cheerful personality adds joy to any home.
- Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This charming little terrier has a soft, fluffy topknot and a wiry coat that barely sheds. Friendly and affectionate, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier loves attention and forms deep bonds with its family, making it one of the sweetest small dog breeds that don’t shed.
- Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is rare but incredibly loyal. Its silky, wavy coat is easy to maintain and sheds very little. Calm yet playful, it’s a great choice for quiet households that still enjoy occasional fun and play.
- Bedlington Terrier
Resembling a little lamb, the Bedlington Terrier is graceful, gentle, and hypoallergenic. Its unique coat is crisp yet soft, and it hardly sheds. This breed loves to play but also enjoys curling up beside its favorite person.
- Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is strong, steady, and affectionate. Its dense, wiry coat sheds very little, and it’s known for being a calm yet courageous companion. This breed is perfect for those seeking loyalty and low maintenance in one furry package.
Grooming Tips for Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
Even though small dog breeds that don’t shed lose less hair, they still need regular grooming. Brush their coats several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Use a gentle dog shampoo every few weeks to keep their skin healthy and odor-free. For curly or long-haired breeds, a professional groomer can help maintain their coat’s shape and cleanliness. Proper grooming keeps your pup looking adorable while reducing allergens in your home.
Health and Care Tips for Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
Caring for small dog breeds that don’t shed goes beyond grooming. Provide a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins for shiny coats and strong bones. Regular exercise — even short walks or indoor playtime — helps them stay happy and fit. Schedule routine vet checkups to monitor their health, teeth, and weight. Because these breeds are often indoor pets, mental stimulation like puzzle toys and training games is just as important as physical activity.
Choosing the Right Small Dog for You
When choosing among small dog breeds that don’t shed, think about your lifestyle and personality. Some dogs love constant activity, while others prefer calm cuddle time. If you’re a busy person, a low-maintenance breed like the Italian Greyhound or Xoloitzcuintli might be ideal. For families with kids, playful options like the Havanese or Bichon Frise are perfect. Take your time to meet different breeds — the right dog will fit naturally into your life and bring endless love without the mess of shedding fur.
🐾 Conclusion
When it comes to finding the perfect pet, small dog breeds that don’t shed are ideal for families, allergy sufferers, or anyone who wants a clean home without the constant fur cleanup. These breeds combine the best of both worlds — adorable looks and easy maintenance. From the intelligent Poodle to the loving Bichon Frise, each of these little companions offers unique charm and personality. If you’ve been dreaming of a cuddly, low-shedding pup, you’re bound to find your match among these wonderful small dog breeds that don’t shed.
FAQs About Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
FAQ 1: What are the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for families with kids?
Some of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed for families with children include the Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, and Shih Tzu. These dogs are gentle, playful, and affectionate, making them great companions for households with young kids.
FAQ 2: Do small dog breeds that don’t shed still need grooming?
Yes! Even though they don’t shed much, small dog breeds that don’t shed require regular grooming. Brushing, trimming, and bathing every few weeks help prevent mats and keep their coats shiny and healthy.
FAQ 3: Are small dog breeds that don’t shed hypoallergenic?
The selection of small dog breeds that don’t shed is particularly advantageous for allergy-sensitive families. Breeds such as the Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, and Shih Tzu not only lack excessive shedding but also demonstrate a gentle temperament, making them well-suited for children. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat health and minimize allergens, despite their low-shedding nature. Additionally, many of these breeds, including the Poodle and Bichon Frise, are regarded as hypoallergenic, providing a suitable option for those with allergies.
FAQ 4: What is the calmest small dog breed that doesn’t shed?
Small dog breeds that don’t shed offer an ideal solution for allergy-sensitive individuals, combining minimal shedding with a friendly disposition. Breeds such as the Poodle and Bichon Frise are noteworthy for their hypoallergenic qualities and calm demeanor, making them excellent companions for families seeking allergy-friendly pets.
FAQ 5: How often should I bathe small dog breeds that don’t shed?
It’s best to bathe small dog breeds that don’t shed every 4–6 weeks. This keeps their coats clean and helps control oil buildup without drying out their skin. Always use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo.
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