Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed Much
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Shedding Matters
If you’ve ever owned a dog, you know the struggle. Fur on your couch, your clothes, your bed—everywhere. For people with allergies or anyone who loves a tidy home, shedding can be a dealbreaker.
The good news? Some small dogs that don’t shed make perfect companions without the cleanup hassle. These breeds are ideal if you want a furry friend but can’t handle constant vacuuming or sneezing.
Whether you live in an apartment, have allergies, or simply prefer less mess, choosing a low-shedding breed can transform your pet ownership experience.
Do Non-Shedding Dogs Really Exist?
Here’s the truth: no dog is 100% shed-free. Every dog loses some hair, just like humans do.
But certain breeds shed so minimally that you’ll barely notice. These small dogs that don’t shed have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously rather than falling out seasonally. Think poodles or terriers with their curly, wiry coats.
The term “hypoallergenic” gets thrown around a lot, but it’s not entirely accurate. These dogs produce less dander (dead skin cells), which is what actually triggers most allergies. Less shedding usually means less dander floating around your home.
So while we say “don’t shed,” what we really mean is “shed very little compared to other breeds.”
Top Small Dogs That Don’t Shed
Here are eight fantastic small dogs that don’t shed much, perfect for anyone wanting a cleaner home and an adorable companion.
1. Miniature Poodle
Poodles are the poster children for low-shedding dogs. Their curly coat traps loose hair instead of releasing it into your home. They’re intelligent, trainable, and come in toy and miniature sizes.
2. Bichon Frise
These fluffy white cloud-like dogs are cheerful and affectionate. Their soft, curly coat sheds minimally but needs regular grooming to prevent matting.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies have silky hair that grows long and sheds very little. They’re spunky, confident, and weigh just 4-7 pounds. Perfect for apartment living.
4. Shih Tzu
Originally bred as palace companions, Shih Tzus have long, flowing hair that sheds minimally. They’re friendly, adaptable, and love being lap dogs.
5. Maltese
Pure white and gorgeous, Maltese dogs have silky coats that don’t shed much. They’re gentle, playful, and typically weigh under 7 pounds.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
With their distinctive bearded face and wiry coat, Miniature Schnauzers shed very little. They’re energetic, loyal, and make excellent watchdogs despite their small size.
7. Havanese
Cuba’s national dog is a cheerful companion with a soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. They’re social, trainable, and great with families.
8. West Highland White Terrier (Westie)
These confident little white dogs have a double coat that sheds less than you’d expect. They’re independent, friendly, and full of personality.
Comparison Table: Small Dogs That Don’t Shed
| Breed | Shedding Level | Grooming Needs | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature Poodle | Very Low | High (every 4-6 weeks) | Intelligent, Active |
| Bichon Frise | Very Low | High (every 4-6 weeks) | Cheerful, Gentle |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Very Low | Moderate (weekly brushing) | Bold, Confident |
| Shih Tzu | Very Low | High (daily brushing) | Friendly, Outgoing |
| Maltese | Very Low | High (daily brushing) | Gentle, Playful |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Low | Moderate (every 6-8 weeks) | Spirited, Loyal |
| Havanese | Very Low | Moderate (2-3x weekly) | Social, Adaptable |
| West Highland Terrier | Low | Moderate (weekly brushing) | Independent, Hardy |
Small Dogs That Shed Less vs Don’t Shed at All
Let’s clarify the difference. Some small dogs that don’t shed are virtually shedding-free, like Poodles and Bichons. Others are “low-shedding,” meaning they drop some hair but far less than breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds.
Low-shedding breeds include:
- Miniature Schnauzer
- West Highland Terrier
- Cairn Terrier
Minimal-shedding breeds include:
- Poodles (all sizes)
- Maltese
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Bichon Frise
The key factor is coat type. Dogs with hair coats (continuous growth) shed less than dogs with fur coats (seasonal shedding). Curly and wiry coats also trap loose hair better than straight coats.
If you have severe allergies, stick with breeds like Poodles or Bichons. If you just want less mess, any of the small dogs that don’t shed much will work beautifully.
Grooming Tips to Keep Shedding Minimal
Even low-shedding breeds need proper care. Here’s how to keep your home even cleaner:
Brush regularly. Most small dogs that don’t shed need brushing 2-3 times weekly. This removes loose hair before it falls out and prevents matting.
Schedule professional grooming. Breeds like Poodles and Bichons need haircuts every 4-6 weeks. A groomer can also trim nails and clean ears.
Bathe monthly. Regular baths remove dead skin cells and loose hair. Use dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
Check for mats. Curly and long coats can develop tangles. Check behind ears, under legs, and around the collar area frequently.
Feed quality food. Healthy skin and coat start from within. High-quality dog food with omega fatty acids promotes healthier, stronger hair.
Stay on top of health. Excessive shedding can signal allergies, parasites, or illness. If your low-shedding dog suddenly starts losing more hair, visit your vet.
FAQs About Small Dogs That Don’t Shed
What is the smallest dog that doesn’t shed?
The Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier are among the smallest, weighing 4-7 pounds. Both shed very minimally and make excellent apartment dogs.
Are small dogs that don’t shed good for allergies?
Most are better for allergy sufferers because they produce less dander. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Spend time with the breed before adopting if you have allergies.
Do small dogs that don’t shed still need grooming?
Yes, often more than shedding breeds. Their hair grows continuously and needs regular trimming, brushing, and maintenance to stay healthy and tangle-free.
What’s the easiest small dog that doesn’t shed?
Miniature Schnauzers are relatively low-maintenance. They need grooming every 6-8 weeks and weekly brushing, but they’re hardy and easy to care for.
Can I reduce shedding in any dog?
Yes. Regular brushing, quality nutrition, proper hydration, and managing allergies or skin conditions can minimize shedding in all breeds.
Do mixed breeds shed less?
It depends on their parent breeds. A Poodle mix (Doodle) often inherits low-shedding traits, but there’s no guarantee. Mixed breeds can be unpredictable.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect small dogs that don’t shed can change your life if you value a clean home or struggle with allergies. From the elegant Maltese to the spirited Miniature Schnauzer, these breeds offer companionship without the constant cleanup.
Remember that “non-shedding” really means “minimal shedding,” and these dogs do require regular grooming. But the trade-off—less fur on your furniture, fewer allergy symptoms, and more time enjoying your pet—is absolutely worth it.
When choosing your new companion, consider your lifestyle, grooming commitment, and personality preferences. Each of these small dogs that don’t shed has unique traits beyond their low-shedding coats.
Ready to welcome a low-shedding small dog into your home? Research breeders carefully, visit local shelters, or connect with breed-specific rescues. Your future clean floors and happy snuggles await!
