20 Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed Much: Ideal for Allergy Sufferers and Clean Homes

Small dog breeds often appeal to pet owners seeking compact canine companions.

For those concerned about shedding, certain small breeds shed minimally, making them ideal choices for allergy sufferers or neat freaks.

These low-shedding small dogs require less grooming and leave fewer hairs around the home.

While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, these breeds produce less dander and loose fur.

From Yorkies to Maltese, several small breeds offer the joys of dog ownership with reduced shedding concerns.

1. Basenji

The Basenji is a small dog breed known for its minimal shedding. These compact canines typically weigh between 20 to 25 pounds and stand about 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder.

Basenjis have short, fine coats that require little grooming. Their fur comes in various colors, including chestnut red, black, brindle, and tricolor.

One unique characteristic of the Basenji is its inability to bark. Instead, these dogs produce a distinctive yodel-like sound called a “baroo.”

Originally from Central Africa, Basenjis were bred as hunting dogs. They possess a high energy level and benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation.

While Basenjis shed minimally, they are not completely hypoallergenic. Regular brushing can help reduce loose hair and keep their coat healthy.

2. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy dog breed known for its minimal shedding. These cheerful companions have a soft, white coat that grows continuously, requiring regular grooming to maintain its appearance.

Bichon Frises typically weigh between 10 to 20 pounds and stand about 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a coarse, curly outer coat.

Despite their fluffy appearance, Bichon Frises are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding nature. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers or those who prefer less pet hair around the home.

Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential to keep a Bichon Frise’s coat healthy and tangle-free. These dogs are known for their playful personalities and make great family pets.

3. Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terriers are small, sturdy dogs known for their minimal shedding. These Scottish natives have a double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance and prevent matting.

Cairn Terriers typically stand 9-13 inches tall and weigh between 13-18 pounds. Their wiry outer coat comes in various colors, including cream, wheaten, red, gray, and brindle.

These alert and active dogs make excellent companions for families and individuals alike. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train.

Cairn Terriers have a playful and curious nature. They enjoy daily walks and playtime to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

While they shed minimally, Cairn Terriers do require regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair from their coat. This helps maintain their appearance and reduce loose hair around the home.

4. Cotons de Tulear

Cotons de Tulear are small, fluffy dogs known for their cotton-like coats. These charming companions originated in Madagascar and are prized for their low-shedding qualities.

The breed’s soft, white fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Despite their luxurious appearance, Cotons de Tulear shed minimally, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

These dogs typically weigh between 8 and 15 pounds and stand about 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Cotons de Tulear are known for their playful and affectionate personalities.

They adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. Cotons de Tulear are intelligent and enjoy learning tricks, making them easy to train.

These dogs have a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years. Regular exercise and mental stimulation help keep Cotons de Tulear healthy and happy.

5. Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is a unique breed known for its distinctive curly coat and low-shedding qualities. These intelligent dogs have a waterproof double coat that requires regular grooming but sheds minimally.

Irish Water Spaniels typically stand 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 45 to 65 pounds. Their coat is liver-colored and features tight curls that help repel water.

Despite their size, these dogs are considered relatively low-shedding. Their coat continues to grow and needs trimming every few months to maintain its appearance and functionality.

Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and remove any loose hair. This breed is often recommended for people with mild allergies due to its reduced shedding.

Irish Water Spaniels are energetic, playful, and make excellent family pets. They excel in water activities and various dog sports, reflecting their history as working water retrievers.

6. Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terriers are known for their distinctive blue-gray coats and minimal shedding. This breed originated in Ireland and was originally used for hunting and farm work.

Adult Kerry Blues typically stand 17-19 inches tall and weigh between 30-40 pounds. Their soft, wavy coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

These intelligent and energetic dogs make excellent companions for active owners. They are loyal, playful, and adapt well to various living situations, including apartments with sufficient exercise.

Kerry Blue Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to maintain their wellbeing.

With proper training and socialization, Kerry Blues can get along well with children and other pets. They have a strong prey drive, so early socialization is crucial.

7. Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small to medium-sized Italian breed known for its low-shedding coat. These dogs have a dense, curly coat that resembles wool, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Lagotto Romagnolos require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Their fur should be trimmed every few months to prevent matting and tangling.

Originally bred as water retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolos are intelligent and energetic dogs. They excel in various activities, including obedience, agility, and truffle hunting.

These dogs are affectionate with their families and generally good with children. They have a friendly disposition but may be slightly reserved with strangers.

Lagotto Romagnolos typically weigh between 24 to 35 pounds and stand 16 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them suitable for both apartments and houses with yards.

8. Maltese

The Maltese is a small, elegant breed known for its long, silky white coat. Despite their luxurious appearance, these dogs shed very little, making them an excellent choice for those with allergies or who prefer a low-maintenance pet.

Maltese dogs typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living or small homes.

This breed is intelligent, playful, and affectionate. Maltese dogs often form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being the center of attention. They can be good with children when properly socialized.

Regular grooming is essential for Maltese dogs to prevent matting of their long, fine hair. Daily brushing and occasional baths help maintain their coat’s pristine appearance.

9. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are small, robust dogs known for their distinctive bearded faces and bushy eyebrows. They typically stand 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 11 to 20 pounds.

This breed has a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a wiry topcoat. Miniature Schnauzers shed minimally, making them a good choice for those with allergies or who prefer less hair around the home.

Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat. Brushing two to three times a week helps remove loose hair and prevent matting. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks keeps their coat in optimal condition.

Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, alert, and affectionate dogs. They adapt well to various living situations and enjoy being part of family activities. These dogs require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy.

10. Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a unique hairless breed originating from ancient Peru. These dogs come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The small variety typically stands 10-16 inches tall and weighs 8.5-17.5 pounds.

Despite their lack of coat, Peruvian Inca Orchids are not completely hypoallergenic. They produce minimal dander and shed very little, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

This breed has smooth, warm skin that can be solid-colored or have spots. Their skin requires regular care, including sunscreen application and moisturizing to prevent dryness.

Peruvian Inca Orchids are intelligent, alert, and loyal companions. They excel in various dog sports and make excellent watchdogs. These dogs thrive on human companionship and need consistent training and socialization.

11. Poodle

Poodles are known for their intelligence and low-shedding coats. These dogs come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, with the latter two being popular choices for small dog enthusiasts.

Poodles have a single-layer coat of curly, dense fur that grows continuously. This unique coat type results in minimal shedding, making them a great option for allergy sufferers.

Regular grooming is essential for Poodles to maintain their coat health and prevent matting. Many owners opt for professional grooming services to keep their Poodles looking their best.

Despite their reputation as high-maintenance dogs, Poodles are actually quite versatile and adaptable. They excel in various activities, from obedience training to agility competitions.

Poodles are generally friendly, sociable, and good with children. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, and they often form strong bonds with their owners.

12. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized, athletic canines known for their low-shedding coats. These intelligent and energetic dogs were originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal.

Their coats come in two varieties: curly or wavy. Both types require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their hypoallergenic qualities. Portuguese Water Dogs shed minimally, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.

These dogs are highly trainable and excel in various activities, including obedience, agility, and water sports. They form strong bonds with their families and typically get along well with children and other pets.

Portuguese Water Dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They thrive in active households that can provide them with daily physical activity and engaging tasks.

13. Schnoodle

Schnoodles are a popular designer breed, resulting from crossing Schnauzers with Poodles. These charming dogs inherit the low-shedding qualities of both parent breeds, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Schnoodles come in various sizes, depending on the Poodle parent used in breeding. They can range from toy to standard sizes, typically weighing between 10 to 50 pounds.

The coat of a Schnoodle is usually soft, wavy, or curly. Their fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its hypoallergenic properties. Brushing two to three times a week and professional grooming every six to eight weeks are recommended.

Schnoodles are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature. They often form strong bonds with their families and make great companions for various households, including those with children or other pets.

14. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their long, silky coats. Despite their luxurious appearance, they are considered low-shedding breeds. Their hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, rather than shedding seasonally.

Regular grooming is essential for Shih Tzus to maintain their coat and minimize loose hair. Daily brushing helps prevent matting and removes any loose strands. Many owners opt for shorter haircuts to simplify maintenance.

Shih Tzus are often recommended for people with mild allergies due to their low-shedding nature. However, no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, as they still produce dander and saliva that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.

These charming dogs have a friendly temperament and adapt well to various living situations. Their small size and relatively low exercise needs make them suitable for apartment living.

15. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized breed known for its soft, silky coat. Despite their fluffy appearance, these dogs shed minimally, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Wheaten Terriers have a single coat that grows continuously, similar to human hair. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting and maintain their signature look.

These friendly, energetic dogs typically weigh between 30-40 pounds. They have a square build and stand about 17-19 inches tall at the shoulder.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers come in various shades of wheat, from pale beige to golden. Their coat lightens as they age, often starting darker in puppyhood.

Originally bred in Ireland as farm dogs, Wheaten Terriers are intelligent and adaptable. They excel in various activities, including obedience, agility, and therapy work.

16. Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless type has smooth skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and feet. Powderpuffs have a soft, silky coat covering their entire body.

Both varieties shed minimally, making them excellent choices for allergy sufferers. The hairless variety requires regular skin care to prevent dryness and sunburn.

Chinese Cresteds are small, elegant dogs weighing between 8-12 pounds. They are known for their affectionate nature and strong bond with their owners.

These dogs are intelligent and easy to train. They excel in agility and obedience competitions. Chinese Cresteds are adaptable to various living situations, including apartments.

They have a lifespan of 13-18 years and generally enjoy good health. Regular vet check-ups and dental care are important for maintaining their well-being.

17. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are elegant, small-sized sighthounds known for their sleek appearance and minimal shedding. These graceful dogs typically weigh between 7 and 14 pounds and stand 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their short, fine coat requires little maintenance and sheds minimally. Regular brushing and occasional baths keep their coat in good condition. Italian Greyhounds come in various colors, including fawn, blue, black, and white.

These dogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. They enjoy cuddling and often seek warmth by snuggling under blankets. Italian Greyhounds are generally quiet and well-suited for apartment living.

Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs are athletic and enjoy daily walks or play sessions. They have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals, so a secure, fenced area is recommended for outdoor activities.

18. Havanese

The Havanese is a charming small dog breed known for its low-shedding coat. These dogs typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and stand about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Havanese dogs have a long, silky double coat that comes in various colors and patterns. Their hair grows continuously and requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Despite their luxurious coats, Havanese do not shed much. They are often considered hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies.

These dogs are friendly, playful, and intelligent. They excel as family companions and are known for their affectionate nature. Havanese are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.

Regular brushing and occasional baths help keep the Havanese coat clean and healthy. Professional grooming every few weeks may be necessary to maintain their coat’s appearance and condition.

19. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are small, elegant dogs with a long, silky coat. Despite their luxurious appearance, they shed minimally, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a low-shedding companion.

Yorkies have hair rather than fur, which grows continuously like human hair. This characteristic contributes to their reduced shedding. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat and prevent matting.

These petite pups typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them well-suited for apartment living and small spaces.

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their lively personalities and confident demeanor. They often form strong bonds with their owners and can be protective despite their small stature.

20. West Highland White Terrier

West Highland White Terriers, affectionately known as Westies, are small, sturdy dogs with a distinctive white coat. Their fur is double-layered, with a soft undercoat and a harder outer layer.

Westies shed minimally, making them a good choice for those seeking a low-shedding dog. Regular brushing helps maintain their coat and reduce loose hair.

These terriers are known for their confident and friendly personalities. They typically stand about 10-11 inches tall and weigh between 15-20 pounds.

Westies are energetic and playful, enjoying daily walks and playtime. They can adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they receive adequate exercise.

Originally bred for hunting small prey, Westies retain their keen instincts and may chase small animals. Early socialization and training are important for these intelligent and sometimes stubborn dogs.

Grooming and Care Tips

Proper grooming and care are essential for maintaining the health and appearance of small, low-shedding dog breeds. Regular upkeep helps prevent matting, reduces allergens, and keeps coats looking their best.

Regular Brushing Techniques

Brush small, low-shedding dogs 2-3 times per week to remove loose hair and debris. Use gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritating the skin. Pay extra attention to areas prone to tangles, like behind the ears and under the legs.

For longer-haired breeds, section the coat and brush in layers to reach the undercoat. Mist the fur lightly with water or a detangling spray before brushing to minimize breakage.

Short-haired breeds benefit from brushing with a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to distribute natural oils and remove dead skin cells.

Recommended Grooming Tools

Slicker brushes work well for most small, low-shedding breeds. These brushes have fine, bent wire bristles that effectively remove loose fur and detangle the coat.

Pin brushes are ideal for dogs with longer or silky coats. They have widely-spaced metal pins that glide through the hair without pulling.

Grooming tools for small, low-shedding breeds:

• Slicker brush
• Pin brush
• Metal comb (for detangling)
• Dematting tool (for stubborn knots)
• Nail clippers
• Dog-specific shampoo and conditioner

Choose tools with comfortable handles and appropriate sizes for small dogs. Introduce grooming tools gradually to help your dog feel at ease during grooming sessions.

Benefits of Low-Shedding Dogs

Low-shedding dogs offer significant advantages for pet owners. They produce less dander and loose hair, making them more comfortable to live with and easier to care for.

Ideal for Allergies

Low-shedding breeds can be a great choice for people with allergies. These dogs produce less dander, which is often the main trigger for allergic reactions. Dander consists of tiny flakes of skin that can cause sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms.

Many low-shedding breeds have hair instead of fur. This hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, and sheds less frequently. Some popular hypoallergenic breeds include Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Maltese.

It’s important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic. However, low-shedding breeds can significantly reduce allergy symptoms for many people.

Easy Maintenance

Low-shedding dogs require less grooming and cleaning. This makes them ideal for busy pet owners or those who prefer a tidy home. These breeds typically don’t leave hair all over furniture, clothing, and floors.

Regular brushing is still necessary to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. However, the frequency and intensity of grooming sessions are often reduced compared to heavy shedders.

Low-shedding dogs also tend to have less odor. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for owners who are sensitive to pet smells.

Many small low-shedding breeds are well-suited for apartment living due to their minimal shedding and compact size.