We're an affiliate
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it!
Shedding is one of the biggest concerns most prospective dog owners have before they decide to commit.
When you choose a pet from dog breeds that don’t shed, you can make your life better, especially if you have allergies.
The good news is that dozens of purebred dogs produce very little loose hair, and they come in every size category.
However, it’s important to emphasize that no dog is completely shed-free! Every canine loses some hair as part of its natural growth cycle.
But certain breeds have coat types that trap loose hair or produce so little of it that the effect on your home is negligible. These are the breeds we focus on in this guide.
We have organized into this low shedding dog breeds list that fits your living situation, activity level, and personal preferences.
Pin this on Pinterest!
What Is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
The word ‘hypoallergenic’ gets used a lot, but it can be misleading. It suggests a reduced likelihood of triggering allergies, but it does not mean allergen-free.
The primary protein responsible for most dog allergies is Can f 1, which is found in a dog’s saliva, urine, and skin cells (dander), not in the hair itself.
When a dog sheds, loose hair carries dander into the air and onto surfaces, and this is how allergens spread throughout a home.
Breeds that shed less tend to disperse less dander, and that is why they are often labeled hypoallergenic.
According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 10 to 20% of the global population is allergic to dogs or cats.
This can only mean that the demand for low shedding hypoallergenic dog breeds continues to increase.
So, when we talk about the best dogs for pet allergy sufferers, we are really talking about breeds that may be easier to tolerate, not dogs that remove the problem entirely.
Grooming also plays an important role. Low shedding dogs breed that goes weeks without brushing can still release dander through matted, unkempt fur.
Regular bathing, brushing, and coat maintenance, especially when paired with habits such as vacuuming will do more for allergy management than breed selection alone.
Large Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
Several big non shedding dog breeds carry coats that produce minimal loose hair, though most require dedicated grooming routines to stay that way.
The following large dog breeds that don’t shed range from athletic sporting dogs to powerful guardians, and each one brings something distinct to the table.
1. Afghan Hound
Breed Overview
Origin: Afghanistan (with historical roots across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India)
Height: 25 to 27 inches
Weight: 50 to 60 pounds
Afghan Hound is one of the oldest known dog breeds in the world and also one of the most good looking.
Their long, flowing coat looks like it would leave hair on every surface, but Afghans are surprisingly light shedders.
If you’ve ever touched their silky hair, you’ll notice it is closer in texture to human hair than to typical dog fur, and it grows in a continuous cycle rather than shedding in seasonal bursts.
That said, this coat demands huge commitment. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and mats, and regular baths help keep the hair clean and manageable.
Afghans were originally bred to hunt large prey in the mountainous terrain of Central Asia, and they retain a strong prey drive and an independent streak.
They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Afghans tend to be reserved with strangers but form deep bonds with their families.
They are not the easiest breed to train, but owners who appreciate an elegant, athletic companion will find the Afghan Hound rewarding.
2. Standard Poodle
Breed Overview
Origin: Germany (further developed in France)
Height: Over 15 inches (typically 18 to 24 inches)
Weight: 40 to 70 pounds
The Standard Poodle is without a doubt one of the most recognized names among non shedding dog breeds.
Their dense, curly coat traps loose hair within the curl pattern instead of releasing it into the environment. This is why Poodles consistently top lists of best non shedding dog breeds.
This coat does require professional grooming every four to six weeks, and daily brushing between appointments prevents mats from forming.
Owners who want to explore different looks for their Poodle dogs can choose from a wide range of grooming styles.
Aside from their coat, Standard Poodles are among the most intelligent dog breeds in the world.
They were originally bred as water retrievers in Germany and excel in obedience, agility, and even scent work.
Poodles’ eagerness to learn and their gentle temperament make them well-suited for families. They are frequently chosen as service dogs due to their trainability and hypoallergenic coats.
For those interested in knowing more about this breed, our guide on big Poodle dogs covers everything in greater depth.
3. Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Overview
Origin: Ireland
Height: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 45 to 68 pounds
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of all spaniel breeds and one of the oldest, with records tracing back to at least the 1830s in Ireland.
Its most distinguishing physical feature is a dense, tightly curled liver-colored coat that is naturally water-repellent.
The coat sheds very little, but it does need brushing every few days and trimming every six to eight weeks to prevent the curls from matting.
Irish Water Spaniels are playful, curious, and occasionally mischievous, with an energy level that demands daily vigorous exercise.
Swimming is a natural outlet for these clowns of the spaniel family, and they perform well in dock diving and field trials.
For active households near waterbodies, the Irish Water Spaniel is one of the most capable and entertaining low shedding dogs available.
4. Giant Schnauzer
Breed Overview
Origin: Germany
Height: 23.5 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 55 to 85 pounds
Developed in the Bavarian Alps to drive cattle to market, the Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the three Schnauzer varieties and a formidable working dog.
Its harsh, wiry double coat sheds minimally, but it does require hand-stripping. This is a process where dead hair is pulled from the root using a stripping knife.
Hand stripping should be done at least twice per year to maintain proper coat texture. Between stripping sessions, weekly brushing and regular beard cleaning keep the coat in good condition.
Giant Schnauzers are bold, territorial, and fiercely loyal to their families. They need a confident owner who can provide consistent training and ample physical exercise.
They have served in police and military roles across Europe, and their sharp intellect makes them quick learners, though they can be strong-willed.
This is not the best pick for someone who wants a laid-back first dog, but they are remarkable for people who enjoy training and consistency.
5. Black Russian Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: Russia (Soviet Union)
Height: 26 to 30 inches
Weight: 80 to 130 pounds
The Black Russian Terrier, is not a true terrier! These dogs were developed by the Soviet military’s Red Star Kennel in the late 1940s and early 1950s.
Breeding was done by crossing over 17 breeds, including the Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier, and Newfoundland.
The goal was to create the ultimate military guard dog, and the result was a massive, powerful breed with a dense, wavy double coat that sheds very little.
The coat does produce small fuzzy clumps rather than loose hairs, and consistent brushing two to three times per week keeps this under control.
Black Russian Terriers are calm, confident, and deeply bonded to their families. They are protective by nature and naturally suspicious of strangers, which makes them good guard dogs.
Despite their imposing size, Black Russian Terriers are known to be gentle with children in their own household.
This breed thrives on close human contact and should not be isolated in a kennel or yard, they need to live alongside their people.
Early socialization and firm but fair training are critical, because an untrained Black Russian Terrier can become dominant and difficult to manage.
6. Airedale Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: England (Aire Valley, Yorkshire)
Height: About 23 inches
Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
Known as the ‘King of Terriers,’ the Airedale is the largest breed in the terrier group. Their hard, wiry coat is dense and lies close to the body, producing very little shedding.
Like other wire-coated breeds, the Airedale benefits from hand-stripping to maintain coat texture and color.
Many pet owners, however, opt for clipping, which is simpler but it can soften the coat over time.
Airedales were originally bred in Yorkshire to hunt otters and rats along the River Aire, and they later served as messenger and guard dogs during World War I.
They are versatile, athletic, and have a spirited personality that can lean toward stubbornness if not channeled through structured training.
Airedales do well in active households and enjoy activities such as hiking and competitive obedience.
Their combination of size, low shedding, and energetic temperament makes them one of the standout non shedding dog breeds for owners who want a large, capable companion.
7. Bouvier des Flandres
Breed Overview
Origin: Belgium (Flanders region)
Height: 23.5 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 70 to 110 pounds
The Bouvier des Flandres is one of the big non shedding dog breeds with a thick, rough double coat and a distinctive beard that gives them a rugged appearance.
Originally bred for farm work, which included herding cattle, pulling carts, and guarding property, the Bouvier is a tireless worker with a calm, steady temperament.
Their tousled coat sheds minimally, but it does trap debris and requires thorough brushing at least two to three times per week.
Bouviers are loyal, courageous, and protective of their families. They tend to be reserved with strangers but are not typically aggressive without cause.
Their intelligence and work ethic make them responsive to training, and they have been used in police work, search and rescue, and as guide dogs for the visually impaired.
The Bouvier des Flandres is a solid choice among for owners who want a dependable, hard-working dog that also keeps shedding to a minimum.
8. Komondor
Breed Overview
Origin: Hungary
Height: 25.5 to 27.5 inches minimum
Weight: 80 to 130 pounds
The Komondor entire body is covered in heavy, white, naturally forming cords that resemble a mop or, more accurately, dreadlocks.
This coat was developed over centuries to help the Komondor blend in with flocks of sheep on the Hungarian plains while simultaneously protecting them from predators.
Once the cords are fully formed, a process that takes about two years, the coat tends to shed minimally.
Loose hair becomes trapped within the cord structure rather than falling out, which is why the Komondor appears on non shedding dog breeds lists despite carrying one of the heaviest coats.
When grooming a Komondor, the cords must be separated by hand regularly to prevent them from fusing into large, matted plates.
Bathing is infrequent but time-consuming. The coat can take 24 hours or more to dry completely.
The breed itself is a serious guardian. Komondors are independent, territorial, and deeply protective of their families and property.
They require experienced ownership, firm training from puppyhood, and a home with enough space for a dog of this size to move freely.
For an expanded look at this size category, we recommend you see our other detailed guide on big dogs that don’t shed.
Medium Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
If a large breed feels like too much dog and a small breed feels like too little, the medium dog breeds that dont shed category is a nice middle ground.
These mid size dogs that dont shed are generally adaptable enough for apartments yet sturdy enough for outdoor adventures.
Many of the breeds in this section are sporting or working dogs with curly or corded coats that naturally retain loose hair.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Overview
Origin: Portugal (Algarve region)
Height: 17 to 23 inches
Weight: 35 to 60 pounds
The Portuguese Water Dog was bred to work alongside fishermen on the coast of Portugal, to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as a courier between boats and shore.
Their thick, waterproof coat comes in two varieties. We have the curly and wavy, and both shed very little.
Weekly brushing and monthly professional grooming are standard for this breed, because the coat grows continuously and can mat without regular care.
These dogs gained global recognition when one became a White House pet in 2009, and their popularity has remained strong since.
Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic, intelligent, and thrive when given a job to do. They love swimming and do well in canine sports such as agility and dock diving.
Their affectionate nature and strong desire to be near their owners make them poor candidates for being left alone for long stretches, as they can develop separation anxiety.
For families that can provide consistent activity and companionship, the Portuguese Water Dog is among the best non shedding dogs in the medium size range.
10. Spanish Water Dog
Breed Overview
Origin: Spain
Height: 15.75 to 19.75 inches
Weight: 31 to 49 pounds
The Spanish Water Dog is a versatile working breed with a distinctive curly, woolly coat that forms natural cords as it grows.
This coat is one of the lowest-maintenance among the medium non shedding dogs. It should never be brushed when corded, and instead needs to be shaved down at least once a year.
Between shaves, the coat requires very little intervention other than occasional separation of the cords by hand to prevent them from matting together at the skin.
Originally used as both a herding dog and a waterfowl retriever in the Iberian Peninsula, the Spanish Water Dog is athletic, alert, and protective.
It has strong natural guarding instincts and bonds closely with their family, though they can be wary of unfamiliar people and animals.
This breed needs plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A bored Spanish Water Dog can become destructive.
11. Kerry Blue Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: Ireland (County Kerry)
Height: 17.5 to 19.5 inches
Weight: 33 to 40 pounds
The Kerry Blue Terrier are named for their striking blue-gray coat, which is soft, dense, and wavy.
Puppies are born black and gradually transition to their signature blue shade over the first 18 months of life.
This coat sheds minimally and does not have an undercoat, but it grows continuously and needs trimming every four to six weeks along with regular brushing to prevent tangles.
Bred as an all-purpose farm dog in the mountains of County Kerry, the Kerry Blue was used for herding, ratting, guarding, and even hunting small game and birds.
Kerry Blues can be assertive with other dogs if not properly socialized, so early and consistent training is what we recommend.
They are devoted to their humans and tend to form a particularly strong attachment to one person.
Their moderate exercise needs and compact build make them manageable for suburban and even some urban living situations.
12. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: Ireland
Height: 17 to 19 inches
Weight: 30 to 40 pounds
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier gets their name from the silky, wheat-colored coat, which is single-layered and sheds very little.
Unlike many terriers with harsh, wiry coats, the Wheaten’s hair is remarkably soft to the touch, though this softness comes at a cost. The coat tangles and mats easily without daily brushing.
Professional grooming every six to eight weeks can help maintain its signature flowing appearance.
Wheatens are among the friendliest dogs in the terrier group. They greet people with enthusiasm, using what owners call the ‘Wheaten greeting,’.
Initially bred as a farm dog in Ireland for herding, guarding livestock, and vermin control, the Wheaten is sturdy and energetic but less intense than many other terrier breeds.
This approachability, combined with low shedding, makes the Wheaten a popular choice for families with children and for first-time owners looking for low shedding dog breeds.
13. Lagotto Romagnolo
Breed Overview
Origin: Italy (Romagna sub-region)
Height: 16 to 19 inches
Weight: 24 to 35 pounds
The Lagotto Romagnolo is the only purebred dog in the world specifically bred for truffle hunting.
With origins from the marshlands of Romagna in northeastern Italy, the Lagotto was initially used as a water retriever.
However later on, the Italian truffle hunters recognized the breed’s extraordinary sense of smell and began training them for the lucrative truffle trade.
The dog’s thick, tightly curled coat is waterproof and sheds very little, though it does need trimming to prevent over-growth and periodic hand-separation of the curls to avoid matting.
Lagotti are affectionate, eager to please, and highly trainable. They have moderate energy levels and are content with daily walks and some mental stimulation.
Their keen nose and desire to work make them excellent candidates for nosework competitions.
The breed is generally good with children and other dogs, though they can be somewhat reserved at first with strangers.
For owners who want a low shedding dog breeds option with a unique working heritage, the Lagotto Romagnolo is hard to beat.
14. Barbet
Breed Overview
Origin: France
Height: 19 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 35 to 65 pounds
The Barbet (pronounced ‘bar-BAY’) is a French water dog whose name comes from the French word ‘barbe,’ meaning beard. This is reference to the breed’s characteristically thick facial hair.
Their curly, dense coat is virtually non-shedding, and it was designed to protect the dog during water retrieval work in cold, muddy conditions.
The Barbet earned the affectionate nickname ‘Mud Dog’ among French hunters for their willingness to charge into marshes and bogs without hesitation.
The coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting, and many owners keep it trimmed to a practical length.
Barbets are social, joyful dogs that get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly introduced.
They are relatively rare outside of France, though their popularity is growing steadily in North America and the United Kingdom.
As a sporting breed, the Barbet needs daily exercise, but it is not hyperactive. At home, a well-exercised Barbet is calm and content.
15. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
Breed Overview
Origin: Mexico
Height: 18 to 23 inches (Standard size)
Weight: 30 to 55 pounds (Standard size)
The Xoloitzcuintli, commonly called the Xolo (pronounced ‘SHOW-low’) or the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds in the world.
These dogs have archaeological evidence dating its existence back over 3,000 years to the ancient Aztec and Maya civilizations.
Xolos comes in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard) and two varieties: hairless and coated.
The well-known hairless variety has smooth, tough skin with little to no hair on the body and is effectively a non-shedding dog. The coated one has a short coat that sheds very little.
Xolos are calm, attentive, and deeply loyal to their families. They tend to bond closely with one person and can be protective of their home and household.
The hairless variety requires skin care similar to what humans need. We are talking of sunscreen for outdoor time and moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Despite their ancient lineage, Xolos are adaptable to modern living and do well in apartments as long as they receive regular walks and mental engagement.
The Mexican Hairless Dog is a fascinating option for anyone looking for low maintenance pets with a unique history and minimal grooming needs.
Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
For apartment dwellers, seniors, or anyone who prefers a compact companion, small dog breeds that dont shed offer the perfect combination of portability and clean living.
Many of these breeds were developed as lapdogs and companions, and they tend to adapt well to smaller spaces. Here are some of the most notable small cute dog breeds that dont shed:
16. Maltese
Breed Overview
Origin: Malta (Central Mediterranean)
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
The Maltese is one of the most ancient toy breeds, with a recorded history stretching back at least 2,000 years to the island of Malta.
Roman aristocrats kept Maltese dogs as status symbols, and the breed has been associated with wealth and refinement ever since.
Their long, silky white coat is single-layered, which is one of the primary reasons they shed so little.
Owners who keep the coat at full length will need to brush it daily to prevent tangles, while those who opt for a shorter ‘puppy cut’ can reduce brushing to a few times per week.
Maltese dogs are lively, playful, and surprisingly bold for their size. They are devoted to their owners and can become anxious if left alone for long periods.
Their small stature makes them well-suited for apartment living, though they still benefit from short daily walks and indoor play.
For owners and seniors who want a small, affectionate companion that keeps shedding to an absolute minimum, you can’t go wrong with the Maltese.
17. Havanese
Breed Overview
Origin: Cuba
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is the only breed native to the island. They were developed from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana (“little white dog of Havana”).
Havanese was a favorite of Cuban aristocrats during the colonial era. Their long, silky, double coat is lightweight and designed for a tropical climate.
Despite its length, the coat sheds minimally and can even be trained into long, natural cords for a distinctive look.
Havanese dogs are outgoing, sociable, and eager to entertain. They have earned a reputation as natural trick performers and are frequently seen in obedience and agility competitions.
Their friendly disposition makes them excellent therapy dogs, and they generally do well with children, other dogs, and cats.
Grooming demands are moderate, which include daily brushing for a long coat, or a shorter trim for lower maintenance.
The Havanese is an ideal companion for city living and for families seeking least shedding dog breeds in a small package.
18. Bedlington Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: England (Bedlington, Northumberland)
Height: 15 to 17.5 inches
Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
The Bedlington Terrier is often described as a dog that looks like a lamb. Its curly, wooly coat and distinctive pear-shaped head give it an appearance unlike any other breed.
That lamb-like coat is a mix of soft and harsh hair, and it sheds very little. They can be fierce when provoked but are typically gentle and affectionate with their families.
It does grow quickly, requiring professional trimming every six to eight weeks to maintain the breed’s characteristic shape. Between trims, light weekly brushing keeps the coat tidy.
Bedlingtons were bred in the mining towns of Northumberland to hunt vermin, and they retain a surprising level of speed, endurance, and tenacity.
Bedlingtons enjoy moderate exercise and adapt well to both urban and suburban environments.
Their mild temperament, combined with minimal shedding and a unique look, makes them one of the more distinctive choices on any list of low-shedding dog breeds.
19. Yorkshire Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: England (Yorkshire)
Height: 7 to 8 inches
Weight: Up to 7 pounds
The Yorkshire Terrier is among the most popular toy breeds in the world and a staple feature on any small dog breeds that dont shed list.
What makes the Yorkie’s coat unusual is that it is technically hair, not fur. It grows continuously and has a texture very similar to human hair.
A full-length show coat requires daily brushing and careful maintenance, but the majority of pet owners keep their Yorkies in a shorter ‘puppy cut’ that is far more practical for everyday life.
Yorkies were originally bred in the textile mills and coal mines of 19th-century Yorkshire to catch rats, and that working-terrier spirit persists in a surprisingly bold personality.
They are confident, vocal, and often unaware of their small size, which can lead them to challenge dogs many times their weight.
Despite this feistiness, they are deeply affectionate with their owners and adapt well to apartment living.
20. West Highland White Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: Scotland
Height: 10 to 11 inches
Weight: 15 to 20 pounds
The West Highland White Terrier, better known as the Westie, is a compact, confident terrier with a bright white double coat.
The outer layer is hard and wiry while the undercoat is soft and dense, and together they produce very low shedding.
Hand-stripping is the preferred grooming method for show dogs, though most pet owners use clipping to keep the coat at a practical length.
Regular brushing several times per week can help prevent tangles and keeps the white coat looking clean.
Westies were originally bred in the Scottish Highlands to hunt rats, foxes, and other small vermin, and they retain a bold, self-assured personality that belies their small size.
They are friendly, adaptable, and generally good with older children, though their terrier drive may drive them to be stubborn during training.
Westies are energetic but do not need as much exercise as larger terriers. Daily walks and some playtime are usually sufficient.
21. Scottish Terrier
Breed Overview
Origin: Scotland
Height: About 10 inches
Weight: 18 to 22 pounds
The Scottish Terrier is a sturdy, compact dog with a distinctive silhouette created by its longer hair on the legs, belly, and beard contrasted against a shorter body coat.
Its wiry double coat sheds very little and benefits from regular hand-stripping or professional grooming every few months. Weekly brushing at home keeps the coat free of mats and debris.
Scotties are independent, dignified, and sometimes described as having a personality much larger than their physical frame.
They were bred to hunt badgers and foxes in the Scottish Highlands, and they retain a strong prey drive and a characteristic determination.
Scotties can be reserved with strangers and are not always the best fit for households with very young children, as they value their personal space.
These low shed dog breeds are, however, deeply loyal to their owners and make excellent watchdogs.
22. Shih Tzu
Breed Overview
Origin: Tibet / China
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
The Shih Tzu, whose name translates to ‘little lion’ in Mandarin, is an ancient companion breed that was prized in Chinese imperial palaces for centuries.
Their long, flowing double coat is dense and luxurious, yet these dogs shed far less than most double-coated breeds.
Shi Tzus’ hair grows continuously, much like the Yorkie’s, and loose strands tend to fall back into the coat rather than onto your furniture.
A full show coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles, but many owners maintain a shorter clip that reduces grooming time to a few weekly sessions.
Shih Tzus are affectionate, outgoing, and trusting. These traits were specifically selected for over hundreds of years of companionship breeding.
They are not working dogs and do not have the prey drive or high energy of terrier breeds, which makes them well-suited for calmer households, seniors, and apartment dwellers.
Shih Tzus’ brachycephalic structure mean they can be prone to overheating and respiratory issues, so owners should monitor them in hot weather and avoid strenuous exercise.
23. Löwchen
Breed Overview
Origin: France and Germany
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: About 15 pounds
The Löwchen, German for ‘little lion dog, gets their name from the traditional grooming style that leaves long hair on the front of the body and a clipped hindquarter,
This hairy dog breed has been a companion dog in European households for over 500 years and was nearly extinct by the mid-20th century before dedicated breeders revived them.
Its long, flowing coat is single-layered and produces very little shedding, though it does need regular brushing to prevent tangles and periodic trimming to maintain the lion cut.
Löwchens are cheerful, outgoing, and surprisingly robust for their size. They are affectionate with their families and tend to get along well with children and other pets.
Unlike some toy breeds, the Löwchen is not fragile or timid. They have a bold streak and enjoy moderate exercise, including short walks and active play sessions.
24. Coton de Tulear
Breed Overview
Origin: Madagascar
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
The Coton de Tulear (pronounced ‘co-TAWN day too-lee-ARE’) takes its name from its cotton-like coat and the port city of Tuléar in Madagascar.
That is the place this cute dog breed was developed as a companion canine for the island’s ruling class.
The coat is long, white, and extraordinarily soft, with a texture that feels remarkably like raw cotton.
It is single-layered and sheds very little, though it requires daily brushing to keep it from matting, or can be trimmed to a shorter length for easier maintenance.
Coton de Tulears are adaptable, people-oriented dogs that form strong bonds with their humans.
They are known for their happy disposition and a distinctive habit of walking on their hind legs and clowning around to get attention.
The breed does well in apartments, travels easily due to their small size, and generally gets along with other animals.
Cotons do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and prefer to be wherever their owner is.
25. Chinese Crested
Breed Overview
Origin: African or Mexican roots
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
The Chinese Crested dog breed comes in two distinct varieties; we have the Hairless and Powderpuff.
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs have smooth, soft skin over most of their body with tufts of hair on the head (the ‘crest’), feet, and tail.
The Powderpuff has a full coat of soft, silky hair. Both varieties shed minimally, the Hairless for obvious reasons, and the Powderpuff because its double coat traps loose hair.
The two varieties can appear in the same litter, as the hairless gene is a dominant trait carried alongside the coated gene.
Chinese Cresteds are lively, affectionate, and deeply attached to their owners. They are true companion dogs and do not tolerate being left alone well.
The Hairless variety requires special skin care. Consider using sunscreen for outdoor exposure, moisturizer for dryness, and warm clothing in cold weather.
The Powderpuff needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Both varieties are gentle, good with older children, and adapt well to apartment living.
26. Bichon Frise
Breed Overview
Origin: France and Belgium
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Bichon Frise’s dense, curly double coat is composed of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat that work together to trap loose hair within the curl pattern.
The result is a dog that leaves almost no hair on furniture, clothing, or floors, though the trade-off is a coat that requires daily brushing and professional grooming every four to six weeks.
The breed’s iconic powder-puff appearance requires careful scissoring and fluffing that many owners leave to experienced groomers.
Bichons are cheerful, playful, and sociable dogs who thrive on human companionship. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable.
Bichons are generally good with children and other pets, and their moderate exercise requirements make them well-suited to apartment living.
Their one notable behavioral challenge is a tendency toward separation anxiety, they do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods.
27. Basenji
Breed Overview
Origin: Central Africa
Height: 16 to 17 inches
Weight: 22 to 24 pounds
The Basenji is known as the ‘barkless dog’, although they’re not silent. Instead of a traditional bark, the Basenji produces a distinctive yodel-like sound called a ‘barroo,’.
Originating from the Congo Basin in Central Africa, the Basenji is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, with depictions on Egyptian artifacts dating back thousands of years.
Its short, fine coat is extremely low-shedding and requires almost no grooming beyond an occasional wipe-down.
Basenjis are also known for their cat-like self-grooming habits. You’ll notice how they frequently lick themselves clean.
Basenjis are intelligent, independent, and have a high prey drive because they were originally used for hunting small game in dense African forests.
They are athletic and require daily exercise, but their compact size makes them adaptable to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met.
Our detailed roundup of 25 small dog breeds that don’t shed covers even more options in the small size range.
You can find more options in our guide on 13 best low-maintenance small dog breeds, which include other features besides low shedding.
How To Manage Shedding at Home?
Having low shedding dog breeds can help manage allergies, but they don’t eliminate the need for grooming. Here are a few effective dog shedding remedies that applies to all breeds:
Regular brushing is the most effective tool for controlling loose hair. A slicker brush or an undercoat rake works well for curly hair, while a pin brush is better suited for long, silky coats.
Investing in quality grooming supplies can make the process faster and more comfortable for both you and your dog.
Bathing your dog every four to eight weeks, using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, removes loose hair, dander, and dirt before they end up on your furniture.
Nutrition is also a major component in maintaining a dog’s coat. A diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports healthy skin and coat, which can reduce excessive shedding.
Finally, aim to keep your home ventilated and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture airborne allergens.
Final Thoughts
From the breeds above, we hope you have seen how easy it is to find your desired companion while keeping your home clean.
The other good news is that you can find dog breeds that don’t shed in every size category, depending on your needs.
Make sure to evaluate the breed’s other characteristics and requirements over and above their low shedding features.
Read Also:
12 Proven Dog Shedding Remedies That Work
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
No responses yet