Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

We all adore the charm of small dog breeds, but for some of us, the prospect of dealing with shedding fur can be a deal-breaker. Say goodbye to those tiny tufts of hair that seem to cling to every piece of clothing and furniture. You can have the best of both worlds - a pint-sized, loving companion that won't turn your home into a furry battleground. Yes, there are small dog breeds out there that shed very little, if at all, making them ideal for those who yearn for a furry friend without the constant cleanup.

In this guide, we'll introduce you to some of the small dog breeds that are virtually shed-free or keep their shedding to a bare minimum. These adorable pups bring a world of affection, warmth, and loyalty to your life without leaving a trail of fur in their wake. Whether you're an allergy sufferer, a neat freak, or simply desire a dog that won't leave a furry calling card on your couch, we've got you covered. So, let's embark on a journey to uncover these delightful, low-shedding small wonders that are sure to steal your heart and keep your home fur-free!

But before we dive into the enchanting world of low-shedding small dog breeds, let's address a few misconceptions that often surround these pint-sized, virtually furless companions.

What About Grooming?

Does a non-shedding dog require minimal grooming? The answer might not be what you'd hope for. Unfortunately, most of these low-shedding canine companions will still demand regular grooming to maintain their coats in prime condition and free from tangles. Using a professional groomer is the best option if it fits your budget.

But, if professional grooming isn't in the cards for you, rest assured that you can certainly manage grooming at home.

Demystifying Low Shedding vs. Hypoallergenic Small Dogs

So, you've made the heartwarming choice to bring a petite, four-legged friend into your life, but there's a hitch: allergies. The sneezing fits, the itchy eyes, and the endless tissue usage – it's a familiar challenge for many prospective dog owners. That's where the search for hypoallergenic small dog breeds comes into the picture. Let's delve into this topic filled with fur and get to the bottom of it.

The Myth of the Allergy-Free Small Dog

“Hypoallergenic" might sound like the magical key to a life free of sniffles, but there are some key facts that need clarification. A 2011 study that compared allergen levels in homes with "hypoallergenic" small dog breeds versus their non-hypoallergenic counterparts. The results were not as outstanding as we might hope. According to this study, the presence of dog allergens didn’t differ based on breed. In other words, having so-called "hypoallergenic" small dog breeds doesn't necessarily lead to reduced allergen levels.

Essentially, all small dogs, whether labeled "hypoallergenic" or not, contributed similarly to allergen levels in their respective homes. Nevertheless, many individuals with allergies maintain that certain small dog breeds are more tolerable than others.

Our Top Picks

Now that we've covered the essentials, let's dive into our selection. These endearing pint-sized pups will not only become your perfect companions but also assist you in keeping a tidy home. All of the dogs on our list are under 20lbs and adorably fluffy.

Bichon Friśe: Your Charming Companion

The Bichon Friśe, often pronounced as "BEE-shawn FREE-say," is a small dog breed with an infectious charm and an abundance of love to offer. Its distinctive appearance, marked by those expressive black eyes and a cloud-like white coat, makes it a lovable addition to any family. These little furballs have an almost toy-like appearance, and their personality is just as endearing.

Personality: A Bundle of Joy

The Bichon Friśe is not just a dog; it's a literal bundle of joy. Their affectionate and gentle demeanor makes them fantastic family dogs. They are great with children and other pets, making them ideal playmates for all ages. These little canines have an inherent playfulness that's sure to bring endless smiles and laughter to your life. Bichons are also quite adaptable, fitting well into various lifestyles, including apartment living. Their gentle nature and endless joy makes them perfect therapy dogs, bringing smiles to nursing homes, hospitals, and anyone who is lucky enough to meet them.

Trainability: Intelligence Meets Eagerness

Bichon Friśes are not only adorable but also highly intelligent and easily trainable. They are quick learners and love to learn new tricks. Their love for their owner and eagerness to please makes training a breeze. Your pup will gladly train with you whenever possible as long as it remains a positive experience for both of you.

Positive reinforcement-based training methods work best for them, as these gentle souls respond well to kindness and rewards. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended, helping your Bichon become a well-rounded and obedient companion. The key to their hearts lies in your company; these dogs thrive on being with their families and may exhibit undesirable behavior if left alone for extended periods.

Energy Levels: Spirited Playfulness

Bichon Friśes are known for their youthful spirit and playfulness. These dogs have an innate love for play and are always eager to join in on the fun. They may have short bursts of high activity, such as zooming around the house or yard, followed by stretches of calm. Regular play sessions and walks are essential to keep them happy and healthy. A fenced backyard is a good idea, as Bichons can be surprisingly fast and may make a dash for freedom if given the chance. Their small size may be deceiving, but their energy levels are high, and they enjoy activities like obedience, agility, and rally competitions. So, if you're looking for a tiny, lively companion to keep you entertained, the Bichon Friśe is an excellent choice.

Grooming: A Labor of Love

Maintaining the pristine appearance of a Bichon Friśe is a labor of love, but it's worth every moment spent. These dogs don't shed, making them perfect for those looking for a fluffy dog that doesn’t leave a lot of floof behind. However, their continuously growing curly coat demands diligent grooming to keep mats and tangles at bay. Beginning a grooming routine during puppyhood is an excellent practice, as it helps your furry friend get accustomed to the necessary handling. Daily brushing with a pin brush is essential to prevent knots and mats. Regular brushing prevents small tangles from turning into painful, skin-irritating mats. For some, professional groomers become a reliable partner for monthly trims, ensuring that the Bichon's coat retains its signature powder-puff appearance.

The Bichon Friśe is not just any dog breed; it's a loving, playful, and charming addition to your family. With diligent grooming, positive training, a heartwarming personality, and spirited playfulness, the Bichon Friśe will light up your life and become your most endearing companion.

Lhasa Apso: Enchantingly Independent

The Lhasa Apso, with its rich history and captivating charm, is a delightful addition to any home. This breed boasts an array of unique qualities that make it an ideal companion.

Personality: Regally Protective

Lhasa Apsos exude a personality that's a perfect blend of playfulness, regal independence, and steadfast loyalty. Despite their diminutive size, these dogs possess a sturdy and strong character. Suspicion of strangers is in their nature, a trait that once served them well as palace guards. This devotion extends to their family, and they take their role as protectors seriously, making them excellent watch dogs. Their independence adds a unique dimension to their character, making them strong-willed and even a bit mischievous. Early socialization and training are essential for harnessing this independence into a well-rounded and sociable companion.

Lhasa Apsos have an enduring puppy-like quality, remaining playful well into their adult years. Their intelligence is remarkable, albeit coupled with a touch of stubbornness. These dogs won't be pushed around and tend to do things on their terms. A patient, consistent approach to training is crucial, as well as the establishment of firm yet kind leadership.

Trainability: Intelligence Meets Independence

Dog owners who enjoy a companion that thinks for itself find an excellent match in the Lhasa Apso. They possess an intelligence that rivals that of more obedient breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever. These dogs can master a wide range of commands and tasks if the training piques their interest. However, they have little tolerance for repetitive, monotonous drills. The key is to make training engaging and stimulating, aligning with their unique mindset.

They don't respond well to bullying or badgering, so a compassionate approach is necessary. In most cases, their undesirable behavior can be traced back to inconsistent, improper, or absent human leadership. Taking charge with patience and determination is the way to bring out the best in this breed.

Energy Levels: Go With The Flow

Lhasa Apsos have energy levels that are well-suited to a wide range of living environments. They tend to be content with a moderate amount of exercise. This size makes them at home in apartments and smaller spaces, but they are equally content in houses with yards. These dogs are masters of self-exercise and will entertain themselves, whether it's racing around an apartment or frolicking in a fenced yard.

Mental stimulation is just as crucial as physical activity for Lhasa Apsos. They excel in activities like agility, scent work, retrieval, and herding. Some even serve as therapy dogs in hospitals, nursing homes, colleges, and prisons, showcasing their adaptability.

Though they may not be as demanding in terms of exercise as some other breeds, it's still important to provide them with regular short walks and play sessions to keep them content and mentally engaged.

Grooming: Beautiful but Demanding

The Lhasa Apso's stunning coat, reminiscent of their royal heritage, requires diligent grooming to maintain. This breed's long, lush, double coat is a defining feature and needs a lot of maintenance.

They require daily brushing using a coated metal pin brush to tackle tangles in their. A more in-depth brushing session should be conducted once a week, involving separating their hair into layers to access both the undercoat and outer coat. Regular grooming also involves bathing every four to six weeks to keep their coat silky and clean. Use a leave-in conditioning spray to maintain the coat's luster and manageability. Their eye are prone to staining and can be cleaned with special eye wash or pre-moistened eye wipes.

For those not wanting to save some time and money, clipping their hair is an option to simplify grooming.

In summary, the Lhasa Apso is a remarkable companion with a unique blend of playfulness, independence, and unwavering loyalty. Their intelligence, though marked by a touch of stubbornness, can lead to incredible feats with the right training approach. While their energy levels are adaptable, a mix of mental and physical exercise is essential to keep them content. Grooming these enchanting dogs is an artful process, involving daily brushing, regular baths, and special attention to their distinctive topknot, ears, and eyes. Ultimately, the Lhasa Apso proves to be a delightful companion for those who appreciate its remarkable personality and the journey of grooming to reveal its majestic beauty.

Shih Tzu: Loyal and Lively

Are you looking for a charming and affectionate furry friend? Look no further than the Shih Tzu, lovingly referred to as the "Little Lion Dog." These delightful companions have been winning hearts for centuries with their endearing personality, making them a popular choice among dog lovers. Let's explore why the Shih Tzu may be the ideal addition to your family.

Personality: A Bundle of Affection

The Shih Tzu's name might mean "little lion," but there's nothing fierce about this breed. Their main mission is to be your loving companion. Known for their charming and friendly disposition, Shih Tzus thrive on human interaction. They are outgoing and enjoy following their beloved humans from room to room, eager to provide you with their unconditional affection. It's no surprise that they've been the lap dogs of choice for emperors and families alike. This breed's adaptability shines through whether you live in a cozy apartment or a spacious home, making them perfect for families of all sizes.

Trainability: Charmingly Clever

Training a Shih Tzu can be a delightful journey. These dogs have a way of charming their owners into indulging their whims, but a consistent and positive approach to training works wonders. Shih Tzus respond best to praise and rewards, so harsh corrections are unnecessary. Introduce new behaviors gradually, stay firm, and avoid giving in to their charms when they're misbehaving. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended to help them grow into well-adjusted companions.

Energy Levels: Your Calm Companion

Shih Tzus were bred as companions, not hunters or guards so they have moderate energy levels. While they're not napping beside you, they enjoy playing indoors and short daily walks to keep them healthy and entertained. They're content to be part of the family activities and make friends wherever they go. The lower excercise requirements of a Shih Tzu make them the perfect dogs for those with less active life styles or where lots of activity may be difficult.

Grooming: Keeping the Fluff Fabulous

The Shih Tzu's long and silky coat is a source of pride but requires dedicated grooming. Daily brushing and combing are essential to prevent tangles. Frequent bathing, as often as once a week, will keep their coat clean and beautiful. If you prefer a more manageable grooming routine, a professional groomer can trim their coat into a "puppy cut." This relieves you from the daily brushing chore while keeping your Shih Tzu adorable. Regular grooming will keep your Shih Tzu's coat fabulous and their overall health in top shape.

In conclusion, the Shih Tzu is the embodiment of charm and affection, with an adaptable nature that makes them a wonderful addition to your family. Their lively personality, clever trainability, moderate energy levels, and stunning coat, when properly maintained, will bring joy and warmth to your home. If you're seeking a loyal and lively companion, the Shih Tzu is your perfect choice.

Havanese: Bright and Breezy Companions

The Havanese, often described as "a little piece of heaven," is a captivating toy breed that hails from Cuba. With their endearing appearance and sunny disposition, they have endeared themselves to countless dog lovers worldwide. These delightful companions are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, intelligence, and exquisite long, silky coat. They bring boundless joy and a touch of the Caribbean's warmth to any household, making them a cherished addition to families and individuals alike.

Personality: Sunny Disposition

The Havanese is a breed that brings sunshine into any household. With their charming and friendly personalities, they spread joy to everyone they meet. These little dogs have an affectionate nature and an innate desire to be around people. In fact, if you own a Havanese, you'll soon discover that they are your shadow – never leaving your side and ensuring your day is full of love and companionship.

Their affable nature extends to all, from family members to strangers and even other pets. This breed's harmonious disposition makes them ideal for households with children or additional furry companions. They often become the heart of the family, stealing everyone's affection with their captivating personality.

Trainability: Eager To Learn

Don't be fooled by their small stature; Havanese dogs are intelligent and remarkably easy to train. Their love for making their owners happy, combined with their quick thinking, makes them eager learners. Positive reinforcement methods are highly effective with Havanese, and you'll find that they can quickly grasp new tricks and commands.

Although they may occasionally exhibit a bit of stubbornness, their enthusiasm to please their owners usually overcomes this. With a little patience and consistency, you'll have a well-behaved Havanese who shines in obedience training.

Energy Levels: Perpetual Motion

Havanese dogs are energetic in the best way possible. They possess an unexpected amount of energy for their size, and they're always ready for fun and adventure. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive activities are essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Their spirited nature makes them ideal for various dog sports, including agility, freestyle, and obedience competitions. These activities allow them to channel their energy productively while building an even stronger bond with their owners.

Grooming: Silken Glory

Maintaining a Havanese's appearance is part of the joy of owning one. Their long, silky coat is their crowning glory, but it does require regular care to keep it in top condition. Daily brushing is a must to prevent mats and tangles. Lightly spraying the coat with a mixture of water and conditioner before brushing helps maintain its softness.

Bathing is another essential aspect of their grooming routine. While not all Havanese enjoy baths, they should ideally be bathed at least once a week, with every two weeks as a more relaxed schedule. Clean skin and hair contribute to their overall health and keep them feeling comfortable.

While grooming a Havanese can be a bit of work, the bond you'll share and the satisfaction of having a well-groomed and happy companion make it a delightful part of having a Havanese in your life.

Bolognese: Delightful Companion

The Bolognese, a captivating member of the Bichon family, is a small white dog with an immense personality. These delightful companion dogs are known for their charming and loving nature, making them excellent family pets. Despite their compact size, they exude confidence and are quick to win over hearts with their engaging and playful demeanor. The Bolognese's distinct blend of intelligence, loyalty, and charm makes them a truly unique and beloved breed, perfect for those seeking a devoted furry friend.

Personality: Playfully Confident

The Bolognese brings a lot of heart and character to the table. These companion dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and engaging personalities. While they may not be the most high-energy breed, their intelligence and wit make them a joy to be around. Their calm and easygoing nature makes them a delightful addition to any family. Bolognese dogs are natural charmers who love human company and are quick to win over hearts with their playful and loving demeanor. Despite their small stature, they radiate confidence and devotion, making them exceptional companions.

Trainability: Intelligent but Stubborn

Training these endearing Bolognese dogs may require a bit of patience and a gentle touch, as they can be somewhat stubborn. However, their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners when approached with positive reinforcement. Harsh rebukes are a no-go; these pups respond best to love and kindness. With the right training approach, you'll have a well-behaved and loving family member who will never leave your side.

Energy Levels: Laid Back Companion

Bolognese dogs aren't the most high-energy breed in the dog kingdom. They tend to have a rather serene and inactive disposition. This makes them suitable for various living situations, including apartment life. While they may not require intense exercise, they do appreciate moderate physical activity. Playtime in a fenced backyard or leisurely walks will keep them content. Their playful nature shines through in indoor activities like hide-and-seek or chasing a ball rolled along the floor. These low-energy yet playful pups are an ideal match for retirees, seniors, or anyone seeking a relaxed and cheerful companion.

Grooming: Manageable Floof

The Bolognese is not only a delightful companion but also a dog with a magnificent, soft, all-white coat that resembles the texture of cotton. One of their standout features is their 'non-shedding' quality, making them suitable for some individuals with allergies. Regular grooming is essential if you opt to keep your Bolognese in its full coat, ensuring it remains soft and lustrous. While their coats are typically unshaped and untrimmed, it's common to trim the hair around their eyes for hygiene purposes. Many Bolognese owners opt for a shorter coat of about one inch, retaining the adorable 'mop head' look around the face. Occasional baths keep them clean and pristine.

Bolognese dogs bring a unique blend of charm, devotion, and playfulness to your life, and their grooming needs are just as manageable as their endearing personalities. These small, square-bodied companions may have a hint of stubbornness when it comes to training, but their intelligence and desire to please outweigh their occasional craftiness. Their low energy levels make them ideal for various living situations, from apartments to homes with retirees or seniors. With the Bolognese by your side, you're sure to have a loving and loyal companion who will bring joy to your everyday life. So, if you're seeking a furry friend who's as endearing as they are easygoing, the Bolognese is the perfect choice.

Maltese: A Bundle of Elegance and Love

The Maltese, hailing from the enchanting Mediterranean island of Malta, is a small, long-haired breed known for its delicate and charming appearance. These dogs have been the cherished companions of families for generations, and their playful yet affectionate nature has made them a beloved member of households worldwide. The Maltese embodies elegance, making them a breed that leaves a lasting impression with their silky white coats and spirited personality.

Personality: Warms the Heart

The Maltese is a natural charmer, and their personality is nothing short of captivating. They exhibit a lively spirit and are inherently people-oriented, always ready to entertain their loved ones. Their loyalty knows no bounds, and they have an uncanny ability to warm hearts with their sweet disposition. These dogs are like a ray of sunshine, and this gentle, affectionate nature is one of their most endearing traits. These dogs can be good with children however as with all dogs you should monitor their interactions for both the child’s and dogs safety.

Trainability: Shining Bright

Intelligence is a defining feature of the Maltese, and it's put to good use in their trainability. They are eager to please their owners and grasp basic commands with remarkable speed. While they can be a bit stubborn at times, their willingness to learn and please makes training an enjoyable journey. This biddable nature allows them to adapt seamlessly to various lifestyles and become well-mannered family members.

Energy Levels: Playful and Adaptable

The Maltese might be small, but they are always up for adventure. However, they don’t require as much exercise as many others on this list. They tend to adapt to their owners activity level. They maintain a playful personality into old age, making them the perfect companions for families and seniors alike. These dogs thrive on interaction and play, whether it's indoors or a spirited romp in the yard. Their adaptable nature allows them to enjoy apartment living, but they are always up for some playtime.

Grooming: A Labor of Love

The hallmark of the Maltese is their exquisite long, silky white coat. While it's stunning to behold, it requires regular grooming to stay in top condition. Daily brushing is a must to prevent mats and keep them clean. It's also essential to bath and trim them periodically. However, their beauty is worth the effort, and with proper care, their coat shines as bright as their personality.

In summary, the Maltese is not just a dog; it's a heartwarming companion that brings elegance and love to your life. Their spirited personality, impressive trainability, adaptability, and the timeless beauty of their coat make them an excellent addition to any family. The Maltese is more than a breed; it's a bundle of joy and affection that will leave an everlasting mark on your heart.

Toy Poodle: Tiny Beauty

Toy Poodles, a diminutive variety of the famed Poodle breed, may seem delicate with their small size and elegant haircuts, but they pack a punch of intelligence and charm. While they are often associated with their posh appearance, it's essential to remember that beneath their fancy exteriors lies a rich history of hunting and versatility. Poodles, in general, are known for their exceptional intelligence, consistently ranking among the world's smartest dog breeds. Their ability to learn quickly, perform tricks, and seek the spotlight in various activities makes them more than just a pretty face, and it's no surprise that Poodles are a perennial favorite among dog enthusiasts.

Personality: Bright and Capable

Poodles, especially the Toy variety, are exceptionally bright and agile dogs with strong, endearing personalities. They consider themselves an integral part of the family and have a remarkable ability to learn things rapidly. These charming canines have an unwavering desire to be at the center of family activities, and they can become genuinely disheartened if they feel left out. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them ideal companions, always eager to engage in activities, perform tricks, and take leisurely walks. Their remarkable intelligence allows them to excel in agility and obedience training, making them delightful playmates for children. However, their intelligence also means that they may develop stress-related behaviors when left alone for extended periods. It's important to provide them with the attention and engagement they deserve to ensure a well-rounded and happy pet.

Trainability: Quick as a Whip

Toy Poodles are quick learners and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. Their intelligence and willingness to engage in activities make training an enjoyable experience. Whether you're teaching them basic commands or more complex games like hide and seek, they will readily embrace the challenge. However, it's vital to avoid neglecting their training needs and ensure that they feel like an essential part of the family to prevent any passive-aggressive behaviors associated with separation anxiety.

Energy Levels: Adaptable

Despite their agility and playfulness, Toy Poodles do not have excessively high energy levels. They can adapt well to their owner's exercise routine and are content with activities that suit their living situation. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living, and their desire to be close to their owners aligns perfectly with the needs of seniors and those with limited mobility. Toy Poodles are gentle and can coexist harmoniously with other dogs and cats. While they love to play with children, supervision is essential, particularly with very young children, to prevent any accidental harm due to their tiny stature.

Grooming: Endless Fun

One aspect of Toy Poodle ownership that requires special attention is grooming. Poodle coats, known for being low-shedding and hypoallergenic, are beautifully curly and soft, much like human hair. Their coats grow continuously and require regular maintenance, including brushing, clipping, and trimming to prevent tangles and mats. Neglecting their coat care can lead to skin infections and necessitate shaving their fur entirely. It's recommended to brush and comb their coat nearly every day for proper maintenance. Regular trips to the groomer for bathing and haircuts are essential to keep them looking their best.

Toy Poodles may look like aristocratic dogs with their elegant appearance and refined haircuts, but they are much more than just a pretty face. Their intelligence, trainability, and endearing personality make them outstanding companions. While they are small in size, they have big hearts and are always eager to be an integral part of family activities. Whether you're looking for a loving pet, a trainable companion, or a delightful playmate, the Toy Poodle has it all. However, it's essential to remember that their stunning appearance comes with the responsibility of regular grooming to keep their luxurious coat in top condition. Toy Poodles are not just charming pets; they are intelligent and loving family members ready to bring joy and laughter to your home.