What Are the Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed? (Hypoallergenic Guide)

Are you tired of finding dog hair on your clothes, furniture, and every corner of your home? Do you love dogs but worry about allergies keeping you from bringing one home? You’re not alone. Thousands of people face this same challenge every day.

The good news is that small dogs that don’t shed offer the perfect solution. These adorable companions give you all the love and joy of dog ownership without covering your home in fur. Whether you’re dealing with allergies, living in a small apartment, or simply want a cleaner home, choosing a low-shedding breed can change your life.

In this guide, you’ll discover the top 12 hypoallergenic dog breeds that stay small and shed minimally. We’ll help you understand what “non-shedding” really means, how to choose the right breed for your lifestyle, and what to expect when bringing one of these special pups home.

1. Understanding Non-Shedding Dogs

1.1 What Does “Don’t Shed” Really Mean?

Let’s be honest right from the start: every dog sheds at least a little bit. Even the most hypoallergenic breeds lose some hair. But here’s the key difference.

Dogs that don’t shed have hair instead of fur. This might sound like the same thing, but it’s actually quite different. Dog fur has a short growth cycle. It grows quickly, reaches a certain length, then falls out to make room for new fur. That’s why you find dog hair everywhere.

Hair, on the other hand, grows continuously like human hair. It stays in the follicle much longer before falling out. When it does fall, it often gets caught in the surrounding coat instead of floating around your house.

Think of it this way: a Golden Retriever sheds fur constantly throughout the year. A Poodle grows hair that stays put until you brush or trim it. The difference in your home’s cleanliness is dramatic.

1.2 Hypoallergenic vs. Non-Shedding

Many people use “hypoallergenic” and “non-shedding” as if they mean the same thing. They don’t, and understanding the difference matters if you have allergies.

Hypoallergenic dog breeds produce fewer allergens, but they’re not completely allergen-free. The main culprits behind pet allergies aren’t actually fur or hair. They’re proteins found in dog dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine.

Low-shedding dogs help reduce allergies because they spread less dander around your home. When fur sheds, it carries dander with it. Less shedding means less dander floating in the air you breathe.

However, if you have severe allergies, spend time with the specific breed before committing. Some people react more to certain breeds than others. Your body doesn’t care what the internet says is hypoallergenic—it knows what it knows.

2 Top 12 Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

2.1 Maltese – The Gentle Companion

The Maltese is a tiny angel wrapped in a silky white coat. Weighing just 4 to 7 pounds, this breed fits perfectly in your lap and your heart.

Their personality shines with gentleness and affection. Maltese dogs bond deeply with their families and thrive on human companionship. They’re playful without being hyperactive, making them ideal for apartment living.

The grooming commitment is real but manageable. Their long, flowing coat needs daily brushing to prevent mats. Most owners keep their Maltese in a shorter “puppy cut” to reduce maintenance. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks typically costs $40-$60.

Best for seniors, singles, or families with older children who can handle them gently. Their small size makes them fragile around rough play.

One important note: Maltese can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long. If you work long hours, this might not be your match.

2.2 Bichon Frise – The Happy-Go-Lucky Puffball

The Bichon Frise looks like a happy cloud bouncing around your home. These cheerful dogs weigh 12-18 pounds and sport a fluffy white coat that feels like cotton.

Their personality radiates joy. Bichons are naturally playful, social, and excellent with children. They love everyone they meet and assume everyone loves them back. This makes them terrible watchdogs but wonderful therapy dogs.

Grooming needs are moderate to high. Their double coat requires brushing 3-4 times weekly and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Budget around $50-$70 per grooming session. The good news? Their coat traps loose hair instead of depositing it on your couch.

Best for active families, first-time dog owners, and anyone wanting an enthusiastic companion. They adapt well to various living situations.

The trade-off: Bichons can be challenging to housetrain. Patience and consistency are essential during the puppy stage.

2.3 Yorkshire Terrier – The Tiny Adventurer

Don’t let their 4-7 pound frame fool you. Yorkshire Terriers pack huge personalities into tiny bodies. Their silky, steel-blue and tan coat grows continuously like human hair.

These brave little dogs originally hunted rats in English textile mills. That working heritage means they’re smart, confident, and sometimes stubborn. Yorkies bond intensely with their owners but can be wary of strangers.

Their grooming needs vary based on coat length. Show-length coats require daily brushing and careful maintenance. Most pet owners keep their Yorkies in shorter cuts, reducing care to brushing 2-3 times weekly and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks at $40-$65.

Best for experienced dog owners who appreciate a feisty personality. They’re surprisingly good apartment dogs despite their vocal nature.

Consider this: Yorkies can be difficult to housetrain and may develop “small dog syndrome” if not properly trained. Learning more about essential puppy training tips helps set them up for success.

2.4 Shih Tzu – The Loyal Lap Dog

The Shih Tzu was bred for one purpose: to be the perfect companion. Weighing 9-16 pounds, these dogs excel at their job. Their name means “lion dog” in Chinese, though they’re more teddy bear than king of the jungle.

Personality-wise, Shih Tzus are affectionate, loyal, and surprisingly adaptable. They’re equally happy in a mansion or studio apartment as long as they’re with their people. They love children and get along well with other pets.

Their luxurious double coat requires significant grooming commitment. Daily brushing prevents painful mats, and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps them comfortable. Many owners choose a shorter trim for easier maintenance. Expect to spend $50-$75 per professional grooming.

Best for families, seniors, or anyone who works from home. Shih Tzus aren’t demanding exercisewise—a couple of short walks daily keeps them content.

One challenge: Their flat faces can lead to breathing issues in hot weather. Air conditioning is essential in warm climates.

2.5 Miniature Schnauzer – The Smart Protector

Miniature Schnauzers combine intelligence with a distinctive bearded look. At 11-20 pounds, they’re sturdy without being fragile. Their wiry coat comes in salt-and-pepper, black, or black-and-silver.

These dogs are alert, spirited, and make excellent watchdogs. They’re naturally suspicious of strangers but devoted to family. Miniature Schnauzers rank high in intelligence and trainability, making them responsive to commands.

Grooming involves regular brushing twice weekly and professional grooming every 5-8 weeks. Their wiry coat requires hand-stripping for show quality, but most pets do fine with clipping. Budget $45-$70 per grooming session.

Best for active individuals or families who want a small dog with a big personality. They need more exercise than typical lap dogs—daily walks and play sessions are essential.

The downside: Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, Miniature Schnauzers can become barky and destructive.

2.6 Toy Poodle – The Intelligent Performer

Toy Poodles prove that good things come in small packages. Weighing just 4-6 pounds, these dogs are among the most intelligent breeds. Their curly coat comes in various colors and is truly non-shedding.

Intelligence defines the Toy Poodle personality. They learn quickly, excel at tricks, and need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise. They’re also surprisingly athletic and enjoy activities like agility training.

Grooming requirements are high. Their continuously growing coat needs brushing every 1-2 days and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Traditional poodle clips can cost $50-$80, though many owners choose simpler styles. The investment pays off in a virtually hairless home.

Best for active owners who enjoy training and mental challenges. Toy Poodles adapt to any living situation but need daily engagement.

Keep in mind: These sensitive dogs can develop anxiety if left alone frequently or treated harshly. Positive reinforcement works best.

2.7 Havanese – The Social Butterfly

The Havanese is Cuba’s national dog and a natural entertainer. These 7-13 pound charmers were bred solely as companions, and they take that job seriously.

Their personality overflows with friendliness. Havanese love everyone—family, strangers, other dogs, cats, and even the mailman. They’re playful, gentle, and rarely meet a person they don’t like. This makes them poor guard dogs but excellent therapy animals.

The long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats, though many owners keep them in shorter clips. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks costs $45-$70. Their coat sheds minimally and traps loose hair effectively.

Best for families with children, seniors, or anyone wanting a social, adaptable companion. They thrive on human interaction and don’t do well left alone for long periods.

One consideration: Havanese can be vocal. Early training helps manage their tendency to announce everything that happens.

2.8 Chinese Crested – The Unique Beauty

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both shed minimally, but the hairless variety takes “non-shedding” to the extreme. Weighing 8-12 pounds, these dogs are truly one-of-a-kind.

Their personality is affectionate and alert. Chinese Cresteds bond closely with their families and can be reserved with strangers. They’re playful, gentle, and surprisingly athletic despite their delicate appearance.

Grooming depends on variety. Hairless dogs need regular bathing, moisturizing, and sunscreen application. They can also get cold easily and need sweaters in winter. Powderpuffs require regular brushing to maintain their soft coat. Both varieties need minimal professional grooming compared to other breeds.

Best for people who want a unique-looking dog and don’t mind extra skin care. They’re excellent for apartments and adapt well to various lifestyles.

Important note: Hairless Chinese Cresteds can develop skin issues and acne. Regular skincare isn’t optional—it’s essential.

2.9 West Highland White Terrier – The Spirited Explorer

West Highland White Terriers, or “Westies,” are compact bundles of energy and confidence. Weighing 15-20 pounds, these sturdy white terriers were bred to hunt rats and foxes in Scotland.

Their personality combines independence with affection. Westies are bold, curious, and always ready for adventure. They’re friendly but not overly cuddly, making them perfect for people who want a dog with personality, not just a lap warmer.

The double coat needs brushing 2-3 times weekly and hand-stripping or clipping every 8-10 weeks. Professional grooming costs $50-$75. Their coat sheds minimally but requires consistent maintenance to stay white and mat-free.

Best for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities. Westies need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Exploring different dog grooming styles can help you maintain their signature look.

The challenge: Westies can be stubborn and have a strong prey drive. Training requires patience and consistency.

2.10 Scottish Terrier – The Independent Thinker

Scottish Terriers, or “Scotties,” are dignified dogs with distinctive silhouettes. Weighing 18-22 pounds, they’re slightly larger than many small breeds but still compact and apartment-friendly.

Their personality is independent, loyal, and sometimes aloof with strangers. Scotties bond deeply with their families but aren’t overly demonstrative. They’re confident dogs who know their own minds—some might say stubborn.

The wiry coat requires brushing twice weekly and professional grooming every 6-10 weeks. Hand-stripping maintains the proper texture, though clipping works for pets. Expect to pay $50-$80 per grooming session. Despite their distinctive beard, they shed very little.

Best for experienced dog owners who appreciate an independent companion. Scotties need moderate exercise and mental stimulation but aren’t hyperactive. Among most loyal dog breeds, Scotties stand out for their devoted nature.

Fair warning: Scotties can be territorial and may not tolerate other dogs well. Early socialization is crucial.

2.11 Brussels Griffon – The Expressive Character

Brussels Griffons have faces that could win an Oscar. These 8-10 pound dogs are known for their almost human-like expressions and big personalities.

Their temperament is sensitive, intelligent, and often comical. Griffons bond intensely with one or two people and can be standoffish with others. They’re alert, curious, and enjoy being the center of attention.

Grooming needs vary by coat type. Rough-coated Griffons need hand-stripping or clipping every 6-8 weeks and weekly brushing. Smooth-coated varieties require minimal grooming—just occasional brushing. Professional grooming costs $40-$60. Both coat types shed minimally.

Best for singles or couples without young children. Their small size and sensitive nature make them fragile around rough play. They’re excellent apartment dogs.

Be aware: Brussels Griffons can develop severe separation anxiety. They’re not suited for people who travel frequently or work long hours.

2.12 Italian Greyhound – The Elegant Athlete

Italian Greyhounds are miniature versions of racing Greyhounds. At 7-14 pounds, they’re elegant, graceful, and surprisingly fast. Their short, smooth coat is about as low-maintenance as dogs get.

Personality-wise, they’re gentle, affectionate, and a bit shy. Italian Greyhounds love to cuddle and are often found burrowed under blankets. They’re playful but gentle, making them good with respectful children.

Grooming is minimal. Weekly brushing with a soft brush and occasional baths are sufficient. Their short coat sheds very little. No professional grooming is typically needed, though some owners seek basic nail trimming services every 6-8 weeks.

Best for calm households that can provide warmth and gentle handling. They’re fragile and shouldn’t live with very young children or large, rambunctious dogs.

The reality: Italian Greyhounds are difficult to housetrain and sensitive to cold. They need sweaters and coats in winter, and crate training requires extra patience.

3. Choosing the Right Small Non-Shedding Dog for You

3.1 Consider Your Lifestyle

Finding the perfect match starts with honest self-reflection about your daily life. The cutest puppy won’t stay cute if they don’t fit your routine.

Activity level matters tremendously. A Miniature Schnauzer needs vigorous daily exercise and mental challenges. A Maltese is content with short walks and indoor play. If you’re a couch potato, don’t get a high-energy breed hoping they’ll change you. If you’re a marathon runner, don’t get a flat-faced breed that can’t breathe well during exercise.

Living space influences your options, though size isn’t everything. All these breeds can live in apartments, but some adapt better than others. Vocal breeds like Yorkshire Terriers might disturb neighbors. Calm breeds like Shih Tzus work well in shared buildings.

Time availability for grooming separates success from frustration. Can you brush your dog daily? Bichons and Maltese need this commitment. Prefer less maintenance? Italian Greyhounds and smooth-coated Brussels Griffons require minimal grooming. Learning how to groom a dog at home saves money but requires time investment.

Budget considerations extend beyond purchase price. Adoption fees typically range from $50-$500 from rescues. Reputable breeders charge $1,000-$3,000 depending on breed and lineage. Then comes the ongoing costs: food ($30-$50 monthly), professional grooming ($40-$80 every 4-8 weeks), routine vet care ($200-$400 yearly), and unexpected health expenses. Small doesn’t mean cheap.

3.2 Family Situation

Your household composition heavily influences which breed thrives with you.

Best breeds for kids include Bichon Frise, Havanese, and Shih Tzu. These dogs tolerate noise, movement, and occasional rough handling better than fragile breeds. They’re patient, playful, and resilient. Avoid Chinese Cresteds, Italian Greyhounds, and Yorkshire Terriers with young children—they’re too delicate for typical kid energy.

Senior-friendly options prioritize calm temperaments and moderate exercise needs. Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Havanese make excellent companions for older adults. They’re gentle, affectionate, and don’t require marathon walks. Avoid high-energy terriers unless the senior is very active.

Multi-pet households require careful breed selection. Havanese and Bichons typically get along well with other dogs and cats. Terriers (Westies, Scotties, Yorkshire Terriers) have strong prey drives and may not tolerate small pets. Always supervise introductions and consider adult dogs with known temperaments rather than unpredictable puppies.

3.3 Experience Level

First-time dog ownership presents unique challenges. Some breeds forgive mistakes; others don’t.

First-time dog owners succeed with Bichon Frise, Havanese, and Maltese. These breeds are generally eager to please, respond well to positive reinforcement, and aren’t overly stubborn. They’re forgiving of training mistakes and adapt to various lifestyles.

Breeds needing experienced handlers include Scottish Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Brussels Griffons. These independent thinkers require consistency, patience, and confidence. They’ll take advantage of wishy-washy owners and can develop behavioral problems without proper leadership.

Questions to ask breeders or shelters help you make informed decisions:

• What is the dog’s energy level and exercise needs?
• How does this dog behave around children/other pets?
• What health clearances do the parents have? (for breeders)
• What is the return policy if it doesn’t work out?
• Can I meet the parents or see the dog’s living conditions?
• What health guarantees come with adoption/purchase?

Reputable breeders welcome questions and provide documentation. Shelters should offer trial periods and support. If someone pressures you to decide quickly or can’t answer basic questions, walk away.

4. Grooming Your Small Non-Shedding Dog

4.1 Essential Grooming Tools

Investing in quality tools makes grooming easier and more effective. Here’s what you actually need:

Brushes and combs vary by coat type. Slicker brushes work well for most small non-shedding breeds. Pin brushes suit longer coats like Maltese and Shih Tzus. Metal combs help work through tangles and check for mats. Expect to spend $15-$40 on quality brushes.

Clippers and scissors are optional for home grooming but save money long-term. Quality clippers cost $50-$150. Safety scissors with rounded tips prevent accidental cuts. Many owners stick with professional grooming and skip this investment.

Shampoos matter more than you might think. Use dog-specific formulas—human shampoo disrupts their skin’s pH balance. Hypoallergenic options work well for sensitive skin. Budget $10-$20 for quality shampoo that lasts several months.

Ongoing grooming costs add up. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks costs $40-$80 per session, totaling $240-$960 annually. DIY grooming reduces costs but requires time and skill development. Many owners combine both—professional grooming quarterly with home maintenance in between.

4.2 Grooming Schedule

Consistency prevents problems and keeps your dog comfortable.

Daily brushing applies to long-coated breeds like Maltese, Shih Tzus, and Yorkies. Spend 5-10 minutes working through their coat to prevent painful mats. Short-coated breeds like Italian Greyhounds need only weekly brushing.

Professional grooming frequency depends on coat type and your chosen style:

• Bichon Frise: Every 4-6 weeks
• Toy Poodle: Every 4-6 weeks
• Maltese/Shih Tzu: Every 6-8 weeks (more frequent if kept long)
• Miniature Schnauzer: Every 6-8 weeks
• Italian Greyhound: Rarely or never

At-home maintenance between professional visits includes:

• Bathing every 3-4 weeks (more frequent can dry skin)
• Nail trimming every 2-3 weeks
• Ear cleaning weekly (especially floppy-eared breeds)
• Teeth brushing daily or several times weekly
• Eye area cleaning daily for breeds prone to tear stains

Creating a routine transforms grooming from a chore into bonding time. Most dogs learn to enjoy the attention and treats that come with grooming sessions.

5. Common Myths About Non-Shedding Dogs

Let’s bust some popular misconceptions before you bring home your new companion.

Myth 1: They’re completely allergen-free. False. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. These breeds produce fewer allergens and spread less dander, but they still have saliva and skin. About 10-20% of people with dog allergies still react to “hypoallergenic” breeds. Always spend time with the specific dog before committing.

Myth 2: They need no grooming. Completely wrong. Non-shedding dogs often need MORE grooming than shedding breeds. Their continuously growing hair mats easily without regular brushing. Neglected coats become painful and require shaving down—essentially resetting all your grooming efforts. Regular maintenance is non-negotiable.

Myth 3: All small dogs are low-shedding. Not even close. Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Pugs are small but shed heavily. Size has nothing to do with shedding. Coat type determines shedding—hair versus fur makes the difference.

Myth 4: Non-shedding means no maintenance costs. Actually, it often means higher grooming costs. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks adds up quickly. While you save on lint rollers and vacuum bags, you invest in scissors and clippers instead. The total cost of ownership isn’t necessarily less—just distributed differently.

The truth: These breeds offer cleaner homes and fewer allergens, but they demand commitment. Understanding realistic expectations prevents disappointment.

Conclusion

Small dogs that don’t shed offer the perfect combination of compact size, minimal mess, and maximum companionship. Whether you choose a playful Bichon Frise, elegant Italian Greyhound, or spirited Miniature Schnauzer, you’re gaining a loyal friend who won’t cover your home in fur.

Remember the key points: no dog is completely non-shedding or allergen-free, grooming requirements are real and ongoing, and the right breed matches your lifestyle—not just your wishes. Take time to honestly assess your living situation, activity level, and commitment to maintenance.

Visit local shelters and breed-specific rescues. Many wonderful non-shedding dogs need homes. If you prefer a puppy from a breeder, do thorough research and ask plenty of questions. Once you’ve chosen your perfect companion, consider picking out cute dog names that make every puppy irresistible to match their personality.

Your cleaner home and happy, hypoallergenic companion await. The investment in time and care pays dividends in years of love and loyalty—without the endless fur cleanup.

FAQs

What is the smallest dog that doesn’t shed?

The Maltese and Toy Poodle tie for smallest non-shedding breeds, both weighing just 4-7 pounds. Chinese Crested (hairless variety) also stays tiny at 8-12 pounds while shedding virtually nothing.

Do non-shedding dogs smell less?

Not necessarily. Dog odor comes from skin oils, ears, and dental issues—not shedding. Regular bathing, ear cleaning, and dental care control smell in any breed. Non-shedding dogs may smell less simply because owners groom them more frequently.

How often do you need to groom a non-shedding dog?

Daily brushing for long-coated breeds (Maltese, Shih Tzu) and professional grooming every 4-8 weeks. Short-coated breeds need weekly brushing with occasional professional visits. Frequency depends on coat length and your chosen grooming style.

Are non-shedding dogs good for apartments?

Yes, most thrive in apartments. Their small size and minimal shedding suit compact living perfectly. Focus on noise levels—some breeds (Yorkshire Terriers) bark more than others (Havanese). Setting up proper dog bedroom ideas helps them settle into apartment life.

What’s the easiest non-shedding small dog to care for?

Italian Greyhounds require the least grooming maintenance with their short coats. For overall ease (considering training and temperament), Havanese and Bichon Frise balance low shedding with friendly, trainable personalities, though they need regular brushing.