TL;DR Non-shedding dogs minimize fur around your home, though all dogs lose some hair and produce allergens (none are truly hypoallergenic). Best small breeds include Poodles (Toy, Mini, Standard), Poodle mixes (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), Maltese, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shih Tzus. Larger options include Portuguese Water Dogs, Standard Poodles, Afghan Hounds, and Giant Schnauzers. These breeds require regular grooming (every 6-8 weeks, $50-100 per visit), daily brushing (10-15 minutes), and consistent exercise (30-60 minutes daily). While they reduce fur cleanup, they need dedicated grooming maintenance and aren't allergy-proof—always spend time with a breed before committing.
Key Takeaways
- What are the best small dogs that don't shed? Poodles (Toy, Mini, Standard) and Poodle mixes, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shih Tzus. These breeds have hair that grows continuously like human hair rather than shedding fur.
- Which large dogs shed the least? Portuguese Water Dogs, Standard Poodles, Afghan Hounds, and Giant Schnauzers offer minimal shedding for families wanting bigger breeds.
- Are non-shedding dogs truly hypoallergenic? No, all dogs produce allergens through dander, saliva, and urine. Non-shedding breeds may be better for allergy sufferers, but always spend time with the specific breed first to test your reaction.
- How much grooming do these dogs need? Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks ($50-100+ per visit), daily brushing (10-15 minutes), regular baths (every 4-6 weeks or when dirty), and nail trimming.
- What's the time commitment for non-shedding dogs? Daily exercise (30-60 minutes), daily brushing (10-15 minutes), regular grooming appointments, and routine vet care—similar to other dogs but with increased grooming requirements.
- How do I keep my home clean with a non-shedding dog? Vacuum 1-2 times weekly, wash dog beds regularly, maintain grooming tools, and establish a consistent care routine. You'll spend less time removing fur but more time on grooming maintenance.
- Do non-shedding dogs need special food? No special diet required, but high-quality food supports healthy coat growth and overall wellness.
- What should I consider before getting one? Budget for regular grooming costs, time for daily care and exercise, living space requirements, and family schedule. Ensure everyone can share pet care responsibilities.
Best Small Dogs That Don't Shed
Interestingly enough, several of our family members have had or have these breeds. They are what I consider clean perfectionists and look for dogs that shed less hair than other breeds. My mother-in-law had toy poodles and a Yorkie, my sister-in-law has Bichon Frises, and my daughter has a Labradoodle. So, there certainly must be something to people wanting dogs that don't shed.
Poodles and Poodle Mixes
Poodles come in three sizes and barely shed:
- Toy Poodles: Perfect for apartments
- Mini Poodles: Great for small homes
- Standard Poodles: Ideal for families
- Poodle mixes like Goldendoodles and Labradoodles
Poodles are consistently ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, often placing second only to Border Collies in intelligence rankings. This exceptional intelligence makes them highly trainable and responsive to commands, which is particularly appealing for first-time dog owners and those who enjoy the training process. Their eagerness to please combined with their quick learning ability means they excel at obedience and can master complex commands and tricks with relative ease.
Other Small Dogs
These little pups won't cover your couch in fur:
- Maltese: Sweet white dogs with silky hair
- Bichon Frise: Looks like a cotton ball with legs
- Yorkshire Terrier: Tiny dogs with long, pretty hair
- Shih Tzu: Friendly dogs with long, flowing hair
Maltese
People choose Maltese dogs for their gentle, affectionate nature and stunning appearance. They are devoted companions that thrive on human attention and love to be close to their owners. Maltese are small enough to live comfortably in apartments and travel easily, yet they have surprisingly bold personalities. They're playful and lively despite their delicate appearance, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their small size and loving temperament make them perfect lap dogs for people seeking a devoted, portable companion.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise appeals to people who want a cheerful, friendly dog with a distinctive fluffy appearance. These dogs have naturally happy dispositions and are known for their playful, gentle personalities that make them excellent family pets. Bichons are social butterflies who generally love everyone they meet, including children, strangers, and other pets. They're adaptable dogs that do well in various living situations from apartments to houses. People also appreciate that Bichons are sturdy despite their small size and have fewer health problems than many toy breeds.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers attract owners who want a small dog with a big personality packed into a glamorous package. Despite their tiny size and elegant appearance with long, silky hair, Yorkies have bold, confident, terrier personalities. They're fiercely loyal to their owners and make excellent watchdogs, alerting their families to any unusual activity. Their small size makes them perfect for apartment living and easy to travel with. People enjoy that Yorkies are surprisingly energetic and playful, offering both the convenience of a small dog and the spirited personality of a much larger breed. They're also long-lived, often reaching 12-15 years or more.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are chosen by people who want a friendly, outgoing companion bred specifically for companionship. These dogs were developed solely to be loving house pets, and they excel at this role with their affectionate, people-oriented nature. They're known for being particularly good with children and other pets, rarely showing aggression. Their long, flowing coat comes in many color combinations though it requires significant grooming commitment. Shih Tzus don't require extensive exercise—short walks and indoor play satisfy them. People appreciate their even temperament and the fact that they're equally happy playing or snuggling on the couch.
Bigger Dogs That Don't Shed Much
Want a larger dog? Try these breeds:
- Portuguese Water Dog: Great with kids and loves to swim
- Standard Poodle: Smart and easy to train
- Afghan Hound: Elegant dogs with long, flowing hair
- Giant Schnauzer: Good watchdogs with wiry coats
Portuguese Water Dog
People choose Portuguese Water Dogs for their enthusiastic, family-friendly personalities and love of water activities. These dogs are energetic and playful, making them excellent companions for active families with children. They're highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes training enjoyable and rewarding. Originally bred to help fishermen in Portugal, they retain their strong swimming instincts and excel at water sports, making them perfect for families who enjoy boating, beach trips, or lake activities. Portuguese Water Dogs are loyal and affectionate with their families while maintaining an adventurous spirit.
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles appeal to people who want one of the most intelligent and trainable dog breeds available. These dogs consistently rank among the top breeds for intelligence, making them exceptional students who learn commands quickly and excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. Despite stereotypes about being prissy or pampered, Standard Poodles are athletic, versatile dogs originally bred as water retrievers. They're loyal and affectionate with their families, often forming deep bonds with their owners. People appreciate their dignified yet playful nature and their adaptability to various lifestyles. Standard Poodles are large enough to be excellent companions for outdoor activities like hiking and running, yet they're gentle and patient enough to be wonderful family dogs.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds attract people who admire elegance in a dog. These strikingly beautiful dogs with their long, silky, flowing coats have a regal, aristocratic appearance that turns heads wherever they go. Originally bred to hunt in the mountains of Afghanistan, they're independent thinkers with a dignified, aloof personality that appeals to owners who appreciate a more cat-like temperament in their dog. Afghan Hounds are gentle and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers. They're athletic and graceful, capable of remarkable speed and agility, making them fascinating to watch in motion.
Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are chosen by people who want a powerful, protective dog with unwavering loyalty to their family. These large, imposing dogs make excellent watchdogs and guard dogs, naturally protective of their home and family without being unnecessarily aggressive. They're intelligent and trainable, though they require firm, consistent leadership from an experienced owner. Giant Schnauzers bond deeply with their families and are surprisingly playful and affectionate with those they trust. They're best suited for owners who can provide plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and training these powerful, intelligent dogs need to thrive.
Taking Care of Non-Shedding Dogs
Grooming Basics
These dogs need regular care to stay clean and neat:
- Brush their hair every few days
- Visit a groomer every 6-8 weeks
- Bathe them when they get dirty
Why it's Important to Groom Your Dog
Maintaining your dog's appearance and health requires consistent grooming care throughout their life. Regular brushing every few days helps prevent matting and tangling while keeping the coat clean and distributing natural oils. Professional grooming appointments every six to eight weeks are essential for haircuts, thorough cleaning, and maintaining the proper coat shape and length. Bathing should be done as needed when your dog gets dirty or develops an odor, though over-bathing can strip natural oils from the skin. Keeping nails trimmed is important for your dog's comfort and health, as overgrown nails can cause pain and affect how they walk. These grooming tasks, while requiring time and financial investment, are necessary to keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.
Daily Care
Help your dog stay healthy:
- Give them exercise every day
- Feed them good-quality food
- Keep fresh water available
- Show them lots of love-easy to do since they'll love you back!
What to Know Before You Choose Any Dog
They Will Take Time and Money
Be ready for:
- Regular groomer visits ($50-100 each time)
- Daily brushing (10-15 minutes)
- Exercise time (30-60 minutes daily)
- Vet checkups and care
Why These Care Requirements Matter
Regular Groomer Visits
Professional grooming every six to eight weeks is essential for maintaining your dog's coat health and overall comfort. Groomers have the expertise and tools to properly trim and shape the coat, preventing painful mats that can pull on the skin and cause sores or infections. They also perform tasks that many owners find difficult, such as expressing anal glands, cleaning ears thoroughly, and trimming nails to the proper length. Regular grooming visits allow professionals to spot potential health issues like skin problems, lumps, or parasites early. While the cost of $50-100 per visit adds up over time, skipping these appointments can lead to severely matted coats that may require shaving, skin infections, and discomfort for your dog.
Daily Brushing
Spending 10-15 minutes brushing your dog each day prevents the formation of painful mats and tangles that can tighten against the skin. Daily brushing removes dirt, debris, and loose hair while distributing natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. This routine also allows you to check for ticks, fleas, skin irritations, or unusual lumps during your hands-on time with your dog. Beyond the physical benefits, daily brushing strengthens the bond between you and your pet, providing quality one-on-one attention that many dogs find relaxing and enjoyable. Start this process early.
Exercise Time
Dedicating 30-60 minutes daily to exercise is crucial for your dog's physical and mental health. Regular physical activity prevents obesity, which can lead to serious health problems including diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease. Exercise also provides mental stimulation that prevents boredom-related behavioral problems like destructive chewing, excessive barking, or anxiety. Dogs that receive adequate exercise are generally calmer indoors, sleep better, and are more obedient because their energy has been appropriately channeled. Different breeds have varying exercise needs, but consistent daily activity keeps muscles toned, joints healthy, and contributes to a longer, healthier life.
Vet Checkups and Care
Regular vet visits are essential for preventive care and early detection of health problems. Annual or bi-annual checkups allow veterinarians to monitor your dog's overall health, update vaccinations, and catch potential issues before they become serious or expensive to treat. Routine care includes heartworm prevention, flea and tick control, and dental assessments that protect against diseases. As dogs age, more frequent vet visits help manage age-related conditions and maintain quality of life. Establishing a relationship with a veterinarian ensures you have professional guidance for nutrition, behavior concerns, and emergency situations. Investing in preventive veterinary care often saves money in the long run by avoiding costly emergency treatments for conditions that could have been prevented or caught early.
Living Space Considerations
Think about:
- Your home size
- Yard space
- Time for walks
- Family schedule
Before bringing a dog home, carefully evaluate whether your living situation matches the breed's needs. Your home size matters because larger, active breeds need more indoor space to move comfortably, while smaller breeds adapt well to apartments.
Available yard space affects how much outdoor time your dog gets for exercise and bathroom breaks, though dogs without yards can thrive with committed owners who provide regular walks.
Consider the time you can realistically dedicate to daily walks—most dogs need at least one or two walks per day regardless of yard size for mental stimulation and exercise.
Your family's schedule is crucial because dogs need consistent feeding times, potty breaks, exercise, and companionship throughout the day. If everyone works long hours away from home, you'll need to arrange for dog walkers, daycare, or choose a breed that handles alone time better.
Matching your living space and lifestyle to your dog's needs ensures both you and your pet will be happy.
Make Your Home Dog-Ready
Keep It Clean
Simple Steps for a Clean Home
- Vacuum once or twice a week
- Wash dog beds regularly
- Keep brushes and combs handy
- Have cleaning supplies ready
Maintaining a clean home with a dog requires preparation and the right supplies on hand. Keep enzymatic cleaners specifically designed for pet accidents, as these break down odors and stains that regular cleaners can't eliminate, preventing your dog from returning to the same spot. Stock up on paper towels, old towels, or cleaning rags for quick cleanup of muddy paws, spills, or accidents. A good vacuum cleaner designed to handle pet hair is essential for keeping floors, furniture, and carpets free of fur and dander. Have pet-safe disinfectant wipes or sprays available for sanitizing surfaces, food bowls, and areas where your dog spends time. Keep a doormat or towel near entryways to wipe paws before your dog tracks dirt through the house. Having lint rollers or pet hair removal brushes helps keep clothing and furniture presentable. A designated laundry hamper for dog bedding, blankets, and toys makes it easy to wash these items regularly. By keeping these cleaning supplies organized and accessible, you can quickly address messes before they become bigger problems, making life with your dog much more enjoyable.
Family Tips
Help everyone adjust:
- Make a pet care schedule
- Share dog duties
- Keep grooming tools in easy reach
- Set up a dog care routine
Helping everyone in the household adjust to life with a new dog requires organization and shared responsibility.
Creating a pet care schedule ensures that feeding, walking, grooming, and playtime happen consistently, and it prevents confusion about who's responsible for what tasks each day.
Sharing dog duties among family members not only lightens the load for any one person but also helps the dog bond with everyone in the household rather than becoming attached to just one caregiver.
Keeping grooming tools like brushes, nail clippers, and cleaning supplies in an easily accessible location encourages family members to handle quick grooming tasks without hassle, making it more likely that daily brushing and basic care actually gets done.
Establishing a consistent dog care routine with set times for meals, walks, and bedtime helps your dog feel secure and makes training easier, while also allowing family members to plan their own schedules around predictable pet care responsibilities.
When everyone participates and knows their role, caring for a dog becomes a positive bonding experience.
Common Questions
Do these dogs need special food?
No, but good quality food helps keep their coat healthy.
How often do they need baths?
Usually every 4-6 weeks, or when they get dirty.
Are they good for people with allergies?
They are often believed to be better for allergy sufferers, but always spend time with the breed first to make sure, as no dog is truly hypoallergenic or allergen-free.
Bottom Line
Dogs that don't shed can make great pets for busy families or people who like a clean house. While they need regular grooming, you'll spend less time cleaning up fur. Just remember: no dog is completely maintenance-free, but these breeds make it easier to keep your home clean.
Just pick the size and personality that fits your family best, and be ready for regular grooming appointments. With the right care, these dogs make wonderful and clean companions!
