18 Small Dogs That Don’t Shed (With Info & Pictures)

Dogs are fun to spend time with, but it’s never much fun to clean up the dog hair that they shed throughout the day. Dog hair can get on your clothes, on the furniture, on the floors, and even on the sheets. There is no such thing as a dog that doesn't shed at all. However, several small purebred and crossbred dogs are considered "non-shedders" because they lose so little hair that it isn't noticeable.

Most non-shedding dogs are considered hypoallergenic, but note that there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog. So, if you're looking at this list for allergy reasons, know that it largely depends more on the individual dog, although low-shedding breeds can be helpful for some people. Regardless, if you're not up for dealing with pet hair, let's explore 18 small dogs that don't shed.

Top 18 Small Dogs That Don't Shed:

1. Bolognese

Bolognese dogs might be small in stature, but they boast big fun-loving personalities that make them popular pets for families around the world. These fluffy dogs are soft to the touch and require daily grooming to keep their hair from tangling and matting. But all the grooming is well worth the lack of shedding. All in all, this is one of the best small dogs that don't shed.

2. Brussels Griffon

If you're searching for small non-shedding dogs, you have to check out Brussels Griffons. These loyal dogs sport cute little scrunchy faces that give them character. They prefer spending their time with human companions rather than running around a dirty yard. Their coat may be soft or coarse, but either way, owners don’t have to worry about shedding as time goes on.

3. Poodle

Poodles are one of the most popular breeding dogs on the planet, and for good reason. They come in multiple different sizes, including Toy, Miniature, and Standard. They’re loyal, intelligent, and lovely to look at. They also feature hypoallergenic qualities and won’t leave hair around your home.

4. Scottish Terrier

This is a sturdy dog breed that was traditionally bred as a hunting companion. Today, they are revered as engaging pets that love hiking and camping adventures. They feature a wiry outer coat and thick undercoat that stays in place year-round, except during a brushing session.

5. Shih Poo

This adorable crossbreed is the offspring of the Shih Tzu and Miniature Poodle, both of which are non-shedding breeds. These dogs have silky smooth hair that's typically curly. Some owners choose to keep their hair trimmed for aesthetic purposes, but even long-haired Shih Poos won't shed even during the summer months.

6. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise means “curly lap dog” in French, and they tend to live up to their name, whether as puppies or seniors. These are typically curious dogs when they aren't snuggling with a family member. Their tight, thick curls won't shed but will need to be trimmed occasionally so it doesn't cover their eyes, ears, and mouth.

• See also: 9 Best Dog Foods for Bichon Frise Dogs – Our Favorites with Reviews

7. Havanese

The Havanese has kind eyes and loving personalities. They are playful companions to kids and loyal to their pack leader. They have long, luscious hair that will grow to the ground if it's allowed to. But no matter how long it gets, it won't shed all over your house. This is a great option for those looking for little dogs that don't shed!

• Related Read: Teacup Havanese: Guide, Pictures, Temperament, & Traits

8. Chinese Crested

Two types of Chinese Crested dogs are in existence today. The hairless Chinese Crested dog obviously barely sheds at all. Meanwhile, the Powderpuff Chine Crested dog does shed, but minimally.

9. Yorkipoo

Considered a designer breed, the Yorkipoo is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and either the toy or miniature Poodle. Their outgoing personalities make them the perfect pet for anyone who wants a companion to take to town while running errands or visiting friends. Their non-shedding coat makes them ideal pets for apartment dwellers.

10. Mexican Hairless (Xoloitzcuintli)

The Mexican Hairless dog is an ancient breed that’s fairly rare among families in the United States. Although many of these dogs have no hair at all, some do grow a little on their heads that doesn’t shed much. Either way, protection from the sun is something that owners of these dogs must consider.

11. Yorkshire Terrier

This small dog breed is full of energy and enjoys being a constant companion to their family members. They feature dramatically long, silky hair that most owners choose to keep trimmed even though it doesn’t shed. This is a "hypoallergenic" dog that can adapt to a variety of household dynamics.

• Related read: Best Dog Carriers for Yorkies – Reviews & Top Picks

12. Basenji

This is a small yet stout hunting breed that originated from Africa. They have short, fine fur that stays put unless it gets brushed, in which case, some fur strands may come loose. But owners won’t find hair lying around on the ground in their homes, even if their Basenji spends much of their time inside.

13. Miniature Schnauzer

The Mini Schnauzer is known as a reliable watchdog that will keep strangers away from their territory at all costs. They're cute and cuddly, yet they maintain a sense of independence that allows them to adapt well to time spent at home alone. What's more, they shed only minimally.

14. Maltese Terrier

Like most Terriers, this small breed tends to display hunting instincts. But more than finding prey, the Maltese Terrier enjoys pleasing their owners and snuggling on laps any chance they get. They are intelligent, easy to train, and shed vet little.

15. Lhasa Apso

Standing at less than a foot tall at the shoulder, the Lhasa Apso is a non-sporting companion dog that is said to have originated from Tibet. They would act as watchdogs and alert monks in the monastery when strangers approached. They would also leave minimal hair behind for the monks to clean up. They now live in family homes around the world and maintain their non-shedding ways.

16. Cockapoo

This crossbreed is one of the more popular small companion dogs on the market. The Cockapoo is smart, easily trainable, and good with kids. They tend to get along with other dogs and sometimes cats too. Their "hypoallergenic" hair doesn’t shed much, which makes them easy to keep groomed over time.

17. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu can weight as little as 4 pounds when fully grown! Like the Lhasa Apso, these dogs come from Tibet where they are widely renowned as prize companions. They can be stubborn at times and will try to get their way whenever they find an opportunity to. But they won’t leave behind a mess of shedding hair wherever they go.

18. Affenpinscher

These little dogs come from Germany, where their name means “monkey-like” terrier. The Affenpinscher features strong features and wiry hair that doesn’t readily shed. They were bred to hunt rodents, but today, they’re content living as companion pets with the family household.

Final Thoughts

These are only the small breed dogs that don’t shed—there are tons of larger breeds that tend to have the same low-shedding characteristics! Now you have a starting point to work from when choosing a dog that doesn’t shed to become a new member of your family.

Featured Image Credit: Fran_Mother_Of_Dogs, Pixabay