15 Dogs That Don’t Shed (Much): Best Low-Shedding Dog Breeds for Families & Allergy Sufferers

If you have ever wanted a dog but were scared of fur everywhere, you are not alone. Dog hair on your clothes, furniture, and floors is a real problem for many households.
The good news is that some dog breeds shed very little. These low-shedding dogs can be perfect for families with allergies, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants a cleaner home.
In this guide, you will learn about 15 of the best dogs that don’t shed, how to care for them, and whether they are right for your family.

Short Answer

No dog is completely non-shedding. However, some breeds shed very little and are often called low-shedding or hypoallergenic dogs.
These breeds typically have hair instead of fur, and they shed at much lower rates than other dogs. Low-shedding dogs require regular grooming, but the payoff is less hair in your home.

Do Dogs That Don’t Shed Really Exist?

The short answer is no. Every dog sheds to some degree. But understanding the difference between hair and fur will help you choose a better dog.

Hair vs Fur

Dogs have either hair or fur, and this matters a lot. Hair grows continuously and sheds less frequently. Fur grows in cycles and sheds much more heavily.
Hair-based dogs lose their hair gradually throughout the year. This is why they shed so much less than fur-based breeds.

Why Every Dog Sheds a Little

Even the best low-shedding dogs lose hair. It is a natural process. Dead hair needs to leave the body, and it does.
The key difference is the amount. A Poodle sheds far less than a Golden Retriever. But both still shed some hair. According to the American Kennel Club, these breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they shed minimally.

The Hypoallergenic Myth

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Many low-shedding breeds are marketed as hypoallergenic, but this is misleading.
Allergies to dogs are not just about hair. Dander, saliva, and urine proteins trigger allergies. Low-shedding dogs produce less dander because they shed less often, but they are not completely allergy-free.
If you have severe dog allergies, a low-shedding breed helps but does not eliminate the problem entirely.

15 Best Dogs That Don’t Shed

Here are the best dog breeds that shed very little. All of these breeds have similar grooming needs and require regular professional attention.

1. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)

Overview
Poodles are intelligent, active, and one of the best low-shedding breeds available. They come in three sizes so you can choose based on your living situation.
Size
Standard: 45 to 70 pounds. Miniature: 10 to 15 pounds. Toy: under 10 pounds.
Temperament
Poodles are eager to please, highly trainable, and love their families. They are friendly and good with children and other pets.
Energy Level
High. Poodles need daily exercise and mental stimulation or they get bored.
Grooming Needs
Very high. Poodles need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks and daily brushing at home to prevent matting.
Good with Kids
Yes, especially Standard and Miniature Poodles. Toy Poodles can be fragile.
Apartment Friendly
Yes, especially Miniature and Toy Poodles. Standard Poodles need more space.
Best For
Active families, people who do not mind grooming, homes without heavy shedding concerns.
Pros
Extremely intelligent and easy to train. Shed very little. Come in multiple sizes. Excellent family dogs. Good for allergy sufferers.
Cons
High grooming cost and time commitment. Require professional grooming regularly. Can develop separation anxiety. Need consistent exercise.

2. Miniature Poodle

Overview
The Miniature Poodle is a smaller version of the Standard with all the same benefits. Perfect for apartment living.
Size
10 to 15 pounds.
Temperament
Intelligent, affectionate, and playful. Smaller than standards but just as smart.
Energy Level
Medium to high. Need daily walks and playtime.
Grooming Needs
Very high. Same grooming requirements as Standard Poodles.
Good with Kids
Yes, but watch interactions with very small children since they are delicate.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. One of the best options for apartment dwellers.
Best For
Small living spaces, apartment lovers, people who want a smart dog without massive space needs.
Pros
Perfect size for apartments. Shed minimally. Smart and trainable. Can fit into many lifestyles.
Cons
High grooming costs. Expensive to maintain. Can be stubborn. Need mental stimulation.

3. Bichon Frise

Overview
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, small dog that sheds very little. They are known for their happy personalities and fluffy white coats.
Size
12 to 18 pounds.
Temperament
Cheerful, playful, and affectionate. Love being around people and other pets.
Energy Level
Medium. Need regular exercise but not as intense as Poodles.
Grooming Needs
Very high. Need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Daily brushing prevents matting.
Good with Kids
Yes. Great family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
Yes. Perfect for smaller homes.
Best For
Families wanting a happy, small, low-shedding dog. First-time dog owners.
Pros
Cheerful and friendly. Shed very little. Good apartment dogs. Easy to train. Good for families.
Cons
High grooming requirements. Can develop separation anxiety. Need regular professional grooming. Prone to ear infections.

4. Maltese

Overview
The Maltese is a tiny, gentle dog with a long silky coat that sheds minimally. They are elegant and affectionate.
Size
Under 7 pounds.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, and playful. Bond closely with their owners.
Energy Level
Low to medium. Prefer short walks over intense exercise.
Grooming Needs
Very high. Need professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Daily brushing is essential.
Good with Kids
With older children. Too delicate for young kids.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. One of the best tiny apartment dogs.
Best For
Seniors, people in small spaces, those wanting a gentle companion.
Pros
Very small and portable. Minimal shedding. Gentle and loving. Perfect lap dogs.
Cons
Very delicate, unsuitable for homes with young children. High grooming needs. Can have dental problems. Prone to eye tearing.

5. Havanese

Overview
The Havanese is a small companion dog originally from Cuba. They shed very little and love being close to their owners.
Size
7 to 13 pounds.
Temperament
Friendly, affectionate, and playful. Love being part of family activities.
Energy Level
Low to medium. Short walks and indoor play satisfy them.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 8 to 12 weeks. Daily brushing prevents matting.
Good with Kids
Yes. Good family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. Perfect for apartments and small homes.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, first-time dog owners, people wanting a gentle companion.
Pros
Small and affectionate. Low to minimal shedding. Excellent apartment dogs. Adaptable and friendly.
Cons
Prone to separation anxiety. Need consistent grooming. Can be stubborn. Require regular brushing.

6. Shih Tzu

Overview
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog with a flowing coat that sheds very little. They are bred to be companion dogs and excel at it.
Size
9 to 16 pounds.
Temperament
Affectionate, outgoing, and friendly. Love human companionship.
Energy Level
Low. Prefer short walks and indoor play.
Grooming Needs
Very high. Need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Daily brushing is mandatory.
Good with Kids
Yes, but do better with older children.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. Perfect for apartments.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, seniors, people who enjoy grooming their dogs.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Great apartment dogs. Affectionate and friendly. Sturdy despite small size.
Cons
Very high grooming needs. Expensive maintenance. Can have breathing issues. Need regular ear cleaning.

7. Portuguese Water Dog

Overview
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized athlete that sheds very little. They love water and are great for active families.
Size
35 to 60 pounds.
Temperament
Intelligent, obedient, and energetic. Love work and activity.
Energy Level
Very high. Need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Weekly brushing is important.
Good with Kids
Yes. Excellent family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
No. Need space and regular outdoor exercise.
Best For
Active families, people with yards, families who love water activities.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Intelligent and trainable. Great family dogs. Love water and outdoor activities.
Cons
Very high exercise needs. Not suited for apartments. Need significant mental stimulation. Require regular professional grooming.

8. Miniature Schnauzer

Overview
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, sturdy dog with a wiry coat that sheds minimally. They are intelligent and spirited.
Size
11 to 20 pounds.
Temperament
Alert, intelligent, and spirited. Good watchdogs despite small size.
Energy Level
Medium. Need regular walks and play.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Regular brushing needed.
Good with Kids
Yes. Good family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
Yes. Adapt well to apartment living.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, families wanting a small watchdog, first-time owners.
Pros
Small and portable. Minimal shedding. Good watchdogs. Intelligent and trainable.
Cons
Need regular grooming. Can be stubborn. Prone to dental problems. High prey drive.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

Overview
The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny dog with silky hair that sheds very little. Despite their small size, they have big personalities.
Size
7 pounds or less.
Temperament
Confident, bold, and affectionate. Love attention and play.
Energy Level
Medium. Need regular walks and playtime.
Grooming Needs
Very high if keeping the long coat. High if keeping hair short.
Good with Kids
With older children. Too delicate for young kids.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. Perfect for small spaces.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, people in small homes, those who enjoy grooming.
Pros
Very small. Minimal shedding. Great for apartments. Long silky coat.
Cons
Very delicate. Not good for homes with young children. High grooming needs. Prone to dental problems.

10. Lagotto Romagnolo

Overview
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized dog with a waterproof curly coat that sheds minimally. Originally bred as a water retriever.
Size
24 to 36 pounds.
Temperament
Intelligent, friendly, and energetic. Love their families and excel at training.
Energy Level
High. Need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Regular brushing prevents matting.
Good with Kids
Yes. Good family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
With regular exercise. Better with a yard.
Best For
Active families, people in homes with yards, families wanting a unique breed.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Intelligent and trainable. Friendly and energetic. Unique breed.
Cons
High exercise needs. Need regular grooming. Not widely available. Can be stubborn.

11. Coton de Tulear

Overview
The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog with a soft coat that sheds very little. They are gentle and loving companions.
Size
8 to 15 pounds.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, and playful. Love being lap dogs.
Energy Level
Low to medium. Short walks satisfy their needs.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 8 to 12 weeks. Daily brushing needed.
Good with Kids
Yes. Good family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. Perfect for apartments.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, seniors, people wanting a gentle companion.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Gentle and affectionate. Good apartment dogs. Sturdy despite small size.
Cons
High grooming needs. Prone to separation anxiety. Limited breed availability. Expensive.

12. Kerry Blue Terrier

Overview
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a blue-gray curly coat that sheds very little. They are spirited and athletic.
Size
33 to 40 pounds.
Temperament
Intelligent, spirited, and athletic. Loyal to their families.
Energy Level
High. Need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Regular brushing needed.
Good with Kids
Yes. Good family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
With regular exercise. Better with a yard.
Best For
Active families, people wanting a unique breed, homes with yards.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Intelligent and trainable. Unique appearance. Athletic and energetic.
Cons
High exercise needs. Need regular grooming. Can be stubborn. High prey drive.

13. Chinese Crested

Overview
The Chinese Crested is a small, unique dog that comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both shed minimally.
Size
5 to 12 pounds.
Temperament
Affectionate, lively, and attentive. Love their owners deeply.
Energy Level
Low to medium. Short walks and indoor play satisfy them.
Grooming Needs
Medium for powderpuff variety. Low for hairless (but need skin care).
Good with Kids
With older children. Too delicate for young kids.
Apartment Friendly
Excellent. Perfect for apartments.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, people wanting a unique dog, those seeking a low-shedding companion.
Pros
Minimal to no shedding. Unique appearance. Affectionate. Good for apartments.
Cons
Very delicate. Not good for young children. Hairless variety needs skin protection. Can have dental problems.

14. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Overview
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. They are energetic and friendly.
Size
30 to 40 pounds.
Temperament
Friendly, energetic, and intelligent. Good with families and other dogs.
Energy Level
High. Need regular exercise and outdoor activities.
Grooming Needs
High. Need professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Weekly brushing needed.
Good with Kids
Yes. Great family dogs.
Apartment Friendly
With regular exercise. Better with a yard.
Best For
Active families, homes with yards, families wanting a friendly, energetic dog.
Pros
Minimal shedding. Friendly and energetic. Great family dogs. Good with other pets.
Cons
High exercise needs. Need regular grooming. Can have joint problems. Can be stubborn.

15. Xoloitzcuintli

Overview
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low) is an ancient Mexican breed that comes hairless or with a short coat. Either way, they shed very little.
Size
Toy: 5 to 15 pounds. Miniature: 15 to 30 pounds. Standard: 30 to 55 pounds.
Temperament
Intelligent, affectionate, and alert. Good watchdogs.
Energy Level
Low to medium. Need regular walks but not intense exercise.
Grooming Needs
Low for hairless variety. Low to medium for coated variety.
Good with Kids
Yes, with proper socialization.
Apartment Friendly
Yes, especially smaller varieties.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, people wanting a unique breed, those in warm climates.
Pros
Minimal to no shedding. Unique and ancient breed. Low grooming needs. Intelligent.
Cons
Hairless variety needs skin care and sun protection. Not widely available. Can be reserved with strangers. Expensive.

Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

If you live in an apartment or small space, here are the best options. Small dogs that don’t shed are perfect for tight living situations.
The top choices are Miniature Poodles, Bichon Frises, Maltese, Havanese, Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Coton de Tulears.
All of these breeds stay under 20 pounds and shed very little. They adapt well to apartment living and smaller homes. However, remember that small does not mean low maintenance. These breeds still need grooming, training, and regular exercise.
For more options, check out our guide on best apartment dog breeds to see how these breeds compare to others.

Best Family Dogs That Don’t Shed

Families with children need dogs that are both gentle and active. The best family-friendly, low-shedding dogs are Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs, Bichon Frises, Havanese, and Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers.
These breeds are patient with kids, enjoy activities, and have stable temperaments. They also shed minimally, which means less hair to clean.
Standard and Miniature Poodles are especially great for families because they are intelligent, trainable, and love being part of family activities. Portuguese Water Dogs are perfect if your family loves water and outdoor activities.
For more information about selecting the right family dog, see our article on best dog breeds for families to understand all the factors beyond shedding.

Best Apartment Dogs That Don’t Shed

Apartment living requires dogs that do not need tons of space or outdoor time. The best apartment dogs that don’t shed include Bichon Frises, Maltese, Havanese, Shih Tzus, and Miniature Poodles.
These small breeds adapt well to limited space. They need regular exercise but can get it through indoor play and short walks.
Chinese Crested dogs are also excellent apartment dogs. They are small, require minimal grooming compared to other low-shedding breeds, and do not need intense exercise.
For a complete ranking of apartment-friendly dogs, review our guide to best apartment dog breeds which covers space requirements and temperament.

Dogs That Shed the Least vs High-Shedding Dogs

Here is a quick comparison of low-shedding breeds versus high-shedding breeds:

The difference is clear. Low-shedding dogs require more grooming time but shed far less hair around your home.

Low-Shedding Does Not Mean Low Maintenance

This is the most important thing to understand. Low-shedding breeds are not low-maintenance breeds.

Why Grooming Matters

Low-shedding dogs have hair that grows continuously. This hair needs to be brushed regularly or it becomes matted and tangled.
Matting is not just a cosmetic problem. It pulls on the skin and causes pain. Severely matted dogs sometimes need to be shaved, which defeats the purpose of their beautiful coats.

Professional Grooming Is Essential

Most low-shedding breeds need professional grooming every 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the breed. This is not optional. It is necessary for the dog’s health and comfort.
Professional grooming costs between 50 to 150 dollars per visit for most low-shedding breeds. This adds up to 200 to 600 dollars per year, sometimes more. For professional grooming standards, the ASPCA recommends regular grooming every 4 to 12 weeks.

Other Grooming Needs

Beyond coat brushing and trimming, low-shedding dogs need:
Ear cleaning every 1 to 2 weeks to prevent infections. Nail trimming every 3 to 4 weeks. Teeth brushing several times a week. Eye cleaning, especially for breeds with long hair around the eyes.
For expert tips on grooming, review our dog grooming tips at home and best dog shampoo for skin care guides.
You can also learn how often to bathe your dog in our guide on how often should you bathe a dog to maintain their coat health.

How to Reduce Dog Hair Around Your Home

Even with low-shedding dogs, some hair will be in your home. Here are practical ways to minimize it:

Brush Regularly

Daily brushing is the single best way to reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or comb appropriate for your dog’s coat type.
Regular brushing removes loose hair before it falls out on your furniture and floors.

Feed a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in omega fatty acids supports healthy skin and coat. Dogs with healthy skin shed less.
Look for dog foods with high-quality proteins and healthy fats. Poor nutrition makes shedding worse.

Vacuum and Clean Often

Even low-shedding dogs leave some hair. Regular vacuuming with a good vacuum cleaner helps.
Microfiber furniture traps less hair than other fabrics. Washing dog bedding weekly also helps.

Use an Air Purifier

An air purifier with a HEPA filter removes loose hair and dander from the air. This helps with allergies and keeps your home cleaner.

Maintain a Consistent Grooming Routine

Stick to your dog’s grooming schedule. Do not skip appointments with your groomer.
Consistency is what keeps low-shedding dogs looking and feeling their best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dogs that don’t shed really exist?

No dog is completely non-shedding, but some breeds shed so little that you barely notice it. These are the truly low-shedding breeds listed in this guide.

Which dog sheds the least?

Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Maltese dogs are among the breeds that shed the absolute least. Hairless varieties like Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli shed almost nothing.

Which small dogs don’t shed?

The best small, low-shedding dogs are Miniature Poodles, Bichon Frises, Maltese, Havanese, Shih Tzus, and Miniature Schnauzers.

Are hypoallergenic dogs allergy-free?

No. No dog is completely hypoallergenic. Low-shedding dogs produce less dander, which may help people with mild allergies. People with severe allergies should spend time with the breed before committing.

Which dog is best for families with allergies?

Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Portuguese Water Dogs are excellent for families with allergies. They shed very little and produce less dander. Always consult with an allergist before getting any dog. VCA Hospitals notes that while low-shedding dogs produce less dander, they are not completely allergy-free.

Are low-shedding dogs good for apartments?

Yes. Many low-shedding dogs are excellent apartment dogs because of their small size and adaptability. However, they still need exercise and mental stimulation.

Do low-shedding dogs need grooming?

Yes, absolutely. Low-shedding dogs need regular professional grooming and daily brushing at home. This is not optional.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a dog should be about more than just shedding. Consider your lifestyle, living space, energy levels, and time available for grooming.
The best dog is one that fits your life and needs. A low-shedding dog is only right for you if you can commit to regular grooming and care.
All 15 breeds in this guide are wonderful dogs. Each has unique personality traits and needs. Take time to research and visit breeders to find the right match for your family.
Your perfect low-shedding dog is out there. Choose based on compatibility, not just coat type. For more detailed guide read our article Best low Maintenance Dog Breeds and Common Dog Health Problems and Senior Dog Care Tips

About the Author

David Jason has over 8 years of experience helping pet owners understand their dogs and cats. He shares practical, real world advice through mypetcaretips.com.