23 Small, Low-Shedding Dog Breeds (Vet-Approved)

When it comes to choosing a small dog breed, many potential pet owners are deterred by the thought of constant shedding and the allergies that can accompany it. Fortunately, there are several small dog breeds known for their minimal shedding, making them suitable alternatives for those looking to avoid a home covered in fur. Here’s a guide to some small dog breeds that shed very little, often making them a good choice for individuals with allergies or those who prefer a tidier living environment.

Every dog sheds to some extent, but breeds vary significantly in how much fur they lose. While breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds are notorious for their heavy shedding, others, due to their unique coat characteristics, are considered low shedders and more hypoallergenic. However, it’s important to remember that “hypoallergenic” does not mean no allergies; rather, these dogs are less likely to trigger allergic reactions compared to others.

Now, let’s explore some small breeds renowned for their minimal shedding:

1. Affenpinscher: This German breed is small but stout-hearted, originally bred for pest control. They make excellent companion animals due to their adorable appearance and adventurous spirit. Their hair shedding is minimal due to their rough coat.

2. Basenji: Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is a unique breed that uses a variety of sounds to communicate. Hailing from Africa, this breed is prized for its keen hunting instincts and minimal shedding.

3. Bedlington Terrier: Recognizable by their curly, lamb-like coats, these dogs are playful and make excellent family pets. Their coat, which resembles sheep’s wool, requires regular grooming but sheds very little.

4. Bichon Frise: With their curly, plush coats, the Bichon Frise is a joy to cuddle and has a friendly disposition. Regular grooming helps to keep their shedding practically unnoticed.

5. Border Terrier: This sturdy, affectionate breed is great for families, loving play as much as snuggles. Their wiry coat sheds infrequently which makes upkeep a breeze compared to fluffier breeds.

6. Brussels Griffon: Often noted for their distinctive ‘grumpy’ expression, these dogs have a lot of personality packed into a small package. Their rough coats do not shed much but do require regular grooming.

7. Cairn Terrier: These are energetic, playful dogs that enjoy human interaction. Not prone to shedding, they’re great companions that manage to keep hair accumulation to a minimum.

8. Chinese Crested: Available in both hairless and powderpuff varieties, they shed little to no hair, making them ideal for those with allergies.

9. Coton de Tulear: Similar to the Bichon Frise in appearance and temperament, the Coton de Tulear has a fluffy, hypoallergenic coat that sheds minimally.

10. Havanese: This Cuban native sports a silky coat that requires regular grooming but sheds very little, perfect for keeping the house fur-free.

11. Italian Greyhound: Sleek and graceful, these dogs have fine coats that don’t shed much. This breed combines elegance with practicality in a pet-friendly package.

12. Lakeland Terrier: This breed is playful and thrives on companionship. While they require regular trims and grooming, their shedding is minimal.

13. Lhasa Apso: Known for their long, flowing coats, they can appear like they’d shed a lot, but regular grooming keeps loose hairs under control.

14. Maltese: Famous for their silky white coats, they are surprisingly low shedders and can be great for allergy sufferers with regular grooming.

15. Miniature Poodle: Intelligent and easy to train, Miniature Poodles have a curly coat that’s virtually non-shedding. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent mats.

16. Miniature Schnauzer: Vigorous and friendly, their wiry coat sheds minimally but does need regular grooming to stay in prime condition.

17. Norfolk Terrier: Brave and lively, their wiry coat requires occasional brushing and sheds very little.

18. Silky Terrier: As their name suggests, they have a silky, fine coat that doesn’t shed much, making them both beautiful and low-maintenance.

19. Scottish Terrier: These independent and rugged dogs have wiry coats that need regular grooming but shed very little.

20. Toy Poodle: The smallest of the Poodle variants, they share the breed’s hallmark low shedding and hypoallergenic coat.

21. West Highland White Terrier: Popularly known as Westies, they have a double coat that sheds minimally but requires regular care to prevent matting.

22. Yorkshire Terrier: With their fine, straight silk coats, they are very low shedders and perfect for allergy sufferers when maintained properly.

23. Xoloitzcuintli: This hairless breed is perhaps the ultimate low-shedding dog, with a smooth skin that requires minimal grooming.

Each of these breeds has its unique qualities but shares one common trait: minimal shedding. Proper care, including regular grooming and diet, plays a crucial role in maintaining their coat’s health and further minimizing shedding. If allergies are a concern, potential owners should spend time with the breed beforehand, as individual reactions can vary.

For those battling allergies or simply seeking a low-maintenance canine companion, these breeds exemplify that it’s possible to have a pet without a home covered in hair. Whether cuddly and plush or sleek and minimal, there’s a low-shedding dog for virtually every lifestyle and preference.