10 Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed Much
Looking for a small dog that leaves less hair around your home? While no dog is completely non-shedding, many small breeds shed very little and make wonderful companions for families, seniors, apartment dwellers and first-time dog owners. In this guide we’ll compare the best low-shedding small dog breeds, explain their grooming needs and personalities, and help you choose the perfect companion for your lifestyle.
Quick Answer
If you’re looking for a small dog that sheds very little, excellent choices include the Miniature Poodle, Toy Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Havanese, Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, West Highland White Terrier and the Maltipoo. Although no dog is completely non-shedding, these breeds lose very little hair compared to most dogs and are among the most popular choices for people who prefer a cleaner home or who are sensitive to pet dander.
Dogs Central Quick Picks
| Breed | Shedding | Grooming | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature Poodle | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Almost Everyone |
| Toy Poodle | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Apartments |
| Bichon Frise | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Families |
| Maltese | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Companionship |
| Havanese | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Families |
| Miniature Schnauzer | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Active Owners |
| Yorkshire Terrier | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Small Homes |
| West Highland White Terrier | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Terrier Lovers |
| Shih Tzu | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Quiet Homes |
| Maltipoo (Designer Breed) | ⭐☆☆☆☆* | ★★★★☆ | First-Time Owners |
*Individual Maltipoos may vary depending on which parent’s coat they inherit.
Do Any Dogs Really Not Shed?
One of the biggest misconceptions among prospective dog owners is that some breeds never shed. The truth is that every dog sheds at least a little. The difference lies in how much hair they lose, how quickly their coat grows and whether loose hairs become trapped within the coat instead of falling onto your furniture and floors.
Many of the breeds featured in this guide have continuously growing coats that require regular brushing and professional grooming instead of seasonal shedding. In other words, you’ll spend less time vacuuming—but more time brushing and scheduling grooming appointments.
These breeds are often described as low-shedding or hypoallergenic. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, dogs that shed less may spread fewer allergens around the home, making them a better choice for some people with mild pet allergies.
🐾 Dogs Central Tip
Don’t choose a breed based solely on shedding. Personality, energy level, grooming requirements and compatibility with your lifestyle are just as important as how much hair you’ll find on your sofa.
The 10 Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed Much
The following breeds are presented alphabetically because there is no single “best” dog for every family. Each excels in different areas, whether you’re looking for a playful companion, an intelligent training partner, a calm lap dog or an energetic little adventurer.
Bichon Frise
The cheerful Bichon Frise has been charming families for centuries with its bright personality, playful nature and fluffy white coat. Although the coat appears soft and cloud-like, loose hairs become trapped within the curls rather than falling around your home, making the Bichon one of the best small dogs for people who dislike shedding.
Bichons thrive on companionship and love being involved in family activities. They generally get along well with children, seniors and other pets, making them one of the most versatile companion breeds on our list.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆ (Very Low)
- Grooming: ★★★★★
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Families, retirees and first-time owners
Dogs Central Verdict: If you’re willing to invest in regular grooming, the Bichon Frise rewards you with one of the happiest personalities in the dog world and very little hair around the house.
Read our complete Bichon Frise Breed Guide →
Havanese
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Family CompanionThe Havanese combines an affectionate temperament with a silky, low-shedding coat that makes it an excellent choice for families looking for a small indoor companion. These intelligent little dogs form strong bonds with their owners and are happiest when included in everyday family life.
Despite their luxurious coat, Havanese shed surprisingly little. Regular brushing prevents tangles, while many owners choose a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★★☆
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Families, apartments and companionship
Dogs Central Verdict: Friendly, adaptable and affectionate, the Havanese is one of the easiest small breeds to live with and deserves its reputation as an outstanding family dog.
Read our complete Havanese Breed Guide →
Maltese
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Lap DogElegant, gentle and devoted, the Maltese has long been prized as the ultimate companion dog. Its long, flowing white coat grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally, making it one of the most popular low-shedding toy breeds.
Although their coat requires regular brushing or professional grooming, Maltese owners are often delighted by how little hair they find on furniture and clothing.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★★☆
- Exercise: Low to Moderate
- Best For: Seniors, singles and apartment living
Dogs Central Verdict: Few breeds combine elegance, affection and low shedding as successfully as the Maltese. They’re happiest when close to the people they love.
Read our complete Maltese Breed Guide →
Maltipoo Designer Breed
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Designer DogThe Maltipoo blends the intelligence of the Poodle with the affectionate personality of the Maltese. The result is an adorable companion that usually sheds very little while offering a playful, loving temperament that’s especially popular with first-time dog owners.
Because Maltipoos are a crossbreed, coat type and shedding can vary slightly depending on which parent they take after. Many inherit the Poodle’s curly, low-shedding coat, while others develop a softer, wavy coat that still sheds very little.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆*
- Grooming: ★★★★☆
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: First-time owners, families and apartments
Dogs Central Verdict: Friendly, intelligent and adaptable, the Maltipoo has earned its place as one of today’s most popular designer companion dogs.
*Shedding depends on inherited coat type.
Read our complete Maltipoo Breed Guide →
Miniature Poodle
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Overall Low-Shedding Small DogIf we could recommend just one breed to the widest range of owners, the Miniature Poodle would be difficult to beat. Highly intelligent, athletic, affectionate and remarkably versatile, Miniature Poodles excel in almost every area while shedding very little.
Their dense curly coat traps loose hairs, dramatically reducing the amount of fur around the home. The trade-off is regular clipping every six to eight weeks to keep the coat healthy and comfortable.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★★★
- Exercise: Moderate to High
- Best For: Almost everyone
Dogs Central Verdict: Intelligent, trainable and exceptionally adaptable, the Miniature Poodle remains our top all-around recommendation for people seeking a small dog that sheds very little.
Read our complete Miniature Poodle Breed Guide →
Miniature Schnauzer
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Small WatchdogAlert, intelligent and full of personality, the Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent choice for owners who want a low-shedding dog with a little more confidence and spirit. Originally bred as a farm dog, today’s Miniature Schnauzer is equally happy living in an apartment or an active family home.
The breed’s distinctive wiry double coat sheds very little, but regular brushing and professional hand-stripping or clipping help keep it looking its best. Their beard and eyebrows require occasional cleaning after meals and outdoor adventures.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★☆☆
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Active owners, families and first-time dog owners
Dogs Central Verdict: Loyal, entertaining and wonderfully expressive, the Miniature Schnauzer is one of the easiest terrier-type dogs to live with while keeping shedding to a minimum.
Read our complete Miniature Schnauzer Breed Guide →
Shih Tzu
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Relaxed CompanionThe Shih Tzu has spent centuries perfecting the art of companionship. Calm, affectionate and adaptable, this charming little breed is happiest curled up beside its favourite people. Despite its luxurious coat, the Shih Tzu sheds surprisingly little when properly groomed.
Owners who prefer an easier-care coat often choose a shorter puppy clip, while those who love the traditional flowing coat should expect daily brushing to prevent tangles.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★★☆
- Exercise: Low to Moderate
- Best For: Seniors, apartment living and quieter households
Dogs Central Verdict: If you’re looking for a gentle, affectionate companion rather than an endurance athlete, the Shih Tzu is hard to beat.
Read our complete Shih Tzu Breed Guide →
Toy Poodle
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Smartest Tiny CompanionDon’t let their elegant appearance fool you—Toy Poodles are among the most intelligent dogs of any size. They learn quickly, thrive on mental stimulation and form exceptionally close bonds with their families.
Their dense curly coat sheds very little because loose hairs remain trapped within the curls. Regular grooming every six to eight weeks keeps the coat healthy and manageable.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★★★
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Apartments, singles, seniors and families
Dogs Central Verdict: Tiny in size but enormous in intelligence, the Toy Poodle is one of the finest low-shedding companion dogs available today.
Read our complete Toy Poodle Breed Guide →
West Highland White Terrier
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Best Independent PersonalityThe West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the Westie, offers a wonderful balance of confidence, affection and classic terrier spirit. Although they do shed a little more than some of the breeds on this list, their harsh outer coat sheds far less than many other small dogs and is easy to manage with regular grooming.
Westies are cheerful, sturdy little companions that enjoy walks, games and exploring the outdoors. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for families, active retirees and many first-time owners who appreciate a dog with a little independent character.
- Shedding: ★★☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★☆☆
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Families, active owners and terrier enthusiasts
Dogs Central Verdict: If you want a cheerful, sturdy companion with plenty of personality and only moderate shedding, the Westie deserves a place at the top of your shortlist.
Read our complete West Highland White Terrier Guide →
Yorkshire Terrier
🏆 Dogs Central Editor’s Choice: Biggest Personality in the Smallest PackageThe Yorkshire Terrier may be tiny, but it has the confidence of a much larger dog. Yorkies have hair rather than traditional fur, which grows continuously and sheds very little. That makes them one of the most popular choices for owners looking for a glamorous, low-shedding companion.
Despite their elegant appearance, Yorkshire Terriers are energetic, curious and surprisingly brave. They adapt well to apartment living provided they receive regular walks, playtime and plenty of interaction with their families.
- Shedding: ★☆☆☆☆
- Grooming: ★★★☆☆
- Exercise: Moderate
- Best For: Apartments, singles and active seniors
Dogs Central Verdict: Spirited, affectionate and wonderfully portable, the Yorkshire Terrier offers a fantastic combination of low shedding and lively companionship.
Read our complete Yorkshire Terrier Breed Guide →
Compare the Best Small Dogs That Don’t Shed Much
Every dog on this list sheds very little, but that’s where the similarities end. Some are energetic and love adventure, while others are happiest curled up on the sofa. Some require frequent professional grooming, while others are easier to maintain. This comparison chart makes it easy to narrow your choices.
| Breed | Shedding | Energy | Grooming | Apartment | Children | First-Time Owners |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Havanese | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Maltese | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Maltipoo | ★★★★★* | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Miniature Poodle | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Miniature Schnauzer | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Shih Tzu | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Toy Poodle | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| West Highland White Terrier | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Yorkshire Terrier | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
*Coat type varies among individual Maltipoos.
What Living With These Dogs Is Really Like
Every breed on this list sheds very little, but their personalities and daily routines are remarkably different. Here’s what life is really like with each one.
🐾 A Day with a Bichon Frise
Expect a cheerful little shadow who wants to be wherever you are. Whether you’re gardening, watching television or preparing dinner, your Bichon will likely be nearby hoping to join the fun.
🐾 A Day with a Havanese
Your Havanese is happiest when the whole family is together. They love greeting visitors, following children from room to room and curling up beside you after a busy day.
🐾 A Day with a Maltese
Life with a Maltese is peaceful and affectionate. Expect gentle cuddles, quiet companionship and a devoted friend who believes your lap is the best place in the house.
🐾 A Day with a Maltipoo
One minute your Maltipoo is racing around the living room with a favourite toy, and the next they’re fast asleep beside you. They’re playful without being overwhelming and adapt easily to your routine.
🐾 A Day with a Miniature Poodle
Be prepared to keep your Poodle’s mind busy. Puzzle toys, training games and daily walks quickly become part of your routine because these clever little dogs genuinely enjoy learning.
🐾 A Day with a Miniature Schnauzer
Don’t be surprised if your Schnauzer appoints itself head of neighbourhood security. They’ll happily let you know when visitors arrive before settling down for an evening with the family.
🐾 A Day with a Shih Tzu
Life slows down in the nicest possible way. Your Shih Tzu will happily accompany you from room to room before settling into a comfortable spot for another well-earned nap.
🐾 A Day with a Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles thrive on interaction. Expect frequent games, impressive tricks and a dog that’s always watching to see what exciting activity comes next.
🐾 A Day with a Westie
Every walk becomes a mini adventure. Your Westie will investigate interesting scents, greet neighbours enthusiastically and remind you that curiosity is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
🐾 A Day with a Yorkie
Small in size but huge in confidence, your Yorkie approaches every day with enthusiasm. They’ll happily patrol the house, investigate every new sound and then curl up beside you as though they’ve protected the entire neighbourhood.
Quick Recommendations by Lifestyle
Every family has different priorities. Some people want an easy-going lap dog, while others are looking for an energetic hiking companion or a dog that fits comfortably into apartment life. Here are our Dogs Central recommendations based on different lifestyles.
🏢 Best for Apartment Living
- Toy Poodle
- Maltese
- Havanese
- Shih Tzu
- Yorkshire Terrier
👨👩👧 Best for Families
- Bichon Frise
- Havanese
- Miniature Poodle
- Maltipoo
- West Highland White Terrier
👵 Best for Seniors
- Maltese
- Shih Tzu
- Toy Poodle
- Havanese
🤧 Best for Allergy Concerns
- Miniature Poodle
- Toy Poodle
- Bichon Frise
- Maltese
🏃 Best for Active Owners
- Miniature Schnauzer
- West Highland White Terrier
- Miniature Poodle
🌟 Best for First-Time Owners
- Havanese
- Maltipoo
- Bichon Frise
- Miniature Poodle
Should You Consider a Designer Dog?
Designer dogs have become increasingly popular over the last two decades, and for good reason. By combining two well-loved breeds, responsible breeders aim to produce puppies with desirable traits from both parents. Many designer dogs are affectionate, intelligent and low shedding, making them appealing choices for modern families.
However, it’s important to understand that designer dogs are not a separate breed. Puppies in the same litter can inherit different coat types, personalities and energy levels. While many Maltipoos, Cavapoos and Cockapoos inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding coat, others may shed a little more depending on which parent’s characteristics they inherit.
🐾 Dogs Central Recommendation
Choose a designer dog because its temperament and care requirements suit your lifestyle—not simply because it’s fashionable. Ask responsible breeders about the parents’ health testing, temperament and coat types, and remember that every puppy is an individual.
Popular Low-Shedding Designer Dogs
| Designer Dog | Parent Breeds | Typical Shedding | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maltipoo | Maltese × Poodle | Very Low* | Companionship |
| Cavapoo | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle | Low | Families |
| Cockapoo | Cocker Spaniel × Poodle | Low | Friendly Personality |
| Schnoodle | Miniature Schnauzer × Poodle | Low | Intelligence |
| Yorkipoo | Yorkshire Terrier × Poodle | Low | Apartment Living |
*Individual coat types may vary.
Beginner Mistake to Avoid
❌ Don’t Assume Low Shedding Means Low Maintenance
This is one of the biggest surprises for new dog owners. Many low-shedding breeds actually require more grooming than dogs that shed heavily. Their continuously growing coats need regular brushing to prevent painful mats and tangles, along with professional grooming every six to eight weeks.
If you’d rather brush your dog once a week than visit the groomer regularly, a low-shedding breed may not be the best fit. Think carefully about the long-term grooming commitment before bringing any dog home.
Our Final Thoughts
The best small dog that doesn’t shed much isn’t necessarily the smartest, the cutest or the most popular. It’s the one whose personality, activity level and grooming requirements match your lifestyle.
Whether you choose the remarkable intelligence of a Miniature Poodle, the cheerful charm of a Bichon Frise, the adventurous spirit of a West Highland White Terrier or the affectionate companionship of a Maltese, you’ll be welcoming a loyal friend who can bring years of happiness to your home.
Take your time, learn about each breed and explore our detailed breed guides before making your decision. A thoughtful choice today can lead to a lifetime of wonderful memories with your new best friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do any small dogs truly not shed?
No. Every dog sheds at least a little. However, breeds such as the Miniature Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese and Havanese shed so little that most owners notice very little loose hair around the home.
Are low-shedding dogs hypoallergenic?
No dog is completely hypoallergenic. Low-shedding breeds may spread fewer allergens because they lose less hair and dander, but individual reactions vary from person to person.
Which small dog sheds the least?
The Poodles, Bichon Frise and Maltese are generally considered among the lowest-shedding small breeds. Their continuously growing coats trap loose hairs instead of releasing them onto furniture and clothing.
Which low-shedding small dog is easiest to groom?
Most low-shedding dogs require regular grooming. If you keep the coat clipped short, breeds such as the Miniature Schnauzer and Yorkshire Terrier are often easier to manage than breeds with long flowing coats.
Which low-shedding breed is best for first-time owners?
We particularly recommend the Miniature Poodle, Havanese, Bichon Frise and Maltipoo because they combine friendly personalities with high trainability and adaptability.
Are designer dogs less likely to shed?
It depends on the individual dog. Designer breeds with Poodle ancestry often inherit a low-shedding coat, but no crossbreed can guarantee coat type. Always ask the breeder about the parents and the expected coat characteristics.
Which low-shedding breed is best for apartment living?
The Toy Poodle, Maltese, Havanese and Shih Tzu all adapt exceptionally well to apartment life when given regular exercise and companionship.
How We Chose These Breeds
At Dogs Central, we don’t simply rank breeds by popularity. Our recommendations are based on what matters most to prospective dog owners: finding a companion that fits their lifestyle while minimizing shedding around the home.
Each breed on this list was evaluated using the following criteria:
- Overall shedding level
- Coat maintenance and grooming requirements
- Temperament and companionship
- Trainability and intelligence
- Suitability for apartments and smaller homes
- Compatibility with children and other pets
- Adaptability for first-time dog owners
- General health and longevity
- Popularity and long-term owner satisfaction
🐾 Our Philosophy
There is no single “perfect” dog. The best companion is the one whose personality, exercise needs and grooming requirements match your lifestyle. That’s why we’ve presented these breeds alphabetically rather than ranking them from one to ten.
Continue Exploring Small Dog Breeds
You may also enjoy these Dogs Central guides:
- West Highland White Terrier Guide
- Miniature Poodle Guide
- Toy Poodle Guide
- Maltipoo Guide
- Bichon Frise Guide
- Havanese Guide
- Maltese Guide
- Miniature Schnauzer Guide
- Shih Tzu Guide
- Yorkshire Terrier Guide
- Best Small Dogs for Apartments
- Best Small Dogs for Seniors
- Best Small Dogs for First-Time Owners
Trusted Resources
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
Breed information, responsible dog ownership advice, health guidance and breed standards. - Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
Canadian breed information, responsible breeding guidance and canine events. - The Kennel Club (UK)
Breed standards, health testing recommendations and owner resources. - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
Searchable canine health testing database and inherited disease information. - World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
Evidence-based veterinary health, nutrition and wellness resources.
About This Guide
Dogs Central has been helping dog lovers learn about breeds, behaviour, health, nutrition and responsible ownership since 2002. Our breed guides and comparison articles are carefully researched and written to help you choose the right dog for your home, family and lifestyle.