12 Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed: The Complete Low-Shed Guide
Discover 12 small dog breeds that don't shed, with size data, grooming costs, temperament ratings, and a decision framework to find your perfect low-shed companion.
If you're searching for a small dog that won't leave a trail of fur across your furniture, you're not alone. Low-shedding small breeds are among the most requested categories I encounter from prospective owners — whether the motivation is allergy management, apartment living, or simply a preference for a cleaner home. But "low-shed" doesn't mean "no maintenance," and not all small non-shedding breeds suit the same lifestyles.
This guide breaks down 12 small dog breeds that don't shed (or shed minimally), ranked and grouped by lifestyle fit. You'll find hard data on size, grooming costs, energy needs, and temperament — plus a decision framework to help you choose the right one for your household.
What Qualifies a Breed as "Small" and "Low-Shed"?
Selection Criteria for This List
- Size class: Breeds must fall under 25 lb (11.3 kg) at adult weight per AKC breed standards. Dogs in the 15-25 lb range are classified as "small," while those under 15 lb are "toy."
- Coat type: Only breeds with hair (continuously growing, similar to human hair) rather than fur (which has a shorter growth cycle and sheds seasonally). Hair-coated breeds release far fewer loose fibers into the environment.
- Shedding level: Rated 1-2 out of 5 on the AKC shedding scale, meaning minimal to light shedding. No breed is truly "hypoallergenic" — all dogs produce dander and saliva proteins — but hair-coated breeds come closest.
- Recognized breed status: All breeds listed are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or have a well-established breed standard.
Note: Mixed-breed dogs (such as Schnoodles, Maltipoos, and Cavapoos) can inherit low-shed coats, but results vary by generation (F1 vs. F1B vs. multigen). This list focuses on purebreds for predictability. If you're considering a designer mix, ask the breeder for coat-type guarantees in writing.
12 Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed
The following breeds are grouped by lifestyle category to help you navigate the list. Within each group, breeds are ordered by popularity and overall suitability.
Group 1: Best for Apartments and Low-Energy Households
1. Bichon Frise
- Size class: Small — 12-18 lb (5.4-8.2 kg), 9.5-11.5 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Double-layered curly hair coat that traps loose hairs rather than releasing them
- Profile: The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, adaptable companion that thrives in apartments and houses alike. Their plush white coat requires professional grooming every 4-6 weeks ($50-$80 per session) but sheds almost nothing between appointments. They're highly social and prone to separation anxiety if left alone more than 4-5 hours daily.
2. Maltese
- Size class: Toy — under 7 lb (3.2 kg), 7-9 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Single-layered, silky hair coat with no undercoat to blow seasonally
- Profile: One of the oldest toy breeds, the Maltese is a lapdog through and through. Their floor-length show coat is striking but most pet owners opt for a "puppy cut" (1-2 inches) to reduce daily brushing from 20 minutes to about 5 minutes. They're alert and surprisingly vocal for their size, making them decent watchdogs despite weighing less than a bag of sugar.
3. Coton de Tulear
- Size class: Small — 9-15 lb (4.1-6.8 kg), 9-11 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Cotton-textured hair coat that sheds minimally and traps dander close to the skin
- Profile: Originally from Madagascar, the Coton is a rare but growing favorite among allergy-sensitive owners. They're known for their clownish personality and "talkative" vocalizations. Grooming runs $40-$65 per session, and their coat mats easily if not brushed 3-4 times per week.
4. Havanese
- Size class: Small — 7-13 lb (3.2-5.9 kg), 8.5-11.5 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Long, silky double coat made of hair rather than fur; loose hairs tangle into the coat instead of falling out
- Profile: Cuba's national dog is a velcro companion that bonds intensely with one or two people. They adapt well to apartment life and are among the most trainable of the toy breeds. A clipped coat reduces grooming to weekly 10-minute brushings. Purchase price from a responsible breeder ranges from $1,500-$3,000.
Group 2: Best for Active Families and First-Time Owners
5. Miniature Schnauzer
- Size class: Small — 11-20 lb (5-9.1 kg), 12-14 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Wiry, double-layered hair coat with a hard outer layer that sheds very little
- Profile: The Miniature Schnauzer punches above its weight in personality — bold, alert, and eager to please. They're one of the most trainable small breeds and excel in obedience and agility. Their wiry coat requires hand-stripping or clipping every 5-8 weeks ($45-$75). Note: they're vocal dogs and will announce visitors, delivery drivers, and suspicious squirrels with enthusiasm.
6. Toy Poodle
- Size class: Toy — 4-6 lb (1.8-2.7 kg), 10 in or under
- Key low-shed trait: Dense, curly single-layer hair coat that sheds almost imperceptibly; widely considered the gold standard for allergy-friendly breeds
- Profile: Don't let the elaborate show clips fool you — the Toy Poodle is an athletic, highly intelligent dog ranked as the second-smartest breed by canine researcher Stanley Coren. They thrive on mental stimulation and learn tricks faster than almost any other toy breed. Professional grooming is non-negotiable ($60-$90 every 4-6 weeks), but a sporting clip keeps maintenance manageable.
7. Miniature Poodle
- Size class: Small — 10-15 lb (4.5-6.8 kg), 10-15 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Same dense curly coat as the Toy Poodle, virtually no shedding
- Profile: The Miniature Poodle offers the Poodle's legendary intelligence in a slightly sturdier package. They're more robust than Toys for families with young children and have enough stamina for 45-60 minute daily walks. Health testing for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and patellar luxation is essential — ask breeders for OFA or PennHIP documentation.
8. Chinese Crested (Powderpuff)
- Size class: Toy — 8-12 lb (3.6-5.4 kg), 11-13 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: The Powderpuff variety has a silky, single-layer hair coat; the Hairless variety has hair only on the head, tail, and feet, making shedding nearly zero
- Profile: A conversation starter wherever they go, Chinese Cresteds are affectionate and playful. The Hairless variety requires sunscreen and moisturizer for exposed skin, while the Powderpuff needs regular brushing. Both are sensitive to cold and need sweaters in temperatures below 50°F (10°C). They're best for quiet households — loud environments stress them.
Group 3: Best for Allergy-Sensitive Owners
9. Yorkshire Terrier
- Size class: Toy — 4-7 lb (1.8-3.2 kg), 7-8 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Fine, silky single-layer hair coat structurally similar to human hair; minimal dander production
- Profile: The Yorkie is a feisty, confident toy breed with a terrier's boldness in a tiny frame. Their coat requires daily brushing at full length, but most pet owners keep a short "teddy bear cut" that cuts grooming time to 5 minutes every other day. Yorkies are prone to dental disease — budget for professional cleanings ($300-$700) every 1-2 years starting at age 3.
10. Shih Tzu
- Size class: Small — 9-16 lb (4.1-7.3 kg), 9-10.5 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Long, flowing double coat of hair that sheds minimally; loose hairs get caught in the outer coat
- Profile: Bred as Chinese imperial companions, Shih Tzus are low-energy couch dogs that need only 20-30 minutes of daily exercise. They're brachycephalic (short-faced), which means they're sensitive to heat and may snore. Their coat requires significant grooming commitment — professional sessions every 4-6 weeks at $45-$70, plus daily face wiping to prevent tear staining and skin fold infections.
11. Portuguese Water Dog (small lines)
- Size class: Small-to-medium — some females fall in the 35-45 lb range, but smaller lines exist at 25-35 lb (11.3-15.9 kg)
- Key low-shed trait: Curly or wavy single-layer hair coat that's waterproof and sheds very little
- Profile: While technically a medium breed by AKC standards, smaller female Portuguese Water Dogs can fit the "small" category. They're athletic, water-loving dogs that gained fame when the Obama family chose one for their allergy-sensitive daughter. They need 60+ minutes of daily exercise and are best for active owners who hike, swim, or run. Purchase price from health-tested breeders: $2,500-$4,000.
12. Affenpinscher
- Size class: Toy — 7-10 lb (3.2-4.5 kg), 9-11.5 in tall
- Key low-shed trait: Wiry, rough hair coat that sheds minimally; loose hairs are easily removed during routine brushing
- Profile: The "monkey dog" is a rare, charming toy breed with a terrier-like personality. They're independent, entertaining, and less needy than many toy breeds. Their wiry coat needs stripping or trimming every 6-8 weeks ($40-$60). Affenpinschers are notoriously difficult to house-train — expect 4-6 months of consistent crate training before reliability.
Breed Comparison: Size, Cost, Energy, and Grooming at a Glance
| Breed | Weight Range | Grooming Cost/Session | Grooming Frequency | Energy Level (1-5) | Purchase Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 12-18 lb / 5.4-8.2 kg | $50-$80 | Every 4-6 weeks | 3 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Maltese | Under 7 lb / 3.2 kg | $40-$65 | Every 4-6 weeks | 2 | $1,500-$3,500 |
| Coton de Tulear | 9-15 lb / 4.1-6.8 kg | $40-$65 | Every 4-6 weeks | 2 | $2,000-$4,000 |
| Havanese | 7-13 lb / 3.2-5.9 kg | $45-$70 | Every 4-6 weeks | 3 | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | 11-20 lb / 5-9.1 kg | $45-$75 | Every 5-8 weeks | 4 | $1,200-$2,500 |
| Toy Poodle | 4-6 lb / 1.8-2.7 kg | $60-$90 | Every 4-6 weeks | 3 | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Miniature Poodle | 10-15 lb / 4.5-6.8 kg | $55-$85 | Every 4-6 weeks | 4 | $1,500-$3,500 |
| Chinese Crested | 8-12 lb / 3.6-5.4 kg | $35-$55 | Every 6-8 weeks | 2 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 4-7 lb / 1.8-3.2 kg | $45-$70 | Every 4-6 weeks | 3 | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Shih Tzu | 9-16 lb / 4.1-7.3 kg | $45-$70 | Every 4-6 weeks | 2 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Portuguese Water Dog (small) | 25-35 lb / 11.3-15.9 kg | $60-$90 | Every 6-8 weeks | 5 | $2,500-$4,000 |
| Affenpinscher | 7-10 lb / 3.2-4.5 kg | $40-$60 | Every 6-8 weeks | 3 | $2,000-$4,000 |
Grooming costs reflect 2025-2026 U.S. metropolitan averages. Rural and suburban groomers may charge 15-25% less. Purchase prices are from AKC-registered breeders conducting health testing; rescue/adoption fees typically range $200-$600.
How to Choose: A Decision Framework for Your Lifestyle
Twelve breeds is a lot to narrow down. Use this decision flowchart to identify your top 3, then research those breeds in depth.
- Step 1 — How much time will your dog spend alone?
- If more than 6 hours daily → Choose an independent breed: Affenpinscher, Miniature Schnauzer, or Chinese Crested.
- If 4 hours or less → Social breeds work well: Bichon Frise, Havanese, Toy Poodle.
- Step 2 — What's your daily exercise capacity?
- Under 30 minutes/day → Maltese, Shih Tzu, Coton de Tulear, or Chinese Crested.
- 30-60 minutes/day → Bichon Frise, Havanese, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle.
- Over 60 minutes/day → Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Poodle, or Portuguese Water Dog.
- Step 3 — Do you have young children (under 8)?
- Yes → Avoid breeds under 10 lb (fragile bones). Choose: Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Poodle, Havanese, or Bichon Frise.
- No → All breeds on this list are suitable.
- Step 4 — What's your grooming budget?
- Under $600/year → Chinese Crested (Powderpuff), Affenpinscher (less frequent grooming).
- $600-$1,000/year → Bichon Frise, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Havanese.
- Over $1,000/year acceptable → Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog.
- Step 5 — Is allergy sensitivity the primary concern?
- Yes → Prioritize: Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terrier. These breeds consistently score lowest on dander production in allergen studies referenced by the Mayo Clinic.
- Secondary concern → Any breed on this list is a reasonable choice.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Avoid
Honorable Mentions (Nearly Made the List)
Brussels Griffon: A charming 8-10 lb toy breed with a rough, low-shed coat. They didn't make the top 12 due to rarity (limited breeder availability, $3,000-$5,000 price tag) and a stubborn streak that makes training challenging for first-time owners.
Lhasa Apso: A sturdy 12-18 lb breed with a long, low-shed hair coat. They're independent and cat-like, which some owners love and others find frustrating. Their coat requires significant grooming investment.
Lowchen (Little Lion Dog): One of the rarest breeds in the world, with fewer than 500 registered globally. Their low-shed coat and cheerful temperament are excellent, but finding a breeder may require international search and 12-24 month waitlists.
Breeds to Avoid If Low-Shedding Is Your Priority
These popular small breeds shed heavily despite their compact size:
- Pomeranian: Double-coated with dramatic seasonal "blowing" that fills your home with fur for 2-4 weeks twice per year.
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Small-to-medium (25-30 lb) but sheds year-round with intense seasonal shedding. Their fur penetrates fabric deeply.
- French Bulldog: Short-coated but a prolific shedder. Their fine hairs embed in upholstery and are difficult to remove.
- Dachshund (smooth coat): Year-round moderate shedder; the wirehaired variety sheds less but still more than any breed on our list.
- Chihuahua: Both smooth and long-coated varieties shed consistently. Long-coated Chihuahuas shed more than many medium-sized breeds.
What About "Hypoallergenic"? Understanding the Science
No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America confirms that allergens come from dander (dead skin flakes), saliva, and urine — not just fur. However, hair-coated breeds produce less airborne dander because:
- Their continuously growing hair traps dander close to the skin rather than releasing it into the environment.
- They lack the undercoat that causes seasonal shedding bursts in double-coated breeds.
- Regular grooming removes dander-laden hair before it can circulate through your home.
If allergies are your primary concern, spend at least 2 hours with the breed you're considering before committing. Some allergists offer breed-specific dander testing. Always consult your physician or allergist before bringing a dog into a household with known pet allergies.
Annual Cost of Ownership: What to Budget
Beyond the purchase price, here's what owning a small low-shed breed actually costs per year (2025-2026 U.S. averages):
- Professional grooming: $500-$1,200/year depending on breed, coat length, and frequency
- Food (premium small-breed kibble or balanced fresh food): $300-$600/year
- Routine veterinary care (annual exam, vaccines, heartworm/flea prevention): $400-$700/year
- Dental care (professional cleaning every 1-2 years for small breeds): $300-$700 per cleaning
- Pet insurance (recommended): $30-$60/month ($360-$720/year) for comprehensive coverage
- Supplies, toys, treats: $200-$400/year
Total annual cost: $2,060-$4,320 depending on breed, location, and care choices. The first year will be higher due to initial supplies, spay/neuter ($200-$500), and puppy vaccination series ($200-$400).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any small dogs that truly don't shed at all?
No dog is completely non-shedding. All dogs lose some hair as part of the natural growth cycle. However, hair-coated breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Yorkshire Terrier shed so minimally that most owners notice virtually no loose hair between grooming sessions. The hairless Chinese Crested comes closest to zero shedding.
Do low-shedding small dogs require more grooming?
Yes — this is the trade-off. Hair-coated breeds grow continuously (like human hair) and require regular haircuts every 4-8 weeks to prevent matting. Budget $500-$1,200 annually for professional grooming, plus 5-15 minutes of brushing at home 2-4 times per week. Breeds with wiry coats (Miniature Schnauzer, Affenpinscher) may need hand-stripping, which is more expensive than clipping.
Which small low-shed breed is best for someone with dog allergies?
The Toy Poodle and Miniature Poodle consistently rank as the most allergy-friendly small breeds due to their dense, single-layer curly coat that traps dander. The Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier are strong runners-up. However, individual allergic reactions vary — always spend time with a specific dog before committing, and consult your allergist.
Can I find low-shedding small dogs at shelters or rescues?
Yes, though it requires patience. Breed-specific rescues for Poodles, Bichons, and Schnauzers regularly take in dogs that need rehoming. Check Petfinder and filter by breed. Mixed breeds with Poodle or Bichon ancestry (such as Maltipoos or Schnoodles) also appear in shelters. Expect to wait 3-12 months for the right match.
How do I know if a puppy will have a low-shed coat?
For purebred puppies, coat type is predictable based on breed standard. For mixed-breed puppies, look for the F1B generation (one parent is a purebred Poodle or Bichon, the other is an F1 cross) — these have the highest probability of a low-shed coat. Ask the breeder for coat-type guarantees and meet the parent dogs in person to assess their coats. A reputable breeder will also provide health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-specific health concerns and your allergist for allergy-related decisions. Before purchasing any puppy, verify breeder health testing documentation and consider adoption as an equally valid path to finding your companion.
Priya Sutaria
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
