Small dog breeds are a popular choice for people who want big personality in a compact, manageable size. Love small dogs but not a fan of dog hair all over your clothes and furniture? You’re not alone. Many people seek out low-shedding small dog breeds that are easier on allergies, require less cleaning, and still offer all the love and charm you’d expect from any dog.
In this guide, we’ll introduce the best small dog breeds that don’t shed much, what makes them easier to live with, and how to care for their special coats.
What Does “Low-Shedding” Really Mean?
Low-shedding breeds:
- Lose less hair throughout the year
- Often have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously
- Are better for allergy sufferers (though not always fully hypoallergenic)
- Still need regular brushing and grooming, but won’t cover your home in fur
These dogs are great for apartments, tidy households, and people with mild allergies.
Top Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed Much
1. Maltese
- Long, silky white hair that grows continuously
- Doesn’t shed, but needs regular brushing or trims
- Sweet, affectionate lap dog
✅ Perfect for elegant, clean-loving homes
2. Miniature Poodle
- Tight curls that trap dander and loose hair
- Hypoallergenic and very low-shedding
- Highly intelligent and trainable
✅ Great for allergy-sensitive families
3. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
- Hair instead of fur—similar to human hair
- Minimal shedding, but needs regular grooming
- Small, feisty, and full of character
✅ Great for allergy-sensitive families
4. Bichon Frise
- Curly coat holds loose hair and dander
- Doesn’t shed noticeably
- Cheerful and cuddly personality
✅ A fluffy cloud that won’t leave fur behind
5. Shih Tzu
- Long, luxurious coat with minimal shedding
- Often kept in a short “puppy cut” for easy maintenance
- Calm and affectionate
✅ Royal appearance with low fur fallout
6. Havanese
- Soft, silky coat with little shedding
- Great for city living and allergy-conscious homes
- Friendly and very people-oriented
✅ A gentle companion with a manageable coat
7. Lhasa Apso
- Long hair that doesn’t shed much
- Originally bred to live in Tibetan monasteries
- Independent but loyal
✅ For those who want a unique, low-shed dog with presence
8. Chinese Crested (Hairless & Powderpuff)
- Hairless variety has little to no shedding
- Powderpuff has long hair that rarely sheds
- Affectionate and quirky
✅ A great option for minimal mess (and maximum attention)
9. Cairn Terrier
- Hard, wiry outer coat with minimal loose hair
- Sheds very little with regular brushing
- Energetic and confident
✅ For active owners who want low shed, not low energy
10. Brussels Griffon
- Smooth or rough coat varieties; both shed very little
- Comical, human-like expressions
- Tiny, loyal, and expressive
✅ A low-shedding dog with a big personality
Tips for Managing Small Dog Coats Without Shedding Woes
Even low-shedding dogs need coat care:
- Brush at least 2–3 times per week to prevent matting
- Schedule professional grooming every 4–8 weeks
- Use hypoallergenic dog shampoo
- Clean bedding and toys regularly to keep allergens low
- Give a balanced diet rich in omega-3s for skin and coat health
Conclusion
Final Thoughts on Small Dog Breeds
You don’t need to choose between a small dog and a clean home. From the stylish Yorkie to the hypoallergenic Poodle, these low-shedding small breeds give you cuddles without the cleanup.
Want a downloadable “Low-Shedding Breed Checklist” or grooming planner? Visit our Small Breed Living Guide for care tips, coat comparison charts, and allergy-friendly grooming guides.