Living in a cozy apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of having a dog, especially if fur-covered furniture isn’t your idea of home décor. Whether you’re prone to allergies or simply tired of lint rolling your entire wardrobe, low-shedding dogs can be a game-changer. While all dogs shed to some degree, certain breeds are known for keeping the mess and the dander to a minimum, making them ideal companions for small-space living.
Many of these breeds aren’t just easy on your vacuum; they’re also calm, compact, and well-mannered, traits that make them perfect neighbors in apartment complexes. With their minimal shedding and adaptable personalities, these pups blend well into the rhythms of city life. From the curious and quiet to the playful yet polite, these dogs make excellent roommates who won’t hog the square footage or your sanity.
In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best low-shedding breeds for apartment dwellers, offering insight into what makes them great choices for anyone seeking a tidy and loving canine companion.
Low-Shedding Apartment Dog Breeds
1. Bichon Frise
This pint-sized pup is the best dog to be an apartment companion, not just because of its manageable size, but also due to its low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat. Weighing in at around 15 pounds, the Bichon Frise is cheerful, people-loving, and full of personality.
Its white curly coat doesn’t shed the way other breeds do, which significantly reduces the spread of dander, a bonus for allergy-sensitive homes. Their bubbly charm and friendly disposition make them popular with city dwellers who want a bright, affectionate dog that thrives in compact living spaces.
These cheerful and energetic small dogs thrive in a family setting, as per Purina. They enjoy joining in on all family activities, but can be trained to tolerate being alone from time to time.
Grooming
This is one of the smallest dog breeds that may not shed, but that doesn’t mean it’s low maintenance. Their plush coat grows continuously and requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
Regular trims, ideally every 5 to 6 weeks, are necessary to maintain their signature “powderpuff” look. Many owners opt for professional grooming to keep up with the upkeep. A committed grooming routine is key to keeping their coat healthy and their apartment fur-free.
Fact: These affectionate dogs are energetic, clever, and enjoy interactive games, so while they’re great for small homes, they also need daily walks and playtime to stay happy.
2. Maltese
The Maltese is a tiny breed, typically weighing between four and six pounds. This Mediterranean-native dazzles with its pure white, silky coat and graceful demeanor, as per Hills Pet.
Despite their refined look, Maltese dogs are lively companions with a playful spirit and strong devotion to their humans. While their petite size makes them ideal for apartment living, don’t be fooled, they’re alert and can be surprisingly vocal when sensing unfamiliar sounds, making them both charming and watchful.
Grooming
The Maltese’s glamorous coat may look high-maintenance, but with consistent care, it can stay tangle-free and pristine. Daily brushing down to the skin is essential to prevent matting, and regular baths and conditioning help maintain its signature shine.
Nails grow quickly and need frequent trimming, while ears should be checked weekly for wax or debris. Dental hygiene is equally important, as this breed is prone to dental issues with age.
Fact: Maltese dogs shed infrequently, and one historical account records a Maltese being sold in the 1500s for what would now be over $2,000, highlighting their long-standing appeal.
3. Shih Tzu
With a regal heritage tracing back to Tibetan and Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu is the ultimate lap dog, compact and charming. Known as the “little lion,” this toy breed was originally bred to serve as a companion in imperial palaces.
Today, their affectionate nature and low exercise needs make them an excellent fit for smaller homes. Pet MD describes the Shih Tzu as a lively and sociable breed. Despite their glamorous coat, Shih Tzus shed very little, releasing less dander into the environment.
Grooming
Though low-shedding, this royal dog’s long, flowing double coat requires regular maintenance. Without proper grooming, their hair can quickly become tangled or matted.
Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to reduce upkeep, but if left long, expect to brush frequently and schedule professional grooming every few weeks. Weekly baths and regular trims around the face and paws are also recommended to keep their coat and skin healthy.
Fact: Due to their short, brachycephalic muzzle, Shih Tzus are sensitive to heat and should be kept cool in warmer climates to avoid overheating.
4. Affenpinscher
Quirky, fearless, and endlessly entertaining, the Affenpinscher packs a big personality into a tiny frame. Often nicknamed the “monkey dog” for its expressive face and curious antics.
Standing under 12 inches tall, the Affen is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and almost human-like demeanor. According to the AKC, the Affenpinscher is bold, known for its comical personality, and full of self-assurance.
Despite their comedic charm, these pups are confident and alert, traits that make them surprisingly bold watchdogs for their size. Best of all, their coat sheds minimally, making them a practical choice for neat and allergy-conscious city dwellers.
Grooming
The Affenpinscher’s wiry coat requires brushing twice a week to avoid tangles and matting. Grooming includes brushing the pet’s hair forward over the face and shaping it to reveal the eyes.
Occasional trimming every few months is enough to maintain their “neat but shaggy” appearance. Nail trimming and dental hygiene are essential for overall care.
Fact: The Affenpinscher is so distinctive in appearance that Star Wars fans often debate whether it resembles a Wookie or an Ewok, adding to its cult-like charm.
5. Bolognese
The Bolognese is an ideal choice for apartment dwellers seeking a loyal and calm companion with minimal shedding. Originating from Italy, this charming member of the Bichon family features a soft, cotton-like white coat and a serene, people-loving personality.
They have a low-shedding coat, and their adaptable temperament suits a variety of living situations, especially homes where they aren’t left alone for long hours.
Grooming
Despite their “tousled” appearance, the Bolognese’s coat needs consistent care. Daily brushing helps prevent mats, and occasional trims, particularly around the eyes, are essential for cleanliness.
While many owners prefer the traditional long coat, a shorter trim around one inch is easier to maintain and still retains the breed’s distinctive look. Regular ear checks, nail trims, and dental care are also necessary to keep them in top condition.
Fact: Though generally laid-back, these loyal dogs can develop “small dog syndrome” if not properly trained, an issue rooted in their tendency to view themselves as pack leaders without consistent boundaries.
6. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a toy-sized companion with a truly distinctive look. WebMD notes that Cresteds are an old breed recognized for their playful nature, flexibility, and strong loyalty to their family.
This breed comes in two varieties, hairless and powderpuff. While the powderpuff sports a long, flowing coat, the hairless type features exposed skin with tufts of hair adorning the head, feet, and tail. Both types are hypoallergenic and ideal for those seeking minimal shedding.
Grooming
Grooming needs vary depending on the variety. These hypoallergenic dog breeds require daily brushing to prevent mats in their soft coat and should be bathed whenever their natural scent becomes noticeable.
In contrast, the hairless variety needs only occasional brushing on their small fur patches but demands regular skin care to remove dead skin cells.
Sunscreen and moisturizing lotions help protect their delicate, exposed skin from dryness, sunburn, and acne. A vet can guide you in selecting the right products for your pet’s individual skin needs.
Fact: Both furred and hairless Chinese Cresteds can be born in the same litter, and despite their different grooming needs, each variety is equally sweet-natured and ideal for allergy-sensitive homes.
7. Havanese
Charming, cheerful, and compact, the Havanese has a personality twice its 10-pound size. Originating in Cuba, this toy breed thrives in city settings, delighting pet parents with its natural comedic timing and warm, sociable nature.
Their adaptable disposition and playful spirit make them equally happy lounging in a studio or strutting through the city streets. Better still, their silky coat sheds very little, making them a smart choice for allergy-conscious homes or those tired of vacuuming up fur.
Grooming
Though low-shedding, the Havanese coat requires daily attention to stay tangle-free. Owners often keep the fur trimmed short for easier upkeep, but those opting for the signature flowing look should be prepared for regular brushing sessions.
Occasional baths help maintain cleanliness, while daily wiping of the eyes can prevent staining in light-colored coats. Keeping the ears clean is essential to avoid wax buildup or irritation. Some owners even cord the coat, giving it a distinctive texture and style.
Fact: Havanese are the only dog breed native to Cuba and are adored for their curled-over tails, expressive eyes, and adaptable temperament.
Conclusion
Choosing the right low-shedding apartment dog breed can make all the difference for people with dog allergies or those simply seeking a cleaner home environment. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, breeds that shed less typically release less pet dander, which is the main trigger for allergic reactions. From the dignified Afghan Hound with its flowing yet stubborn hair to compact companions like the French Bulldog and Toy Poodle, there are plenty of options that blend beauty with practicality.
Breeds such as the Scottish Terrier and Bedlington Terrier can also adapt well to smaller living spaces. Meanwhile, the friendly Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, playful Yorkshire Terrier, and energetic Portuguese Water Dog bring personality and charm into any apartment. If you’re after something unique, consider the Irish Water Spaniel, known for its curly coat and minimal shedding. With the right grooming and care, these breeds offer a perfect balance of companionship and cleanliness.
