Finding an affordable, low-maintenance dog can be a game-changer for people who want a loving companion without the constant mess or ongoing grooming costs. Many pet parents adore dogs but don’t enjoy sweeping up piles of hair every day or paying for frequent grooming appointments.
Fortunately, some breeds naturally shed very little, making them ideal for anyone seeking a cleaner home and an easier daily routine.
Some of the best options come from small, intelligent, and independent breeds that are known for their short coat, tidy appearance, and almost barkless nature.
With their smooth fur and minimal odor, these dog showcases just how convenient—and fascinating—low-shedding breeds can be. These dogs prove that a manageable coat doesn’t have to mean a boring personality.
In this guide, we’ll explore several low-cost, low-shedding breeds that are simple to care for yet full of charm. Whether you want a compact companion, an agile little athlete, or a loyal family dog, you’ll find options that fit your lifestyle—and keep your home blissfully fur-free.
Cheap Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed & Are Easy To Care For
1. Basenji
Also known as the African Barkless Dog, the Basenji is a graceful, short-haired hound recognized for its tightly curled tail and almost catlike mannerisms.
The AKC states that the Basenji is a compact, sweet-faced hunter known for its keen intelligence and graceful composure.
As a low-maintenance companion, the Basenji benefits from its naturally clean habits—they frequently groom themselves much like cats. Their short, fine coat sheds minimally, making them ideal for people seeking a dog that keeps grooming costs low and reduces household cleanup.
Their minimal odor and rare need for bathing further contribute to their affordability and ease of care. A quick brushing now and then is usually enough, and many individuals with mild allergies find Basenjis more tolerable than heavier-shedding breeds.
While maintenance is simple, these intelligent hounds do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. With daily play and secure outdoor time, they thrive as active yet tidy partners.
Fun Fact: When they do vocalize, Basenjis produce a unique sound known as the “Basenji yodel.”
2. Dachshund
Also known as the German Badger Dog, the Dachshund is a small, lively breed recognized for its long body, bold personality, and three distinct coat types. Smooth-coated Dachshunds, in particular, are especially easy to care for, making them an appealing choice for budget-conscious families.
PetMD says that Dachshunds—often called “hot dogs,” “wiener dogs,” or simply Doxies—are recognized for their long, low-slung bodies, sturdy short legs, and bold, energetic nature, always staying alert to what’s happening around them.
As a low-shedding companion, the smooth-coated variety requires only light weekly brushing, keeping grooming costs and time minimal. Their manageable coat makes them a great match for anyone seeking the benefits of a low-shedding breed without complicated maintenance routines.
Because their exercise needs are modest, a daily walk or short play session is usually enough to keep them content. This simplicity helps reduce overall care expenses while still ensuring your dog enjoys a healthy and active lifestyle.
Adopting a Dachshund from a rescue can be an affordable option, with fees often as low as $300, covering essential veterinary care and spay/neuter surgery—saving future costs and supporting other animals in need.
Fun Fact: The smooth-coated Dachshund is the easiest type to groom and sheds the least.
3. Boston Terrier
Often called the “American Gentleman” thanks to its tuxedo-like coat, the Boston Terrier is a compact, expressive breed developed in Boston in the late 1800s. WebMD states that Boston Terriers are a small breed with a friendly, family-friendly personality.
Originally created by crossing English Bulldogs and the now-extinct English Terrier, this small, bright-eyed dog has become a beloved companion known for charm and sociability.
Because of their smooth, short coat, Boston Terriers shed very little, making them an appealing option for people seeking budget-friendly, low-maintenance grooming. Their minimal brushing needs and naturally tidy appearance make them ideal for households that want easy care without frequent grooming expenses.
These dogs adapt well to apartment living due to their moderate exercise requirements. Daily walks and a bit of play keep them satisfied—perfect for owners looking for a manageable routine that doesn’t demand high costs or extensive time.
Boston Terriers are also quick learners, eager to please, and suited for families wanting a gentle, people-oriented dog that’s simple to train and easy to maintain.
Fun Fact: Boston Terriers were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893.
4. Chihuahua
Also known simply as the Chi, the Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog breed, recognizable by its expressive eyes, petite frame, and smooth- or long-coat varieties.
Despite their tiny size, they are cherished companion dogs with a big personality and a strong bond with their pet parents.
For anyone seeking a low-maintenance dog that doesn’t shed heavily, smooth-coat Chihuahuas are especially appealing. Their minimal grooming needs—usually just occasional brushing and a quick bath—make them an ideal choice for easy, affordable at-home care.
Their temperament also supports a low-maintenance lifestyle. Chihuahuas enjoy attention but don’t require excessive exercise, thriving on short play sessions and indoor enrichment. Their alert, lively nature keeps them engaged without stacking up energy demands.
Training matters, as these little dogs can be vocal and sometimes bossy, but consistent, positive guidance helps shape a well-mannered companion.
Fun Fact: Basic at-home grooming for a Chihuahua can cost as little as $15 per year.
5. Shih Tzu
Also known as the “lion dog,” the Shih Tzu is a beloved ancient Chinese toy breed admired for its long, silky coat and cheerful personality. Famous in Chinese history and folklore, this tiny companion was once associated with royalty and even appears in stories involving Buddha.
Their minimal shedding makes them a great fit for families seeking a low-mess pet, though their flowing double coat requires consistent care. Many owners choose shorter “puppy cuts” to simplify grooming and keep maintenance affordable and manageable.
When kept long, their coat needs brushing and bathing each week to prevent tangles and mats, making routine upkeep essential. Regular trims, especially around the eyes and paws, help keep them comfortable while still showcasing their elegant appearance.
Shih Tzus thrive indoors, needing only light daily activity, which keeps overall care simple for busy households. Early socialization also helps reduce separation anxiety, as these affectionate dogs love staying close to their people.
Fun Fact: The Shih Tzu’s name comes from the Chinese term for “lion dog.”
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Also known as the smallest member of the Schnauzer family, the Miniature Schnauzer carries the same signature traits as its larger relatives—a wiry double coat, expressive eyebrows, and a bearded snout.
Their low-shedding coat makes them an appealing choice for budget-conscious owners looking for a clean, affordable companion. With minimal loose hair and manageable grooming needs, they fit well into households wanting an easy-care dog that won’t leave fur around the home.
For first-time owners, sticking to basic grooming habits—such as weekly brushing and occasional trimming—helps maintain their iconic look without overspending. Consistent routines, combined with simple at-home care, keep their coat healthy and costs low.
Regular exercise, attention to dental hygiene, and steady training provide everything a Miniature Schnauzer needs to thrive on a budget. With thoughtful care and sensible spending, they make reliable, wallet-friendly companions.
7. Maltese
Also called the “Maltese Companion Dog,” this ancient Mediterranean breed is known for its bright white coat, expressive eyes, and affectionate nature.
These tiny pups have been adored for centuries, often acting like little princes or princesses with personalities much bigger than their size.
Their silky, low-shedding coat makes them appealing for anyone seeking a dog that won’t leave hair around the house. Although they look glamorous, they’re surprisingly simple to manage and love nothing more than curling up on a lap or tagging along on daily errands.
Their social, fearless nature also makes them comfortable around new people and other pets. Because the Maltese thrives on closeness, they’re ideal for individuals wanting an easy-care companion who’s both portable and people-oriented.
Their minimal shedding helps reduce grooming expenses, though they still appreciate regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and mat-free.
Potential health costs to consider include basic dental care, routine grooming tools, and vet visits to monitor tear staining or skin sensitivity. Their friendly temperament and gentle demeanor have made them beloved since ancient times—even the ancient Greeks believed the Maltese originated from Malta.
8. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise—sometimes referred to simply as the “Bichon,” meaning fluffy white dog in French—is a small companion breed known for its cotton-soft coat and cheerful charm.
Because their curly, hypoallergenic coat sheds minimally, Bichons are ideal for people wanting a clean home without constant grooming demands. Though fluffy in appearance, their coat is surprisingly low-maintenance and well-suited for easy-care routines, especially for apartment dwellers or first-time owners.
Their gentle nature and friendly personality make them excellent choices for adopters looking for an affordable, low-shedding dog. Bichons typically adapt well to many households, causing little trouble and thriving on companionship rather than intensive upkeep or expensive maintenance.
When searching for reputable, affordable adoption options, consider local shelters, breed-specific rescues, or verified humane organizations that place small dogs like the Bichon. These routes often provide reduced fees and transparent health histories.
Fun Fact: Some Bichon Frises can be found for as low as $300.
9. Poodle
Also called the Caniche, the Poodle is admired for its intelligence, affectionate personality, and famously hypoallergenic coat. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties, each size offers the same curly, low-shedding fur that appeals to families and allergy-sensitive owners alike.
Because their coat sheds very little, Poodles are ideal for those seeking a cleaner home and fewer allergens. Their minimal shedding almost equals no maintenance, though regular brushing prevents tangles and keeps their curls soft and healthy.
Poodles are also highly trainable, making them great choices for anyone wanting a dog that adapts easily to routines and home life. Toy Poodles, in particular, combine gentle energy levels with easygoing care needs, requiring only moderate daily exercise.
For people wanting a low-shedding, easy-care companion, spending time with a Poodle beforehand helps ensure the breed’s grooming needs match your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Choosing the right low-maintenance companion becomes much easier when you explore hypoallergenic dog breeds known for minimal shedding and simple care routines.
Many hypoallergenic dogs—from the curly-haired breed like the Portuguese Water Dog to the silky-haired Yorkshire Terrier—produce far less dog hair and pet dander, helping allergy sufferers avoid unwanted allergic reactions.
Even unique options such as the hairless dog types, including the Hairless Chinese Crested, offer a truly non-shedding dog experience, making them appealing to people wanting a home with fewer messes.
These low-shedding dog breeds often make excellent lap dog companions, especially when they require only regular grooming instead of intensive upkeep.
Other breeds, like the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Bedlington Terriers, and even the Irish Water Spaniel, show how a medium-sized dog can still fit into an easy-care lifestyle.
Whether you prefer a non-shedding option, a hairless breed, or a long-haired pup with silky hair that still sheds very little, these dogs shed far less than many other dogs. With the right choice, you can enjoy one of the best hypoallergenic dogs without sacrificing comfort, affordability, or convenience.
