If you love dogs but dread the constant battle with fur on your furniture, clothes, and floors, fear not—there are breeds that keep shedding to a minimum. Dogs with almost no shedding are perfect for allergy sufferers, clean-freak households, or anyone who prefers less hair and more cuddles.
These low-shedding dog breeds often have hair that grows continuously, rather than falling out in clumps, meaning grooming becomes about care and styling rather than constant clean-up. Minimal-shedding breeds come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities.
Beyond convenience, these breeds often form strong bonds with their families, offering loyalty, affection, and intelligence that make them ideal companions. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, these breeds are significantly easier to manage for people sensitive to dander and hair.
Here, we’ll explore the best hypoallergenic dog breeds with almost no shedding—dogs that allow you to enjoy all the love, warmth, and companionship of a furry friend without constant cleanup.
Fact: There’s actually no truly hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce proteins—most commonly Can f 1—found in saliva, urine, and dander. When dogs shed, this dander spreads into the air, which can trigger allergic reactions even in breeds marketed as “low-shedding” or “hypoallergenic.”
Dog Breeds With Almost No Shedding
1. Poodle
If shedding drives you crazy—or if vacuuming has become your part-time job—meet the Poodle: the canine superhero of low-shed, high-style pups. Often hailed as the original “hypoallergenic” dog, Poodles are as smart as they are stunning, and they come in three fabulous sizes: Toy, Standard, or Miniature Poodle.
The Standard Poodle is the tallest of the trio and was originally bred to be a hunting companion, though nowadays they’re more likely to hunt for tennis balls than ducks.
The Miniature and Toy versions? Think of them as the pocket-sized geniuses—perfect for apartments, smaller homes, or for anyone who secretly wishes they could carry their dog in a designer bag.
Now, let’s talk about that iconic Poodle coat. Those elegant curls? Gorgeous, yes—but they require dedication. Brush them regularly or risk turning your dog into a fuzzball resembling a woolly sweater. But here’s the sweet part: Poodles barely shed. That’s right—no tumbleweeds of fur rolling across your living room.
And if you’re searching for a hybrid that’s easy on the allergies, WebMD gives it a thumbs-up: stick with a purebred Poodle. Your nose—and your furniture—will thank you. Poodles aren’t just pretty faces. They’re intelligent, loyal, and have a mischievous streak that keeps life interesting.
Bonus: their curly coat isn’t just for show; it makes them look like they stepped out of a fancy grooming salon, even if they just rolled in the mud.
2. Bichon Frise
If the Poodle is the sophisticated superstar of low-shed dogs, the Bichon Frise is the cheerful, fluffy ball of sunshine that makes every day feel like a puppy parade. With their bright white, cloud-like coats and perky personalities, Bichons are impossible to resist.
One of the best things about a Bichon? Their hair keeps growing instead of shedding, which means fewer tumbleweeds of fur on your couch—and less dander flying at your nose. Allergy sufferers, take note: this little pooch might just be your perfect match.
But beware: their beautiful coat comes with a regular grooming commitment. Regular brushing and trips to the groomer keep them looking like the Instagram-ready fluffballs they are. Skip it, and suddenly your adorable Bichon could look like a cotton ball that got caught in a tornado.
Bichons are not just pretty faces—they’re brainy too. Highly intelligent and eager to please, they pick up training basics faster than you can say “sit” or “shake.” And once they master the basics, they love learning fun tricks to show off, turning your living room into a mini circus of cuteness.
Energetic, affectionate, and downright charming, the Bichon Frise is perfect for anyone who wants a lovable, low-shedding companion that’s as playful as it is photogenic. Just remember: behind every happy, fluffy Bichon is a human armed with a brush!
3. Maltese
Meet the Maltese: tiny in size but huge in charm. With a single, flowing white coat that looks like it belongs on a red carpet, this little pooch is basically a four-legged fashion icon. And the best part? She barely sheds, leaving you with more time for cuddles and play—and less time vacuuming tumbleweeds of fur.
These petite pups are friendly, lively, and generally healthy, making them ideal companions for just about anyone. PetMD noted their glamorous white coat earns them the “hypoallergenic” label, but let’s be honest—no dog is completely allergen-free.
Still, for allergy-sensitive households, the Maltese is a solid choice. Now, a word of warning: that silky, beautiful coat doesn’t maintain itself. Near-daily grooming is required if you want your Maltese to look like she just stepped out of a doggy spa instead of a laundry basket.
Brushing, occasional baths, and a touch of TLC are part of the package—but when your Maltese flashes that adorable face at you, it’s totally worth it.
If you want a pint-sized pooch that’s playful, affectionate, and won’t leave a trail of fur behind, the Maltese is your little white knight in shining fluff. Just keep that brush handy—you’ll be spending more time styling than vacuuming!
4. Shih Tzu
Say hello to the Shih Tzu, a tiny, fluffy bundle of history and charm. This ancient companion breed has been wowing humans for centuries with its thick, luxurious coat and affectionate personality.
Despite their regal appearance, Shih Tzus are playful, friendly, and love being part of the family chaos—whether that’s snuggling on the couch or joining you for a slow stroll around the block.
Like other low-shedding breeds, Shih Tzus are often labeled “hypoallergenic,” making them a great option for allergy-conscious households. But a quick note: their adorable flat faces can lead to some health quirks.
Overheating, breathing difficulties, and those infamous tear stains are things to watch out for. Thankfully, a gentle wipe with dog-friendly eye cleaning wipes can help keep those tear stains under control, so your little furball stays as photogenic as ever.
Grooming is key with the Shih Tzu. Their coat might be luxurious, but without regular brushing and care, it can turn into a tangled mess faster than you can say “teddy bear.” That said, if you’re up for a bit of extra pampering, you’ll be rewarded with a cheerful, loving companion who looks like a walking cloud of fluff.
In short, the Shih Tzu is the perfect mix of charm, personality, and low-shedding goodness—just remember to keep those wipes handy, because nothing spoils a photo like a tear-stained face!
5. Havanese
Say hola to the Havanese, the little Havana heartthrob of the dog world! The Havanese, previously called the Havana Silk Dog or the Spanish Silk Poodle, is the sole dog breed that originates from Cuba.
This toy breed is all about soft, flowing locks that make them look like they just stepped out of a doggy salon—even if they’ve been zooming around the living room chasing a sock.
Many pet parents opt to keep their Havanese’s coat trimmed short for easier maintenance, but whether long or short, their silky fur barely sheds, leaving more time for cuddles and less time for vacuuming.
Havanese dogs are cheerful, social, and downright charming. They love being part of the action, whether that’s playing with the family, making friends at the dog park, or stealing your favorite slippers just for fun.
Their friendly nature makes them fantastic companions, especially for families or anyone who wants a small dog with a big personality.
One word of advice: that hypoallergenic coat needs love. Regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles and mats, so keep your grooming tools handy. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your Havanese looking like the stylish, happy pup they were born to be.
If you’re looking for a low-shedding dog with personality, charm, and a touch of Havana flair, the Havanese is a perfect choice. Just be prepared to brush a little—it’s worth every stroke for that puppy-perfect look!
6. Portuguese Water Dog
Meet the Portuguese Water Dog—the ultimate combination of brains, brawn, and adorable curls. Originally bred to help Portuguese fishermen haul nets and herd fish (yes, real-life little water wranglers), these medium-sized pups are built for action.
And the best part for fur-phobic humans? Their thick, curly coat barely sheds, making them a popular choice for allergy-conscious families.
Portuguese Water Dogs aren’t just low-maintenance for your vacuum—they’re also incredibly smart, friendly, and highly trainable. Give them a task, a trick, or even just a new game, and they’ll master it faster than you can say “fetch.”
But be warned: these pups are full of energy. Swimming, running, or any kind of active play isn’t just fun for them—it’s essential for keeping them happy and healthy. Think of them as your personal canine fitness coach who doubles as a snuggle buddy afterward.
With their curly coat, bright eyes, and loving personality, Portuguese Water Dogs are perfect for families that want a loyal, intelligent companion without a home covered in fur.
Just remember: if you don’t keep them active, their boundless energy might find creative—and sometimes chaotic—ways to entertain themselves.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
Tiny but mighty, the Yorkshire Terrier—aka the Yorkie—is a toy breed that proves good things come in small, silky packages.
With a long, low shedding coat that can be trimmed short for easier maintenance, making them perfect for allergy-conscious pet parents—or anyone who prefers less fur on their furniture.
Don’t let their dainty size fool you. Yorkies are terriers at heart, bred to hunt rats, which means they have energy to spare and an attitude to match.
Often spotted being carried around in purses or bags, these urban-savvy pups are city dwellers’ favorites, packing a big-town personality into a pint-sized body. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Yorkies are often named among the most popular breeds in American cities, and it’s easy to see why: they’re lively, long-lived, and fiercely loyal.
Their coat is more like human hair than dog fur, which helps with allergies, and they make surprisingly fine little watchdogs—tiny bark, big presence. Adaptable to both sprawling homes and cozy apartments, Yorkies thrive as long as they get plenty of attention, affection, and a few play sessions to burn off their feisty energy.
If you want a hypoallergenic pup with personality, loyalty, and a hint of “I run this city” attitude, the Yorkshire Terrier is your small-but-mighty companion. Just be ready for lots of love—and maybe a few dramatic barks along the way.
Conclusion
Dogs that don’t shed much, such as the Bichon Frise, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, West Highland White Terrier, Giant Schnauzer, Border Terrier, and Chinese Crested, are ideal dogs for dog owners who want a clean house and minimal grooming. These hypoallergenic dogs, hairless breeds, or dogs that don’t shed much require extra care like daily brushing, hand stripping, pin brush use, professional grooming, or damp cloth maintenance to prevent matting and maintain their double coat or short coat.
Loyal companions and velcro dogs offer low energy, personal space, enrichment toys, and regular exercise, making them a good fit for households with other pets while minimizing trigger allergic reactions and health issues. While such a thing as a completely non-shedding dog is rare, these breeds shed little, making them great companions and the best dogs to bring home.
