Keeping a home tidy with a dog can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Loose hair on the sofa, scattered fur on the floor, and constant cleaning can make pet ownership feel overwhelming.
Thankfully, some dog breeds shed minimally, making life much easier for pet parents who want both companionship and a clean home. Low-shedding dogs often have unique coat types, such as curly or single-layered coats, that naturally trap dead hair and reduce loose strands.
These coats also produce less dander, which is great for allergy sufferers. Even low-shedding breeds require regular brushing, professional grooming, and occasional trims to maintain healthy, silky coats and prevent matting.
For those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, choosing a minimal shedding dog can offer daily comfort and a cleaner living space.
These dogs provide loyal companionship without compromising home cleanliness. In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal low-shedding breeds and tips to keep their coats healthy and mat-free.
Dog Breeds That Barely Shed: Ideal for Tidy Homes
1. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique, affectionate companion known for being low shedding dog breed.
Its hairless variety has soft, exposed skin with tufts on the head, tail, and ankles, while the powderpuff variety has a silky coat. Both are playful, loving, and attentive housemates, perfect for tidy homes.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
The hairless Crested naturally doesn’t shed much, reducing loose hair around the house.
The powderpuff’s undercoat is short, while the overlay is longer, making brushing easier than many other breeds. Regular grooming prevents mats and keeps the coat silky and clean.
Grooming & Care Tips
As per the AKC, hairless Cresteds need sunscreen, gentle cleaning, and acne treatments to protect their sensitive skin. Powderpuffs benefit from daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Additional care includes:
Occasional professional grooming for both varieties.
Maintaining regular grooming routines to keep coats healthy and dogs comfortable.
Ensuring homes stay tidy by reducing loose hair and shedding-related mess.
2. Manchester Terrier
Manchester Terriers are an ancient breed dating back to the 1570s in England. Originally valued as skilled ratters and hunters, they are now affectionate family companions.
Active and energetic, they enjoy daily exercise and thrive in homes where they get plenty of activity.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
As per PetMD, with a smooth, short black-and-tan coat, Manchester Terriers are easy to groom and maintain. Their thin coat rarely mats and doesn’t produce a strong doggy odor. Shedding is regular but minimal, making them low shedding dog breed.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush once a week using a rubber curry brush or bristle brush to control shedding.
Monitor skin for allergies, redness, hair loss, or other changes and consult a vet if needed.
Occasional baths help maintain a healthy coat without over-washing.
Regular grooming keeps their coat sleek, reduces loose hair, and supports a clean home environment.
3. Havanese
Havanese are cheerful, small companions native to Cuba, known for their sociable nature and playful personalities.
Their soft, silky coat and curled-over tail make them instantly recognizable. Smart and trainable, they are adaptable to city or apartment living and are ideal for families who want a lively but low-maintenance companion.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
The long, silky coat of the Havanese doesn’t shed heavily if maintained properly. Daily grooming is essential to prevent mats and tangles, especially in dogs with longer hair.
Some pet owners choose short trims to reduce grooming time without compromising the dog’s charm.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush the low-shedding coat with a soft brush or comb to prevent tangles and maintain a silky coat.
Bathe occasionally, as needed, to keep the coat clean.
Clean the corners of the eyes daily to prevent tear stains.
Check ears regularly and remove excess wax or debris.
Regular grooming keeps coats healthy, reduces shedding, and ensures a tidy home.
4. Maltese
Maltese are small, affectionate companions from the Toy breed group, often called “lap dogs.”Friendly and sweet-natured, they enjoy human attention and are ideal for families who want a loving, low-maintenance pet.
Their small size and moderate energy make them perfect lap dogs and easy to accommodate in homes of all sizes.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
As per Purina, the Maltese coat is a long, silky white coat with black points around the eyes and nose.
This small dog sheds hair minimally, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. Frequent brushing is essential to prevent tangles and matting, keeping the coat healthy and soft.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush the coat daily to prevent tangles and mats.
Bathe the dog regularly to maintain cleanliness and health.
Check and clean the eyes daily to avoid tear staining.
Trim the coat as needed to reduce grooming time.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are bold, energetic members of the Toy breed group and make devoted lap dogs.
Despite their tiny size, they have a big personality, showing affection, curiosity, and vigilance. They thrive in homes where they get plenty of attention and companionship.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
As per WebMD, Chihuahuas come in smooth, short coats or medium-to-long coats, with over 30 colour variations. Both coat types shed minimally, making them suitable for tidy homes. Long coats may require a bit more grooming to prevent tangles, while short coats are low-maintenance.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush long-coated Chihuahuas at least once a week to prevent tangles and mats.
Short-coated Chihuahuas only need occasional grooming.
Bathe as needed to maintain coat cleanliness and health.
Regular brushing reduces loose hair around the home.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are spirited, small toy dogs known for their low-shedding, silky hair that resembles human hair more than typical dog fur. Their fine coat grows continuously and lacks a dense undercoat, which means they shed very minimally compared to many breeds.
This makes them a popular choice for people seeking a tidy home with less loose hair and a companion that fits well in apartments or smaller spaces.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
Yorkies’ single, silky coat doesn’t go through heavy seasonal shedding like double-coated breeds. While occasional strands may appear during grooming, most hair stays in the coat until brushed out.
Regular grooming helps control loose hairs and keeps the coat looking its best.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush the coat daily (or several times a week for shorter trims) to prevent tangles and mats.
Bathe every few weeks with a gentle shampoo to support coat health.
Schedule groomer visits every 4–6 weeks for trims or puppy cuts.
Clean eyes and check skin regularly to avoid irritation.
Consistent grooming keeps shed hair under control and homes tidier.
7. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are lively, small companion dogs known for their fluffy double coat and spirited personality. Their thick fur gives them a distinctive “puffball” appearance, but it also means they shed more than some single-coated breeds despite their small size.
Low Shedding and Coat Characteristics
Although Pomeranians aren’t considered hypoallergenic or truly low-shedding, they typically lose less loose hair in the home than many larger double-coated breeds.
Their dense undercoat is shed seasonally (especially in spring and fall), and regular brushing helps reduce how much fur ends up on furniture.
Grooming & Care Tips
Brush the thick double coat several times a week to prevent mats and manage loose fur.
During peak shedding seasons, increase brushing to daily to remove loose hairs before they drop.
Bathe every 4–6 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo to maintain coat health.
Check skin regularly and consult a vet if you notice irritation or dryness.
Conclusion
Choosing a low-shedding dog breed can make life easier for families who want a clean, comfortable home without constant sweeping. These breeds offer the perfect balance of companionship and manageable grooming needs, helping reduce loose hair and allergens around the house.
With the right brushing routine and simple coat care, even breeds with finer or longer hair remain tidy and healthy. Whether you prefer a tiny lap dog or an active companion, there’s a low-shedding breed suited to every lifestyle.
Understanding their grooming habits and coat characteristics ensures you bring home a pet that fits your needs. In the end, a bit of regular care goes a long way—keeping your dog happy and your home effortlessly neat.
