Love dogs but tired of constantly chasing tumbleweeds of fur around your home? You’re not alone. While every pup sheds a little, many dog breeds are practically magic when it comes to keeping your floors and furniture hair-free.
Imagine a dog that cuddles, plays, and wags its tail endlessly—without leaving a trail of fluff in its wake. Low-shedding dog breeds make this dream a reality, offering all the love, loyalty, and personality of a furry companion while sparing you the endless vacuuming, lint-rolling, and sneezing fits.
Whether you’re an allergy sufferer, a neat-freak, or just someone who likes to keep your home tidy, these pups are perfect.
Get ready to meet the top hypoallergenic dog breeds with little to no shedding—adorable, affectionate, and surprisingly mess-free friends who’ll win your heart without taking over your couch.
Top Dog Breeds with Little to No Shedding: A List
1. Bichon Frise
Meet the Bichon Frise: the pint-sized pooch that looks like a walking cotton ball and somehow manages to stay mostly clean. If you’ve ever dreamed of having a dog that won’t turn your house into a fur-covered snowstorm, this cheerful little fluff is your best bet.
Their curly, hypoallergenic coat grows continuously—yes, like human hair—but unlike your average shedding dog, it doesn’t come flying off in tumbleweeds. Bichons are practically the extroverts of the dog world.
They’ll charm your socks off with wagging tails, mischievous antics, and those soulful eyes that can guilt-trip even the toughest cat person. Smart and highly trainable, they pick up commands faster than you can say, “Sit!”—so whether you want a partner for tricks, walks, or just a couch cuddle buddy, the Bichon delivers.
And here’s the best part: they love keeping things tidy. Well… sort of. They won’t sweep the floors for you, but minimal shedding means you can enjoy all the fluff without constantly wielding a lint roller.
Perfect for first-time dog owners, apartment living, or anyone who likes a clean home without sacrificing canine companionship.
In short, the Bichon Frise is small in size but huge on personality—a cheerful, clever, and mostly non-shedding friend who might just steal your heart (and maybe your favorite slipper or two).
2. Maltese
If cuteness had a poster child, it would probably be the Maltese. These pint-sized pups are pure charm wrapped in a silky white coat that looks like it belongs in a luxury fashion catalog.
Known for being playful, affectionate, and endlessly cuddly, Malteses make loyal companions who will happily sit in your lap… until they decide it’s time for zoomies around the living room.
Thanks to their gorgeous white fur, Malteses are often labeled as “hypoallergenic,” though let’s be real—no dog is completely allergen-free, PetMD noted. But for many people, these little fluffballs are a dream come true for sneezing less while still enjoying the joys of a doggy best friend.
Here’s the catch: their long, silky coat isn’t just for show. It demands a near-daily grooming routine if you want to avoid mats that could rival your worst hair day. Opting for a shorter “puppy cut” can save you a lot of stress (and lint roller time), making life easier while keeping your Maltese looking adorable.
In short, the Maltese is tiny but mighty in personality—ready to snuggle, play, and steal hearts without leaving a fur trail in every corner of your home. Just remember: a little extra grooming today keeps the “fur chaos” away tomorrow!
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Don’t let their tiny size fool you—Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are pocket-sized powerhouses of personality. These little hypoallergenic dynamos are full of spunk, loyalty, and charm, and they have a knack for making themselves the center of attention wherever they go.
Yorkies shed very little, which makes them perfect for anyone who wants a dog without a permanent layer of fur on their furniture (or their favorite black sweater).
Their adaptability is another win: whether you’re in a bustling city apartment or a sprawling suburban home, these feisty little pups will happily make themselves at home.
But beware: they might be small, but their confidence is huge. Expect a dog who thinks they’re five times their size, ready to boss around the mailman, alert you to every leaf that blows by, and cuddle like a pro when it’s time to relax.
In short, the Yorkshire Terrier is the ultimate tiny companion with a big heart, a little sass, and enough hypoallergenic charm to make your home a fur-minimal zone.
4. Poodle
If brains, beauty, and a mostly fur-free home are on your wish list, the Poodle is here to deliver. Famous for their curly, hypoallergenic coats, Poodles barely shed, making them a top choice for anyone who wants a dog without turning their living room into a snow globe of fur.
Poodles come in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—so whether you want a couch-sized cuddle buddy or a pint-sized lap companion, there’s a Poodle that fits.
And don’t let those curls fool you: these pups are incredibly intelligent and easy to train. Tricks? Obedience? Fetch? They’ve got it all covered… and they might even judge you if you can’t keep up.
That gorgeous curly coat does need regular grooming to stay tangle- and mat-free, but it has a bonus: it traps hair and dander, keeping allergens off your furniture, clothes, and hopefully off your favorite snacks, WebMD noted. Low shedding, low allergens, high charm—that’s the Poodle in a nutshell.
If you want a dog that’s equal parts clever, elegant, and low-maintenance in the shedding department (but not in personality), the Poodle is your four-legged MVP.
5. Havanese
If you’re looking for a small dog with a big heart and an even bigger personality, meet the Havanese. These little charmers are playful, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining.
They have a knack for making you smile—sometimes with mischief, sometimes with cuddles, and often with both at the same time. One of the Havanese’s standout features is their silky, low-shedding coat.
Unlike many other fluffy breeds, these pups won’t leave fur tumbleweeds drifting across your living room. A bit of regular grooming is all they ask to keep their locks smooth, shiny, and tangle-free. For those who enjoy a bonding moment with their pup, brushing a Havanese can be a relaxing, almost spa-like experience for both of you.
Havanese dogs thrive on human interaction—they want to be involved in everything from your morning coffee routine to binge-watching your favorite show.
They’re loyal, social, and downright charming, making them perfect for families, singles, or anyone who wants a furry companion who’s equal parts playful troublemaker and devoted cuddle buddy.
In short, the Havanese is a pint-sized bundle of joy with a low-shedding coat and a heart that’s all fluff. Your home stays mostly fur-free, but your life? Totally filled with laughter, love, and the occasional zoomie session across the living room.
6. Shih Tzu
Say hello to the Shih Tzu, a breed with a rich history and an even richer personality. Originally bred in China as a companion for royalty, these little pups have kept their “princess and prince” vibes, making them perfect lapdogs for anyone who loves a devoted, affectionate sidekick.
If your goal is a royal dog who sticks to you like velcro—without covering you in fur—the Shih Tzu fits the bill perfectly. Despite their long, flowing coat, Shih Tzus shed surprisingly little. Their hair is more like human strands than typical fur, so it tends to stay put rather than drifting across your furniture like a winter snowstorm.
That said, a bit of TLC goes a long way: daily brushing keeps their coat tangle-free, soft, and shining like the crown jewels… or you can opt for a short “puppy cut” for an easier, low-maintenance style. Either way, minimal shedding keeps your home looking tidy while your Shih Tzu looks fabulously regal.
Personality-wise, Shih Tzus are affectionate, calm, and downright charming. They’re happiest curling up on a lap, quietly observing the world (or gently reminding you it’s time for some cuddle breaks).
For first-time dog owners, city dwellers, or anyone craving a loyal, low-shedding companion, the Shih Tzu is a dream come true.
In short, this pint-sized pooch brings maximum love, minimal mess, and a touch of royalty to your everyday life—making them one of the most beloved hypoallergenic lapdogs out there.
7. Portuguese Water Dog
Meet the Portuguese Water Dog, a breed built for action, adventure, and a splash or two. Originally bred to help fishermen haul nets and herd fish, these athletic pups are loyal, energetic, and always ready for some fun in the water—or on land if your local pool is lacking.
If you’ve got an active lifestyle and want a dog that can keep pace without leaving a fur trail behind, this breed is a winner. Their thick, curly coat isn’t just stylish—it’s water-resistant and sheds minimally, making them one of the rare breeds that won’t turn your house into a fluff-filled obstacle course, says Purina.
That said, a coat this magnificent needs attention: consistent grooming prevents tangles and mats, and show-worthy looks require regular clipping. Think of it as a little spa day to keep your pooch looking sleek, shiny, and ready for whatever adventure comes next.
Portuguese Water Dogs are happiest in active households that can match their energy. Whether it’s jogging, swimming, hiking, or just a high-octane game of fetch, these pups thrive when they get plenty of exercise—and they’ll reward you with endless loyalty, affection, and occasional goofy antics.
In short, the Portuguese Water Dog is a sporty, fun-loving companion who’s low-shedding, water-ready, and ready to turn your family into a dockside adventure crew. Just be prepared: once this pup joins your home, “boredom” becomes a foreign word.
Conclusion
While non-shedding dogs shed less dead hair and dander, no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Most dog allergies are triggered by proteins in a dog’s saliva, skin, or urine—not just their fur. However, low-shedding breeds often trigger fewer allergic reactions, making them easier for sensitive pet parents to manage. Even completely non-shedding dogs still lose some hair and skin flakes, so regular grooming sessions, proper brushing, and coat care to prevent matting are essential.
With low shedding and proper maintenance, these dogs remain great companions who are easier to care for in homes where allergies are a concern. Bringing home a non-shedding dog breed can be a wonderful choice, but understanding the responsibilities that come with their low-fur package ensures both your pet and your household stay healthy, happy, and comfortable.
