Living in a small space and dreaming of a snuggly, four-legged roommate? We get it—not everyone has room for a Saint Bernard to sprawl out in their studio apartment. And if you’ve got allergies too? Well, finding the right pup can feel like chasing your tail.
But don’t worry—hypoallergenic dog breeds to the rescue! While no dog is truly 100% sneeze-proof, some breeds are far gentler on the sniffles and way better suited for cozy condos or chic city flats. These pint-sized pups don’t just fit your square footage—they also produce less dander, hair, and drama.
Whether you’re in a Manhattan walk-up or a sunny L.A. loft, there’s a hypoallergenic companion out there just waiting to steal your socks (and your heart). In this guide, we’re diving into the best small, allergy-friendly breeds with chill vibes, adorable faces, and just the right amount of zoomies. Let’s sniff out your perfect match!
Hypoallergenic Apartment Dog Breeds
1. Bichon Frise
Looking for a small, hypoallergenic bundle of joy that’s as cute as a cloud and just as cuddly? Meet the Bichon Frise—an affectionate, curly-coated pup that brings a big personality in a small, allergy-friendly package. These little charmers are smart, trainable, and eager to please, making them a breeze to teach basic commands—and maybe even a few party tricks!
Standing at just 9 to 12 inches tall, Bichons are compact companions with a soft, plush white coat that gives off major marshmallow vibes. Their expressive dark eyes and fluffy drop ears add to the “walking stuffed animal” effect. Don’t be fooled by their dainty looks—they trot around with a confident, cheerful stride and love to be the center of attention.
Now, about the sneezing—Bichons are often labeled hypoallergenic because they don’t shed much. Their curly coat traps loose hairs and dander, reducing airborne allergens. But fair warning: they still produce dander and saliva, so sensitive folks may still react. On the plus side, fewer fur tumbleweeds!
Grooming is a must with this breed. Daily brushing keeps their signature curls from matting, and regular visits to the groomer will keep them looking fabulous—and feeling comfortable.
If you’re looking for a joyful, low-shedding pup with big love to give, the Bichon Frise might just be your perfect match.
Keep in Mind:
Bichon Frises are social little charmers who love being part of the action, whether it’s with kids, other pups, or even the family cat. But leave them alone too long, and cue the drama! These fluffy companions are prone to separation anxiety and don’t enjoy solo time.
If neglected, Bichons tend to bark incessantly. Early socialization helps keep their chatty side in check, but let’s be honest—they’re happiest when they’re glued to your side.
2. Poodle
Don’t let their fancy hairdos fool you—Poodles are more than just runway-ready fluff balls. These curly-coated canines come in three fun sizes—Standard, Miniature Poodle, and Toy Poodle—and they all share the same fabulous traits: intelligence, loyalty, and a splash-loving spirit. While this spotlight’s on the elegant Standard Poodle, everything you’ll read pretty much applies across the size board.
Originally bred in Germany (surprise!), Poodles were expert waterfowl retrievers—hence the name from the German word “pudel,” meaning “to splash in water.” Their flair came later when France embraced the breed, eventually making it their national dog. But deep down, Poodles are still active, outdoorsy, and eager to please.
With their athletic build and lively personality, Poodles thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Playing fetch, a daily walk, or a good swim? Yes, please! These dogs adore spending time with their humans and aren’t shy about showing it. Just keep in mind—they don’t like being left alone for too long.
Let’s talk curls. Poodles sport a thick, woolly coat that’s naturally low-shedding, making them a go-to for allergy-prone dog lovers. But that fluff takes work. Daily brushing and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks keep their coat mat-free and fabulous.
A few quick grooming tips:
Introduce brushing early—puppy spa days build good habits
Use a soft brush to prevent matting
Don’t skip dental care—those pearly whites matter too!
Poodles come in a stunning array of solid coat colors—from classic white to apricot, red, silver, and even chocolate brown. Whether regal in appearance or goofy in personality (often both), Poodles are joyful, graceful, and love being part of the family fun.
In short, if you’re looking for an apartment-friendly hypoallergenic dog breed that is highly trainable and a totally charming companion, the Poodle might just be your perfect match. Bonus points if you have a pool!
3. Shih Tzu
Looking for a pint-sized companion with major royal vibes? The Shih Tzu might just be your match made in doggie heaven. This ancient Tibetan toy breed has been charming humans for over a thousand years, originally bred by monks and gifted to Chinese royalty. Talk about a prestigious pup! Their name even translates to “lion dog,” thanks to that majestic mane and expressive, fuzzy face.
Shih Tzus are a small, hypoallergenic breed with friendly, alert personalities. They’re sturdily built little dogs with short legs, a compact frame, and a plumed tail that arches proudly over their back. While their luscious coats can come in all kinds of beautiful shades, those flowing locks do need some serious upkeep.
Here’s what to expect:
Daily or every-other-day brushing to keep tangles in check
Regular baths and conditioning to keep that coat soft and mat-free
Optional topknots (adorable and practical!) to prevent hair from covering their eyes
Most pet parents opt for an easier “puppy cut” instead of the full show-dog wrap-and-clip routine—but either way, regular grooming is part of the package.
Health Considerations:
Now, let’s talk health. Shih Tzus have those sweet, smooshed faces (called brachycephalic), which means they may struggle with breathing, especially in hot or humid weather. They can also be prone to tear staining, which you can manage with gentle eye wipes. Like many small breeds, they’re also at risk for patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place—so it’s always smart to keep your vet in the loop.
Still, with the right care and a little extra pampering, the Shih Tzu makes a lovable, hypoallergenic buddy perfect for apartment dwellers. They’re loyal, full of spunk, and always ready to snuggle up after a short walk or a royal nap.
4. Maltese
Elegant, affectionate, and absolutely dazzling in white, the Maltese is a toy breed with a royal presence and a heart full of love. Hailing from the sunny Mediterranean island of Malta, these little charmers have been adored for centuries—and it’s easy to see why. Their luxurious, silky coats, playful nature, and affectionate temperament make them a favorite among companion dog lovers.
Despite their glamorous look, Maltese dogs are full of spunk. They thrive on human attention and form close bonds with their people. While they’re high-energy breed and love to play, they don’t need hours of activity—a brisk walk or a few minutes of indoor playtime suffice the short bursts of zoomies and is usually enough to keep them happy.
Quick Breed Highlights:
Hypoallergenic coat (thanks to no undercoat and minimal shedding)
Great for apartment or condo living
Quick learners who love praise and attention
Known for their affectionate and people-oriented nature
Grooming is where Maltese care gets a little fancy. Their famous white coats can grow to floor length and need regular brushing to stay tangle-free. If you’re not ready for daily maintenance, a short “puppy cut” makes grooming much easier—and just as adorable. Regular eye and ear cleaning also helps keep them looking and feeling their best.
Petmd states that beneath that glamorous coat is a gentle, intelligent dog with a sharp little brain. Maltese are eager to please and quick to learn, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement. That said, they don’t enjoy being alone. These devoted dogs can develop separation anxiety and may bark or become destructive if left for long stretches.
Because they’re so small and delicate, Maltese might not be the best match for homes with very young kids or larger dogs unless supervised closely. Also, overly pampered Maltese may become a little too attached, turning into fierce protectors of their humans and reacting poorly to other pets or unfamiliar guests.
Fun Fact:
This breed has been called everything from the “Melitae Dog” to the “Roman Ladies Dog” to the “Comforter.” But no matter the name, one thing stays the same: the Maltese lives to love and be loved.
5. Coton de Tulear
Meet the Coton de Tulear—a small, cottony-soft pup with a big heart and an even bigger personality. Hailing from Madagascar, this breed was bred to be the ultimate companion dog. With a lovable, clownish nature and a knack for keeping you smiling, Cotons thrive in homes where they can stick close to their people.
These pups are known for their sweet, easygoing vibe. Whether they’re following you around the house like a fuzzy little shadow or lounging quietly at your feet, Cotons are happiest when they’re part of the action. They’re sociable with both people and other pets, making them a great fit for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Cotons are medium-energy dogs. A couple of walks a day and some playful games (fetch, tug-of-war, or agility fun) will keep them satisfied. They’re also fans of puzzle toys that challenge their curious minds—without enough mental stimulation, these fluff balls can get a little too creative with their mischief.
Grooming Needs? Fluff, Brush, Repeat
Though Cotons are hypoallergenic (great news for allergy-prone households), their dense, fluffy coats need some upkeep. Start grooming early to get them comfortable with brushing—it’ll make life a lot easier down the road. Aim to brush at least three times a week, especially around tricky spots like elbows, legs, and ears. For stubborn tangles, a light conditioning spray and finger-combing can do wonders.
Bathing depends on your dog’s activity level and brushing frequency—more brushing means fewer baths. When you do bathe them, gently pat them dry to avoid messing up that soft coat. And don’t forget the basics: regular ear checks, nail trims, and dental care.
Training Your Little Comedian
Smart and eager to please, Cotons are easy to train with positive reinforcement. The earlier you start socialization and obedience training, the better. They’re not the fiercest watchdogs out there, but they’ll still alert you when something’s up, with bark and maybe a dramatic head tilt.
6. Havanese
If there’s one pup born to be in the spotlight, it’s the Havanese! These playful, people-loving charmers are part of the toy group and were bred purely to be companions, not workers or hunters. And let’s be honest, they’re natural at it. With their silly antics and affectionate personalities, Havanese dogs are always ready to win hearts (and treats!) wherever they go.
Native to Cuba and often dubbed the “Havana silk dog,” the Havanese boasts a silky coat, floppy ears, and those round, expressive eyes you just can’t say no to. Their social, gentle nature makes them wonderful family dogs, great with kids, other pets, and even strangers. They live for cuddles, playtime, and of course, a little attention.
Why You’ll Love the Havanese:
Low-shedding, Hypoallergenic coat (good news for allergy sufferers!)
Clever and quick to learn
Content with the apartment environment
Natural performers—perfect for trick training or agility
Grooming a Havanese takes a bit of effort, but trust us—it’s worth it. Their long, flowing hair feels like silk and comes in a rainbow of shades, from champagne and chocolate to black and silver. You can go for the classic full coat or opt for the low-maintenance “puppy cut,” which gives them an adorable teddy bear look.
Training Your Tiny Star
With their eagerness to please and bright minds, Havanese pups are a joy to train. Use positive reinforcement and they’ll quickly pick up commands, tricks, and even dog sports like agility or obedience. These pups love learning—and showing off what they know!
7. Yorkshire Terrier
Don’t let the petite frame fool you—Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies” as we lovingly call them, are tiny dogs with king-sized confidence. These pint-sized pups originated in 19th-century Yorkshire, England, where they were bred for their feisty terrier spirit. Today, they’re more likely to be found perched in a designer dog carrier than chasing rats, but their lively, brave personality remains unchanged.
Despite standing just 8 to 9 inches tall and weighing under 7 pounds, the Yorkie has a big-dog attitude. They’re affectionate with their people, loyal to the core, and often act as vigilant little watchdogs. In fact, they’re surprisingly good at alerting their families to anything suspicious, whether it’s a knock at the door or a squirrel in the yard.
Why Yorkies Are Total Rockstars:
Small but mighty personalities
Hypoallergenic, human-like hair (bye-bye, dog fur!)
Ideal for apartments and smaller spaces
Bold, loyal, and always ready for an adventure
A Glamorous Look That Turns Heads
WebMD states that Yorkies are total fashion icons in the dog world. Their long, silky, steel-blue and tan coats are pure elegance—and yes, they know it. Whether they’re rocking a topknot or a short puppy cut, these dogs are always photo-ready.
Their hair doesn’t shed like typical fur, making them a smart pick for people with mild allergies. Just keep in mind that that fabulous coat needs daily brushing and weekly baths to stay tangle-free and glossy.
All Heart, a Little Sass
Yorkies adore their families and aren’t fans of being left alone for long. They love lap time, attention, and being the center of your world. But they’re also terriers through and through—meaning they can be a bit territorial and won’t hesitate to bark at new sounds or challenge other pets (even ones three times their size). Early socialization helps smooth out those spicy instincts.
These little charmers usually do best in homes with older children who understand how to handle small dog breeds gently. And while Yorkies often get along with cats or other dogs they grew up with, they can get a bit jealous if a new fur friend suddenly shows up. Introductions should be slow and mindful.
Conclusion
When it comes to apartment living with a furry friend, choosing the right dog can make all the difference, especially if you or someone in your household deals with dog allergies. Thankfully, many dog breeds, from the elegant Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the playful Miniature Schnauzer, fit the bill as great apartment dogs. These pups tend to shed less pet dander and produce fewer allergens, making them some of the best dogs for tighter living spaces.
Whether you prefer the silky flowing coat of the Portuguese Water Dog, the sleek short coat of the Italian Greyhound, or a mixed breed with hypoallergenic potential, there’s a perfect pup out there for you.
Some breeds, like the Irish Water Spaniel or Giant Schnauzer, may need frequent grooming, while others make a low-maintenance companion. Keeps in good shape with ample exercise, you’ve likely found one of the best apartment dogs around.
In the end, it’s not about finding the perfect dog—just the perfect match for your lifestyle and living environment.
