Top 10 Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

Choosing one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed means less fur to clean and fewer allergy issues. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or a proud Yorkie owner, tiny pups that barely drop hair can make life easier and more fun. 

In this guide, we’ll walk through the top 10 small dog breeds that don’t shed so you can stay relaxed about finding your dog’s hair in every spot in the house. From classic toy dogs to exotic hairless breeds, each of these pups has a low-shedding coat and big personality. 

1. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) is a pint-sized pup with a silky coat that’s famous for minimal shedding. In fact, many sources list the Yorkie’s fine, straight hair as hypoallergenic. In comparison with many other breeds, Yorkies “do not shed to the same degree, losing small amounts when bathed or brushed. This means you can snuggle a Yorkie without constantly vacuuming! Yorkies are very small – usually under 7 pounds – but they have BIG personalities: spunky, affectionate, and eager to please.

• Grooming: Regular brushing with a soft pin brush keeps a Yorkie’s long hair tangle-free. A gentle dog shampoo and conditioner are great for keeping their coat shiny (Yorkies don’t need baths often, but a quality hypoallergenic shampoo can help when they do).
  
• Lifespan & Care: Yorkies live around 12–15 years. While they’re generally healthy, they can have puppy-like “toy” health issues. (Fun fact: if you want to know common Yorkie health concerns, see our article on what Yorkies usually die from – Top 6 causes.)
  
• Special Notes: Yorkies come in unique color variations – such as Parti and Biewer Yorkies. We even wrote a whole post on Parti Yorkie vs Biewer Yorkie – What’s the difference between them. And if you’re curious how big a Yorkie will get, check out our Yorkie growth chart for size and weight by age.
  

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers make one of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed – they’re cute, energetic, and their fur stays neatly with them (not all over your couch!).

2. Maltese

The Maltese is a tiny toy breed with a beautiful, all-white coat that sheds very little. Maltese dogs are often recommended for allergy sufferers: “the breed is considered hypoallergenic… they shed less fur”. In other words, Maltese owners enjoy cuddling without as much dander flying around. Maltese typically weigh under 7 pounds and have lively, friendly personalities. They love playtime and will be affectionate lapdogs.

• Grooming: Maltese have long, silky hair that needs daily brushing to prevent mats. A fine-toothed comb or pin brush is great. Many owners keep a Maltese in a “puppy cut” (short hair) to make grooming easier. Be sure to use a gentle, tear-free dog shampoo.
  
• Lifespan & Care: These sweet pups often live 12–15 years. They do require dental care and may have delicate teeth (small breeds are prone to tooth issues). But overall, they’re sturdy and healthy. Because Maltese are so lightweight, they can fit on your lap or in a purse like a “real” bag – perfect if you enjoy carrying your pup around!
  
• Allergy Fact: Since Maltese shed only tiny amounts, many people who are allergic to dogs can tolerate a Maltese. However, all dogs produce some dander, so “hypoallergenic” is relative.
  

When we talk about the small breeds of dogs that don’t shed, the Maltese is a top pick for cute looks and minimal vacuuming. Just expect to spend a few minutes each day brushing that gorgeous coat. Check our collection of dog brushes and find the right one for your dog.

3. Toy Poodle (and Miniature Poodle)

Poodles are world-famous for their curly, non-shedding coat. Whether Toy or Miniature size, poodles (and their mixes) are among the best small dog breeds that don’t shed. Their tight curls trap shed hair, so virtually no fur floats around your home. A Toy Poodle often weighs under 10 pounds; Miniature Poodles up to 15. These intelligent, friendly dogs love learning tricks and being part of the family.

• Grooming: Poodles do need regular grooming – think haircuts and brushing – but the payoff is zero shedding. A slicker brush or grooming comb works well. Many owners clip Poodles into “puppy cuts” which keep hair short all over (reducing matting). Use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo because poodle hair can get dry.
  
• Temperament: Poodles are smart and obedient. They bond closely with owners and can be very playful. Because of their brains, early training and socialization is helpful (they pick up tricks like a champ, but also test out new behaviors).
  
• Variations: There are also “Teacup” or “Toy Poodle” mixes like the popular Yorkie-Poo (Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle). For example, our site has a full Teacup Yorkie-Poo facts page if you want to learn about that cute crossbreed.
  

Most importantly, poodles are non-shedding, so you can count them among the small to medium dog breeds that don’t shed. If you like a low-allergy dog with an elegant coat, a Toy or Miniature Poodle is a great pick.

4. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small (around 10–15 lb) lap dog originally bred for Chinese royalty. They have a long, flowing coat that looks like it comes from a fairytale. Shih Tzus do shed less than many dogs because their hair is more like human hair (it keeps growing instead of falling out). Many owners describe Shih Tzu shedding as minimal – your vacuum might only see them during shedding season or after a haircut.

• Grooming: Daily brushing is ideal to keep a Shih Tzu’s coat tangle-free. You can trim their hair into a “pup cut” to make life easier. A quality gentle shampoo and conditioner (especially for long hair) will keep them clean. A soft grooming glove can also help remove loose hair without cutting it off the dog entirely.
  
• Personality: Shih Tzus are affectionate and friendly. They love being lap dogs and adapt well to apartment living. They can be a bit stubborn during training, but they respond well to patience and treats.
  
• Allergies: Because they shed very little, Shih Tzus often make our list of cute small dog breeds that don’t shed. People with mild allergies sometimes prefer them. Still, remember that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic – all dogs make some dander.
  

In short, Shih Tzus are delightful companions with silky coats that stay mostly on them. They’re definitely among the best small dog breeds for keeping your house fur-free (or at least fur-minimal!).

5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, powder-puff pup known for its fluffy white coat. Bichons are small (about 10–18 pounds) and affectionate. Their curly double coat sheds extremely little – most owners say they barely notice any fur, aside from grooming sessions. Because of this, Bichons are often listed among the breeds of small dogs that don’t shed.

• Grooming: Expect to brush a Bichon’s coat every day or two to prevent mats. A slicker brush and a comb will help keep the curls from tangling. Many people trim their Bichon short (puppy cut) for easier care. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo to avoid drying out the skin.
  
• Temperament: Bichons are friendly, playful, and great with kids. They thrive on attention and can live in apartments or houses. They do enjoy playtime and a good walk every day.
  
• Health: Generally healthy, but like many small breeds can have allergies or joint issues, so regular vet check-ups are wise.
  

Thanks to their soft, corkscrew curls, Bichon Frises rank high among cute small dog breeds that don’t shed. They’re like little clouds you can cuddle! Just keep up with the brushing and occasional grooming appointment to keep that coat looking its best.

6. Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a spirited little terrier (about 11–20 pounds) with a distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows. Schnauzers have a wiry double coat: a coarse outer coat and a soft undercoat. They are considered low-shedding because that topcoat holds loose hairs until they fall out naturally (often after a hand-strip or trim). In practice, a Mini Schnauzer will shed only small amounts of fur if groomed regularly.

• Grooming: Many owners take Mini Schnauzers to professional groomers for “hand-stripping” (removing dead hairs by hand) or clipping. At home, a slicker brush or a metal dog comb for wiry coats works well. Brushing once or twice a week is usually enough if they’re trimmed.
  
• Personality: Mini Schnauzers are alert, intelligent, and friendly. They’re often good watchdogs (in classic terrier fashion) but are also very loving with their family. They’re energetic and enjoy playtime or walks.
  
• Allergies: Though not 100% non-shedding, they are often listed with hypoallergenic breeds. Many owners with allergies say Mini Schnauzers are easy to live with in that regard.
  

For anyone looking for small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark (we’ll touch on barking in a moment), the Schnauzer is almost there. They do bark to alert you, but their negligible fur falling out makes them great for tidiness. With their cute bearded faces, Mini Schnauzers are a popular choice in our top 10.

7. Basenji

The Basenji is a bit larger (usually 20–25 pounds) but still in the small/medium category, and it’s famous as a barkless dog. Known as the “barkless dog” of Africa, Basenjis make a unique yodel-like sound instead of a traditional bark. So if you want a quiet pooch, this breed fits the small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark description perfectly!

• Coat and Shedding: Basenjis have a very short, fine coat. They shed minimally (about as much as a short-haired cat). Most of their loose hair is caught in the coating and comes out when you brush them gently.
  
• Behavior: They’re energetic, clever, and quite clean (they groom themselves like cats). However, Basenjis can be a bit stubborn and independent. Early socialization is important.
  
• Suitability: They’re best for owners who like a playful, unique pet and don’t mind a high-energy dog. They need exercise and mental stimulation.
  

While Basenjis aren’t tiny like a Yorkie, they still count as small to medium dog breeds that don’t shed. Plus, with their quiet nature, they top the list if barking is a concern. Imagine having a dog who alerts you to visitors with a comic yodel instead of a bark!

8. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is one of the most distinctive breeds on the list – they often have no hair on their body at all! There are two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. The Hairless variety has silky hair on its head (a crest), tail, and feet, but the rest of the body is exposed skin. Powderpuffs have a full coat of soft hair.

• Shedding: Hairless Chinese Cresteds obviously don’t shed fur because they have very little. Powderpuffs shed more (just a little if brushed). Overall, this breed is generally excellent for people who want breeds of dogs that don’t shed and stay small (they weigh around 10–13 pounds).
  
• Care: Hairless skin needs sunscreen/protection outdoors and moisturizing lotions, but grooming is easy. Powderpuffs require regular brushing like any long-coated dog, yet their shedding is still mild.
  
• Personality: They are affectionate, playful, and agile (think doggy cat). Chinese Cresteds love companionship and can be quite fun – some even do dog sports or agility.
  

If you really want zero hair, the Chinese Crested (Hairless) is the ultimate choice. These little dogs are unique and have a delicate, elf-like appearance. They are definitely on our list of breeds small dogs that don’t shed, and they’ll turn heads wherever you go!

9. Yorkie-Poo (Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle Mix)

While not an official AKC “breed,” the Yorkie-Poo is a popular small mixed breed that combines our #1 Yorkie with a Toy or Mini Poodle. They typically stay very small (often 4–7 pounds) and usually have curly or wavy hair. Thanks to the Poodle genetics, Yorkie-Poos tend to inherit the non-shedding trait. You’ll often find a teacup Yorkie-Poo described as virtually hairless on the floor – perfect for our cute small dog breeds that don’t shed theme.

• Grooming: These pups need regular brushing (a slicker brush works well on wavy hair). Many owners clip Yorkie-Poos short for easy care. They need occasional baths and lots of love.
  
• Nature: Yorkie-Poos usually have the loving, playful nature of both parents. They are affectionate and good with families.
  
• Fun Link: In fact, if you want to know all about Teacup Yorkie-Poos (history, care, how big they get), check out our “What Is a Teacup Yorkie-Poo?” guide.
  

In summary, the Yorkie-Poo is a top cheap small dog breed that doesn’t shed (compared to purebreds, mixes can sometimes be more affordable). They stay tiny, are incredibly cute, and shed almost nothing. Just be ready for an energetic little companion.

10. Silky Terrier (or Havanese)

Rounding out the list, we have a couple of closely related breeds. The Australian Silky Terrier is very similar to a Yorkie – small (under 10 pounds) with a fine silky coat. It sheds almost not at all and has a friendly, alert nature. The Havanese is a Cuban companion dog (8–13 pounds) with a soft coat that also sheds very little. Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic by many owners.

• Silky Terrier: Think of a slightly larger Yorkie with a smooth coat. They need brushing (a pin brush for silky hair) but again, little fur hits the floor. Silky Terriers are lively and love to play.
  
• Havanese: These are social, gentle dogs that rarely shed. Their double coat is long and silky; if kept in a short clip, grooming is easy. They’re adaptable and excellent for apartments.
  

Either of these makes the cut for breeds small dogs that don’t shed. If you want more budget options, mentioning cheap small dog breeds that don’t shed, consider checking shelters or rescues – often there are small mixed-breeds that share these traits. And remember: adoption fees are usually much lower than buying a pup!

Bonus Grooming Tips and Products

All these non-shedding breeds need regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. Here are some friendly tips and tools:

Brushes

A slicker brush and pin brush are must-haves. They gently remove tangles and loose hairs (even if there’s not much to shed). For curly coats (like Poodles), a grooming comb and slicker brush combo is great. For silky coats, a pin brush avoids breakage.

Shampoo & Conditioner

Use a gentle, hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoo to keep skin from drying out. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner if the dog has long hair. Dogs with sensitive skin (like some hairless breeds) might benefit from an all-natural or medicated shampoo recommended by a vet.

Dematting Tools: If your dog has long hair (Shih Tzu, Havanese), a dematting comb or de-mat tool can help prevent painful knots.

Grooming Gloves

These rubberized gloves let you remove loose hair and bond with your dog at the same time.

Other Supplies

A good dog nail clipper or grinder, ear cleaning solution (especially for floppy-eared breeds), and a comfortable grooming table or mat can make grooming time easier.

Remember, even “non-shedding” dogs need some maintenance. The effort keeps your pup happy and healthy, and keeps your home hair-free!

How To Choose The Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

All of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed on this list offer loyal companionship with minimal clean-up. Whether you choose a royal Maltese, a spirited Yorkie, a classic Poodle, or any of the others, you’ll enjoy a furry friend without piles of fur.

For Yorkie owners and fans, don’t forget to browse our other posts about Yorkies – from health to growth charts – to be fully prepared for your new pup. Each breed here has its own charms and needs, but one thing they share is hair you won’t constantly find on your clothes!