When I got my first dog, I didn’t think much about shedding. I just fell in love with those big eyes and wagging tail, until my black jeans started collecting enough fur to knit another dog.
That’s when I realized not everyone’s cut out for a high-shedding breed. Whether it’s allergies, neat freak tendencies, or just not wanting to vacuum daily, finding the best non-shedding dogs can be a total game-changer.
Thankfully, there are plenty of breeds that don’t leave tumbleweeds of fur behind. From tiny lap dogs to gentle giants, these pups come in all shapes and personalities, but share one thing: their coats stay mostly where they belong.
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Best Non-Shedding Dogs
The best non-shedding dogs aren’t always completely hair-free (no dog is truly 100% non-shedding), but they shed so little that most owners barely notice.
Breeds like Poodles, Maltese, and Portuguese Water Dogs have hair that grows continuously, much like human hair, instead of fur that falls out seasonally. These dogs often need more grooming but make up for it with clean homes and allergy-friendly coats.
| Breed | Size | Personality | Best For | Maintenance Level (Grooming) |
| Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard) | Small–Large | Intelligent, obedient, hypoallergenic | Allergy sufferers, families | Moderate (regular grooming) |
| Bichon Frise | Small | Cheerful, gentle, playful | Families, seniors | Moderate (trimming needed) |
| Maltese | Small | Loving, elegant, calm | Seniors, apartment living | Moderate (brushing daily) |
| Shih Tzu | Small | Affectionate, loyal | Apartments, first-time owners | Moderate–High |
| Havanese | Small | Friendly, intelligent | Families, allergy-prone owners | Moderate |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Small | Bold, loyal, smart | Singles, small spaces | Moderate |
| Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant) | Small–Large | Brave, alert, loyal | Families, watchdogs | Moderate |
| Portuguese Water Dog | Medium | Energetic, intelligent | Active families | Moderate |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Medium | Happy, friendly, adaptable | Families, rural homes | Moderate |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | Medium | Smart, affectionate, energetic | Allergy sufferers, active people | Moderate |
| Basenji | Medium | Quiet (“barkless”), clean, alert | Apartment dwellers | Low–Moderate |
| Irish Water Spaniel | Medium–Large | Energetic, smart, loyal | Outdoor families | High |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | Medium | Confident, affectionate | Families, allergy sufferers | High |
| Labradoodle (Poodle × Labrador) | Medium–Large | Friendly, smart, hypoallergenic (varies by coat) | Families, active homes | Moderate |
| Goldendoodle (Poodle × Golden Retriever) | Medium–Large | Playful, gentle, loving | Families with kids | Moderate |
Understanding “Non-Shedding” vs “Low-Shedding” Dogs
Before you fall in love with a fluffy face, it’s worth understanding what non-shedding really means. The term is a bit of a myth, every dog loses some hair, but the difference lies in how much and how often.
Non-shedding dogs have coats that trap loose hair and dander rather than releasing it into the air. That’s why breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises are often called hypoallergenic. Their coat texture reduces airborne allergens, making life easier for people with sensitivities.
Low-shedding dogs, on the other hand, still shed but in smaller amounts or less frequently. Breeds like Schnauzers or Shih Tzus might drop a little fur, but not nearly as much as, say, a Labrador or Husky.
Here’s the catch, low or non-shedding dogs often need regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. You trade sweeping the floor for brushing the coat, but for many dog owners, it’s a fair deal. And honestly? That grooming time becomes a great bonding routine once you get the hang of it.
Best Non-Shedding Dogs for Seniors
For older adults, the best non-shedding dogs for seniors are gentle, calm, and easy to handle. Shedding aside, seniors often prefer smaller or moderate-sized breeds that don’t require intense exercise. Think Miniature Poodles, Maltese, or Lhasa Apsos, they’re affectionate, loyal, and happy to curl up on the couch for most of the day.
| Breed | Why It’s Great for Seniors |
| Maltese | Small, calm, affectionate, and gentle; easy daily care. |
| Bichon Frise | Happy and social; minimal shedding; good emotional companion. |
| Havanese | Loyal lapdog; friendly; adjusts easily to indoor life. |
| Toy Poodle | Very smart and hypoallergenic; easy to train. |
| Shih Tzu | Calm, quiet, and cuddly; perfect for low-activity owners. |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Energetic but obedient; easy to groom. |
Best Non-Shedding Dogs for Kids
Parents know that kids and mess go hand-in-hand, so the best non-shedding dogs for kids are a huge plus for keeping things manageable. Breeds like Labradoodles, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, and Mini Schnauzers are playful, patient, and less likely to trigger allergies.
They can handle backyard fun, indoor play, and family cuddles without leaving fur all over the furniture.
| Breed | Why They’re Great with Children |
| Labradoodle | Friendly, playful, and smart; great family mix. |
| Goldendoodle | Energetic and loving; loves playtime with kids. |
| Bichon Frise | Gentle and affectionate; loves attention. |
| Miniature Poodle | Highly intelligent and patient. |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Fun-loving, sturdy, and loyal. |
| Portuguese Water Dog | Energetic and great for active families. |
Best Small Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
Small doesn’t mean low-maintenance, but when it comes to fur, it sure helps. The best small non-shedding dog breeds such as the Havanese, Toy Poodle, and Bichon Frise, are perfect for apartments or cozy homes.
They’re lightweight, portable, and easy to groom. Most also have friendly temperaments that make them ideal lap dogs for individuals or families alike.
| Breed | Personality | Best For |
| Maltese | Gentle, affectionate | Seniors, apartments |
| Havanese | Friendly, adaptable | Families, allergy sufferers |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Bold, loyal | Singles, city living |
| Bichon Frise | Cheerful, easygoing | Families, seniors |
| Toy Poodle | Smart, obedient | First-time owners |
| Shih Tzu | Calm, cuddly | Low-energy homes |
| Cairn Terrier | Confident, playful | Active small-dog lovers |
Best Medium Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
If you want something a bit sturdier but still clean around the house, the best medium non-shedding dog breeds include the Lagotto Romagnolo, Irish Water Spaniel, and Miniature Labradoodle.
These dogs tend to be more active than toy breeds but won’t coat your furniture in hair. They also strike a nice balance between being playful and low-shed companions.
| Breed | Personality | Best For |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Alert, loyal | Families, watchdogs |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Friendly, bouncy | Active families |
| Portuguese Water Dog | Energetic, intelligent | Outdoor lovers |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | Affectionate, smart | Allergy sufferers |
| Irish Water Spaniel | Athletic, loyal | Active owners |
| Poodle (Miniature) | Adaptable, gentle | Families, new owners |
Best Large Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
For those who love big dogs but not big messes, there are still great options. The best large non-shedding dog breeds, like Standard Poodles, Giant Schnauzers, and Airedale Terriers, are loyal, smart, and surprisingly low on shedding.
They’ll need space and regular grooming, but their coats don’t leave behind piles of fur the way Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds might.
| Breed | Personality | Best For |
| Standard Poodle | Elegant, intelligent | Families, training lovers |
| Giant Schnauzer | Protective, loyal | Experienced owners |
| Airedale Terrier | Brave, fun, independent | Active families |
| Irish Water Spaniel | Athletic, loyal | Outdoor families |
| Labradoodle | Playful, loving | Families with kids |
| Goldendoodle | Friendly, gentle | First-time large-dog owners |
Non-Shedding Dogs for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog, you just need one that fits the space and doesn’t shed everywhere. The non-shedding dogs for apartment living include breeds like the Maltipoo, Yorkie, and Miniature Schnauzer.
They’re friendly, quiet (with proper training), and clean, which keeps both your landlord and neighbors happy.
| Breed | Why They Fit Apartment Life |
| Havanese | Quiet, small, friendly, and adaptable. |
| Shih Tzu | Calm indoors and enjoys lounging. |
| Maltese | Minimal barking, loves companionship. |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Small, active, and easy to train. |
| Bichon Frise | Cheerful and doesn’t shed on furniture. |
| Toy Poodle | Smart and content with moderate walks. |
Family-Friendly Non-Shedding Dogs
For busy families, the family-friendly non-shedding dogs are affectionate, tolerant, and playful without leaving fur behind. Goldendoodles, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Poodles fit right in, they’re social, adaptable, and love being around people.
Their coats may require more maintenance, but the trade-off is a home that stays cleaner and allergy-friendly.
| Breed | Why Families Love Them |
| Labradoodle | Loyal, friendly, and good with kids. |
| Goldendoodle | Social and affectionate; hypoallergenic coat. |
| Bichon Frise | Small and playful, perfect for indoor homes. |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Energetic and affectionate; great temperament. |
| Havanese | Gentle, social, and great with all ages. |
| Poodle (Any Size) | Extremely intelligent and low-shedding. |
Easiest Non-Shedding Dogs to Groom
Let’s be honest, grooming isn’t everyone’s favorite hobby. The easiest non-shedding dogs to groom are breeds with coat types that don’t mat easily and don’t need fancy trims.
Short-coated breeds like the Basenji or Italian Greyhound are incredibly low-maintenance. For fluffier options, Mini Schnauzers and Wire Fox Terriers just need a quick brush a few times a week and regular professional trims every couple of months.
The key is consistency. Short, regular grooming sessions prevent tangles and make the coat easier to manage long-term. Once you find the right tools, a slicker brush, a comb, and a quality shampoo, grooming becomes second nature.
Popular Non-Shedding Mixed Breeds
Mixed breeds are increasingly popular, especially designer mixes bred for low-shedding coats. The popular non-shedding mixed breeds include favorites like Labradoodles, Cavapoos, and Maltipoos.
They blend the best of both worlds, the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle with the personality of another breed. These hybrids often have fun, friendly temperaments that make them perfect for families or first-time dog owners.
| Mixed Breed | Parent Breeds | Personality Traits |
| Labradoodle | Labrador × Poodle | Friendly, playful, smart |
| Goldendoodle | Golden Retriever × Poodle | Loyal, gentle, affectionate |
| Schnoodle | Schnauzer × Poodle | Energetic, protective, clever |
| Cavapoo | Cavalier Spaniel × Poodle | Sweet, cuddly, adaptable |
| Maltipoo | Maltese × Poodle | Loving, hypoallergenic, playful |
| Cockapoo | Cocker Spaniel × Poodle | Gentle, good with kids |
| Yorkipoo | Yorkshire Terrier × Poodle | Small, smart, confident |
| Whoodle | Wheaten Terrier × Poodle | Friendly, soft-coated, lively |
Grooming Tips for Non-Shedding Dogs
Even though non-shedding breeds don’t lose fur everywhere, they do need proper coat care. Regular grooming keeps their skin healthy, prevents mats, and helps manage natural oils.
- Brush 3–4 times a week
- Trim every 6–8 weeks
- Use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo
- Check ears and paws regularly
Consistency makes all the difference. If you stick to a schedule, your dog’s coat will always look and feel amazing and you’ll avoid expensive grooming emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Owning a non-shedding dog isn’t just about having a clean home, it’s about balance. These breeds make life easier for allergy sufferers, busy families, and neat freaks alike, but they do require commitment to regular grooming and care.
Whether you fall for a curly-coated Poodle, a silky Maltese, or a charming mixed breed, the key is understanding their needs and making them part of your daily life. With the right attention, patience, and love, your low-shedding pup will reward you with years of loyalty, comfort, and hair-free hugs.
FAQs
Do non-shedding dogs really exist?
Not entirely, all dogs shed a little, but some lose far less hair.
What’s the best non-shedding dog for allergies?
Poodles and Bichon Frises are great hypoallergenic options.
Are non-shedding dogs easier to care for?
They require less cleaning but more grooming, a fair trade-off.
Which non-shedding breed is best for families?
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are fun, friendly, and great with kids.
Do non-shedding dogs smell less?
Generally yes, with proper grooming and bathing, they stay cleaner and fresher.