26 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed [No More Sweeping Up Fur Every Day!]

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

You know, one of the most common questions I get from friends and family considering getting a dog is “What breeds don’t shed a lot?”

It’s an understandable concern – as much as we love our furry companions, constantly having pet hair all over the furniture, clothes, and floors can be a real hassle.

Not to mention, it can be a nightmare for those with allergies.

Well, let me put some minds at ease right off the bat: while no dog is completely non-shedding (they all lose some hair, it’s just a fact of canine life), certain breeds really do keep the shedding to an absolute minimum.

So for all my allergy-suffering or clean-freak pals out there, I’ve rounded up the top 10 dog breeds that can give you that cuddle-buddy experience without leaving your home looking like a hair salon after a busy weekend.

Fair warning though – these low-shed pups still require regular grooming to keep them looking their best! Let’s dive in…

Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

Bichon Frise

This little cloud of fluff might look like a high-maintenance pup, but Bichons are surprisingly low-shedding thanks to their soft, curly coat. Their fur traps loose hair, meaning regular brushing keeps it from ending up on your couch. Bichons are happy, playful, and great with kids—basically, they’re built to be the life of the party. Keep their coat trimmed to avoid tangles, and you’ve got yourself a cuddly, non-shedding best friend.

Toy Poodle

Tiny but packed with personality, Toy Poodles have the same hypoallergenic coat as their larger cousins, just in a more portable size. Their curls hold onto loose hair, so you won’t find it floating around your house. These little Einsteins love to learn tricks, play fetch, and be the center of attention. Keep their coat trimmed short for easy maintenance, or let the curls grow out if you’re ready for some extra brushing.

Miniature Schnauzer

With their signature beards and bushy eyebrows, Mini Schnauzers have a look that screams ‘distinguished gentleman’—or maybe ‘tiny professor.’ Despite their wiry coat, they shed very little, but they do need regular trims to keep their fur from getting scruffy. These pups are smart, alert, and full of sass, making them great watchdogs and even better companions.

Maltese

If a walking teddy bear is what you’re after, the Maltese is the breed for you. Their long, silky coat may look like a shedding nightmare, but it’s actually quite the opposite. These little divas don’t shed much at all—just keep their fur brushed to avoid tangles, or go for a cute puppy cut for lower maintenance. They’re affectionate, love to snuggle, and will happily be carried around like royalty.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are tiny but packed with personality, and their long, human-like hair makes them look like little rockstars. Unlike typical dog fur, their hair grows continuously and sheds very little. Many Yorkie owners opt for a short cut to make grooming easier, but if you let it grow, you’ll have a tiny, silky-haired companion that looks like they belong in a shampoo commercial.

Shih Tzu

Originally bred to sit in the laps of Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus still carry themselves like little emperors. Their long, flowing coats might look high-maintenance, but they barely shed—just be ready for lots of brushing. A short puppy cut keeps them looking adorable and easy to care for. These little charmers love attention and will happily rule your home with a wagging tail and a goofy underbite.

Havanese

The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese is like a walking stuffed animal—fluffy, friendly, and full of personality. Their silky coat doesn’t shed much, but it does need regular brushing to prevent tangles. They’re social butterflies who love to be around people, and their playful nature makes them great family dogs. Bonus: they’re known for their funny little ‘springy’ walk that makes them even more endearing.

Scottish Terrier

With their short legs, sturdy build, and signature beards, Scotties look like tiny, dignified grandpas. Their wiry coat keeps shedding to a minimum, but regular grooming is a must to keep them looking sharp. Scotties are independent, feisty, and full of attitude, making them an entertaining (and sometimes stubborn) companion. If you want a low-shedding dog with a big personality, this might be your match.

Brussels Griffon

If you’ve ever wanted a dog that looks like a tiny, grumpy-faced Ewok, the Brussels Griffon is for you. Their short, wiry coat sheds very little, making them great for people who love scruffy-looking dogs without the mess. Griffs are incredibly expressive, attached to their people, and have a bit of a ‘Velcro dog’ personality—they’ll follow you everywhere like a tiny shadow.

Chinese Crested

Part dog, part hairless wonder, the Chinese Crested is one of the most unique low-shedding breeds out there. The hairless variety has soft, exposed skin that needs sunscreen and moisturizing, while the ‘Powderpuff’ version has a silky, non-shedding coat. Either way, shedding is not a concern! These quirky little dogs are playful, affectionate, and love to snuggle under blankets like tiny gremlins.

Basenji

Get ready for the ultra-unique Basenji – the “barkless” breed that sheds minimally! These clever hunters from central Africa have a short, tight coat that barely leaves any hair behind. Their cat-like grooming habits mean even less brushing for their owners. While Basenjis are notoriously independent, their quirky personalities are hard not to love.

Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

These sleek and elegant companions, available in three sizes – Standard, Miniature, and Toy – boast a distinct feature: a virtually hairless coat. Renowned for being hypoallergenic, Xolos shed very little, making them ideal for households with allergy concerns or those who prefer a low-maintenance grooming routine. Despite their lack of fur, these intelligent canines still require regular skincare and bathing to keep their smooth skin healthy and radiant.

Bedlington Terrier

Donning a distinctive lamb-like appearance with its curly, woolly coat, Bedlingtons are known for their minimal shedding tendencies. Their unique coat texture not only adds to their charm but also makes them a top choice for allergy sufferers seeking a four-legged companion. With their non-shedding coats, Bedlingtons require regular grooming to maintain their signature look, but the effort is well worth it for those seeking a low-maintenance pup with plenty of personality.

Medium Dogs That Don’t Shed

Portuguese Water Dog

Next, let’s talk Portuguese Water Dogs! These athletic pups have a rugged, hypoallergenic coat that sheds minimally. They make great family dogs with their energetic yet affectionate personalities. Just be prepared to stay on top of their grooming – that low-shed coat needs regular brushing and trimming to look its best.

Lagotto Romagnolo

If truffle hunting were an Olympic sport, the Lagotto Romagnolo would take home the gold. This Italian breed has a dense, curly coat that barely sheds, making them a great option for allergy sufferers. Their fur has a Poodle-like texture that needs regular grooming to prevent matting. Lagottos are energetic, affectionate, and love to dig—so if you’ve got a backyard, expect some surprise landscaping projects.

Kerry Blue Terrier

With their striking blue-gray curls and distinctive beards, Kerry Blue Terriers look like they just walked out of a fancy grooming salon. But their stylish coat isn’t just for show—it’s also hypoallergenic and sheds very little. These dogs are bold, intelligent, and always up for an adventure. They thrive with active families who can keep up with their playful and sometimes mischievous personalities.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Let’s hear it for the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier! These friendly, energetic pups have a hypoallergenic coat that sheds minimally. Their loose, whiskery fur doesn’t require quite as much intense grooming as some other low-shedders, but regular brushing is still recommended to prevent matting. A great option for active families with allergies!

Barbet

Meet the Barbet, the French water dog with a name that sounds fancy and a personality that’s anything but. With their curly, woolly coat and love for swimming, they’re basically the French cousin of the Portuguese Water Dog. Their fur doesn’t shed much, but it needs regular brushing to avoid turning into a mop. Barbets are fun-loving, intelligent, and make fantastic companions for active families.

Spanish Water Dog

A curly-coated dynamo with a love for adventure, the Spanish Water Dog is built for action. Their dense, woolly coat keeps shedding to a minimum but needs to be left to grow naturally—no brushing required! These dogs are highly intelligent and thrive in active homes where they can put their herding and retrieving instincts to good use. Bonus: they look adorable with their signature curly ‘fro.

Bergamasco Sheepdog

Ever seen a dog that looks like it’s wearing a built-in wool coat? That’s the Bergamasco! Their unique, corded fur isn’t just for style—it actually helps protect them from harsh weather and doesn’t shed. These gentle giants are calm, intelligent, and incredibly loyal. If you love the idea of a dog with a truly one-of-a-kind look, the Bergamasco is worth considering.

Large Breeds That Don’t Shed

Standard Poodle

The Standard Poodle is proof that fancy dogs can also be total goofballs. Their tight curls don’t shed much, making them one of the best hypoallergenic breeds out there. Poodles are whip-smart, athletic, and love to learn tricks—don’t be surprised if they start outsmarting you. Keep their coat trimmed short for easy maintenance, or go full show-dog mode with a fancy cut. Either way, they’ll steal the spotlight.

Giant Schnauzer

Think of the Miniature Schnauzer, but super-sized. Giant Schnauzers have the same wiry, non-shedding coat as their smaller relatives, but with a whole lot more dog to love. They’re intelligent, strong-willed, and need an experienced owner who can keep up with their energy. With proper training and socialization, they make excellent guard dogs and loyal companions.

Irish Water Spaniel

With their curly, liver-colored coat and signature ‘rat tail,’ Irish Water Spaniels are one of the most unique-looking low-shedding breeds. Their dense curls trap loose hair, keeping shedding to a minimum. These dogs are playful, intelligent, and, as their name suggests, absolutely love the water. If you’re looking for an active companion who’s always up for a swim, this breed is a great choice.

Afghan Hound

If elegance had a mascot, it would be the Afghan Hound. With their long, flowing coat and regal posture, they look like they belong on a runway. Surprisingly, despite their luxurious fur, they shed very little. However, their coat requires a lot of maintenance to keep it looking silky and tangle-free. Afghans are independent, quirky, and known for their hilarious bursts of zoomies.

Komondor

Also known as the “mop dog,” the Komondor’s thick, corded coat makes them one of the most recognizable breeds out there. Their fur forms natural dreadlocks that don’t shed, but they do require a lot of upkeep to keep clean. Traditionally used as livestock guardians, Komondors are fiercely protective and incredibly loyal. If you want a dog that doubles as a living legend, this one’s for you.

Bouvier des Flandres

Big, shaggy, and built like a tank, the Bouvier des Flandres is a low-shedding giant with a heart of gold. Their thick, wiry coat keeps loose hair to a minimum, but it does require regular grooming. These dogs are intelligent, hardworking, and originally bred for farm work, so they thrive in active homes. If you’re looking for a gentle giant with a rugged, no-nonsense look, the Bouvier is a great fit.

Final Thoughts: Types of Dog That Don’t Shed

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a Bedlington Terrier, the intelligence of a Poodle, or the ancient allure of a Xoloitzcuintli, these non-shedding breeds offer companionship without the hassle of excessive grooming, making them perfect choices for allergy sufferers and tidy households alike!