10 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed: For Cleaner Homes & Travel

Dog hair on the couch, in your car, and stuck to your clothes can be frustrating. If you want a cleaner home and less mess while traveling, choosing a dog breed that does not shed much is a smart choice.

Picking a low-shedding dog can make life easier if you have allergies or just want less cleaning. You can enjoy spending time with your pet without constantly worrying about hair everywhere.

1. Poodle

If you want a dog breed that doesn’t shed much, the Poodle is a strong choice. Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, so you can pick the size that fits your home and lifestyle best.

• Poodles have a curly coat that helps trap loose hair, meaning you won’t find as much fur around your house. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and cuts down on the small amount of hair that does shed.
• Many people with allergies find Poodles easier to live with because they are one of the top hypoallergenic dog breeds. Their hair is more like human hair than fur, and they rarely leave dander on your furniture.
• Poodles are known for being smart and easy to train. This makes them a good choice for families, singles, or seniors. If you travel often, Poodles tend to adapt well to new places and routines.

2. Havanese

The Havanese is a small companion dog known for its cheerful personality and soft, silky coat. If you want a friendly pet that won’t leave a lot of hair in your home, the Havanese is a good choice.

• This breed is considered low-shedding. You will not find much loose hair on your furniture or clothes. Many people with allergies find the Havanese easier to live with since they don’t shed much, but regular grooming is needed to keep their hair looking neat.
• Havanese dogs are playful and affectionate. They usually enjoy being close to their owners and fit well in apartments or small homes. If you like to teach tricks or spend time cuddling, this breed could work well for your lifestyle.
• Even though the Havanese has a long coat, most owners keep it trimmed short for easier care.
• Their small size means their messes are easy to manage, and they do not eat a lot. If you want a dog that is friendly, social, and easy to handle, the Havanese offers many benefits.

3. Bichon Frise

If you are looking for a small dog that does not shed much, the Bichon Frise is a top choice. This breed has a soft, curly coat that holds onto loose hair instead of letting it fall everywhere.

• You will find the Bichon Frise easy to like if you have allergies. They are often recommended as a hypoallergenic breed because their fur does not spread around your home.
• Regular grooming is important for this breed. Brushing their coat a few times a week helps keep their curls neat and keeps loose hair from getting stuck in their fur.
• The Bichon Frise is also known for being friendly and playful. If you want a dog that is cheerful and does not leave much hair behind, this breed can be a good fit for you.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is known for its curly, waterproof coat. This breed does not shed much, which can help keep your home cleaner.

• You may still need to brush your Portuguese Water Dog a few times a week. Regular grooming helps prevent tangles and keeps the coat healthy. Trimming may also be needed.
• These dogs were originally bred to work with fishermen. They are energetic, smart, and enjoy being active. A Portuguese Water Dog can make a great companion if you like outdoor activities.
• Many people choose this breed because they want a dog that is both low-shedding and friendly. The coat of a Portuguese Water Dog can work well for families with allergies or anyone trying to avoid loose hair in the house.

5. Shih Tzu

If you want a small dog that doesn’t shed much, the Shih Tzu is a strong choice. While their long hair may look like it sheds a lot, this breed actually loses very little hair. That makes them a good fit for keeping your home cleaner.

• The Shih Tzu’s coat needs regular grooming. Daily brushing helps prevent tangles and keeps their hair looking neat. You will also need to give them baths every few weeks.
• Many people like Shih Tzus because they are friendly and good with families. They are known for their outgoing and happy personalities. If you keep up with grooming, you can enjoy a cute dog without much shedding.
• The Shih Tzu is often included in lists of low-shedding dog breeds. This helps make them popular for people with allergies or who dislike pet hair in the house.

6. Maltese

The Maltese is a small breed with a long, silky coat. Even though their fur looks fancy, they shed very little. Many people with allergies find them easier to live with.

• Regular grooming is important to keep their coat clean and tangle-free. You will need to brush your Maltese often. This helps prevent mats and keeps the hair looking nice.
• Maltese dogs are gentle and friendly. They do well in homes and also travel easily because of their small size. If you are looking for a dog that does not shed much, the Maltese is a popular choice.

7. Miniature Schnauzer

If you want a small dog that doesn’t shed much, the Miniature Schnauzer is a great option. Their wiry double coat holds onto loose hairs, so you’ll see less fur around your house.

• Miniature Schnauzers only need moderate brushing, usually about twice a week. Regular trims every few months help keep their coat tidy and comfortable.
• These dogs are playful and friendly. They usually get along well with families, singles, or older adults. If you are concerned about allergies or keeping your home clean, the Miniature Schnauzer may be a good fit.
• The breed is smart and tends to learn routines quickly. Many people with allergies or those who prefer less cleaning enjoy having Miniature Schnauzers in their homes.

8. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small dog with a soft, cotton-like coat. You will notice their white, fluffy fur does not shed much compared to most other breeds. Because they shed so little, your home usually stays cleaner.

• People with allergies sometimes find the Coton de Tulear easier to live with, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Regular grooming is a must to keep their coat free from mats and tangles.
• This breed is playful, friendly, and likes being with family. Cotons are also known for being sturdy and doing well when traveling, which makes them a good companion on trips. 
• They require time for brushing and care, but their gentle nature and low-shedding coat make them popular with many dog owners.

9. Basenji

If you want a dog that doesn’t shed much, the Basenji is a good choice. This breed has a short, fine coat that rarely leaves hair around your home. You’ll notice less fur on your furniture and clothing compared to many other dogs.

• Basenjis are known for being very clean. You don’t need to bathe them often, and they groom themselves like cats. Their coat usually only needs an occasional brushing to stay tidy.
• These dogs are also quiet and don’t bark much, making them easier to live with in an apartment or while traveling. People with allergies may find Basenjis easier to be around, but they are not fully hypoallergenic.
• If you prefer a pet with minimal grooming needs, the Basenji offers a simple routine. Just wipe them down weekly and provide basic care. 

10. Chinese Crested

If you’re looking for a dog with very little shedding, the Chinese Crested is a top choice. This breed comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. The Hairless variety has bare skin with small tufts of hair on the head, tail, and feet.

• You will notice that the Hairless Chinese Crested has almost no fur to shed. This makes it a good option if you want fewer allergies or less time spent vacuuming. The Powderpuff has a full coat, but its fine hair produces less dander and sheds little.
• These dogs are small and light, which can also make travel easier. If you want to learn more about why the Chinese Crested is a popular non-shedding breed, you can read more at this helpful guide on low-shedding breeds.
• Caring for a Chinese Crested means taking care of their skin. The Hairless variety may need sunscreen or moisturizing if spending time outside. Regular gentle baths will help keep their skin clean and healthy. For the Powderpuff, occasional brushing is helpful to prevent tangles.