For many aspiring dog owners, the dream of a canine companion is often dampened by the reality of constant vacuuming, lint-rolling, and the struggle of pet allergies. However, “non-shedding” dogs—or more accurately, low-shedding breeds—offer a fantastic solution. These dogs typically have hair instead of fur, which grows in a cycle similar to human hair, meaning it stays on the body until it is brushed out or clipped. From tiny lap dogs to sturdy working breeds, there is a low-shedding companion for every lifestyle. Here are 24 dog breeds that will keep your home hair-free.
1. Poodle
The Poodle is the gold standard for low-shedding breeds. Available in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—these dogs are famous for their dense, curly coats that trap dander and loose hair. Beyond their hypoallergenic qualities, Poodles are incredibly intelligent and highly trainable. They aren’t just “show dogs”; they are versatile athletes that excel in agility, swimming, and obedience. Because their hair grows continuously, they require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting.
2. Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient breed known for its stunning, single-layer white coat. Since they lack an undercoat, they shed very little. Their hair is remarkably similar to human hair, making them a top choice for allergy sufferers. While they look like delicate porcelain figurines, Maltese are surprisingly brave and playful. To keep that floor-length “show” coat, daily brushing is a must, though many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance.
3. Bichon Frise
If you want a dog that looks like a living marshmallow, the Bichon Frise is for you. These cheerful little dogs were bred specifically to be companions. Their double coat consists of a soft undercoat and a curly outer coat; when hair sheds, it gets trapped within the curls rather than falling on your carpet. This breed is known for its “Bichon Buzz”—sudden bursts of energy where they zoom around the house—making them entertaining and affectionate pets.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Gaining massive popularity after being the “First Dog” of the Obama White House, the Portuguese Water Dog is an adventurous, waterproof breed. They have a single-layered coat that can be either curly or wavy. Originally bred to herd fish into nets and retrieve gear from the water, they are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise. They are perfect for active families who want a medium-sized dog that won’t leave a trail of fur behind.
5. Schnauzer
Whether you choose the Miniature, Standard, or Giant variety, Schnauzers are famous for their low-shedding, wiry coats. They have a double coat: a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat. Traditionally, their coats are “stripped” (dead hair pulled out by hand) to maintain the texture, but most pet owners choose a clipper cut. Schnauzers are known for being spirited, protective, and incredibly loyal to their families.
6. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is often called the “Aristocrat” of the dog world. Their coat is long, fine, and thick, but it doesn’t shed like a typical dog’s fur. However, don’t let the low-shedding label fool you—this is one of the most high-maintenance breeds in terms of grooming. Those long locks require hours of brushing and regular bathing to prevent tangles. They are independent and somewhat aloof, making them a unique choice for a dedicated owner.
7. Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is also a dream for those who hate shedding. They have a very short, fine coat that has almost no “doggy odor” and requires very little maintenance. Basenjis are unique because they groom themselves much like cats. They are energetic, curious, and can be quite mischievous, often needing a firm hand in training and plenty of mental stimulation.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
The “Yorkie” is one of the most popular small breeds in the world. Their hair is very similar to human hair and grows continuously. They do not have an undercoat, which significantly reduces the amount of dander and loose hair in the home. Yorkies are big personalities in tiny bodies—brave, determined, and sometimes a bit bossy. While they can grow long, luxurious coats, many owners keep them in a “teddy bear cut” for convenience.
9. Havanese
The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese is a charming “velcro dog” that loves to be near its owners. Their coat is soft and long, providing protection from the tropical sun in their homeland. Despite the abundance of hair, they are very low-shedders. Their coat can be wavy, curly, or straight, and it requires regular brushing to prevent the soft hair from matting. They are exceptionally social and get along well with children and other pets.
10. Scottish Terrier
The “Scottie” is a dignified and independent terrier with a very weather-resistant, low-shedding coat. They have a hard, wiry outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. This breed is known for its iconic silhouette, featuring a long beard and eyebrows. While they are low-shedding, their coat requires regular clipping or hand-stripping. Scotties are known for being “one-person” dogs, offering intense loyalty to their primary caregiver.
11. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, or “Lion Dog,” was bred for royalty in China. Their long, flowing double coat is more like hair than fur, and while they do shed a little, the hair usually gets caught in the coat rather than falling on the floor. To keep a Shih Tzu looking its best, daily brushing is necessary. They are the ultimate lap dogs—affectionate, calm, and perfectly happy living in smaller apartments.
12. Irish Water Spaniel
As the tallest of the spaniels, the Irish Water Spaniel is a rugged hunter with a very unique coat. They are covered in tight, crisp curls that are naturally oily to repel water. This breed is often recommended for people with allergies because they lack the traditional undercoat that causes most shedding issues. They are playful, intelligent, and possess a “clownish” personality that keeps their owners laughing.
13. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is famous for its namesake “blue” coat, which can range from deep slate to light silver-blue. This breed has a dense, wavy coat that is soft to the touch and completely lacks an undercoat. They are true terriers—high-spirited, fast, and full of character. Because their hair grows quite thick, they require regular professional grooming to keep their distinctive shape and to prevent mats.
14. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally an Italian water retriever and now famous as a truffle hunter, the Lagotto Romagnolo is covered in thick, woolly curls. Their coat is more like wool than hair, and it is highly water-resistant. They shed minimally, but their coat can “felt” if not maintained properly. They are medium-sized, agile, and very affectionate, making them excellent family dogs for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
15. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
True to their name, these dogs have a single coat that is the color of ripening wheat. The coat is remarkably soft and wavy, and they shed very little. Wheaten Terriers are known for the “Wheaten Greet”—an enthusiastic, bouncy welcome they give to anyone they meet. They are more laid-back than many other terrier breeds but still require regular grooming to keep their silky coat from tangling.
16. Xoloitzcuintli
If you want to eliminate shedding entirely, look no further than the hairless variety of the Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog). While there is a coated variety, the hairless Xolo is famous for its smooth, tough skin. They are an ancient, sacred breed from Mexico known for being calm and loyal. Without hair to brush, owners must focus on skin care, including sunblock and occasional moisturizing, to keep their skin healthy.
17. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. The Hairless variety has soft skin with tufts of hair on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks), meaning there is virtually zero shedding. The Powderpuff variety has a full coat of very fine, soft hair that also sheds minimally. These are small, affectionate companion dogs that bond very closely with their human families.
18. Bedlington Terrier
Often mistaken for a lamb due to its unique coat and arched back, the Bedlington Terrier is a graceful yet hardy breed. Their coat is a mix of hard and soft hair that stands out from the skin. It doesn’t shed, but it does require specialized clipping to maintain the breed’s signature look. Bedlingtons are quiet indoors but energetic outdoors, making them versatile companions for various living situations.
19. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon comes in two coat types: smooth and rough. The rough-coated variety is the one that offers low shedding. These “Velcro dogs” have a wiry, dense coat that requires occasional hand-stripping. They are known for their almost human-like facial expressions and their intense devotion to their owners. They don’t like being left alone and are best suited for households where someone is home most of the day.
20. Cairn Terrier
Best known as “Toto” from The Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is a scrappy, weather-resistant dog. Their double coat consists of a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. While they are low-shedders, they do need regular brushing and the occasional hand-stripping to keep the coat healthy. Cairns are independent, alert, and love to dig and explore, making them great pets for active owners with a sense of humor.
21. Coton de Tulear
Named for the city of Tulear in Madagascar and their cotton-like coat, the Coton de Tulear is a premier companion dog. Their hair is very light, soft, and lacks the oily “doggy” smell. While they don’t shed much, their hair is prone to matting, so daily brushing is a requirement. Cotons are famously happy and adaptable, known for walking on their hind legs and making unique vocalizations to “talk” to their owners.
22. Lhasa Apso
Originally bred as sentinel dogs for Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso has a heavy, straight, hard coat. Though the coat looks intimidating, it sheds very little. In their homeland, the long hair protected them from extreme temperatures. While they are small, they are not “lap dogs” in the traditional sense; they are independent, protective, and can be quite wary of strangers.
23. Saluki
The Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds and is known for its incredible speed and grace. Most Salukis have a short, smooth coat that sheds very little and has no “doggy” odor. The “feathered” variety has silky hair on the ears, legs, and tail, which requires a bit more grooming but still won’t leave much hair around the house. They are quiet, sensitive dogs that require a lot of space to run.
24. Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier has a dense, “broken” coat that feels crinkly to the touch. This wiry texture is designed to protect them from the elements and thickets. Because the hair is so dense and twisted, loose hairs get trapped in the coat rather than falling on your furniture. They are high-energy, friendly, and very bold dogs that require consistent training and plenty of physical activity.
