12 Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Don’t Shed: For people who love small dogs but don’t want fur in the house, hypoallergenic dogs are ideal. People with dog allergies should also consider hypoallergenic breeds.
12 Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you want a small hypoallergenic dog, know what to expect (and don’t expect). First, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but the Yorkshire terrier, Maltese, poodle, Bichon Frise, and Chinese Crested are more hypoallergenic. Continue reading for more small hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers.
1. Bichon Frise
Cute and playful, the Bichon Frise looks and feels like a fluffy cloud. First bred as companions, the small white dogs lived a comfortable life as pets to the wealthy in France before becoming charming circus dogs. Bichons are loving and friendly to all ages. Although non-shedding, the fluffy white coat requires professional grooming.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
The Standard and Giant Schnauzers are related to the Miniature, the smallest. All were farm dogs and rat hunters and have wiry, low-shedding coats with shaggy beards, mustaches, and eyebrows. Though small, Miniature Schnauzers are energetic and lively. They need moderate daily exercise and love to play. Every few months, miniature Schnauzers need professional grooming. Brush legs’ longer hair every few days.
3. Poodle (Miniature and Toy)
Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. The Standard Poodle was bred in Germany as a water retriever, while the miniature and toy varieties were companion dogs. Poodles are smart and active but calm at home. The curly, non-shedding coat requires professional grooming every one to two months and regular brushing to avoid mats. Longer-coated poodles may need daily brushing and combing; shorter clips require less.
4. Maltese
One of the oldest dog breeds, the silky-coated Maltese has Mediterranean roots dating back over 2,000 years to Malta. Maltese are affectionate and people-oriented, making them ideal lap dogs. Playful and small, they prefer to travel with you rather than stay home alone. The snow-white, long, silky coat doesn’t shed, but it needs professional grooming and daily pin brushing or combing to avoid tangles and breakage. Some Maltese homeowners prefer a low-maintenance “puppy cut.”
5. Shih Tzu
Chinese nobility cherished the sweet Shih Tzu centuries ago. Beautiful and charismatic, the Shih Tzu loves to play and gets along with everyone, including respectful children. The long, flowing double coat sheds little, making the breed suitable for mild allergies. Professional grooming every few months and daily brushing are needed for longer Shih Tzu coats (less for shorter ones).
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6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers were originally used as ratters, but now they warm laps and entertain their families. Yorkies are active but small, so one or two daily walks or indoor fetch will suffice. Yorkie puppies are black and tan at birth, but they turn blue and tan. Long, soft, silky coats need daily brushing. Yorkies are often clipped for easier grooming.
7. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are hypoallergenic despite their long, flowing coats. The 1,000-year-old Tibetan low-shedding dog evolved to survive in the Himalayas. They guarded palaces and temples due to their protective nature. Despite shyness around strangers, they love their family. Their coat needs regular trimming. A short coat can be brushed weekly, but a long coat must be brushed daily to avoid mats and tangles. Less maintenance is required with a puppy cut.
8. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terriers look and feel like sweet lambs. Do not think Bedlingtons are timid or pampered based on their appearance. They remain tenacious and prey-driven after being used to kill rats and other vermin on farms and in coal mines. They are kind and loving at home. The soft coat sheds little, but Bedlingtons need professional grooming every few months.
9. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Scotties have helped hunters and farmers. Though alert, intelligent, and friendly, these dogs can be stubborn. Many people have their dogs grow the breed’s beard and leave the hair longer on the lower body and legs. Their wiry coat doesn’t shed much. It’s best to hand-strip or clip the coat monthly or every 6-8 weeks. Regular brushing and bathing are also required for Scotties.
10. Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are funny, affectionate, and furless except for tufts at the feet, tail tip, and head. These graceful, elegant dogs are devoted to family, love cuddling, and are energy-efficient. When walking your Chinese Crested, wear a jacket in cold weather and sunscreen in sunny weather. Regular grooming is minimal after that.
11. Xoloitzcuintli (miniature)
The Mexican Hairless Dog, or Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo), can be hairless or have a short, smooth coat. This primitive breed retains “wild” traits. Socialization will boost their confidence, but they’re good watchdogs because they’re shy around strangers. Family is their priority and interaction is their passion. Bathe and moisturize the hairless Xolo, and use sunscreen outside.
12. Bolognese
Though calm, these adorable, fluffy dogs are playful and affectionate with their families. The intelligent and serious Bolognese can develop separation anxiety if left alone. Although they shed little, their long, cotton-like fur needs regular brushing to avoid tangles and mats. These calm, easy-going dogs are ideal for apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone who doesn’t want a lot of exercise.
