For many dog owners, managing shedding is an important part of choosing the right breed. While all dogs shed to some degree, certain breeds are known for shedding less fur than others, which may help reduce cleanup and maintenance in the home.
Low-shedding dog breeds often have hair-like coats, tightly curled fur, or coat types that release less loose hair. Although reduced shedding does not necessarily mean a dog is hypoallergenic, it can make daily grooming and household upkeep easier for busy families and apartment dwellers.
This guide to low-shedding dog breeds highlights dogs commonly chosen for their minimal shedding tendencies. Below, you’ll find breeds grouped by size and lifestyle considerations, with links to detailed breed profiles to help you explore your options.
Shedding levels can vary by individual dog, coat care, and seasonal changes, so regular grooming plays an important role regardless of breed.
🐶 Small Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
Small low-shedding dog breeds are often chosen by families and individuals who want to reduce loose hair in the home while still enjoying the companionship of a smaller dog. While no dog is completely shed-free, certain small breeds tend to release less loose fur due to their coat type or growth pattern.
These breeds can be especially appealing for apartment living, busy households, and owners who prefer more manageable grooming routines.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have a long, hair-like coat that sheds less than many traditional fur coats. When properly groomed, they tend to release minimal loose hair, making them a popular choice for owners seeking a small dog with reduced shedding in the home.
👉 Learn more about the Shih Tzu breed
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos have a dense, straight coat that grows continuously rather than shedding heavily. Regular grooming helps manage their coat and keeps loose hair to a minimum, which can be helpful for households focused on reducing shedding.
👉 Read about the Lhasa Apso breed
Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are unique small dogs that shed very little due to their sparse or hairless coat. Their low-shedding nature makes them appealing to owners who want minimal fur cleanup, though skin care and protection are important considerations.
👉 Explore the Chinese Crested breed
Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are well known for their curly, hair-like coat that sheds very little. Rather than releasing loose fur into the home, their coat tends to retain shed hair until it is brushed out, which can significantly reduce visible shedding when properly maintained.
In addition to their low-shedding coat, Toy Poodles are intelligent, adaptable dogs that often do well in apartments and family households, making them a popular choice for owners looking to minimize fur while enjoying an engaging companion.
👉 Learn more about the Toy Poodle breed
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons, particularly the smooth-coated variety, are known for shedding less than many other small breeds. Their compact size and expressive personality make them an appealing choice for owners seeking a low-shedding small dog.
👉 Learn more about the Brussels Griffon breed
Families looking for a dog with a bit more size and activity may want to explore medium low-shedding breeds that offer similar coat benefits with added sturdiness.
🐕 Medium Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
Medium low-shedding dog breeds are often a great fit for families who want a dog with more substance and activity than a small breed, while still minimizing loose hair in the home. These breeds typically have coat types that shed less frequently or release less loose fur with regular grooming.
They are often well-suited to active households that enjoy daily walks, training, and interactive companionship.
Basenji
Basenjis have a short, fine coat that sheds very little compared to many other medium-sized breeds. Their self-grooming habits and low-odor coat make them appealing to owners who want a clean, low-maintenance dog with minimal shedding.
👉 Learn more about the Basenji breed
Puli
Pulis have a distinctive corded coat that sheds very little once fully developed. Rather than releasing loose hair, their coat forms natural cords that require maintenance but significantly reduce shedding in the home. This makes them a strong option for owners focused on minimizing fur cleanup.
Pulis are intelligent, alert dogs that tend to thrive in active households willing to engage in regular training and grooming routines.
👉 Learn more about the Puli breed
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers have a unique, woolly coat that sheds minimally and grows continuously. Their gentle temperament and manageable size make them a good option for families seeking a low-shedding medium dog with a distinctive appearance.
👉 Read about the Bedlington Terrier breed
Tibetan Terrier
Despite their name, Tibetan Terriers are medium-sized dogs with a long, hair-like coat that sheds less than traditional fur. With proper grooming, they tend to release minimal loose hair and are often chosen by families focused on shedding control.
👉 Discover more about the Tibetan Terrier breed
American Hairless Terrier
American Hairless Terriers shed very little due to their lack of a traditional coat. Their medium size, alert nature, and low-shedding characteristics make them an appealing option for families prioritizing minimal fur in the home.
👉 Learn more about the American Hairless Terrier breed
Families who prefer a larger dog but still want to limit shedding may find that some large low-shedding breeds offer the right balance of size and coat manageability.
🐕🦺 Large Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
Large low-shedding dog breeds are often chosen by families who want a bigger, more robust companion while still keeping shedding and loose hair in the home to a minimum. These breeds typically have coat types that shed less frequently, trap loose hair, or grow continuously rather than shedding seasonally.
Because of their size, large low-shedding dogs are usually best suited to homes with adequate space and owners who are prepared for regular grooming and exercise.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds have a long, fine, hair-like coat that sheds less than many traditional fur coats when properly maintained. While their grooming needs are significant, they tend to release minimal loose hair into the home, making them a low-shedding option for owners who can commit to coat care.
👉 Learn more about the Afghan Hound breed
Komondor
Komondors are known for their distinctive corded coat, which sheds very little once fully developed. Instead of releasing loose fur, their coat forms cords that require maintenance but significantly reduce shedding around the home. This makes them a unique choice for families prioritizing low shedding in a large dog.
👉 Read about the Komondor breed
Briard
Briards have a long, slightly wavy coat that sheds less than many other large herding breeds. With regular grooming, loose hair is minimized, making them a good option for owners seeking a large dog with reduced shedding and a steady, family-oriented temperament.
👉 Explore the Briard breed
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels have a dense, tightly curled coat that sheds very little compared to many other large sporting breeds. Rather than releasing loose hair throughout the home, their coat tends to trap shed hair, which can help reduce visible shedding when properly maintained.
These energetic, intelligent dogs do best in active households that can provide regular exercise and grooming. Their low-shedding coat makes them a strong option for families who want a larger dog while keeping fur cleanup manageable.
👉 Learn more about the Irish Water Spaniel breed
Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dogs have a tightly curled coat that sheds minimally and requires maintenance rather than shedding. Their athletic build and low-shedding coat make them a strong option for active families looking for a large dog with reduced fur cleanup.
👉 Learn more about the Spanish Water Dog breed
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles have a dense, curly coat that sheds very little and grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally. Instead of releasing loose hair throughout the home, their coat tends to retain shed hair until it is brushed out, which can significantly reduce visible shedding when properly maintained.
In addition to their low-shedding coat, Standard Poodles are intelligent, adaptable dogs that often do well in family households. Their size and coat characteristics make them a strong option for owners seeking a large dog while keeping fur cleanup manageable.
👉 Learn more about the Standard Poodle breed
Understanding how low-shedding dogs differ from hypoallergenic breeds can help families choose the best fit for their home and lifestyle.
🏡 Low-Shedding Dogs for Families & Apartments
For families living in apartments or shared spaces, managing shedding can be just as important as choosing the right size or temperament. Low-shedding dog breeds are often appealing in these environments because they tend to release less loose fur, which can help keep indoor spaces cleaner and easier to maintain.
While size plays a role in apartment suitability, factors such as energy level, adaptability, and daily exercise needs are equally important. Many low-shedding dogs adjust well to apartment living when they receive regular walks, mental stimulation, and consistent routines.
Families with children may also appreciate low-shedding breeds for their reduced impact on clothing, furniture, and shared living areas. However, grooming requirements should still be considered, as some low-shedding dogs require regular brushing or professional grooming to keep their coats healthy.
👉 Families comparing temperament and household fit may find our Best Family Dog Breeds guide helpful when choosing a dog that integrates well into family life.
👉 Apartment dwellers can explore adaptable breeds in our Best Dogs for Apartments guide for additional lifestyle considerations.
For households welcoming a puppy, early structure and routine-building play a key role in long-term success.
👉 Visit our Puppy Care guide for tips on raising a well-adjusted dog in a family or apartment setting.
👉 Our Housebreaking guide also offers practical advice for managing indoor training, especially in shared living spaces.
By balancing shedding considerations with lifestyle needs, families and apartment dwellers can choose a dog that fits comfortably into their home while remaining easy to care for day to day.
🌿 Low-Shedding vs. Hypoallergenic Dogs
The terms low-shedding and hypoallergenic are often used interchangeably, but they describe different characteristics. Understanding the distinction can help families choose a dog that best fits their household needs and expectations.
Low-shedding dogs are breeds that release less loose fur into the home. This can make daily cleaning easier and reduce the amount of hair found on furniture, clothing, and floors. However, reduced shedding alone does not necessarily mean a dog will cause fewer allergic reactions.
Hypoallergenic dogs are typically breeds that may produce fewer allergens due to coat type, shedding patterns, or how dander is distributed. While no dog is completely allergy-free, some breeds are often better tolerated by allergy-sensitive individuals.
Some breeds fall into both categories, making them popular choices for families concerned about shedding and allergies. Others may be low-shedding without being truly hypoallergenic, or hypoallergenic without being completely shed-free.
👉 To learn more about breeds commonly recommended for allergy-aware households, visit our Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds guide.
For families managing shedding or allergies, regular grooming, cleaning routines, and spending time with a dog before bringing one home can all play an important role in long-term comfort and success.