Finding the perfect dog when you have allergies can be challenging. However, several small hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as Shed’s latest Breeds Very Little breeds, are known for being hypoallergenic and shedding minimally. These dogs are ideal for allergy sufferers because they produce less dander and shed very little. Below, you’ll find an overview of 25 small hypoallergenic dogs that shed very little, along with their personality traits, coat types, and care needs.
Tips for Managing Allergies with Small Hypoallergenic Dogs
- Regular Grooming: Brush your dog’s coat regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Regular grooming can help reduce the amount of dander and hair in your home.
- Bathing: Bathe your dog regularly to keep their skin and coat clean, which helps reduce allergens.
- Clean Living Space: Keep your dog’s living area clean. Vacuum frequently and use air purifiers to reduce pet dander in your home.
- Healthy Diet: Ensure your dog has a balanced diet to keep their skin and coat healthy, which can help reduce shedding.
- Consult a Vet: Regular vet visits can help manage any skin issues or allergies your dog might have, contributing to a healthier, low-shedding coat.
1. Bichon Frise: Breed Overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 7 to 12 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Playful, social, affectionate, friendly
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Fluffy, curly coat; white (may have traces of apricot, buff, or cream)
LIFE SPAN: 14 to 15 years
The Bichon Frise is known for its cheerful disposition and small hypoallergenic dog, which has a curly coat that sheds minimally. These dogs are highly adaptable and do well in various living situations, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
2. Maltese: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: Up to 7 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, playful, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Long, silky coat; white
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
The Maltese is a tiny, elegant dog with a silky white coat that hardly sheds. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them wonderful lap dogs. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese dogs are quite sturdy and thrive in various environments, including apartments. Regular grooming is needed to maintain their beautiful coat.
3. Miniature Schnauzer: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 12 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 11 to 20 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Spirited, intelligent, friendly
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry, double coat; salt and pepper, black, or white
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Miniature Schnauzers are robust and spirited dogs known for their bushy eyebrows and beards. Their wiry coat is Small Hypoallergenic dog breeds That Shed Very Little and require regular grooming to maintain. They are brilliant and excel in obedience training, making them a favorite among families and those looking for an alert watchdog.
4. Toy Poodle: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: Up to 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 4 to 6 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, playful, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Curly, dense coat; various colors including white, black, apricot
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence and elegant appearance. Their curly, dense coat is a Small and Hypoallergenic Dog breed that sheds very nicely and requires regular grooming. They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. These dogs excel in obedience and agility training, making them versatile companions suitable for various living environments.
5. Yorkshire Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: Up to 7 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Energetic, brave, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Silky, long coat; blue and tan
LIFE SPAN: 11 to 15 years
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are tiny dogs with a big personality. Their silky coat is a Small Hypoallergenic dog and requires regular grooming. Yorkies are energetic, brave, and affectionate, making them excellent companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. They adapt well to apartment living but need regular exercise to stay healthy.
6. Shih Tzu: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 9 to 16 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, affectionate, loyal
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Long, flowing coat; various colors including gold, white, black
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 16 years
Shih Tzus are friendly and affectionate dogs known for their long, flowing, Small Hypoallergenic dog coats. They thrive on human companionship and make excellent lap dogs. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat in good condition. Shih Tzus are adaptable to various living environments and get along well with children and other pets.
7. Havanese: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 7 to 13 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, outgoing, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Silky, wavy coat; various colors including white, black, brown
LIFE SPAN: 14 to 16 years
The Havanese is a friendly, outgoing dog with a silky, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are affectionate and playful, forming strong bonds with their families. Regular grooming is needed to maintain their coat. Havanese dogs are intelligent and excel in obedience and agility training, making them delightful companions for families and individuals alike.
8. West Highland White Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 15 to 20 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Confident, friendly, alert
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Double coat; white
LIFE SPAN: 13 to 15 years
Small Hypoallergenic Dog West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are small, sturdy dogs with distinctive white, Small Hypoallergenic Dogs Breeds That Shed Very Little double coats. They are confident, friendly, and known for their lively personality. Westies are affectionate and make excellent family pets, getting along well with children and other animals. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. They are intelligent and respond well to training, often displaying a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, they enjoy regular exercise. Their cheerful disposition and loyal nature make them delightful companions.
9. Chinese Crested: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 8 to 12 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, playful, alert
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Hairless with smooth skin and tufts of hair or soft, silky coat; various colors
LIFE SPAN: 13 to 18 years
Small Hypoallergenic Dog The Chinese Crested is a unique, small dog breed available in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety has smooth skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and feet, while the powderpuff has a soft, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat. Both types are affectionate, and playful, and thrive on human companionship. Regular grooming is essential for the powderpuff variety to prevent matting and maintain Small Hypoallergenic Dog properties. Chinese Cresteds are known for their loving nature and enjoy being close to their owners. They are adaptable to various living environments and get along well with children and other pets.
10. Coton de Tulear: Breed Overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 8 to 15 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Cheerful, affectionate, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Cotton-like coat; white, may have slight shadings
LIFE SPAN: 15 to 19 years
Coton de Tulear dogs are small, sturdy dogs known for their cotton-like, Small Hypoallergenic Dogs bred with a very Little coat that sheds minimally. Cheerful and affectionate, they form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Cotons are intelligent and respond well to training, often excelling in obedience and agility activities. They are adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, and get along well with children and other pets. Their friendly disposition and playful nature make them beloved by many.
11. Basenji: Breed Overview
GROUP: Hound
HEIGHT: 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 22 to 24 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Independent, intelligent, alert
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Short, fine coat; chestnut red, black, brindle, or tricolor
LIFE SPAN: 13 to 14 years
Small Hypoallergenic Dog Basenjis are small, sleek dogs with a short, fine, hypoallergenic coat. Known for their independence and intelligence, they have a unique yodel-like vocalization instead of barking. Basenjis are clean dogs with minimal odor, making them excellent companions for allergy sufferers. Energetic and curious, they require regular exercise and enjoy interactive play. Early training and socialization are important due to their stubborn nature. Basenjis form strong bonds with their families and adapt well to various living environments. Their alert and affectionate nature makes them great pets.
12. Italian Greyhound: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 7 to 14 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, affectionate, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Short, sleek coat; various colors including fawn, blue, black
LIFE SPAN: 14 to 15 years
Italian Greyhounds are elegant, small dogs with sleek, Small Hypoallergenic Dogs Breeds That Shed Very Little coat. Affectionate and gentle, they form strong bonds with their families. Regular exercise is essential to keep them healthy, although they are also content with lounging around the house. Minimal grooming is required due to their low-maintenance coat. Intelligent and trainable, Italian Greyhounds respond well to gentle training methods. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they make wonderful companions. Their friendly and loving nature makes them delightful pets.
13. Cairn Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 9.5 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 13 to 14 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Cheerful, alert, independent
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry, weather-resistant coat; various colors including cream, wheaten, red
LIFE SPAN: 13 to 15 years
Cairn Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a weather-resistant, hypoallergenic coat. Cheerful and alert, they are known for their spirited personality. Affectionate and loyal, Cairn Terriers form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, they often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, Cairn Terriers enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their lively and affectionate nature makes them beloved pets.
14. Lhasa Apso: Breed Overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 12 to 18 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Independent, loyal, protective
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Long, flowing coat; various colors including gold, cream, white
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Lhasa Apsos are small, sturdy dogs with long, flowing, Small Hypoallergenic dog coats. Known for their independence and loyalty, they make excellent watchdogs despite their size. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Lhasa Apsos responds well to positive reinforcement but can be a bit stubborn. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their dignified and loyal nature, combined with their unique appearance, makes them cherished companions.
15. Scottish Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 18 to 22 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Independent, spirited, loyal
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry, dense coat; black, wheaten, brindle
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are small dogs with a distinctive beard and eyebrows and a wiry, Small Hypoallergenic Dog coat. Known for their independent and spirited nature, they make excellent watchdogs. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Scotties often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, they enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their dignified and spirited nature makes them beloved companions.
16. Brussels Griffon: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 7 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 8 to 10 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, curious, lively
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Rough or smooth coat; red, black, or black and tan
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Brussels Griffons are small dogs with a distinctive, expressive face and a Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that can be rough or smooth. Affectionate and curious, they form strong bonds with their families. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Brussels Griffons excel in obedience and agility activities. They are adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, and get along well with children and other pets. Their charming and affectionate nature makes them delightful pets.
17. Lagotto Romagnolo: Breed Overview
GROUP: Sporting
HEIGHT: 16 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 24 to 35 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, keen, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Dense, curly coat; various colors including off-white, brown, orange
LIFE SPAN: 15 to 17 years
Lagotto Romagnolos are small to medium-sized dogs known for their dense, curly, Small Hypoallergenic Dog coat that sheds minimally. They are friendly, keen, and known for their exceptional sense of smell, often used for truffle hunting. Lagottos are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Lagottos excels in obedience and agility activities. They are energetic and enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their cheerful disposition and loyal nature make them beloved by many.
18. Bedlington Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 15 to 17.5 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 17 to 23 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, playful, affectionate
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Curly, lamb-like coat; blue, liver, sandy
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 14 years
Bedlington Terriers are small dogs with a unique, lamb-like appearance and a curly, Small Hypoallergenic Dog coat that sheds minimally. They are gentle, playful, and known for their affectionate nature. Bedlingtons form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their owners, making them excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Bedlingtons excel in obedience and agility activities. They are energetic and enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their charming and affectionate nature makes them delightful pets.
19. Australian Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 15 to 20 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Energetic, friendly, spirited
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Weather-resistant coat; blue and tan, sandy, red
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Australian Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a weather-resistant, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are energetic, friendly, and known for their spirited personality. Australian Terriers form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, they often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, Australian Terriers enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their lively and affectionate nature makes them delightful pets.
20. Norfolk Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 11 to 12 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Fearless, affectionate, lively
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry coat; red, wheaten, black and tan
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Norfolk Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a wiry, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are fearless, affectionate, and known for their lively personality. Norfolk Terriers form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, they often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, Norfolk Terriers enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their cheerful and affectionate nature makes them beloved pets.
21. Norwich Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 12 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, energetic, spirited
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry coat; red, wheaten, black and tan
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Norwich Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a wiry, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are friendly, energetic, and known for their spirited personality. Norwich Terriers form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, they often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, Norwich Terriers enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their lively and affectionate nature makes them delightful pets.
22. Silky Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 8 to 10 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Energetic, friendly, spirited
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Silky coat; blue and tan
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Silky Terriers are small dogs with a silky, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are energetic, friendly, and known for their spirited personality. Silky Terriers form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, they often display a keen sense of independence. Energetic and playful, Silky Terriers enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their cheerful and affectionate nature makes them beloved pets.
23. Irish Terrier: Breed Overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 18 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 25 to 27 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Spirited, loyal, courageous
ENERGY LEVEL: High
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry coat; red, golden red, red wheaten
LIFE SPAN: 13 to 15 years
Irish Terriers are medium-sized dogs with a distinctive red, wiry, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are spirited, loyal, and known for their courageous nature. Irish Terriers form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Irish Terriers often excel in obedience and agility activities. They are energetic and enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their bold and affectionate nature makes them delightful pets.
24. Schnoodle: Breed Overview
GROUP: Mixed Breed
HEIGHT: 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder (varies)
WEIGHT: 10 to 20 pounds (varies)
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, affectionate, friendly
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium to High
COAT AND COLOR: Curly coat; various colors including black, white, brown
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Schnoodles are a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, resulting in a small to medium-sized dog with a curly, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are intelligent, affectionate, and known for their friendly nature. Schnoodles form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Highly trainable, Schnoodles excel in obedience and agility activities. They are energetic and enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their playful and loving nature makes them beloved pets.
25. Cockapoo: Breed Overview
GROUP: Mixed Breed
HEIGHT: 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder
WEIGHT: 12 to 24 pounds
PERSONALITY/TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, affectionate, playful
ENERGY LEVEL: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Curly coat; various colors including black, white, tan
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
Cockapoos are a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, resulting in a small to medium-sized dog with a curly, Small Hypoallergenic dog coat that sheds minimally. They are friendly, affectionate, and known for their playful nature. Cockapoos form strong bonds with their families and make excellent companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat’s health. Intelligent and trainable, Cockapoos often excel in obedience and agility activities. They are energetic and enjoy regular exercise. Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, they get along well with children and other pets. Their cheerful and loving nature makes them delightful pets.
Hypoallergenic Small Dogs: Your Questions Answered
What’s the Smallest Hypoallergenic Dog?
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest hypoallergenic dog breeds. These tiny dogs typically weigh up to 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Their silky, Small Hypoallergenic Dog coat requires regular grooming but sheds very little, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
What are the Best Small Hypoallergenic Dogs for Allergies?
The Bichon Frise is often considered the best small dog for allergies. Known for their cheerful disposition and Small Hypoallergenic dog, curly coat, Bichons shed minimally and produce less dander, making them ideal for people with allergies. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions.
What is the Calmest Small Hypoallergenic Dogs?
The Shih Tzu is one of the calmest Small Hypoallergenic dogs. They are friendly, and affectionate, and enjoy lounging around with their owners. Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that shed very little, requiring regular grooming to keep their Small Hypoallergenic Dog properties. Their calm demeanor makes them great lap dogs.
What are the Best Low-Maintenance Small Hypoallergenic Dogs?
The Italian Greyhound is an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance small dog. They have short, sleek coats that are small Hypoallergenic dogs and require minimal grooming. Italian Greyhounds are gentle, affectionate, and adapt well to various living environments, making them easy to care for with less grooming and cleaning involved.
I’m Haseem Ali, a passionate writer focused on dog diet, health, training, lifestyle, and care. I’m dedicated to sharing expert advice and practical tips to help fellow dog owners provide the best for their furry friends. When I’m not writing, I enjoy spending time with my own dogs and exploring new pet-friendly activities.
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