10 Non Shedding Dogs for Apartments: Best Hypoallergenic Picks (2026)

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Dog hair on your couch, your clothes, your coffee—it adds up fast in a small space. For apartment dwellers, a heavy-shedding dog can turn a tidy home into a fur-covered struggle within days.

The good news is that some breeds barely shed at all, making them a natural fit for compact living. Non shedding dogs for apartments aren’t just easier to live with—they’re also kinder to anyone who sneezes around pet dander. Whether you have allergies or simply want cleaner floors, the right breed makes a real difference.

These ten picks combine low shedding, calm temperaments, and apartment-friendly size.

Best Non Shedding Dogs for Apartments

Finding a dog that won’t leave hair all over your couch is easier than you think.

Check out this list of affable dog breeds that don’t shed to find a low-maintenance companion that’s as friendly as they are clean.

Some breeds are naturally low-shedding and do really well in smaller spaces. Here are ten great options worth considering.

Maltese

The Maltese is a top pick for small space living — and it’s easy to see why. This tiny, nonshedding dog weighs under 7 pounds and sheds almost nothing, making apartment pet etiquette a breeze.

• Hypoallergenic single-layer coat traps minimal dander
• Low maintenance with regular Maltese grooming every 4–6 weeks
• Modest exercise needs suit apartment living well
• Responds well to dog training tips early on
• Promotes pet health benefits through calm indoor routines

For more information on, explore why they’re often ranked as the perfect choice for city dwellers.

Bichon Frise

If the Maltese felt right but you want something a little sturdier, the Bichon Frise is worth a close look. This cheerful nonshedding breed weighs up to 18 pounds and fits apartment living surprisingly well. Its hypoallergenic, curly coat traps dander instead of spreading it around.

With consistent Bichon Training, smart Dog Nutrition, and regular Pet Grooming, Canine Health stays strong across its long, low-maintenance life. For more on their grooming needs and friendly temperament, see this guide to Bichon Frise characteristics.

Havanese

If you loved the Bichon but want something even more people-focused, the Havanese is worth your attention. Weighing just 7 to 13 pounds, this Low Shedding Breed thrives in Apartment Living with dogs.

Its silky coat stays on the body rather than your couch. With gentle Havanese Training and early Dog Socialization, your Owner Experience stays smooth and genuinely rewarding.

Shih Tzu

Another small breed worth considering is the Shih Tzu. Weighing 9 to 16 pounds, it fits comfortably into Apartment Living with Dogs. Its silky coat makes it one of the best Low Shedding Breeds around.

With consistent Shih Tzu Training and Shih Tzu Socialization, you’ll notice real results fast. Keep these basics in mind:

1. Schedule Apartment Grooming sessions a few times weekly
2. Follow Dog Nutrition Tips to prevent weight gain
3. Prioritize Pet Health Checks for breathing and eye care
4. Introduce new people early for smooth Shih Tzu Socialization.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers bring a lot to apartment life. Rooted in German Breed History as working ratters, they’ve become beloved city companions.

Their low-shedding coat also makes them a great fit for allergy-prone households, as highlighted in this guide to low-dander dog breeds for apartment living.

Weighing 10 to 20 pounds, they fit easily in small spaces. Their wiry double coat puts them among solid NonShedding Dog Breeds.

With smart Training Tips and early Socialization Needs addressed, they thrive — though managing their bark keeps Apartment Living peaceful for everyone.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is one of those Apartment Dogs that genuinely surprises people. This elegant Small Breed weighs just 7 to 14 pounds and has a short, smooth coat — making it a standout among NonShedding Dog Breeds.

Greyhound Care is refreshingly simple, and their quiet nature suits Apartment Living well. If you want Low Shedding and a calm companion, this Hypoallergenic pick covers both.

Basenji

The Basenji is a quiet marvel for apartment living. This compact, low shedding breed weighs around 22 to 24 pounds and rarely barks — though it can yodel when bored.

Coat maintenance is simple with weekly brushing. Grooming needs stay minimal since Basenjis self-clean like cats. Match their energy levels with daily walks, and apartment adaptation comes naturally.

A genuinely hypoallergenic-leaning, non-shedding dog’s pick worth considering.

Coton De Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is one of the sweetest apartment pets you’ll find. Weighing just 8 to 15 pounds, this LowShedding Breed keeps your floors clean and your allergies in check — a genuinely Hypoallergenic, NonShedding companion.

Coton Health is generally solid, with a lifespan of 15 to 19 years. Regular Pet Grooming and consistent Dog Training make apartment living with a Coton De Tulear surprisingly easy.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon punches well above its weight in apartment living. Weighing just 6 to 12 pounds, this charming pick ranks among the best LowShedding Breeds for small spaces.

• Rough coat needs Coat Maintenance every 6–8 weeks
• Dog Training helps curb clingy tendencies
• Hypoallergenic rough coat traps loose hair effectively

Breed History traces back to Belgian ratters — compact, confident, and surprisingly adaptable.

Chinese Crested

Few dogs make apartment living this easy. The Chinese Crested‘s Hairless Variety brings almost no loose hair into your home, making it one of the top NonShedding Dogs around.

Powderpuff Grooming takes more effort, but shedding stays light. Basic Chinese Crested Care — skin moisturizing, sun protection, gentle Crested Training Needs — keeps things manageable. A quiet, people-loving pick among Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds.

Hypoallergenic Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Not every dog works for someone with allergies — but some breeds come pretty close to worry-free.

The key is knowing what actually makes a dog hypoallergenic and which ones live up to that label. Here’s a look at what to expect and the breeds worth considering.

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

Here’s the truth: no dog is truly allergen-free. The word “hypoallergenic” really just means lower risk, not zero risk.

Allergen sources like dander, saliva, and urine all carry a protein called Can f 1 — the main culprit behind your sneezing. Coat types and shedding factors affect dander reduction, but protein levels vary by individual dog, not just breed.

Breeds With Low Dander and Shedding

Some coat types naturally support dander reduction better than others. Curly coats — like those on Poodles and Bichon Frises — trap loose hair near the skin, limiting how far allergens travel. Nonshedding breeds and low-shedding dogs with single or wirehaired coats follow similar shedding patterns.

Look for these hypoallergenic coat types:

• Curly coats (Poodle, Bichon Frise)
• Single silky coats (Maltese, Havanese)
• Wirehaired coats (Brussels Griffon)
• Hairless varieties (Chinese Crested)

Benefits for Allergy-Prone Owners

Living with dog allergies doesn’t mean giving up on pet ownership. Hypoallergenic, low-shedding breeds offer real allergy relief — fewer sneezes, clearer air, and better sleep. Some owners even cut back on antihistamines over time.

Hypoallergenic, low-shedding breeds offer real allergy relief — fewer sneezes, clearer air, and better sleep

Benefit	What Changes	Why It Matters
Air Quality	Less dander floating around	Easier breathing daily
Symptom Reduction	Fewer sneezes and itchy eyes	Less medication alternatives needed
Emotional Wellness	Stress-free cuddles	Stronger bond, calmer mood

Apartment Living Qualities in Non Shedding Dogs

Not every dog is cut out for apartment life, but the right breed can make it surprisingly easy.

A few key traits set the best ones apart from the rest. Here’s what to look for before you choose.

Quiet and Calm Temperaments

A calm dog can make apartment life so much easier. Quiet dog breeds like the Havanese and Shih Tzu show gentle nature and low reactivity to everyday sounds — an elevator ding or closing door barely gets a reaction.

These small dog breeds for apartment living have a relaxed demeanor and quiet habits, making them ideal low shedding dog breeds for shared spaces.

Size and Weight Considerations

Size is one of the first things your lease terms will settle for you. Most buildings set weight limits between 20 and 50 pounds, and small hypoallergenic breeds like the Maltese or Havanese — both under 13 pounds — clear those pet policies with room to spare.

Lighter dogs also meet size restrictions more easily when you move, giving you more options with apartment layouts down the line.

Adaptability to Small Spaces

Apartment living suits certain small dog breeds surprisingly well. Many compact, low shedding indoor pets don’t need a yard — they’re content with short indoor activities like hallway fetch or puzzle feeders.

Space efficiency matters, and hypoallergenic breeds like the Havanese or Maltese thrive in compact living because their calm, people-focused nature means your couch is honestly enough. Small space training keeps things easy too.

Exercise Needs in Apartments

Most small, non-shedding breeds don’t need much to stay happy. For daily routines, 30 to 60 minutes of light movement is usually enough — split into short bursts throughout the day.

Simple, safe, and low maintenance.

Grooming and Care for Low Shedding Dogs

Low shedding doesn’t mean no grooming — these dogs still need regular coat care to stay healthy.

A little routine goes a long way, especially in a smaller space where dander and mess can build up fast.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your dog comfortable and your apartment fresh.

Essential Grooming Routines

Even low shedding dogs need a solid grooming routine to stay healthy. Brushing techniques matter — use a slicker brush two to three times a week for most hypoallergenic dogs, and daily for silky coats like Maltese.

Nail trimming every four to six weeks and regular ear cleaning round out the basics of low shedding dog grooming.

Grooming Task	Frequency	Breeds That Need It Most
Coat Maintenance	2–3x weekly	Bichon Frise, Havanese
Nail Trimming	Every 4–6 weeks	All apartment breeds
Ear Cleaning	Weekly check	Floppy-eared dogs

Managing Coat Health in Small Spaces

Your apartment’s air quality affects your dog’s coat more than most people realize. Keeping humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent is a simple win for nonshedding breeds dealing with dry indoor air.

1. Monitor humidity weekly — dry air damages even hypoallergenic coats
2. Use a humidifier for low-shedding dog grooming comfort
3. Store grooming tools in wall-mounted organizers to save space
4. Check skin twice weekly for flakes or redness
5. Dry coats fully after bathing to prevent infections

Apartment living demands consistent skin monitoring and coat maintenance.

Tips for Reducing Allergens at Home

Think of allergen control as a daily routine, not a weekend chore. Running a HEPA air purifier near your dog’s bed takes care of airborne dander removal around the clock.

Vacuum twice a week with a sealed HEPA vacuum, and wash bedding weekly in hot water. These simple pet allergy solutions keep your home feeling cleaner and your low-shedding dog care straightforward.

Choosing The Right Breed for Your Apartment

Finding the right dog isn’t just about looks — it’s about fit. Your lifestyle, your space, and your daily routine all play a role in making the match work.

Here’s what to think through before you bring a new dog home.

Matching Breed Traits to Your Lifestyle

Your daily routine says a lot about which dog breeds will actually work for you. A lifestyle assessment helps match your energy level to the right fit.

If you’re home often and prefer calm evenings, low shedding breeds like Maltese or Bichon Frise suit apartment living well. More active? A Miniature Schnauzer’s energy matches yours.

Hypoallergenic , nonshedding breeds come in all temperaments — space requirements and compatibility matter most.

Factors to Consider Before Adoption

Beyond lifestyle fit, adoption comes with real responsibilities. Check your lease for apartment rules — many buildings limit dog size or breed. Budget for pet costs like deposits, monthly pet rent, and grooming.

Nonshedding breeds and hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers still need vet care. And honestly, ask yourself: will your lifestyle changes over the next 10 to 15 years support a dog?

Preparing Your Apartment for a New Dog

Once you’ve picked your match, it’s time to set up your space. A little dog proofing goes a long way — tuck cords, secure trash cans, and block balconies.

For smooth apartment living with low maintenance pets, start here:

1. Stock pet supplies: bowls, a crate, and enrichment toys.
2. Add rugs for noise reduction on hard floors.
3. Keep cleaning tips handy with enzyme spray nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)