19 Calm Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed: Your Guide to Low-Maintenance Companions

As a dog lover, you’re probably looking for a canine companion that fits your calm and peaceful lifestyle. Even better is finding a breed that doesn’t leave fur everywhere. You’re lucky because there are calm dog breeds that don’t shed.

In this article, we’ll explore various breeds perfect for people who want a tranquil friend without the hassle of constant grooming and vacuuming. These dogs are friendly and affectionate and great for those with allergies, as their low-shedding coats make them more hypoallergenic.

From small lap dogs to larger, laid-back breeds, there is a wide range of choices for you to find the perfect match. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or expanding your furry family, these laid back dog breeds that don’t shed will make a wonderful addition to your life.

Understanding Calm and Non-Shedding Dog Breeds

Calm dogs that don’t shed usually have an easygoing and even-tempered disposition. They may require less exercise and be more independent, making them great companions for individuals or families with a more laid-back lifestyle. Some of the best behaved dog breeds are known for their calm demeanor, making them popular choices for potential pet owners.

In addition to temperament, potential dog owners may be concerned about shedding. Non-shedding dog breeds often have hair instead of fur, which can help reduce the amount of loose hair in your home. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with allergies, as these breeds are considered more hypoallergenic.

With the combination of calm temperament and reduced shedding, these calm non shedding dogs can be wonderful additions to families with children, as they tend to be more patient and tolerant of the little ones. Their minimal shedding can make it easier to maintain a clean and allergen-free home.

Here are the calmest non shedding dog breeds I think you’ll love.

Top Calm Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

1. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, friendly breed known for its hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat. These fluffy companions are an excellent choice for those with allergies or asthma. It is also possible to get a teacup Bichon Frise dog.

The bichon frise also comes in a teacup size as well.

2. Coton de Tulear

This small, playful breed has a soft, cotton-like coat that doesn’t shed. A Coton de Tulear is great for families, as they are known for their affectionate and lively nature.

3. Maltese Dog Breed

Maltese dogs are well-loved for their silky, white coats and charming personalities. They are hypoallergenic and shed very little, making them perfect for people with allergies or sensitivity to dog hair.

Maltese are a popular choice for cross-breeding. Popular Maltese mix dog breeds include the shih tzu maltese mix and the maltese shih tzu poodle.

4. Havanese Dogs

Havanese dogs are small, cheerful, and energetic companions. Their long, silky coats don’t shed much, and they are perfect for smaller living spaces such as apartments.

You might enjoy reading my article on the shih tzu vs havanese dog and dog breeds that don’t shed and don’t smell.

5. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is a working breed with a curly, hypoallergenic coat that is perfect for families with allergies. They are friendly, intelligent, and active, requiring regular exercise.

6. Poodle

Available in miniature, toy, and standard sizes, Poodles are known for their intelligence and elegance. Their non-shedding, hypoallergenic coats make them a top pick for people with allergies. If you are looking for medium-sized dog breeds that don’t shed and are calm a standard size poodle could be your perfect pooch.

7. Schnauzer

Schnauzers come in three sizes: miniature, standard, and giant. They have wiry coats that don’t shed, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. They are also known for being intelligent, energetic, and protective.

8. Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terriers have a hard, wiry coat that requires regular grooming but don’t shed much. They are independent, feisty, and love to follow their noses on walks.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier’s long, silky coat might give the impression of a high-maintenance dog, but their non-shedding nature makes them suitable for people with allergies. They are lively, affectionate, and protective.

10. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming, but they are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. They are confident, intelligent, and can be independent at times.

11. Shih Tzu

A Shih Tzu is a sweet, gentle lapdog with a coat that doesn’t shed much. They are often devoted to their families and enjoy spending time being calm companions.

12. Basenji

Known as the ‘barkless dog,’ the Basenji is an epitome of tranquility. They are intelligent and prefer a peaceful environment. Their short, fine hair does not shed much, and they’re hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for a serene and clean home.

13. Irish Water Spaniel

A sporting breed known for its intelligence, the Irish Water Spaniel has a unique, water-resistant curly coat. They are relaxed dogs with minimal shedding, making them suitable for both active and peaceful households.

14. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Wheatens, as they’re affectionately called, are known for their soft, silky coat and gentle nature. They hardly shed and are hypoallergenic. These dogs have a calm demeanor but do need regular exercise to keep them satisfied and serene.

15. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized, non-shedding dog that is known for its calm demeanor. This breed is suited for families looking for a low-maintenance dog. However, they still require regular grooming to maintain their unique coat.

16. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested dog breed comes in two variants: hairless and powderpuff. Both types are hypoallergenic, but the hairless variety requires careful skin care to prevent issues. These dogs are loving companions that enjoy cuddling with their owners and get along well with other pets.

17. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound has a short, dense coat that sheds minimally, making them less prone to triggering allergies. They are known for their calm temperament and lazy nature, making them excellent companions for laid-back families. However, regular grooming is still necessary to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

18. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are large dog breeds known for their striking appearance and long, silky coat. This breed has a calm temperament and minimal shedding, making them ideal for households with allergies. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.

19. Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffons are small, intelligent dogs with a unique appearance. Their hypoallergenic coat is typically low-shedding, making them suitable for people with allergies. Despite their small stature, they are excellent watchdogs and enjoy spending time with their families.

Additional Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

If you’re looking for a calm dog breed that doesn’t shed, there are several hypoallergenic options. In addition to popular breeds like the Bichon Frise and the Maltese, other breeds may suit your preferences.

One such breed is the Affenpinscher. This small, affectionate breed is known for its low-shedding coat and friendly nature. They make great companions and are easy to manage, thanks to their small size and energetic personality.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is another breed worth considering. Although they are a bit larger than some other hypoallergenic breeds, they have a soft, dense coat that doesn’t shed much. These dogs are intelligent, easygoing, and are known for their loyalty to their owners.

The Giant Schnauzer is an excellent choice for those who prefer a larger breed. Their distinct wiry coats make these dogs hypoallergenic and shed very little. Giant Schnauzers are intelligent, strong, and protective, making them great family guardians.

Finally, the Bouvier des Flandres is a large, robust breed with a unique appearance. They have a thick, coarse coat that doesn’t shed much, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. While they may appear intimidating, Bouviers are gentle, loyal, and loving towards their families.

Mixed Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Considering mixed breeds is an excellent idea if you’re looking for a calm dog breed that doesn’t shed. Not only do these dogs often inherit the best traits from their parents, but they can also be hypoallergenic. This makes them perfect for allergy sufferers or those who want a low-maintenance pet.

One popular mixed breed hypoallergenic dog is the Labradoodle, a combination of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Thanks to their Poodle parent, Labradoodles inherit a coat that is low-shedding and less likely to cause allergies. These dogs are also known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them excellent companions and family pets.

Another great mixed-breed option for allergy sufferers is the Goldendoodle. This adorable dog is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle has a low-shedding coat and a gentle disposition. These dogs are well-loved for their intelligence and their ability to form strong bonds with their families.

Other hypoallergenic mixed breeds include the Schnoodle (Schnauzer and Poodle mix) and the Shorkie (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier mix). These dogs come in various sizes, making finding one that perfectly fits your lifestyle and living situation easy.

Rare and Unique Non-Shedding Breed Alternatives

If you’re looking for a calm and unique dog breed that doesn’t shed much, you might consider some rare options like the American Hairless Terrier, Barbet, and Boerboel.

The American Hairless Terrier is perfect for those who want a hypoallergenic dog with minimal shedding. This breed is friendly, intelligent, and energetic. They love to play and bond with their families, making them great companions for people with allergies or prefer less hair around the house.

Another interesting non-shedding breed is the Barbet. This curly-coated water dog is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat, but their minimal shedding makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. The Barbet could be your perfect match if you’re searching for a loving companion that doesn’t leave fur everywhere.

Lastly, if you’re interested in a larger breed that doesn’t shed much, consider the Boerboel. While they might not be as hypoallergenic as some other breeds mentioned, their short coat sheds minimally, making them a good choice for those looking for a low-shedding, giant-sized dog. Boerboels are confident and strong but have a surprisingly gentle temperament with their loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions about Easygoing Dogs that don’t Shed

Conclusion

Finding the perfect calm dog breed that doesn’t shed can be challenging, but with the correct information, you can make a well-informed decision.

Before you decide, research different breeds and talk to dog owners and breeders for firsthand experience. Adoption is another excellent option, as there are many mixed-breed dogs in shelters that exhibit calm behavior and minimal shedding.