6 Popular Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed or Bark (Much)

Jan 28, 2024

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Dogs are known as a man's best friend . . . but would a friend leave hair all over your furniture and yell every time they hear a noise? Shedding and barking are two of the top complaints of dog owners. These can be especially problematic if you live in a small apartment with neighbors who get easily irritated. So in this article, let us introduce you to some adorable small dog breeds that don't shed or bark. Which is your favorite?

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First off, let's get this straight. There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, but some aggravate allergies less than others. Some have a hair texture more like human hair, they produce less dander, and have a longer hair growth cycle so that they shed less often. Dogs that stay outdoors tend to shed their winter coats in the spring and fall, alternating between thicker winter coats and lighter summer ones. Indoor dogs shed year-round because the light and heat indoors are relatively constant. However, dogs can also shed because of stress, anxiety, or poor nutrition. If your dog is uncharacteristically shedding a surprising amount, talk to your vet and groomer about possible reasons and any necessary changes to the dog's diet, grooming regimen, and environmental changes. Coconut oil contains healthy fats and is often recommended as a dietary supplement to improve skin and coat health.

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Even dogs that don't shed much will still need brushing and even professional grooming from time to time. This helps remove dead hairs so that new healthy ones can grow. Here are some different types of brushes and which coat types they are most suitable for:

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Barking is one of the primary ways dogs communicate, just as humans communicate by talking. Dogs bark to get the attention of other dogs, to express different emotions, to defend their territory, or to get their owner to notice them. They can also bark out of boredom and frustration when they don't have enough stimulation in their environment. Although it can be irritating when they react to the slightest noise with a barrage of barking, it's actually something some breeds were specifically bred for, such as guard dogs or herding dogs.

Here are some tips to help retrain a dog that barks more than you’d like:

Now, without further ado, here is our list of small dogs that don't shed or bark very much:

Basenjis are a small African breed described as "barkless" dogs. Due to the shape of their larynxes, they actually can't bark in the traditional sense. That doesn't mean they’re quiet, though. They make a sound that has been described as "yodeling" as well as other doggy vocalizations like growling, whimpering, or whining. Generally, though, their vocalization level is below that of other dogs. They have short, thick coats that do not shed very much. Brushing them once a week to pull out dead hairs is all the grooming they need.

©Grisha Bruev/Shutterstock.com

At first glance, you might think a poofy dog like the Bolognese would be a nightmare shedder. But in fact, they don't shed much at all. This means your options are not limited to short-haired dogs when you’re looking for a non-shedder. They also have a calm, quiet, polite disposition. They’ll bark when they feel endangered, but otherwise, they’re very good listeners and observers – just what you would like to come home to after a long tiring day.

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Boston terriers are enthusiastic and adore people, but they are not as exuberantly energetic as other terriers. They are quiet and enjoy their naps quite a bit. Their coat is thin, short, and made of a single layer of hair, so shedding with them is minimal. Best of all, their coats are black on top and white underneath, making them look like they’re wearing little tuxedos! What do you do on Casual Friday? Just put a sweater on them, they don't mind.

Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: one is hairless and the other is covered in floofy, silky hair. Here's the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to Chinese Crested dogs:

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French Bulldogs are adorably cute and have a nice disposition, too. They are calm and quiet and have short, fine coats that don't shed much and require minimal care. They do tend to have respiratory issues though. You’ll notice they snort and huff and puff a lot and snore when they sleep, but barking is not too much of an issue with these guys.

©iStock.com/Celiaaa

Among the small breeds that don't shed or bark, the Italian greyhound is one of the most regal. Originally bred to hunt small prey, Italian greyhounds today are known as graceful, gentle, beautiful pets. They have short, silky smooth coats. They don't bark a lot but will do so to warn of danger – exactly when you want your dog to bark.

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It's good to research dog breeds that don't shed or bark before choosing one for your family. Otherwise, it's easy to make a decision just based on a breed's appearance, or how it pulls on your heartstrings at the breeder's, rather than making a choice that will be suitable for the lifestyle and environment you have to offer. The last thing you’d want to do is invest your time, energy, and emotions into a dog only to have to rehome it because your child is allergic or your neighbors are irate at the noise. Fortunately, dogs come in such a wide variety of sizes, temperaments, and physical characteristics, you’re sure to find one that's just right for you.

How about the fastest dogs, the largest dogs and those that are -- quite frankly -- just the kindest dogs on the planet? Each day, AZ Animals sends out lists just like this to our thousands of email subscribers. And the best part? It's FREE. Join today by entering your email below.

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