How to Choose a Small, Nonshedding Dog Breed

Are you looking for a small dog that won't cover your carpet with fur on a daily basis? A non shedding dog breed may be particularly important to you if you suffer from allergies. Most non shedding dog breeds are less likely to be allergenic since they tend to release less dander from their skin surfaces.Although all dogs shed to some extent, these small dog breeds are the least likely to deposit hair in your house and on your carpeting.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. West Highland Terrier.
   
   This dog breed sheds very little although they do require regular brushing and grooming about every six weeks. They have a double coat consisting of a hard, wiry outer coat with a softer inner coat. You may find it easier to have a professional trim and groom your Westie, although with practice you should be able to do it yourself at home.

2. Bichon Frise.
   
   The Bichon Frise is considered to have a non shedding coat which makes this dog breed ideal if you have allergic symptoms. Unfortunately, the Bichon Frise is considered high maintenance in the grooming department, requiring a haircut and bath on a monthly basis as well as frequent brushing at home to prevent mats and tangles. This is not the breed for you if you have minimal time to devote to dog grooming.

3. Boston Terrier.
   
   The Boston Terrier is not only a friendly and agreeable companion dog, he also tends to shed very little, requiring only a weekly brushing. They are also considered "hypoallergenic" meaning they don't tend to exacerbate allergy symptoms. This may be your ideal choice if you have allergies and are looking for a low maintenance, non shedding dog breed.

4. Dachshund.
   
   This breed sheds only minimally and requires little grooming. The female dachshund tends to shed a bit more than the male, particularly unsprayed females. The smooth haired and the wire haired dachshund tend to require more grooming than the long haired variety.

5. ShihTzu.
   
   Although this small breed may occasionally deposit a bit of long hair on your carpet, for the most part, it's a breed that sheds minimally which makes it a good choice for you if you're allergic to dog hair and housework. Watch out if you have children though, this breed can be a bit feisty.

[mamathunder]

on 3/23/2009 I have a yorkie (found her, didn't pick her out) and didn't know she was hypoallergenic. But she does need grooming on a regular basis. Be sure your are watching the hair area on their bums - for dogs that need grooming due to hair that grows long. I was doing her grooming myself, (was two months over due on rabies shot and about 5 months overdue on a haircut) and the fur got stuck to a BM and the poor thing just had a horrible time. This is a dog I've had for 4 years, and would never have thought of that being something to worry about. I have two shorthair, shedding dogs (lab mix and chihuahua) and they make me itch. the yorkie never does. Siamese cats are suppose to be hypoallergenic as well. Good luck choosing your dog. Always check rescue groups first!