17 Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark (Pictures)
Small dogs are notorious for their typical yapping and non-stop chatter. However, several small dog breeds don’t cause too much audible chaos. Many small dogs prefer quiet environments rife with relaxation and peace.
These dogs don’t shed and won’t make messes with long hair or fur.
Finding the perfect dog for you and your family can be a challenge. However, small dogs that don’t bark too much and won’t leave dog hair all over the couch can be ideal for busy families with small children. Small dogs, like Chihuahuas, are notoriously loud and noisy, but many dogs are less willing to jump into a verbal fight.
Read on to find out more about the 17 best small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark so that you can choose one that is perfect for you and your home.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dogs can sometimes look more like horses or ponies than dogs. This dog breed has a stunning coat of short fur that fans out at the legs and on their head. Chinese Cresteds are affectionate and lively, choosing to spend their time playing or watching for danger.
This dog breed doesn’t shed at all and won’t overrun your home with allergens or other messes.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are tall dogs with long necks. This dog breed is constantly alert and very sensitive to noise.
However, this sensitivity doesn’t stop Italian Greyhounds from playing. This dog breed loves playing with other dogs the most and adores affection.
Italian Greyhounds don’t shed much, although you may need to clean the house monthly to ensure dog dander doesn’t lie around. Additionally, this breed of dog won’t bark at random or for fun.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are loving dogs who hold their heads high. This dog breed doesn’t shed, although it has a stunning coat of many colors. A Japanese Chin doesn’t grow taller than around 11 inches and weighs no more than 11 pounds.
This dog breed adores affection from family members and will gladly have play dates with other dogs.
Japanese Chins enjoy observing their surroundings and will only bark when necessary.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate dog and is incredibly gentle – especially with children and other dogs. This small dog is not very vocal and prefers to observe their surroundings instead of drawing attention to themselves.
Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are courageous and affectionate dogs who love spending time with small children or puppies. These dogs have an incredible amount of love and energy to give. Although these dogs are small and only grow about 11 inches tall, they offer plenty of energy to small children who want to run and play.
Australian Terriers don’t shed, even though they have a stunning brown and black coat of hair.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs differ from Bulldogs because they are more adaptable and playful. French Bulldogs only grow to about 13 inches and weigh under 28 pounds. These dogs adore their families and love spending time running around with small children.
This dog breed doesn’t shed much and won’t need frequent grooming. Additionally, French Bulldogs don’t bark much and will only make noise if there is a threat or reason for concern.
Pug
Pugs are iconic dogs for their smooshed faces. These dogs are charming but can be mischievous. Pugs adore affection and will thrive on love, playtime with small children, and time with other dogs.
Pugs are not very vocal and don’t shed much.
Basenji
Basenjis are highly intelligent dogs that value their independence over everything else. These Hounds are self-reliant and don’t require much affection to feel loved and safe. Basenjis are hypoallergenic and don’t shed, making them perfect for those prone to allergies.
Basenjis also don’t bark under normal circumstances and have an incredible amount of energy. These dogs are ideal for searching, hunting, or other tasks that require speed and energy.
Miniature Poodle
Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent and active dogs. These dogs are small and grow to be only 15 inches and weigh no more than 15 pounds. Unlike a Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodles are much smaller and are easier to train.
Miniature Poodles are loving and adore giving their owners affection. These dogs are also wonderful with young children and love to play. Poodles will only bark when necessary and don’t shed much.
Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is notorious for being a laid-back, nearly lazy dog. This dog breed is independent and calm but prefers to be left alone for long periods. They enjoy affection but will wander off to a warm resting area when they’ve had enough. They are, however, a touch aggressive.
The Chinese Shar-Pei don’t bark much and will keep shedding to a minimum.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are classic and iconic dogs. This dog breed is small but remains friendly and calm. Bulldogs are only around 15 inches tall but are dense and weigh nearly 50 pounds. Bulldogs enjoy affection and playtime but would rather spend their time observing an area and taking charge of a task.
Bulldogs don’t shed much and don’t require constant grooming, making them perfect for a family home.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are so active and attentive to their owners. These dogs are also constantly alert and highly intelligent. Shibu Inus thrive on affection and will gladly spend their time resting on a couch or in the lap of a loved one.
This dog breed doesn’t shed or bark much and prefers a peaceful environment—they may not be ideal for families with small kids.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs who love to play. This dog breed enjoys spending time with small children and other dogs and will thrive during playtime. Shih Tzus don’t shed and will keep their barking to a minimum, meaning that naps and sleeping are never interrupted.
Maltese
Maltese are playful dogs who have a small stature. Maltese don’t usually grow taller than nine inches and weigh under seven pounds. This dog breed is very loving and prefers to spend time with its family and owners.
Maltese are reserved dogs who prefer to observe their surroundings and are very careful around strangers. Maltese are hypoallergenic dogs who don’t drool and aren’t very vocal.
Havanese
Havanese are intelligent dogs who love adventure and meeting new people. This dog breed is small and grows no taller than 12 inches and 13 pounds. The coat on a Havanese is long and can come in many different colors.
Havanese prefer playtime with small children and other dogs over being loud and vocal. This dog breed will also thrive on affection and love. Havanese don’t shed but might bark when they need something or require attention.
As long as you give your Havanese everything it needs, it will give you plenty of peace.
Bichon Frise
A Bichon Frise is a fun-loving and peppy dog who seems to always be in a playful mood. This dog breed will gladly welcome you the moment you walk through the door and immediately want affection. A Bichon Frise does wonderful with other dogs and small children and will only bark when necessary.
A Bichon Frise won’t shed, making them ideal for those plagued with allergies.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are friendly and highly intelligent. They enjoy having a good time and spreading joy to others. This dog breed is extremely affectionate and may experience separation anxiety when left without its owners.
Boston Terriers are also fond of small children and prefer playtime to rest.
This small dog is observant but enjoys constant play. Thankfully, Boston Terriers aren’t loud and have short fur that doesn’t shed much.
Final Thoughts
There are many small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark. Whether you’re looking for an observant and reliable guard dog or a dog breed that adores affection, there is a perfect match for you.
These small dog breeds prefer to observe their surroundings, play with toys, or lounge in a warm spot during the day. Many of these dog breeds are also independent and aren’t too interested in spending all of their time vocalizing themselves. The Chinese Shar-Pei, for example, are calm dogs who prefer to lounge and relax.
However, these dogs will gladly play with small children, but they will be slow and take their time enjoying the company.
Browse our list of the top 17 best small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark to find the perfect dog breed for you and your family.
