Toy Dog Breeds That Don't Shed

Toy dog breeds that don't shed are favorites of many people. Because of their small size, they travel well and fit easily into apartment life. You may want a non-shedding toy dog breed because you suffer from allergies or you just can't tolerate hair floating around your home. Be aware that all toy dog breeds, even those considered no- shedding, will still lose bits of hair occasionally.

  1. Affenpinscher

    • Affectionately known as the "monkey dog" because of his facial features, the affenpinscher is a people-friendly, non-shedding breed. The affenpinscher is always quick to alert his owner of any approaching strangers. An easily trained breed, the affenpinscher ideally weighs 7 to 8 pounds. Apartment life suits this breed as long as they get daily exercise. Coat colors, according to The American Kennel Club, are black, red, gray, silver or tan and black. The affenpinscher is prone to hip dysplasia, eye conditions, luxating patellas and breathing problems associated with being short-muzzled.

    Maltese

    • A lively, happy breed, the maltese is an active dog that adapts well to apartment living as long as he receives daily exercise. An affectionate, family-oriented breed, the maltese loves children. The American Kennel Club states that the maltese is among the gentlest of all the small breeds. They tend to not be realistically aware of their size limitations and have no problem challenging much larger dogs. The white, silky coat of this breed requires regular grooming. Wipe the hair around the eyes with a damp cloth to prevent staining. The maltese should weigh less than 7 pounds. The breed is affected by hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, progressive retinal atrophy and oral health problems.

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • The tiny Yorkshire terrier is a tenacious, curious and affectionate breed. Yorkshire terriers are very sociable and love people. "Yorkies" thrive on attention and love spending time with their owner. Kid-friendly, this breed loves to please and trains easily. The Yorkshire terrier tends to see himself as much larger than he is. Watch the dog closely around larger pets; the tiny Yorkie often does not hesitate to initiate a fight. The Yorkshire terrier should weigh less than 7 pounds. His long, non-shedding hair requires daily brushing to remain mat-free. A lifespan of approximately 15 years is common for the Yorkshire terrier. This breed sometimes is affected by tracheal collapse, dental problems and liver issues.

    Toy Poodle

    • An active, intelligent breed, the toy poodle is a highly trainable dog. The toy poodle is an affectionate family dog that is eager to please. Poodles generally love children. The breed should stand 10 inches or under at the shoulder. His soft, thick coat comes in white, apricot, gray, black, cream, silver and brown and needs daily brushing to prevent matting. Professional clipping is required about four times a year. The toy poodle is an energetic dog that adapts well to apartment living as long as he receives daily exercise. Some health concerns of the toy poodle are hypoglycemia, progressive retinal atrophy, luxating patellas, kidney stones and epilepsy.