Best Non-Shedding Dog Breeds for Apartments

This is the second in our series, Best Dog Breeds for Apartments...

Dogs who work best in an apartment lifestyle are typically quiet and peaceful by nature, content with playing ball in a small space as opposed to running for miles daily. As the human population increases and the urban living grows, dog owners look for pets that will fit comfortably into apartment living.

Living with a dog in a limited space means considering factors beyond dog pads and the noise level. Often, allergies have to be addressed. Therefore, dogs that are non-shedding, or as hypoallergenic as an animal gets, are considered as candidates.

Although there is no such thing as a 100 percent non-shedding or hypoallergenic dog, there are several breeds that shed only minimally and whose activity level fit nicely into an apartment lifestyle. Here is a list of suggestions:

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkie, as it is affectionately known, is typically very small, ranging from 5 to 7 pounds. They are a notorious “pocket pet,” carried comfortably around in women’s handbags. There are exceptions, however, and some individuals grow larger. Yorkies have long, soft hair, and although they generally shed very little, they do require regular grooming.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

One of the kindest and gentlest of terriers, the soft-coated Wheaten tips the scales at around 35 pounds, and it may need more outdoor time than some of the smaller breeds do. They are playful but generally have a calm disposition, and they are considered excellent family dogs.

Italian Greyhound

Italian greyhounds thrive in an apartment lifestyle. They are intelligent, loyal, and quiet. Their coat is flat and tight. They shed very little, but they can be fragile. They tend to get cold and do well to have a sweater provided for them.

Bedlington Terrier

The unique-looking Bedlington terrier resembles a lamb, complete with the curly, wooly coat. Weighing under 25 pounds, they are ideal for apartment living, having a moderate activity level. They can be attentive watchdogs, alerting the household when someone comes to the door. Like most terriers, they are very intelligent.

Havanese

Originally from Cuba, the highly social Havanese is intelligent and has a sense of humor, happy to play vigorously indoors. Although sporting a shaggy coat, they are considered hypoallergenic.

Chinese Crested

The hairless variety of Chinese crested is considered hypoallergenic. They require only mild exercise, preferring to hang out on the laps of their owners. They are heat-seeking dogs, best if outfitted with a sweater in cool weather. Their skin should be protected from the sun at all times.

Shih Tzu

Weighing from 9 to 16 pounds, the fur on a Shih Tzu is long, with a thick undercoat. They need a serious amount of grooming, but they shed very little. Shih Tzus are normally very outgoing dogs with happy and well-adjusted dispositions. They are known for being a great choice for families with children.

Regardless of breed, whatever dog you choose to live in the apartment will be your companion for many years to come. Be sure to offer the best quality of life to your dog, and he will help you make the best of your years together.