Whatever the size and breed of dog is, one thing is sure: all of them bark and shed to a certain extent.
If the noise and shedded fur are what's keeping you from the joy of adopting a dog, this article is for you.
Here, we have listed the top 15 small dog breeds that don't shed or bark!
15 Medium to Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed or Bark
1. French Bulldog
There are many reasons why a lot of people love Frenchies. Aside from their unique appearance and appealing temperament, they also rarely bark or shed.
Sure, they snore, snort, and grunt. But a French Bulldog rarely barks unless they are afraid of something, such as meeting new dogs or people.
In addition, these dogs have short and fine coats. As a result, they don't shed that much. However, they still require occasional brushing to make their hair smooth and shiny.
Experts recommend using a rubber grooming mitt or hound glove to remove their dead skin and hair gently.
2. Chinese Crested
In contrast, if you prefer dogs that are smaller than Frenchies, then here's another one for you to consider.
Chinese Crested dogs are lively but endearing lapdogs that have a similar stance to horses. Oddly enough, they are the “My Little Pony” of the dog world.
Most of these dogs are sweet and lovely, and they usually dote on people. They make a reasonably quiet company, perfect for people who live in apartments or condominiums.
Chinese Crested dogs have two varieties: Hairless and Puffballs.
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs have some fur on their paws, tail, and head, while Puffball Chinese Cresteds have a thick and silky hair covering their whole body.
Both varieties are considered low-shredders, but they still need special attention when it comes to grooming.
3. Italian Greyhound
Back in the day, the Italian Greyhounds were the type of dogs that hunted small prey. Today, they serve as perfect pets for families!
Italian Greyhounds exude beauty, agility, obedience, and loyalty. But the most incredible thing about them is their gentleness.
These dogs prefer to be with owners who are quiet and soft-spoken. As a result, they also tend to be still and silent.
Italian Greyhounds will only bark if necessary, especially when they warn their owners about approaching danger.
They also have a short but glossy coat that feels like satin once touched. They don't shed much, making them perfect for people with pet allergies.
4. Boston Terrier
Terrier dogs, in general, are active and friendly, and the Boston Terrier is no different.
But unlike other Terriers, this breed would rather lie around or sleep than waste time making noise. Although they would often snort, drool, and snore loudly, overall, Boston Terriers are quiet and gentle.
These dogs also have a single-layer coat made of thin, short hair, which is why they don't shed excessively.
However, bear in mind that Boston Terriers still need to be groomed. They will require regular bathing, as frequently as once a week.
5. Basenji
No wonder this breed makes it to this list. After all, they're known as the “barkless dog of Africa,” because of their unique larynxes that prevent them from barking.
Instead, they make noises like yodeling, screaming, growling, whimpering, and whining. However, this would only happen if the owner didn't train them appropriately.
And while the Basenji sheds like all dogs, they're still considered low-shedders due to their short but thick coat.
Grooming a Basenji is pretty simple. All you need is a soft-bristle brush and a rubber grooming mitt. Brushing them at least once a week will keep their coat clean and healthy.
6. Bolognese
Although sensitive, the Bolognese breed is a loving and endearing dog. Not only that, but these dogs are also polite to people and animals around them, making them excellent companion dogs.
Besides, these dogs are not known to be big barkers. They will only bark if they're either frightened or threatened.
Bolognese dogs are non-shedding dogs, too. However, unlike their non-shedding counterparts, their coat is not short and thick.
Instead, these dogs have a soft and fluffy all-white coat that makes them warm and cuddly.
7. Havanese
Bolognese and Havanese dogs are from the same type of dog family, the Bichon dogs. Bichons are a distinct type of companion toy dog.
And like other Bichons, Havanese dogs are small and quiet. Besides, this breed is gentle and adorable; that's why they are adored by many.
Also, these dogs are extremely quiet. They hardly make any sounds except when they greet their owners whenever they come home or warn them when there's a stranger on their front door.
Aside from that, even with a double-layered coat, the Havanese sheds relatively little. However, like many other moderate shedders, this breed only shed its outer jacket during spring and fall.
Nonetheless, you still have to groom Havanese dogs by bathing them for at least one to two weeks and brushing their hair wet thrice weekly.
8. Coton de Tulear
If incessant barking is something that annoys you to the core, the breed Cotton de Tulear is the one for you.
According to the American Coton Club, Coton de Tulear is a breed composed of quiet dogs. However, this doesn't stop them from barking occasionally.
But instead of being a nuisance yapper, they are more like a warning barker.
Like what their name indicates, Coton de Tulear has cotton-like coats. They are low-shedding dogs, but their hair can quickly matt if not brushed often.
You have to groom them more than not. Otherwise, you'll have a Coton de Tulear whose coat is full of dead skin and breeding ticks and fleas.
9. Glen of Imaal Terrier
Long ago, Glen of Imaal Terrier is a hunter breed. As hunters, they were taught to stay silent when hunting to avoid scaring their prey.
As years passed by, this breed's characteristic remained until the present. They remain silent unless they sense danger around them.
Glen of Imaal Terriers also shed relatively little. As a result, grooming requirements are minimal; you only need to comb their coat at least once a week.
10. English Bulldog
Bulldogs are known to be noisy, but it turns out that the bulldog family includes another type that barks less.
Because of its sour appearance, the English Bulldog sometimes comes off as an aggressive and dangerous dog. In reality, this breed is one of the most docile dogs you'll ever meet.
They might bark once or twice, but they will be too busy snorting, snuffling, wheezing, grunting, and snoring for the most part.
The English Bulldog's hair is short, straight, and refined. Their sheds are rather average. It'll be hard to notice stray hairs of an English Bulldog floating around, especially if you keep up with their grooming routine.
11. Japanese Chin
Although sometimes they are both mischievous and clever, the Japanese Chin is also relatively calm. It will take a lot for them to bark, so they are just quiet and collected most of the time.
But to some extent, Japanese Chins are adaptable dogs. If they live in a household that prefers a lively atmosphere, these dogs will also be frank and outspoken.
They are also single-coated dogs. They don't shed as much as other dogs. However, their coat will still require combing or brushing, specifically under their ears and legs.
12. Chinese Shar-Pei
Chinese Shar-Pei dogs are also fascinating creatures. This breed is from Southern China, and it's famous for its highly wrinkled skin.
These dogs are incredibly loyal and independent; however, they're pretty aloof to people and animals they don't know. They can be hard to train as well; if you want to own one, make sure you've experienced keeping dogs.
They only bark when they sense there's an imminent threat.
In terms of shedding, Shar-Peis shed just once or twice a year. They only shed when they develop a newer but thicker coat in preparation for winter.
However, Shar-Peis still need to be groomed. A thorough brushing at least once a week is sufficient for this breed to have a beautiful and healthy coat.
13. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are well-known for their calm and clean demeanor. They are more than perfect for people who live in highly developed spaces, such as condominiums and apartments.
These dogs tend to bark when they are frightened or annoyed, especially when they feel threatened with a stranger's smell inside their house.
Although this breed is mainly composed, they tend to have a variety of vocal stylings when they bark, such as the odd Shiba Scream. This scream is exceptionally sharp and clear. Once heard, it will not only hurt your ears but your neighbors' too.
This is also why some owners call their Shiba Inus “Drama Queen or King.” But once you and your family get used to it, it becomes something worth laughing about.
However, due to their thick double coat, Shiba Inus are considered moderate shedders. They shed throughout the year, but they heavily shed during spring and fall.
They only need to be brushed once or twice a week to manage their fur on the floor.
14. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise is another breed that makes excellent companions.
Aside from their outstanding trait and personality, this breed is silent most of the time, perfect for people who prefer to own calm and quiet dogs.
However, this teddy bear-like breed may be a bit loud occasionally. But with proper training, they will learn to bark at appropriate times.
Many people also adore Bichon Frises because they only shed minimally. They are just as perfect for people who prefer non-shedding dogs that are smaller in size.
However, Bichon Frises have a thick double coat. Grooming them will not be easy as they can be high-maintenance.
15. Affenpinscher
Affenpinscher, also known as the “monkey-like terrier,” is a charming breed known since the 17th century. Although small in size, this breed is brave and bold, and can be feisty sometimes.
These dogs are generally quiet, the type who knows when and where to communicate with their owners at relevant times.
Affenpinschers are also extremely observant dogs. They like to keep an eye on things that they are not familiar with, especially unexpected visitors.
If a burglar comes in, Affenpinschers will quickly bark to warn their owner of the impending danger.
These dogs are also non-shedding breed. They are perfect to live with people who have pet allergies.
Moreover, unlike other dogs, Affenpinschers has no canine odor even when not washed for weeks. Yet this doesn't mean that you don't need to groom them.
Combing them twice a week with a slicker brush will do the deed to keep their coat tidy instead of being shaggy.
FAQs
What is the lowest maintenance small dog?
The Chihuahua is often considered one of the lowest-maintenance small dogs. Short-haired types like them need minimal grooming, and they require less exercise than many breeds.
Other easy-care breeds include the Dachshund and French Bulldog.
What is the cleanest small dog breed?
The Basenji (though not tiny, it’s small to medium-sized) is known for being extremely clean and almost cat-like in grooming habits.
Among smaller breeds, Toy Poodles and Maltese are also very clean with proper grooming routines.
What's the least smelly dog?
Poodles (including Toy and Miniature), Basenjis, and Bichon Frises are among the least smelly dog breeds.
They have low oil production in their skin and coats, which helps reduce odor when kept clean and groomed.
Medium & Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed: Before You Go…
While there are no absolute barkless dogs, certain breeds are noticeably quieter than others. And although there are several shedding dogs, dogs that also shed less exists too.
If those are the main requirements you look for your next or first dog, I hope this list of medium to small dog breeds that don't shed or bark helps!
If you want to read more about dog barking and shedding, check out our recommended articles below!
Related Articles
- 5 Ways to Solve Your Dog's Barking Problem
- 5 of My Favorite Dog Shedding Home Remedies
- 10 Non Shedding Dogs for Allergic People
WANT TO SHARE THIS?
