This article was written in response to the question “What dog breeds are non-shedding and work well in an apartment?” On the whole I am not fond of dogs living in apartments (for two reasons I will mention), but nonetheless, I will offer an answer.  Also I want to quickly note that all dogs shed to some degree.

Concerns with having a Pet Dog in an Apartment

One: Unless on the main floor with a yard, its awfully hard to get a dog (especially a puppy) outside often enough for house training and bathroom breaks, but some people work around this by training the dog to use pee pads indoors.

Two:  An apartment is not a permanent home in the same way an owned home is.  A renter is always at the mercy of their landlords rules and if they have to move they may have a hard time finding an apartment that allows dogs.

These are considerations people need to address before getting a dog if they live in an apartment.

Understanding the Needs of a Non-Shedding Dog

Non-shedding dogs are not low maintenance dogs by any means. All dogs shed to some degree. Most non-shedding dogs, with the exception of the hairless dogs, have hair that grows much like a humans. Therefore non-shedding dogs need regular hair care, and brushing, much like a humans, otherwise it develops painful mats and tangles. They should really be brushed daily or every second day. As well they may need regular trips to the groomer for hair cuts to prevent the hair from getting too long and out of control.

The hairless dogs, of course, need extra protection from the sun and cold, and may have other skin concerns depending on the climate.

Understanding the needs of Dogs in General

While a small dog might have most of its energy needs met running around in a large apartment, they really benefit from going outdoors and playing. Sure people can take their apartment dogs for walks, but sometimes people get sick, and not being able to turn a dog loose in the back yard to run during these times may prove trying.

If you are going to house train your dog to urinate and defecate indoors, be aware there may be a smell issue, as well, your landlord might not approve. Additionally if a dog is trained to “go potty” inside there might be issues later if you move and want it to learn to go outside. It might think any paper, or towel, on the floor is there for its bathroom use.

Pekingese dogs, picture from photos8.com

-Best Non Shedding Dog Breeds for Apartments-

Shih Tzu

These are popular dogs and are easy to find. They have hair that grows very long, but are easy to get along with as pets. They would be one of the top choices for non-shedding apartment dogs. Shih Tzus are generally happy dogs, easy to get along with, and they are fine if not walked daily (as long as they have enough space).

Pekingese

These dogs were actually bred to have leg deformities, and short noses, to prevent them from running too fast. They make fairly good apartment dogs, but are harder to find than Shih Tzus. 

Bichon Frise

These are white dogs with curly hair, often kept in apartments however they do enjoy a bit more exercise than the other breeds mentioned above.  They, Poodles, and Shih Tzus, are probably the most common non-shedding dogs.

Lhasa Apso

These dogs can be a bit more moody and unpredictable than the other above breeds, possibly making them less desirable in homes with children.

Yorkshire Terrier

As with all Terriers, Yorkshire terriers were bred to hunt and kill, therefore they are smart and need to be kept active. If kept confined in an apartment, without proper mental stimulation, Yorkshire Terriers can get bored and may become destructive.

Mexican Hairless

There are several hairless breeds, of which this is only one, but they may be considered only if the apartment is kept warm enough or the dogs are given sweaters to wear.  Hairless dogs have special care needs in regards to their skin.

Poodles

Poodles are very smart dogs who enjoy being active. If they do not have enough exercise and mental stimulation they can become destructive. They are common, and easy to find, as well they come in many sizes from toy to standard.

Senior Dogs

Another dog suited for apartment life is not a specific breed, but rather an older dog with a lower energy level. These dogs may enjoy life in an apartments just as well as in an house, in fact without stairs to go up, they may do quite well in a warm, smaller, indoor space.  Even larger old dogs, such as the designer dog known as the Goldendoodle may be suited to an apartment provided there are no stairs.

Other Factors

Shedding can be controlled, and reduced, through regular grooming and proper diet.

Be aware you may need landlord permission to have a dog in your apartment, get any agreements in writing.

Related Links

Eleven Questions to ask yourself before Getting a Dog or Puppy

How to Select the Right Dog for Me

Guide for Buying a Purebred

What can go Wrong at the Dog Groomers, and what to do