What Are the Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark?

If you’re a prospective dog owner, it’s natural to feel both excited and overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there. After all, choosing the right dog for your family or lifestyle isn’t a small decision. You’re not just picking a pet, but a companion that will be with you for many years.For many, one of the biggest concerns is finding a dog that won’t cause allergy flare-ups or leave a constant mess of fur on the floor. Add to that the stress of dealing with excessive barking, and it’s no wonder people are looking for small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark. Lucky for you, these breeds do exist—and they are wonderful companions!

At Jones Farm Puppies, we breed ethical, healthy, and happy Cavapoo puppies, a breed that combines the best traits of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. Cavapoos are among the top small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark excessively. But, as we’ll explore in this post, they’re far from the only options out there.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at the best small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark, starting with the Cavapoo. We’ll delve into why Cavapoos are so highly regarded and provide a few other options for those seeking a low-maintenance dog.

Why Shedding and Barking Can Be a Deal-Breaker for Many Dog Owners

Anyone who has ever lived with a dog knows the struggles of dealing with shedding and barking. Whether you’re constantly cleaning up fur or trying to calm down a dog who barks at every squirrel or stranger, it can be exhausting.

• Shedding: It’s a mess. It gets everywhere—from your clothes to the couch to your car seats. For allergy sufferers, shedding can be a real problem, causing discomfort and even health issues. This is one of the main reasons people opt for dogs that shed little to no fur.
• Barking: While barking is a natural dog behavior, excessive barking can be draining, especially if your dog barks at every little noise. Not to mention, some dog breeds are more vocal than others, which can be a challenge if you live in an apartment or have noise-sensitive neighbors.

The good news is that several small dog breeds fit the bill for low-shedding and quiet companions, with the Cavapoo being a standout choice. Let’s dive deeper into these breeds and explore why the Cavapoo is so special.

Why the Cavapoo is One of the Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark

The Cavapoo is an incredibly popular hybrid breed, created by crossing the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle. This cross results in a small dog with the best qualities of both breeds, and the Cavapoo has quickly become one of the most sought-after small dog breeds. If you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t shed or bark excessively, the Cavapoo may be exactly what you need.

Why Cavapoos Don’t Shed

One of the most attractive qualities of a Cavapoo is its low-shedding coat. This is largely due to the Poodle’s hypoallergenic, curly coat, which the Cavapoo inherits. This trait is a huge benefit for families with allergies or people who simply want to avoid the constant cleaning associated with shedding dogs.

Unlike many other small breeds, Cavapoos don’t shed much at all, and they don’t leave fur all over the place. Their coats do require regular grooming, though, to keep them tangle-free and healthy. Depending on the coat type (wavy or curly), Cavapoos may need a trim every few months. In general, the shedding is minimal compared to breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, or Yorkshire Terriers. For families looking for a hypoallergenic companion that doesn’t leave a trail of fur, the Cavapoo is a clear winner.

Why Cavapoos Don’t Bark Excessively

Cavapoos are also relatively quiet dogs. While they may bark to alert you of visitors or get your attention, they are not known for incessant barking. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, known for their affectionate nature, usually aren’t big barkers either. Combined with the Poodle’s calm demeanor, the Cavapoo becomes a dog that is much quieter than many small dog breeds.

This is particularly important for those who live in apartments or houses with close neighbors. While Cavapoos can be alert and protective, their barking is generally limited to only the necessary moments. They are not likely to bark at every person or animal they see, which is often a trait in other small breeds like Chihuahuas or Terriers.

Other Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark Excessively

While the Cavapoo is an excellent choice for families seeking low-shedding and low-barking dogs, there are other breeds that fit these criteria. Let’s take a closer look at some additional small dog breeds that don’t shed much and are generally quiet.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is another small dog that doesn’t shed much, though it does have long, luxurious hair that requires regular grooming. Their coats don’t shed like typical dog fur, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.

• Why They Don’t Bark Excessively: Shih Tzus are known for being relatively calm and non-aggressive. They can alert you to a visitor with a bark, but they are not generally noisy dogs. They love cuddling and are good with children and other pets.

Bichon Frise

This cheerful little dog is also low-shedding, thanks to its curly coat. Bichon Frises require regular grooming to prevent matting, but their shedding is minimal, making them a good option for those seeking a hypoallergenic dog.

• Why They Don’t Bark Excessively: While Bichon Frises are known for their happy personalities, they are generally not barkers. They may alert you to the presence of someone outside but don’t bark for no reason. They are affectionate, friendly, and calm dogs.

Maltese

The Maltese is another toy breed that sheds very little. Their long white hair, similar to human hair, doesn’t fall out in large quantities. Regular brushing and grooming are required to maintain their coats, but their shedding is minimal.

• Why They Don’t Bark Excessively: Maltese dogs are generally calm, friendly, and affectionate. While they may bark when they’re excited or want attention, they are not particularly prone to constant barking. They make great companions for families or single owners who want a quieter dog.

Italian Greyhound

If you’re looking for a small, elegant dog that doesn’t shed much or bark, consider the Italian Greyhound. These dogs have a short, sleek coat that requires minimal grooming and sheds very little.

• Why They Don’t Bark Excessively: Italian Greyhounds are quiet dogs with a calm temperament. They are alert, but they don’t bark excessively. Their gentle nature makes them great companions for people looking for a peaceful dog.

Cocker Spaniel

While a bit larger than the typical “toy” size, the Cocker Spaniel is still considered a small dog. Their coats do require grooming, but they don’t shed much. They are great for families who want a dog that won’t constantly leave fur behind.

• Why They Don’t Bark Excessively: Cocker Spaniels are generally calm dogs who enjoy attention but don’t bark constantly. They may bark to alert you to visitors or strange sounds, but excessive barking is not typical for this breed.

FAQ: Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark

Are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?
Yes! Cavapoos are considered hypoallergenic due to their Poodle ancestry. They shed very little, making them a great choice for families with allergies.

Do Cavapoos bark a lot?
No, Cavapoos are generally quiet dogs. While they may bark to alert you to visitors or if they want attention, they are not known for excessive barking like some other small dog breeds.

How much grooming do Cavapoos need?
Cavapoos require regular grooming to keep their coats tangle-free and looking their best. They may need a trim every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the coat type. Regular brushing helps prevent mats.

Are Cavapoos good with children and other pets?
Yes! Cavapoos are friendly, affectionate, and gentle, making them great companions for children and other pets. They are known for their easy-going temperament.

What are the other best small dog breeds that don’t shed or bark?
Other great options include the Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Italian Greyhound, and Cocker Spaniel. Each of these breeds is known for being low-shedding and generally quiet.

Can I get a Cavapoo from Jones Farm Puppies?
Absolutely! At Jones Farm Puppies, we specialize in breeding healthy, happy Cavapoo puppies. Our ethical breeding practices ensure that each puppy is well-socialized, healthy, and ready for a loving home.

The Best Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed or Bark

Finding the right dog for your lifestyle is a deeply personal decision, and for many, the perfect companion is one that doesn’t shed endlessly or bark at every noise. Small dog breeds like the Cavapoo, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, and others can be the answer to these common concerns.

Among these, the Cavapoo truly stands out. Not only are they low-shedding and generally quiet, but their affectionate nature, intelligence, and adaptability make them one of the best companions for families and individuals alike. At Jones Farm Puppies, we take pride in breeding Cavapoo puppies with love, care, and the utmost commitment to their health and well-being. Our ethical practices ensure that each puppy we place in your home is well-socialized and healthy, ready to become an integral part of your family.

If you’re interested in bringing a Cavapoo into your home, we invite you to contact us or check out our available puppies page to see if we have any upcoming litters. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your journey to becoming a dog parent is smooth, joyful, and filled with love.

Thank you for considering Jones Farm Puppies. We can’t wait to help you find the perfect Cavapoo to join your family!