Want a calm, non-sheddering dog? They’re rare. Individuals, dogs. Puppies may be peaceful, energetic or even hostile within the same litter.
If you pick a dog from this list, you have a good chance of getting what you want.
1. Shih Tzu
Are They Calm? This adorable lapdog is dedicated to its family and pleased to relax with them. They are devoted to one person but can make good family dogs.
Shedding? Despite being one of the least shed dog breeds, Shih Tzus nevertheless need grooming. If the coat is long, it should be combed several times a week, and if it is short, it should be cut every month to six weeks. (I’ve heard that dogs with short hair shed more because loose hairs aren’t removed while brushing and fall out on the carpet. If you brush your short-haired Shih Tzu daily, he won’t shed.
They Alone? I’ve encountered a few “outliers” that are OK being alone, but this dog breed can’t be left alone all day. The Shih Tzu was bred as a lap dog and becomes anxious when alone.
Adolescents? Because these dogs need less activity, some owners neglect to take them out, resulting in house-soiling. If handled like a baby, they might acquire “little dog syndrome.”
Ailments? Kids regard them as plush animals, therefore they may be hurt during violent play. Most of their other difficulties are due to their physique; their small noses cause respiratory issues and their prominent eyes are prone to illness. One-fifth of these dogs have hip dysplasia, which is too many.
2. Lhasa Apso
Are They Calm? Lhasas were developed to keep Tibetan monks warm, so they were quiet. They are not little dogs (about 6 or 7 kilos, or 15 pounds or more), and tend to bark more than the Shih Tzu.
Shedding? The breed sheds less. They definitely need to be maintained, but may be kept in a short “puppy cut” if you can’t brush them out weekly. (A puppy cut may increase shedding.) Minimal shedding)
They Alone? These canines were bred to be lap dogs. They’re not as “Velcro” as others, but they can’t be left alone all day.
Adolescents? The dog’s guard-like nature causes most of the behavioral concerns. They make a good watchdog since they’re distrustful of outsiders and growl at unexpected noises. Lhasas may be “headstrong” if they acquire tiny dog syndrome. They’re not advised for houses with tiny children, but they’re great for calm elderly.
Ailments? Lhasas are prone to skin, eye, and renal disorders. Check a puppy’s parents for hip dysplasia before buying it. They live 15 years if healthy.
3. Bolognese
Are They Calm? Most owners of this unusual canine breed say it’s calmer than others (like the Bichon Frisé). They require regular activity yet are quieter than other tiny dogs.
Shedding? These little dogs shed relatively little, like the Bichon and Maltese. If you don’t want to groom them three times a week, they may get a “puppy cut.”
They Alone? Although they’re quieter than certain little breeds (like the Maltese), they can’t be left alone all day.
Adolescents? These dogs need regular exercise to keep calm and reduce behavioral issues. They don’t bark as much as other little dogs, but being a unique breed, there’s a lot to learn about them.
Ailments? Luxating patellas affect most small breeds, including the Bolognese. Some smaller dogs have hip dysplasia, although it’s less frequent.
4. Maltese
Are They Calm? Due to its peaceful disposition, the Maltese is considered a lazy dog breed. If they didn’t bark, they’d be the quietest breed. (Shih Tzu wins among little dogs. The Malshi is a fine hybrid, however it may bark.)
Shedding? This dog has a “hair” coat rather than a fuzzy coat like many others and does not shed. Keep your Maltese’s hair short to minimize breakage. Maltese and Maltese hybrids should be groomed at least three times a week (particularly around the ears) to avoid matting.
They Alone? This is a quiet home dog that is ideal for working families. All dogs are sociable and are happier with a friend, but because this breed has minimal prey drive and gets along with cats and most small animals, their full-time partner may be any pet.
Misbehavior? I hear that these dogs bark excessively. My Maltese never had this difficulty since he always accompanied me. Some owners won’t discipline their spoilt pups if they bark too much, causing this issue. Some Maltese are timid around strangers and large dogs. Early socializing may avoid this condition.
Ailments? Maltese suffer dental issues, luxating patellas, and eye difficulties despite being healthy. (Tear staining is primarily cosmetic, although they get cherry eye.) Some Maltese suffer congestive heart disease and hypothyroidism.
5. Brussels Griffon (Rough Coated Variety)
Are They Calm? Chihuahuas are noted for their placid demeanor while cuddled up on the sofa They likely aren’t tranquil alone. They get along with cats and other small animals.
Shedding? This dog’s rough coat sheds more than the Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, or Maltese.
Can I Leave This Dog Alone? Some owners say this dog is “needy.” They don’t like being left alone all day.
Mood Issues? These dogs are great for retirees, but they might cause problems in a noisy environment. (Griffon breeders won’t adopt to families with rowdy kids) Small dog syndrome may drive the typical dog owner to the shelter.
Ailments? These canines have large eyes and are prone to cataracts and damage. Flat short faces cause respiratory issues. Small mouths and crowded teeth cause dental difficulties in these dogs. Along with grooming, clean teeth everyday. When cared for, they survive 10 to 15 years.
6. Xolotzcuintli
Are They Calm? Many owners remark on their pets’ calmness while they are with them. They don’t flourish in loud homes and prefer a quiet environment. The toy and tiny types are placid lap dogs, while the bigger species may be a security dog.
They Alone? Wearing Xolos all day is not advised. They like companionship and become lonely easily.
Shedding? Hairless dogs seldom shed, however they may have a few hairs on their forehead and tail. Xolos don’t have a second coat, hence they shed less. Some dogs’ short hair never mats and never needs brushing. (They’re great if you’re anxious about grooming but don’t mind bathing your dog sometimes.)
Adolescents? The primary issue I’ve heard about these dogs is that they’re “Velcro” types and excessively attached to their owners. A backyard is ideal for exercising. If left alone, they whimper, bark, and dig and chew their housing.
Ailments? Their hairless skin makes them more prone to ailments than other purebred canines. Dry skin may require oatmeal baths and coconut oil on rough places. These dogs may inherit missing molar teeth, although they pose little difficulties if cared for properly.
7. Bergamasco
Are They Calm? Bergamascos are enormous working dogs, yet they’re placid and quiet like giant livestock guard dogs. (Like Great Pyrenees, except they shed.) They’re vigilant like all livestock guard dogs.
Shedding? The coat isn’t combed, and stray hairs adhere to the dreadlocks. If you prefer a medium to big breed (50 to 80 pounds) without loose hair or extensive grooming, choose this breed.
They Alone? They’re self-sufficient. Unlike certain big dog breeds, this dog shouldn’t be left alone unless it has companionship.
Adolescents? If not left alone all day, they’re typically well-behaved. They may be harmful if bored. Their size makes this a concern.
Ailments? Hip dysplasia may affect healthy dogs. Breeder certifies parents. They are also prone to bloat, which is caused by their shape and cannot be controlled by breeding.
8. Hybrid Giants
Are They Calm? There are many peaceful huge dogs, however they shed a lot. The only non-shedding giants are poodle hybrids. Mastipoos are more excitable than English Mastiffs. Watch the linked movie to view additional photographs of peaceful Newfipoos.)
Shedding? Many individuals who are sensitive to dog hair or don’t want a shedding dog prefer a Poodle hybrid (Bernedoodle, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle). (This sometimes works.) You may ask for a guarantee, but most families won’t return a dog after a few months. If you choose one of these pets, brush everyday to avoid matting.
They alone? No, but it depends on the person. Giant breeds like the Bernese are among of the calmest dogs, yet they grow agitated if left alone all day.
Adolescents? Most behavioral difficulties I’ve seen arise from dogs being terrific family pets. They get anxious and destructive when alone.
Ailments? Hybrid giants have less health issues than purebred giants, but they won’t survive more than 10 years. Ask the breeder for hip, elbow, and heart abnormalities. As soon as you get your new puppy home, take him to the vet for a comprehensive checkup.