Dogs are cherished family members in millions of homes, offering unwavering companionship and joy. However, for many individuals, the dream of pet parenthood is often clouded by pet allergies. While the term “hypoallergenic dog” is widely used, it’s a common misconception that such dogs are completely allergen-free. The truth is, all dogs produce allergens, but some breeds produce significantly less dander and shed much less hair, making them far more compatible for people with sensitivities. These are the “low-shedding” dog breeds, and they can be a wonderful solution for allergy sufferers seeking a furry friend.
Understanding which breeds genuinely fit this description, and what realistic expectations to have, is crucial. This comprehensive guide from Dog Care Story will delve into the world of low-shedding dogs, explore what makes them suitable for allergy-prone individuals, and introduce you to a diverse range of dog breeds that don’t shed too much, ensuring you can find your perfect companion without constant sneezes or itchy eyes.
Understanding Low-Shedding vs. Hypoallergenic Dogs
The term “hypoallergenic” literally means “below allergenic” or “less allergenic.” In the context of dogs, it implies that certain breeds are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. However, it’s vital to clarify that no dog is 100% allergen-free. The primary cause of dog allergies isn’t actually dog hair itself, but rather proteins found in a dog’s dander (dead skin flakes), saliva, and urine. These microscopic allergens become airborne or attach to shed hair, spreading throughout the environment.
So, how do “hypoallergenic” or low-shedding dogs factor in? These breeds typically have a different coat type, often with hair that grows continuously, similar to human hair, rather than having a short growth cycle that results in heavy shedding. This means they release fewer dander-carrying hairs into the environment. Additionally, many of these breeds have curly or wiry coats that trap dander and loose hair, preventing them from becoming airborne. Regular grooming of these coats then removes the trapped allergens before they can cause a reaction. Therefore, while no dog is truly allergen-free, dogs that don’t shed too much significantly reduce the amount of allergens circulating in your home, making them a much better choice for those with mild to moderate allergies. For individuals seeking a canine companion that minimizes allergen exposure, exploring various dogs that don’t shed as much can be a game-changer.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed Too Much
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best low-shedding dog breeds, each offering unique characteristics, temperaments, and grooming needs.
1. Poodle
A white Standard Poodle, one of the popular low-shedding dog breeds, walking gracefully in green grass.
Poodles are perhaps the quintessential low-shedding breed, celebrated for their elegance and exceptional intelligence. Available in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—they all share the same dense, curly, non-shedding coat. Originally bred as water retrievers, Poodles are highly intelligent and easily trainable, making them excellent companions. Their coats require consistent grooming to prevent matting, ideally with daily brushing and professional clipping every 4-6 weeks. Despite their sophisticated appearance, Poodles are playful and active dogs that thrive on mental stimulation and regular exercise.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
A blue and tan Yorkshire Terrier, known for its small size and affectionate nature, lounging comfortably on an armchair.
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are beloved for their small size, spunky personalities, and silky, human-like hair that sheds minimally. These charming little dogs are adaptable, capable of thriving in various living situations, from spacious homes to cozy apartments, as long as they receive ample attention and love from their families. Their fine coats require daily brushing to prevent tangles and regular trims to keep them neat. Yorkies are known for their confidence and affectionate nature, making them wonderful lap dogs and active companions.
3. Shih Tzu
A friendly brown and white Shih Tzu, a small low-shedding dog breed, lying peacefully on a living room floor.
The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed with a luxurious, flowing double coat that sheds very little. Known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, these small dogs adore being pampered and spending time with their human family. Their distinctive flat faces, while endearing, can make them susceptible to certain health issues like overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather. Regular eye cleaning is also essential to prevent tear stains. Despite their long coats, daily brushing and professional grooming are key to maintaining their appearance and preventing mats.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
A salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer, a smart and sturdy low-shedding dog, wearing a pink harness in a park.
Miniature Schnauzers are a robust and intelligent breed known for their distinctive beard and eyebrows, and a wiry double coat that sheds very little. Standing no more than 14 inches tall, they are well-suited for various home environments, provided they receive at least an hour of energetic exercise daily. These dogs are alert, spirited, and eager to please, making them highly trainable. Their coat requires regular brushing, hand-stripping (for traditional wiry texture), or professional clipping to stay in good condition.
5. Standard Schnauzer
A confident gray Standard Schnauzer, a medium-sized low-shedding breed, standing attentively in a field.
The Standard Schnauzer shares many admirable traits with its miniature counterpart but in a larger, more powerful build, weighing up to 45 pounds. They possess the same wiry, low-shedding coat, sharp intelligence, and lively disposition. Standard Schnauzers thrive on activity and mental engagement, loving long walks, games of fetch, and puzzle toys. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent family guardians. Like all Schnauzers, their coats need regular maintenance, including brushing and occasional hand-stripping or trimming.
6. Giant Schnauzer
A majestic black Giant Schnauzer, a large low-shedding dog breed, standing wet with a blue bow collar in a park.
As the largest of the Schnauzer breeds, Giant Schnauzers can reach over 27 inches in height and weigh up to 85 pounds. Despite their imposing size, they boast a low-shedding, wiry coat. These powerful and intelligent dogs require extensive exercise to stay happy and well-behaved, including long walks, runs, hikes, and vigorous play sessions. They are fiercely loyal and protective, often forming strong bonds with their families. Due to their size and energy, they are best suited for experienced owners who can provide consistent training and plenty of activity.
7. Bichon Frise
A charming white Bichon Frise dog, known for its playful spirit and curly, low-shedding coat, looking up from the grass.
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog with a distinctive powder-puff, curly white coat that sheds very little. They are known for their playful, affectionate, and charming personalities, making them delightful companions. Highly intelligent and eager to please, Bichons are quick learners and excel at obedience training and even fun tricks, especially with positive reinforcement. Their dense, soft coats require daily brushing and regular professional grooming (typically every 4-6 weeks) to prevent matting and keep them looking their best.
8. Chinese Crested
A unique black hairless Chinese Crested dog, a very low-shedding breed, looking directly at the camera.
The Chinese Crested is a small breed with a truly unique appearance, coming in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and paws, making it almost completely shed-free. The powderpuff version has a long, silky coat that also sheds minimally. Both varieties are affectionate, playful, and make wonderful companions. Their distinctive look and loving nature appeal to many, and their grooming needs vary greatly depending on the coat type.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
A black and white Portuguese Water Dog, a medium-sized breed with a thick, curly coat, wearing a red maple leaf bandana in front of water.
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, robust breed with a thick, curly, low-shedding coat. These intelligent, highly trainable, and friendly dogs are known for their energetic and adventurous spirits, especially their love for water. They require significant regular exercise, including swimming, to stay happy and healthy. Their waterproof coats need frequent brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting. For individuals looking for medium dogs that don’t shed much and love activity, the Portuguese Water Dog is an excellent choice.
10. Labradoodle
A friendly brown Standard Labradoodle, a popular low-shedding crossbreed, walking in a park.
The Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed, a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, originally developed to be a low-allergen service dog. They inherit the intelligence and friendly nature of both parent breeds, making them intelligent, highly trainable, and excellent family pets. Their coats can vary from wavy to curly, and while most are low-shedding, some may shed more depending on their genetic inheritance. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coats free of mats and tangles.
11. Goldendoodle
A charming Goldendoodle, known for its golden coat and friendly disposition, lying on a couch with a person in the background.
Another beloved “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, they are highly intelligent, have a friendly nature, and shed minimally. Their coats come in a wide range of colors and textures, from wavy to curly. Goldendoodles are known for their gentle and patient demeanor, making them wonderful companions for families. Frequent grooming with a slicker brush is necessary to prevent matting and maintain their beautiful coats.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Two expressive Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, known for their curly coats and truffle hunting skills, lying in dirt staring at the camera.
The Lagotto Romagnolo, an ancient Italian breed, was originally bred as a water retriever and is famous for its truffle-hunting abilities. They possess a dense, curly, woolly coat that is low-shedding and protects them from cold water. Lagotti Romagnoli (the proper plural) are known to be affectionate, intelligent, and generally good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. Their unique coat requires regular trimming and grooming to prevent matting and maintain its texture.
13. Affenpinscher
A close-up of a black Affenpinscher dog, known for its distinctive monkey-like appearance and wiry coat.
Affenpinschers are small, charming dogs known for their distinctive “monkey-like” facial expression. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens than many other breeds and sheds very little. Despite their small size, they have a big personality—curious, mischievous, and loyal. Their coat requires diligent care, including regular at-home brushing and professional stripping (a process of removing dead hair by the root) to maintain its characteristic texture.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
A profile view of a brown Irish Water Spaniel, an active water dog breed with a thick, curly, low-shedding coat.
The Irish Water Spaniel is a friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable water dog breed, originally bred for retrieving game. They are easily recognized by their distinctive “rat tail” and dense, tight curls that form a low-shedding, waterproof coat. Always liver (brown) in color, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. These dogs have a high energy level and require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and well-adjusted.
15. Aussiedoodle
A striking standard Aussiedoodle dog, an intelligent and energetic crossbreed, standing on a beach.
The Aussiedoodle is a dynamic cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle. This highly intelligent and energetic low-shedding dog inherits excellent traits from both parent breeds. They require significant exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Aussiedoodles thrive in active homes where they can participate in various activities like agility or canine sports. Their wavy to curly coats need regular brushing to prevent tangles.
16. Bolognese
A fluffy white Bolognese dog, an affectionate and easygoing low-shedding breed, sitting in an autumn forest.
Originating in Italy, the Bolognese is an adorable small dog with a long, fluffy white coat that sheds minimally. Despite its characteristic messy appearance, their coat requires diligent grooming to prevent matting. These playful and easygoing pups are known for getting along well with children and other pets, and they adapt comfortably to various living situations, making them excellent companions for many families.
17. Maltese
A woman lovingly holding a white Maltese dog, a small low-shedding breed known for its luxurious coat, on a bed.
The Maltese is a small, elegant dog breed renowned for its luxurious, silky white coat that sheds very little. They make affectionate and playful companions, thriving on close human interaction. While their long coats are stunning, they demand significant grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make daily care more manageable. Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential for maintaining the Maltese’s signature look.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
A cheerful Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog, a medium-sized low-shedding Irish breed, standing on a log.
As its name suggests, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier boasts an incredibly soft, silky coat that is a distinctive wheaten color and sheds minimally. This medium-sized Irish breed maintains a high energy level throughout its life, requiring ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and ensure good behavior. Wheatens are generally friendly, lively, and make devoted family members, though their enthusiastic greetings may need some training. Their unique coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats.
19. Coton de Tulear
A beautiful white Coton de Tulear, a small, easygoing low-shedding breed, sitting in grass with its hair blowing in the wind.
The Coton de Tulear, a small, charming breed from Madagascar, is known for its cotton-like coat that is incredibly soft and sheds minimally. These easygoing and affectionate pups are highly adaptable and get along well with other pets and children, especially when properly introduced and socialized. Their cheerful disposition and manageable size make them ideal for various family dynamics. Despite their fluffy appearance, their coats require regular brushing to prevent mats.
20. Schnoodle
A close-up of a friendly gray Schnoodle, a low-shedding crossbreed of a Schnauzer and Poodle.
The Schnoodle is a delightful crossbreed that combines two low-shedding parents: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This results in a dog with a coat that can be curly or wavy but is always low-shedding. Schnoodles are known for being intelligent, playful, and affectionate, inheriting the best traits from both breeds. They are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, making wonderful companions for families or individuals. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free.
21. Bedlington Terrier
A distinctive white Bedlington Terrier, often called "a lamb in dog's clothing," running gracefully through snow.
Often described as “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed recognized by its distinctive topknot and pom-pom ear tufts. Their woolly coat is low-shedding and requires regular professional grooming. Bedlington Terriers are affectionate and devoted to their families but can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They are energetic and playful, needing consistent exercise and training to channel their terrier instincts.
22. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
A sleek black Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli), an ancient and low-shedding breed, standing in grass.
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the world’s oldest and rarest breeds. Available in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, they come in hairless and coated varieties. Both types are considered low-shedding. The hairless Xolo is almost completely free of hair, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. They are calm, intelligent, and loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their families. Skin care is important for the hairless variety, including sun protection and moisturizing.
23. Whoodle
A playful tan Whoodle puppy, a cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, dragging a washcloth.
A Whoodle is a charming cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle. This results in a friendly, intelligent dog that sheds very little. Whoodles inherit an affectionate nature and intelligence from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and wonderful companions. Their wavy to curly coats require regular brushing to prevent mats and maintain their soft texture. They are energetic dogs that thrive on daily exercise and social interaction.
24. Bernedoodle
A large, gentle Bernedoodle dog, a popular low-shedding family pet, lying in grass with its tongue out.
Bernedoodles are a popular crossbreed, combining the friendly, gentle nature of a Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle. These large, affectionate dogs are renowned for their patience and gentle demeanor, making them a popular choice for families with children and other pets. Bernedoodles require plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, and their wavy or curly coats need consistent grooming to prevent matting. For families looking for best family large dogs that don’t shed, the Bernedoodle is a strong contender.
25. Shorkie
A small tricolor Shorkie dog, a playful Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier mix, sitting on a hiking trail.
The Shorkie is a delightful mixed breed, a cross between two low-shedding dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. They embody the best qualities of both breeds: small, playful, friendly, and deeply devoted to their human companions. Like most dogs on this list, Shorkies require dedication to a regular grooming routine, including daily brushing, to keep their fine coats free of tangles and mats. Their small size and affectionate nature make them ideal lap dogs.
26. Afghan Hound
A regal gray and tan Afghan Hound, known for its long, flowing coat and elegant build, looking at the camera.
Afghan Hounds are striking dogs, famous for their long, flowing, silky coats and slender, aristocratic builds. Despite their voluminous hair, they are considered low-shedding, with hair that grows similarly to human hair. These pups are built for speed and endurance. Afghan Hounds are loving and devoted to their families but can be quite aloof towards strangers, making early and consistent socialization vital for this breed. Their magnificent coats require extensive daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats.
27. Barbet
A close-up of a cheerful curly red Barbet dog face, known for its shaggy, woolly, low-shedding coat.
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful and amiable dog with a distinctive shaggy, woolly coat that sheds minimally. The breed’s name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard, a nod to its characteristically hairy chin. These big, energetic dogs love to swim, thanks to their protective curly coats. To keep a Barbet’s coat in good condition, especially after water activities, regular brushing with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week is essential to prevent matting.
28. Shih-Poo
A cute tan and black Shih-Poo dog, a small low-shedding crossbreed, in a close-up shot.
The Shih-Poo is a charming mixed breed, typically a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle. This small pup is highly adaptable and can thrive in almost any living situation, as long as they receive about 30 minutes of daily exercise and consistent brushing sessions. Shih-Poos are known for their playful, affectionate, and intelligent personalities, making them delightful companions for individuals or families. Their soft, wavy to curly coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
A distinctive Peruvian Inca Orchid dog, an ancient and rare hairless breed, known for being low-shedding.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare and ancient dog breed, recognized for its almost entirely hairless body, which makes it an excellent low-shedding choice for allergy sufferers. This breed comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—and is the national dog of Peru. They are known to be alert, affectionate with their families, and gentle. The hairless variety requires specific skin care, including protection from sun exposure and cold weather, as well as regular moisturizing.
30. Malshi
A sweet tricolor Malshi dog, a happy and small low-shedding crossbreed, sitting in green grass.
The Malshi is a happy and small low-shedding dog, a delightful cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. These charming pups thrive on close companionship and are happiest when they are near their favorite humans. Malshis are known for their affectionate, playful, and gentle natures, making them wonderful family pets. Their fluffy coats require daily brushing to prevent tangles and regular professional grooming to maintain their soft texture and prevent matting.
Living Happily with a Low-Shedding Dog: Essential Tips
While choosing a dog breed that doesn’t shed too much is a significant step, successful pet ownership for allergy sufferers involves more than just selecting the right breed. Here are crucial tips to minimize allergen exposure and ensure a harmonious home environment:
Regular Grooming is Key
Even low-shedding dogs require consistent grooming to manage dander and loose hairs that do accumulate. Regular brushing, ideally several times a week, helps remove dead skin cells and hair before they can become airborne. For breeds with continuously growing hair, professional grooming appointments every 4-8 weeks are essential for trimming and preventing matting. Regular bathing, typically every 4-6 weeks with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo, can also significantly reduce dander. Consider using specialized dander-reducing products or wipes between baths. If you’re looking for guidance on finding the perfect low-shedding companion for your family, you might want to show me dogs that don’t shed to help narrow down your options.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Minimizing allergens in your home environment is just as important as grooming your dog. Establish a rigorous cleaning routine:
- Vacuum frequently: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to effectively capture pet dander from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
- Dust regularly: Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to remove settled allergens.
- Wash bedding: Regularly wash pet beds, blankets, and your own bedding in hot water.
- Air purification: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in main living areas and bedrooms to reduce airborne allergens.
- Restrict access: Consider keeping your low-shedding dog out of bedrooms to create an allergen-free zone for sleeping.
- Hard flooring: If possible, opt for hard flooring (wood, tile, laminate) over carpets, as carpets can trap allergens more easily.
Consult Your Doctor and Veterinarian
For managing pet allergies, a multi-faceted approach is always best. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss allergy management strategies, which may include antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy shots (immunotherapy). Your veterinarian can also offer advice on coat care, diet, and overall health to help minimize dander production. Remember that allergens are also present in a dog’s saliva and urine, so it’s important to avoid close contact with these fluids. A responsible approach combining breed selection, diligent home maintenance, and medical advice offers the best chance for a happy, sneeze-free life with your beloved canine.
Conclusion
Choosing a dog is a significant decision, and for those with allergies, finding dog breeds that don’t shed too much can open up the world of pet ownership. While no dog is completely “hypoallergenic,” the breeds highlighted in this guide produce fewer allergens and shed minimally, making them far more compatible for individuals with sensitivities. From the intelligent Poodle to the charming Maltese, and active Portuguese Water Dog to the unique Xoloitzcuintli, there’s a low-shedding companion suitable for nearly every lifestyle and family.
Remember that successful integration requires more than just breed selection; it demands consistent grooming, a clean home environment, and, when necessary, consultation with medical professionals. With careful planning and dedication, you can enjoy the profound joy and companionship that a dog brings, without the constant worry of allergic reactions. Explore these wonderful breeds, consider their unique needs, and find the perfect furry friend to enrich your life.
WRITTEN BY
Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH
Veterinarian Technician
