Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly disposition, intelligence, and beautiful coats, making them one of the most popular family dogs. However, their significant shedding can be a challenge for many households, especially those with allergy sufferers or simply a desire for less pet hair. If you adore the Golden Retriever’s temperament but need a dog that doesn’t shed, you’re in luck! There are numerous breeds and crossbreeds that offer similar loving qualities without the constant cleanup. This guide explores the best low-shedding dogs, focusing on those that capture the essence of a Golden Retriever while being more compatible with an allergen-conscious lifestyle.
Understanding “Hypoallergenic” and Low-Shedding Dogs
The term “hypoallergenic” is often misunderstood when it comes to dogs. While no dog is entirely allergen-free, certain breeds are considered “hypoallergenic” because they shed less dander—the microscopic flakes of skin that attach to pet hair and trigger allergic reactions in humans. All dogs produce allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine, but breeds with specific coat types, such as those that are curly, wiry, or hairless, tend to release fewer allergens into their environment. These coats often trap shed hair rather than releasing it, significantly reducing the amount of dander and hair around the house. This makes them a more suitable choice for individuals prone to allergies. When searching for a companion that embodies the spirit of a Golden Retriever but offers a lower-shedding coat, understanding these distinctions is key to finding the right match.
Exploring Breeds That Don’t Shed Like Golden Retrievers
For those who love the Golden Retriever but are seeking a low-shedding alternative, several breeds and popular crossbreeds offer intelligence, trainability, and affectionate natures without the heavy shedding. Many of these dogs share the Poodle’s genetics, known for its non-shedding, curly coat.
1. Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle is arguably the most direct answer to the query “dogs like Golden Retrievers that don’t shed.” As a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, Goldendoodles inherit many of the best traits from both parents. They are known for their friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable nature, making them excellent family pets. Their coats, which can vary from wavy to curly, are low-shedding and often considered hypoallergenic. While many Goldendoodles are recognized for their golden coat, a nod to their Golden Retriever lineage, they can come in a wide array of colors and textures. They require regular grooming with a dog slicker brush to prevent matting and keep their coats healthy. Their affectionate demeanor and adaptability make them a top choice for families seeking a low-shedding, Golden-Retriever-like companion.
2. Labradoodle
Similar to the Goldendoodle, the Labradoodle is a crossbreed resulting from a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Originally bred to be hypoallergenic service dogs, Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and make excellent family pets. They are highly trainable and generally gentle, especially when well-exercised and socialized from an early age. Their low-shedding coats come in various textures, from wiry to fleece-like, requiring regular grooming to maintain their condition. Labradoodles share the Golden Retriever’s enthusiasm for life and playful spirit, making them another fantastic option for those seeking a less-shedding breed with a retriever-like personality.
3. Poodle
The Poodle is the cornerstone of many low-shedding breeds and crossbreeds. Available in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—Poodles are highly intelligent and don’t shed much. The Standard Poodle, the largest of the three, was initially bred for hunting and possesses an athletic build and a keen mind, similar to a retriever. All Poodles require extensive grooming, including regular brushing and professional clipping, to prevent their curly coats from tangling and matting. Their playful nature, elegance, and low-shedding coats make them an excellent choice for individuals who admire the Golden Retriever’s intelligence and desire an active, companionable dog without the shedding.
white poodle walking through grassPoodles are renowned for their intelligence and low-shedding, curly coats, available in various sizes to suit different households.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
This medium-sized breed was originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, retrieving lost gear and herding fish. Portuguese Water Dogs possess a thick, curly coat that sheds minimally, making them a popular choice among those seeking a hypoallergenic companion. They are intelligent, highly trainable, and friendly, much like Golden Retrievers, with a notable love for water. These high-energy pups require regular exercise, including activities like swimming, to stay happy and healthy. Their active nature and amiable disposition align well with the retriever spirit, providing a low-shedding alternative for adventurous families.
5. Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic hypoallergenic dog. Both parent breeds contribute to their smarts and vigor. Aussiedoodles thrive on lots of exercise and mental stimulation with enrichment toys like dog treat dispensers. Without adequate engagement, they can become destructive. Their friendly nature and intelligence make them appealing to those who appreciate the active and bright characteristics of Golden Retrievers but need a dog with significantly less shedding.
6. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a charming crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. These large hypoallergenic dogs are renowned for their friendly, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor, making them a popular choice for families with children and other pets. They inherit the loving loyalty of the Bernese and the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. Just like Golden Retrievers, Bernedoodles need plenty of exercise to stay active and happy. Their adaptable and amiable personality, combined with their reduced shedding, makes them a wonderful option for those seeking a larger, gentle companion.
large bernedoodle dog lying in grass with his tongue outBernedoodles are known for their friendly, gentle nature and make excellent family pets with a low-shedding coat.
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originating in Italy, Lagotto Romagnolo dogs were initially bred as water retrievers, similar to the working background of Golden Retrievers. Their curly, woolly coats protected them from chilly waters and are notably low-shedding. While less common than some other hypoallergenic breeds, Lagotti Romagnoli (the proper plural) are known for being good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. They are active, intelligent, and thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity. Their retriever instincts and low-maintenance shedding coat make them a unique and rewarding choice for an active family looking for a Golden Retriever alternative.
8. Irish Water Spaniel
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are another water dog breed originally bred for retrieving game. Their thick, curly coat requires regular grooming and is always liver (brown) in color, offering a distinct appearance while being low-shedding. Exercise is essential to keep an Irish Water Spaniel happy and healthy, as the breed has a high energy level. Their retrieving instincts and active lifestyle make them a good fit for families who enjoy outdoor activities and appreciate a dog with a robust, playful personality without the heavy shedding typically associated with other retrievers.
9. Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized, robust dog with a wiry, low-shedding coat. While not a “doodle,” they possess an intelligent, spirited, and protective nature that can appeal to those who appreciate the versatility and loyalty of a Golden Retriever. Standard Schnauzers are energetic and love to spend their days taking long walks, playing fetch, and solving dog puzzle toys. They require regular grooming, including stripping or clipping, to maintain their coat. Their alert and devoted personality makes them a wonderful companion for an active household seeking a less-shedding, intelligent dog.
gray standard schnauzer standing in a fieldA gray Standard Schnauzer stands alert in a grassy field, showcasing its wiry coat.
10. Barbet
Pronounced “bar-bay,” the Barbet is a cheerful pup with a shaggy, woolly coat that is naturally protective and low-shedding. The name “Barbet” comes from the French word barbe, meaning beard, highlighting the dog’s characteristically hairy chin. These big hypoallergenic dogs adore swimming, much like Golden Retrievers, thanks to their protective curly coats. To maintain their coat in good condition, especially after water activities, Barbets benefit from brushing with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week. Their amiable temperament and love for water make them a delightful choice for families looking for a less-shedding, retriever-like companion.
Other Notable Low-Shedding Breeds
While the “doodle” breeds and Poodles are often the first thought for Golden Retriever-like dogs that don’t shed, many other breeds offer low-shedding coats and wonderful temperaments. These include:
- Miniature Schnauzer: A smaller, smart, and adaptable dog with a wiry coat requiring daily exercise.
- Giant Schnauzer: Capable of reaching over 27 inches tall, these dogs need lots of exercise and are among the biggest hypoallergenic dogs. They share the loyalty and intelligence of their smaller counterparts.
- Bichon Frise: Small, playful, and affectionate with a curly, hypoallergenic coat. Highly intelligent and trainable, they master basics quickly with positive reinforcement.
- Chinese Crested: Known for their unique appearance, both hairless and powderpuff varieties are hypoallergenic, playful, and affectionate.
- Affenpinscher: Small dogs with a monkey-like appearance, their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens but requires regular brushing and stripping.
- Bolognese: Cute, playful, and easygoing pups with long, fluffy white coats that need lots of grooming despite their messy appearance. They get along well with children and other pets.
- Maltese: A small dog known for their luxurious white coat, Maltese are affectionate and playful companions, requiring consistent grooming.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: A medium-sized Irish breed with a silky, soft coat that doesn’t shed much. Wheatens are high-energy dogs needing ample exercise and stimulation.
- Coton de Tulear: A small, easygoing breed from Madagascar, known for their good nature with other pets and kids.
- Schnoodle: A cross between two hypoallergenic breeds, the Schnauzer and Poodle, resulting in a low-shedding coat that can be curly or wavy.
- Bedlington Terrier: Often called “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” this small, curly-haired breed is distinctive for its topknot and ear tufts. They thrive on companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
- Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog): One of the oldest and rarest breeds, available in hairless or short-coated varieties, both of which are hypoallergenic.
- Whoodle: A cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, known for being friendly and low-shedding, inheriting intelligence and affection from both parents.
- Shorkie: A mixed breed of Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier, combining the best traits of both: small, playful, and friendly, but requiring regular grooming.
- Afghan Hound: Known for their long, flowing coats and slender builds, these fast pups are loving towards family but can be aloof with strangers, requiring early socialization.
- Shih-Poo: A mix of a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (often Toy Poodle), this small pup adapts well to almost any living situation, needing about 30 minutes of exercise and daily brushing.
- Peruvian Inca Orchid: A rare, ancient breed that is hypoallergenic due to its nearly hairless body, available in small, medium, and large sizes.
- Malshi: A happy, small hypoallergenic dog resulting from a Maltese and Shih Tzu cross. They thrive on close companionship.
For a comprehensive [list of dogs that don’t shed], explore more breeds to find your perfect match.
Tips for Living With a Low-Shedding Dog
Even with a low-shedding dog, managing allergens and maintaining a clean environment is crucial for both your health and your pet’s well-being.
Keep Up With Grooming
Low-shedding dogs often require more dedicated grooming to prevent matting and maintain coat health, as their hair doesn’t fall out easily. Regular grooming and bathing are essential to keep their coats clean and minimize dander in the home. Ideally, dogs should be groomed weekly and bathed every four to six weeks. Using a specialized shampoo, such as Allerpet® Dog Dander Remover, can help further reduce pet dander. Many low-shedding breeds also need regular trimming, hand-stripping, or other professional grooming upkeep. Budget for regular visits to a professional groomer, or learn how to groom your pup at home. To learn more, check out this [list of dogs that don’t shed hair].
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
Minimizing allergens extends beyond your dog’s coat to your living space. Regularly vacuuming, dusting, and washing bedding are important steps to reduce pet dander. Using air purifiers and ensuring good ventilation throughout your home can also help reduce airborne allergens. A consistent cleaning routine will create a more comfortable environment for everyone. If you’re looking for [list of big dogs that don’t shed], consider how a larger dog might impact your cleaning routine, even with a low-shedding coat. For those interested in smaller companions, exploring a [list of small dogs that don’t shed] might be more suitable.
Consult Your Doctor
If you or a family member has allergies, managing them effectively is paramount. Always consult with your healthcare provider to discuss strategies for preventing allergic reactions. Various treatments are available, including medication, nasal sprays, and injections. It’s also wise to avoid close contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also trigger allergic responses. Choosing from a [list of hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed] is a great first step, but medical advice can provide additional safeguards.
Bringing home a dog that doesn’t shed like a Golden Retriever can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the joy and companionship of pet parenthood without the constant allergic reactions. By carefully considering the breeds mentioned and implementing proper care routines, you can find a loyal, loving companion that fits perfectly into your home.
References:
- Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH. (Source Article for Factual Information).
