For many dog lovers, the joy of pet ownership comes with a hairy downside: shedding. While shedding is a natural process for most canines, it can lead to endless cleaning, trigger allergies, and simply be a nuisance. If you’re dreaming of a canine companion that’s small enough to manage but substantial enough for adventures, and won’t leave a coat of fur on your furniture, you’re in the right place. This guide focuses on dogs that don’t shed a lot medium sized, offering the perfect blend of a manageable size and minimal hair for a cleaner, happier home.
The concept of a “hypoallergenic” dog is often associated with low shedding, but it’s important to understand that no dog is 100% allergen-free. Allergens are found in dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine, not just hair. However, breeds that shed less often release fewer dander-carrying hairs into the environment, significantly reducing allergens and the amount of loose fur around your home. For those seeking the companionship of a dog without the constant battle against pet hair or allergy symptoms, selecting a low-shedding, medium-sized dog breed that doesn’t shed can be a game-changer. These breeds offer a great balance, typically weighing between 20 to 60 pounds, making them adaptable to various living situations while still being sturdy companions. To explore more about which breeds might be the best fit for your home, consider checking out our guide on good family dogs that don’t shed much.
Understanding Low-Shedding vs. Hypoallergenic
The terms “low-shedding” and “hypoallergenic” are often used interchangeably, but it’s crucial to grasp their nuances. All dogs produce allergens, primarily from dander, saliva, and urine. Dogs commonly labeled “hypoallergenic” are those that typically produce fewer allergens due to their coat type, which traps dander and shed hair rather than releasing it into the environment. This means their hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, rather than having a growth cycle that includes significant shedding.
For individuals with allergies, choosing a medium-sized low-shedding dog breed can significantly reduce exposure to allergens. While a truly “allergen-free” dog doesn’t exist, these breeds are generally more compatible with allergy sufferers because they release less dander and hair. Beyond allergies, the benefit of low shedding translates directly to less hair around your home, on your clothes, and in your car – a major plus for any pet owner looking for a cleaner living space. This distinction is key when searching for the best dog to have that doesn’t shed.
Why Choose a Medium-Sized Dog?
Medium-sized dogs offer a unique set of advantages that make them highly desirable companions for many households. They are often robust enough to enjoy vigorous activities like hiking, jogging, and extended playtime, making them excellent partners for an active lifestyle. Yet, unlike larger breeds, they usually adapt more easily to smaller living spaces, from apartments to suburban homes, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Their size often translates to a sweet spot in terms of energy levels and trainability. They can be calm indoors but eager for adventure outside, and their intelligence often makes them highly responsive to training. This balance makes them ideal for families with children, singles, or seniors who want a dog that isn’t too delicate nor too overwhelming. When considering medium size dog breeds that don’t shed, you gain all these benefits with the added bonus of minimal cleanup and reduced allergy concerns.
Top Medium-Sized Dogs That Don’t Shed A Lot
Let’s dive into some of the most popular and suitable medium-sized dogs that don’t shed a lot, perfect for a wide range of lifestyles.
1. Poodle (Miniature and Standard)
White Miniature Poodle walking gracefully through green grass
Poodles are renowned for their intelligence and distinctive curly coats, making them one of the most recognized low-shedding breeds. While Standard Poodles can range into the larger size category, Miniature Poodles typically fall perfectly into the medium-sized bracket, offering a compact yet robust companion. All Poodle varieties possess a dense, curly coat that sheds minimally, as loose hairs are trapped within the curls rather than falling out.
- Size: Miniature Poodles usually weigh 10-15 pounds and stand 10-15 inches tall, while Standard Poodles can weigh 40-70 pounds and stand over 15 inches, with many falling into a comfortable medium-to-large range.
- Shedding: Extremely low shedding. Their single coat hair grows continuously, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
- Temperament: Highly intelligent, playful, elegant, and eager to please. They are very trainable and excel in various dog sports. Poodles are affectionate and good with families.
- Grooming: Requires regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks or consistent at-home brushing and clipping to prevent matting.
- Exercise: Needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family pets, loyal and good with children, especially when socialized early.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
Salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer wearing a pink harness in a vibrant park
The Miniature Schnauzer is a lively and charming breed that fits perfectly into the small-to-medium category. Known for their distinctive bearded snout and intelligent, inquisitive eyes, they are a robust and hardy breed in a compact package. Their wiry coat is a significant factor in their low-shedding nature.
- Size: Typically weighs 10-20 pounds and stands 12-14 inches tall, placing them at the smaller end of medium or a larger small dog.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their wiry double coat needs regular grooming, which helps manage any loose hair.
- Temperament: Alert, intelligent, spirited, and playful. Miniature Schnauzers are devoted to their families and make excellent watchdogs.
- Grooming: Requires regular hand-stripping or clipping every 5-8 weeks to maintain coat health and minimize shedding. Daily brushing is also recommended.
- Exercise: Needs at least an hour of daily exercise and mental challenges to keep them happy and well-behaved.
- Family Suitability: Good with children and other pets with proper socialization, they thrive on being part of family activities.
3. Standard Schnauzer
Gray Standard Schnauzer standing proudly in a green field
Stepping up in size from the Miniature, the Standard Schnauzer is a true medium-sized dog, embodying the classic Schnauzer look with a more substantial build. They share the intelligence and spirited nature of their smaller counterparts, along with the prized low-shedding coat.
- Size: Weighs 30-50 pounds and stands 17.5-19.5 inches tall, firmly within the medium range.
- Shedding: Low shedding, thanks to their dense, wiry double coat.
- Temperament: Intelligent, courageous, and highly spirited. Standard Schnauzers are strong-willed but very loyal and protective of their families.
- Grooming: Similar to the Miniature, they require regular hand-stripping or professional clipping to maintain their coat and minimize shedding.
- Exercise: High energy levels demand plenty of exercise, including long walks, runs, and engaging play sessions.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family guardians and companions for active households, they bond closely with their people.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red bandana, standing by water
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a robust, athletic, and highly intelligent breed. Their distinctive curly or wavy coat is virtually non-shedding, making them a superb choice for those seeking dogs that don’t shed a lot medium sized.
- Size: Typically weighs 35-60 pounds and stands 17-23 inches tall, placing them squarely in the medium category.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their single coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
- Temperament: Smart, energetic, playful, and adventurous. They are eager to please and highly trainable, often excelling in water sports and obedience.
- Grooming: Needs frequent brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for clipping.
- Exercise: High energy breed that requires substantial daily exercise, including swimming, fetching, and active playtime.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family dogs, especially for active households, though they can be quite boisterous as puppies.
5. Labradoodle (Medium Varieties)
Brown standard Labradoodle walking happily in a park
A delightful crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally developed as a hypoallergenic service dog. While they come in various sizes, medium Labradoodles offer the perfect blend of friendly temperament and low shedding.
- Size: Medium Labradoodles typically weigh 30-50 pounds and stand 18-20 inches tall.
- Shedding: Low shedding, especially those with more Poodle-like coats (curly or wavy fleece). Straight-coated Labradoodles may shed more.
- Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, eager to please, and highly trainable. They are known for their affectionate nature and patience.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting, especially with curlier coats.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime, to stay healthy and happy.
- Family Suitability: Outstanding family pets, known for being gentle with children and getting along well with other pets when properly socialized. To find out more about similar breeds, check out our list of most popular dog breeds that don’t shed.
6. Goldendoodle (Medium Varieties)
Golden Goldendoodle lying comfortably on a couch with a person in the background
Another popular Poodle cross, the Goldendoodle combines the friendly, devoted nature of the Golden Retriever with the low-shedding qualities of the Poodle. Medium Goldendoodles offer a cheerful and adaptable companion.
- Size: Medium Goldendoodles generally weigh 30-45 pounds and stand 17-20 inches tall.
- Shedding: Low shedding, particularly with curlier or wavy coats. Consistency in shedding can vary.
- Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, patient, and highly sociable. They are known for their gentle nature and playfulness.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent mats and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise to maintain their cheerful disposition and prevent boredom.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family dogs, known for being great with children and other pets, and thriving on companionship.
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Two curly-coated Lagotto Romagnolo dogs lying in dirt, gazing at the camera
The Lagotto Romagnolo, an ancient Italian breed, was originally bred for water retrieving and truffle hunting. Their rustic, woolly coat is dense and curly, acting as a natural barrier against shedding.
- Size: Weighs 24-35 pounds and stands 16-19 inches tall, making them a perfect medium-sized, low-shedding option.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their woolly double coat sheds minimally and helps trap dander.
- Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, eager to please, and energetic. They possess a keen sense of smell and a natural retrieving instinct.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing and occasional trimming or clipping to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.
- Exercise: Needs consistent daily exercise and mental stimulation, as they are intelligent working dogs.
- Family Suitability: Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized, making them a joyful addition to many families.
8. Irish Water Spaniel
Brown Irish Water Spaniel in profile, showcasing its distinct curly coat
A unique and charming breed, the Irish Water Spaniel is a robust and active dog known for its “rat tail” and distinctive curly coat. As a water retriever, their coat is naturally water-repellent and, importantly, low-shedding.
- Size: Weighs 45-68 pounds and stands 21-24 inches tall, placing them at the upper end of the medium size range.
- Shedding: Low shedding. Their thick, curly double coat is designed to protect them in water and sheds very little.
- Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, humorous, and highly trainable. They have a lively and enthusiastic nature.
- Grooming: Needs regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent matting and occasional trimming.
- Exercise: High energy levels require extensive daily exercise, including swimming, long walks, and mentally stimulating games.
- Family Suitability: Excellent companions for active families who can meet their exercise needs; they are generally good with children and eager to please.
9. Aussiedoodle (Medium Varieties)
Standard Aussiedoodle dog standing on a sandy beach
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a dynamic and intelligent hybrid. Medium Aussiedoodles combine the Poodle’s low-shedding coat with the Aussie’s energetic and bright personality.
- Size: Medium Aussiedoodles typically weigh 25-50 pounds and stand 18-22 inches tall.
- Shedding: Low shedding, particularly those with wavy or curly coats. Straight-coated variations may shed more.
- Temperament: Highly intelligent, energetic, playful, and affectionate. They thrive on mental and physical challenges.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting.
- Exercise: Very high energy needs. They require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Family Suitability: Excellent for active families who can provide consistent training and engagement. They are loyal and form strong bonds.
10. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog sitting on a log in a natural setting
This charming Irish terrier is known for its silky, soft coat that gives the breed its name. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a lively, affectionate dog that sheds minimally, making it an ideal choice for a medium-sized dog that doesn’t shed a lot.
- Size: Weighs 30-40 pounds and stands 17-19 inches tall, a classic medium-sized breed.
- Shedding: Low shedding. Their single, wavy coat grows continuously, requiring regular care.
- Temperament: Happy, playful, affectionate, and full of spirit. They are known for their “Wheaten greetin'” – enthusiastic jumps and licks to welcome their people.
- Grooming: Needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks for trimming.
- Exercise: Energetic and needs daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and opportunities to run.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family pets, especially good with children, and thrive on being an integral part of family life.
11. Schnoodle (Medium Varieties)
Close-up of a gray Schnoodle dog with curly fur
The Schnoodle is a designer crossbreed combining the low-shedding qualities of two popular breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them an excellent choice for a medium-sized dog that doesn’t shed much.
- Size: Medium Schnoodles can vary, typically weighing 20-40 pounds and standing 15-20 inches tall.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their coat can be curly or wavy, inheriting traits from either parent, but generally produces minimal loose hair.
- Temperament: Intelligent, playful, affectionate, and devoted. They are known for being adaptable and eager to please, often inheriting the best traits from both parents.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
- Family Suitability: Great family companions, generally good with children and other pets, and thrive on attention and interaction. For a broader perspective on similar dogs, explore medium sized dogs that dont shed a lot.
12. Bedlington Terrier
White Bedlington Terrier running through fresh snow
Often described as a “lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a distinctive and elegant breed with a unique curly, linty coat. This coat is very low-shedding, making them a good fit for allergy sufferers.
- Size: Weighs 17-23 pounds and stands 15-17.5 inches tall, fitting into the small-to-medium range.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their unique coat traps loose hair and dander.
- Temperament: Affectionate, charming, playful, and intelligent. They are devoted to their families but can have a terrier’s independent streak.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for clipping and shaping their distinctive look.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime, to burn off energy.
- Family Suitability: Good family dogs that thrive on companionship and participation in family activities, though early socialization is important.
13. Xoloitzcuintli (Medium Varieties)
Black Mexican Hairless Dog standing elegantly in green grass
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and striking breed. They come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard), with miniature and standard versions fitting the medium-sized criteria. Their hairless variety is a true non-shedding option.
- Size: Miniature Xolos weigh 15-30 pounds, while Standard Xolos weigh 30-55 pounds, making them ideal medium-sized dogs that don’t shed.
- Shedding: Hairless variety sheds absolutely none. Coated Xolos have a very short, sparse coat that sheds minimally.
- Temperament: Calm, alert, intelligent, and loyal. They are typically reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with their families.
- Grooming: Hairless varieties need skin care (sunscreen, moisturizing). Coated varieties need minimal brushing. All need regular bathing.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime.
- Family Suitability: Excellent companions for attentive families, though their sensitive nature means they thrive in a stable, loving environment.
14. Whoodle
Tan Whoodle puppy dragging a washcloth playfully
The Whoodle is a delightful crossbreed between a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle. This combination results in a friendly, intelligent, and relatively non-shedding dog that fits well into the medium-sized category.
- Size: Typically weighs 20-50 pounds and stands 12-20 inches tall, offering a nice medium range.
- Shedding: Low shedding, inheriting the desirable coat traits from both low-shedding parents.
- Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, playful, and charming. They are known for being outgoing and eager to please.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent boredom.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family pets, generally good with children and other animals, and thrives on being part of family activities.
15. Bernedoodle (Miniature Varieties)
Large Bernedoodle dog lying contentedly in grass with its tongue out
While Standard Bernedoodles can be quite large, Miniature Bernedoodles offer the wonderful blend of the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle nature and the Poodle’s low-shedding coat in a more manageable size. They are beloved for their affectionate personalities and striking looks.
- Size: Miniature Bernedoodles typically weigh 25-49 pounds and stand 18-22 inches tall, comfortably fitting into the medium category.
- Shedding: Low shedding, particularly those with curlier or wavy coats. Shedding levels can vary based on the Poodle influence.
- Temperament: Intelligent, playful, calm, and affectionate. They are known for being gentle giants (even in miniature form) and very good-natured.
- Grooming: Requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting.
- Exercise: Needs moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime, to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
- Family Suitability: Exceptional family dogs, known for being patient with children and generally getting along well with other pets.
16. Barbet
Close-up of a curly red Barbet dog's face, showcasing its shaggy, bearded appearance
The Barbet, a charming French water dog, is characterized by its long, shaggy, woolly coat and cheerful disposition. Its name, derived from the French word “barbe” (beard), hints at its distinctive facial hair. This breed’s coat is water-repellent and exceptionally low-shedding.
- Size: Weighs 35-65 pounds and stands 20-25 inches tall, placing them in the medium-to-large category, with many fitting comfortably as medium dogs.
- Shedding: Very low shedding. Their woolly, dense coat helps trap loose hairs.
- Temperament: Cheerful, intelligent, loyal, and social. Barbets are known for their loving nature and eagerness to please.
- Grooming: Needs frequent brushing (2-3 times a week) and regular professional grooming to prevent matting, especially after swimming.
- Exercise: Moderate to high energy, requiring daily exercise like long walks, fetching, and especially swimming, which they adore.
- Family Suitability: Excellent family dogs, good with children and other pets, and thrive on companionship and activities with their human family.
17. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Medium Varieties)
Peruvian Inca Orchid dog standing attentively
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare and ancient breed, revered for its elegance and unique appearance. Like the Xoloitzcuintli, they come in hairless and coated varieties across three sizes (small, medium, large). The medium-sized hairless variety is a truly zero-shedding dog.
- Size: Medium Peruvian Inca Orchids typically weigh 17-26 pounds and stand 15.75-19.75 inches tall.
- Shedding: Hairless variety sheds none. Coated varieties have a very short, sparse coat that sheds minimally.
- Temperament: Noble, intelligent, affectionate, and protective of their family. They can be reserved with strangers.
- Grooming: Hairless varieties require skin protection (sunscreen, moisturizing). Coated varieties are low-maintenance. All need regular bathing.
- Exercise: Needs daily moderate exercise, including walks and playtime, to stay physically and mentally fit.
- Family Suitability: Devoted companions for families who appreciate their unique qualities and can provide a calm, loving environment.
Tips for Living With a Low-Shedding Medium Dog
Even with a low-shedding breed, a little proactive care goes a long way in maintaining a clean home and a happy, healthy dog.
Consistent Grooming is Key
While these dogs don’t shed much, most still have continuously growing hair that can mat if not properly cared for.
- Regular Brushing: Brush your dog 2-3 times a week (or even daily for some breeds like Wheatens or Poodles) to remove loose hairs trapped in their coat and prevent tangles. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush suitable for their coat type.
- Professional Grooming: Many low-shedding breeds benefit from professional grooming every 4-8 weeks. This includes bathing, clipping, and sometimes hand-stripping, which is crucial for maintaining the texture of wiry coats. Budget for these regular appointments or learn how to groom your pup at home.
- Bathing: Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks using a dog-specific shampoo. Regular bathing helps keep their coat clean and can further reduce dander for allergy sufferers.
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
Even the lowest-shedding dog will still introduce some allergens and dander into your home.
- Regular Cleaning: Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner, dust surfaces, and wash bedding (yours and your dog’s) regularly to minimize the accumulation of dander.
- Air Purification: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in main living areas to capture airborne allergens.
- Ventilation: Keep your home well-ventilated by opening windows when possible or using filtered HVAC systems.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
If you or a family member has dog allergies, it’s essential to consult with your doctor. They can provide guidance on managing symptoms, including medication, nasal sprays, or allergy shots. While a low-shedding dog is a great step, understanding personal allergen sensitivities and having a management plan is crucial for a comfortable coexistence.
Bringing a medium-sized dog that doesn’t shed a lot into your life can offer the perfect companionship without the common drawbacks of excessive shedding. These breeds provide intelligence, affection, and energy in a manageable package, making them wonderful additions to diverse households. Before making your final decision, remember to research each breed’s specific needs to ensure a perfect match for your lifestyle.
For more information on selecting the right canine companion, explore our comprehensive guide on medium size dog breeds that don’t shed.
