Many dog lovers dream of bringing a canine companion into their homes, but concerns about shedding often hold them back. Whether you’re dealing with allergies or simply prefer less dog hair around the house, finding a breed that doesn’t shed much hair can make pet ownership a far more enjoyable experience. While no dog is entirely shed-free or “100% hypoallergenic” in the strictest sense, some breeds naturally produce less dander and shed significantly less, making them ideal choices for many households. This guide will delve into what makes certain dogs low-shedding and highlight numerous fantastic breeds that fit the bill, helping you find your perfect furry friend.
Understanding why some dogs shed less is key. It’s not the hair itself that typically triggers allergies, but rather the dander – microscopic flakes of skin that dogs shed along with their fur. Dogs that shed less tend to release less dander into the environment. Additionally, breeds with continuously growing hair, similar to human hair, often don’t “blow their coat” like double-coated breeds, resulting in less loose hair in your home. Instead, their dead hair often gets caught in their active coats, requiring regular brushing to remove. If you’re looking for a companion that offers both joy and a cleaner home, exploring the world of small to medium dog breeds that don’t shed is a great place to start, as they can be a wonderful fit for various living situations and lifestyles.
What Makes a Dog a Low-Shedder?
All dogs produce allergens, primarily from their skin, saliva, and urine, not just their hair. However, dogs that don’t shed much hair release fewer allergens into their environment simply because they distribute less dander. These breeds often have a single coat or hair that grows continuously, trapping loose hair and dander within their coat rather than releasing it into your home. This characteristic requires consistent grooming, as regular brushing is essential to remove trapped hair and prevent matting.
Even with a low-shedding dog, it’s important to remember that no dog is completely allergen-free. Individuals with severe allergies may still experience reactions. However, for many, choosing a dog that doesn’t shed much hair can significantly reduce allergic responses such as coughing, itching, or wheezing, making the dream of dog ownership a reality.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed Much Hair
While there’s no such thing as a truly non-shedding dog, many breeds produce minimal hair and dander, making them excellent choices for those seeking a cleaner home or struggling with mild allergies. Here’s a look at some of the best dogs that don’t shed much hair, offering diverse sizes, temperaments, and grooming requirements.
1. Poodle
The Poodle is perhaps the quintessential low-shedding dog. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, all three varieties are renowned for their curly, dense coats that trap shed hair, preventing it from spreading around your home. Poodles are also celebrated for their exceptional intelligence and trainability, making them highly versatile companions. Originally bred as water retrievers, their coat served a practical purpose in protecting them from the elements. This breed requires consistent grooming, including regular brushing and professional clipping, to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive look.
White Poodle walking through lush green grass, looking elegant
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Little Yorkies are charming, spunky, and affectionate dogs known for their silky, fine hair that closely resembles human hair, meaning it grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally. This characteristic makes them fantastic low-shedding companions. Yorkshire Terriers adapt well to various living situations, from spacious homes to smaller apartments, provided they receive ample attention and affection from their human family. Their compact size and vibrant personality make them a popular choice for those seeking a lively yet low-shedding pet.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed with a luxurious, thick double coat that, surprisingly, sheds very little. Instead of falling out, their hair grows long and continuously, requiring regular grooming to keep it free of tangles and mats. Known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, Shih Tzus are endearing family pets. However, their distinctive flat faces can predispose them to certain health concerns, such as breathing difficulties, overheating, and tear staining. Regular eye cleaning can help manage tear stains, and pet parents should be mindful of their breathing in hot weather.
Brown and white Shih Tzu lying comfortably on a living room floor
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are robust, intelligent dogs with a distinctive wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat that sheds minimally. These alert and lively companions typically stand no more than 14 inches tall and weigh between 10–20 pounds, making them suitable for many different living environments. They are intelligent and highly trainable, but their energetic nature means they need at least an hour of exercise daily to stay happy and well-behaved. Their unique coat requires regular stripping or clipping to maintain its texture and low-shedding qualities.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Sharing many excellent qualities with their miniature counterparts, the Standard Schnauzer offers a larger package of a low-shedding, intelligent companion. Weighing up to 45 pounds, these dogs thrive on activity and mental stimulation. They love long walks, playing fetch, and engaging with puzzle toys. Their strong protective instincts make them good watchdogs, and their robust build makes them excellent partners for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures. Like other Schnauzers, their wiry coat requires regular professional grooming.
Gray Standard Schnauzer standing alertly in a field, observing its surroundings
6. Giant Schnauzer
As one of the largest low-shedding breeds, Giant Schnauzers can reach over 27 inches in height and weigh up to 85 pounds. These imposing yet devoted dogs require significant exercise to maintain their happiness and health. Long walks, runs, hikes, and vigorous games of fetch are essential to keep their high energy levels in check. Their dense, wiry coat is low-shedding but needs consistent grooming to prevent matting and maintain its characteristic appearance. Giant Schnauzers are intelligent and courageous, making them excellent working dogs and loyal family protectors.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, playful, and affectionate companion with a soft, curly, powder-puff coat that sheds very little. Instead, loose hairs are caught within their dense curls. Highly intelligent and eager to please, Bichons are remarkably trainable and can quickly learn basic commands and fun tricks with positive reinforcement. Their cheerful demeanor and adaptable nature make them wonderful family pets, fitting seamlessly into various lifestyles. However, their beautiful white coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent mats and keep them looking their best.
White Bichon Frise dog with a bright expression looking up while sitting in the grass
8. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique small breed known for its distinctive appearance. There are two varieties: the hairless, with smooth skin and tufts of hair on the head, tail, and paws, and the Powderpuff, covered in a long, silky coat. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless version produces minimal dander, while the Powderpuff’s coat traps shed hair. These dogs are playful, affectionate, and make wonderful companions, thriving on close interaction with their families. They are also quite adaptable to apartment living.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed known for its robust build and thick, curly coat that sheds minimally. Their water-resistant coat makes them excellent swimmers and active companions. Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, highly trainable, and friendly, making them fantastic family pets. They are high-energy dogs that require regular, vigorous exercise, including swimming, to stay happy and healthy. Their curly coat needs frequent brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting. For those seeking big fluffy dog breeds that don’t shed, the Portuguese Water Dog can be a great medium-sized option.
Black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red maple leaf bandana, sitting near water
10. Labradoodle
A popular crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally developed as a low-shedding service dog. These intelligent, friendly, and highly trainable dogs inherit the best traits from both parents, making them excellent family pets. Their coats can vary from wavy to curly, but most Labradoodles are known for their minimal shedding. Early socialization and consistent exercise are crucial to ensure they grow into well-adjusted and gentle companions. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
11. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are another popular “doodle” breed, a mix of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, they are cherished for their friendly nature, high intelligence, and low-shedding coats. While many Goldendoodles sport a beautiful golden coat, they come in a variety of colors and textures. These dogs are devoted and gentle, making them wonderful family additions. Their coat requires frequent grooming with a slicker brush to prevent matting and keep it healthy and soft.
Brown Standard Labradoodle happily walking through a park on a leash
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolo dogs were historically bred as water retrievers, and their unique curly, woolly coat protected them from cold waters. This breed is less common but is gaining popularity for its low-shedding qualities and agreeable temperament. Lagotti Romagnoli are known to be good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. They are intelligent and eager to please, and their distinctive coat requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small, charming dogs known for their monkey-like expression. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens than many other breeds, classifying them as low-shedders. However, their coat requires significant care, including regular at-home brushing and occasional hand-stripping, a specialized grooming process that removes hair by the root rather than trimming it. Despite their small size, Affenpinschers are confident and spirited companions.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are distinctive water dogs originally bred for retrieving game. Their thick, curly coat, which is always liver (brown) in color, sheds minimally but requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free. These dogs have a high energy level and need substantial daily exercise to remain happy and well-behaved, thriving on activities that allow them to use both their minds and bodies.
15. Aussiedoodle
An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle. This intelligent and energetic low-shedding dog inherits its smarts and drive from both parent breeds. Aussiedoodles require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as boredom can lead to destructive behaviors. Enrichment toys and consistent training are essential to keep these active dogs happy and engaged. Their wavy or curly coats need regular brushing to prevent matting.
16. Bolognese
Hailing from Italy, Bolognese dogs are cute, fluffy, and notably low-shedding. They possess a long, white, cotton-like coat that, despite its characteristic messy appearance, needs diligent grooming to prevent tangles and mats. These playful and easygoing pups are known for getting along well with children and other pets, and their adaptable nature makes them suitable for various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. Their devoted nature makes them excellent companion dogs.
White Bolognese dog sitting attentively in an autumn forest, surrounded by fallen leaves
17. Maltese
Another small, low-shedding breed, the Maltese is celebrated for its luxurious, silky white coat. Maltese make affectionate and playful companions, thriving on close interaction with their human families. While their long coats require significant grooming to prevent tangles and maintain their pristine appearance, many pet parents opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify daily care. Regular brushing and professional grooming sessions are essential regardless of coat length.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
As its name suggests, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has an incredibly soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. This medium-sized Irish breed retains a high energy level throughout its life, requiring ample exercise and mental stimulation to keep it engaged and well-behaved. Wheatens are known for their joyful and friendly “wheaten greetin'”—an enthusiastic welcome for their loved ones. Their unique coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats and maintain its characteristic softness.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, easygoing, and incredibly charming low-shedding breed. Their cotton-like coat is soft and fluffy, requiring regular grooming to prevent tangles. Cotons are known for their good nature, making them excellent companions for families with children and other pets, especially when properly socialized. They are adaptable and thrive on companionship, enjoying both playtime and cuddles.
White Coton de Tulear sitting peacefully in grass with its hair gently blowing in the wind
20. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a designer breed that combines two low-shedding breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This mix results in a dog with a coat that can be curly or wavy, but consistently low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. Their size can vary depending on the Poodle parent (Toy, Miniature, or Standard), offering options for different households. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often likened to “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 unique, woolly coat sheds very little. Bedlingtons are devoted to their people and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They thrive on companionship and moderate exercise. Their coat requires specialized grooming, often involving hand-stripping or clipping, to maintain its distinctive appearance.
White Bedlington Terrier energetically running through snow, leaving tracks behind
22. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient and rare breed. Xolos come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be either hairless or covered in a short, smooth coat. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless variety naturally produces minimal dander, while the coated version has a very short coat that sheds infrequently. These dogs are calm, alert, and deeply loyal to their families, though they can be reserved with strangers.
23. Whoodle
A cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, the Whoodle is a friendly dog that inherits a significantly low-shedding coat. These dogs are known for their intelligence and affectionate nature, making them excellent family companions. Whoodles are energetic and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Their soft, wavy, or curly coats need consistent brushing to prevent matting.
24. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a charming crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. These large, low-shedding dogs combine the gentle, affectionate nature of the Bernese with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. They are popular choices for families with children and other pets due to their friendly demeanor and patient disposition. Bernedoodles need plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, and their coats require regular grooming.
Large Bernedoodle dog lying comfortably in grass with its tongue playfully out
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a delightful mixed breed created from a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, combining the best low-shedding qualities of both parents. These small, playful, and friendly dogs are known for their affectionate personalities and adaptability. Like most low-shedding breeds, Shorkies require a dedicated and regular grooming routine to maintain their fine, long hair and prevent tangles. They thrive on close companionship and make wonderful lap dogs.
26. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are striking dogs, famous for their long, flowing coats and elegant, slender builds. While their dramatic coats might suggest otherwise, they are considered low-shedding. Their single coat requires extensive grooming to prevent mats and keep it pristine. These sighthounds are built for speed and are among the fastest dog breeds. Afghan Hounds are loving with their families but can be aloof with strangers, highlighting the importance of early and consistent socialization.
27. Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful and robust dog with a shaggy, woolly coat. The breed’s name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard, a nod to their characteristic hairy chin. This medium-to-large low-shedding dog loves to swim, thanks to its protective curly coat. To keep a Barbet’s coat in good condition, especially after water activities, it’s essential to brush them with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week to prevent matting.
Close-up of a curly red Barbet dog's face, showcasing its characteristic beard and woolly coat
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo is a charming mixed breed resulting from a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly the Toy Poodle). This small, low-shedding pup is adaptable to almost any living situation, provided they receive about 30 minutes of daily exercise and a good brushing session. Shih-Poos are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, making them delightful companions who thrive on interaction with their families.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Peruvian Inca Orchids are a rare and ancient dog breed. They come in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and are primarily known for their nearly hairless bodies, which makes them inherently low-shedding. While some have a short, sparse coat, the hairless variety is particularly noted for its minimal dander. These elegant dogs are alert, active, and can be quite protective of their families, making them loyal companions for those seeking a unique low-shedding breed.
30. Malshi
As a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small, and low-shedding dog. They thrive on close companionship and are known for their affectionate and playful personalities. Like their parent breeds, Malshis need consistent grooming to keep their soft, flowing coats free of tangles and mats. They are excellent lap dogs and enjoy being at the center of family attention, making them ideal pets for those who can dedicate time to their care and companionship.
Tips for Living with a Dog That Doesn’t Shed Much Hair
While choosing a low-shedding dog is a great start, there are a few additional practices that pet parents should be aware of to maintain a clean and allergen-minimized environment.
Keep Up With Grooming
Even dogs that don’t shed much hair require regular grooming. Their coats often grow continuously or trap loose hair, which can lead to matting if not brushed frequently. Ideally, many of these breeds should be brushed daily or several times a week, and bathed every four to six weeks. Using specialized dog shampoos can further help reduce dander. Many low-shedding breeds also benefit from regular trimming or hand-stripping by a professional groomer, or you can learn to groom your pup at home. Consistent grooming is paramount to maintaining their coat health and keeping shed hair and dander to a minimum.
Maintain a Clean Home
To further minimize allergens, especially for allergy sufferers, maintaining a clean home environment is crucial. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter, dusting, and washing bedding (both yours and your dog’s) can significantly reduce pet dander accumulation. Using air purifiers in frequently used rooms and ensuring good ventilation throughout the house can also help improve air quality and reduce airborne allergens.
Consult Your Doctor (for Allergies)
If you or a family member has dog allergies, even with a low-shedding breed, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice on managing allergies, which may include medication, nasal sprays, or allergy shots. Additionally, it’s important to minimize close contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these bodily fluids also contain allergens that can trigger reactions.
Bringing a dog that doesn’t shed much hair into your life can be a wonderful way to enjoy the companionship of a canine without the constant worry of excessive hair or allergy triggers. With careful breed selection and a commitment to regular grooming and home maintenance, you can experience the joy of pet parenthood to the fullest.
