Bringing a new dog into your family is an exciting prospect, filled with visions of playful antics and loyal companionship. However, for many households, the dream can be complicated by allergies or a desire to minimize shedding and maintain a cleaner home. The good news is that you don’t have to compromise! There are numerous wonderful dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs, offering the perfect blend of minimal fuss and affectionate, kid-friendly temperaments.
This comprehensive guide from Dog Care Story will explore the world of low-shedding breeds, debunk common myths about “hypoallergenic” dogs, and highlight some of the most suitable breeds for families looking for a loyal companion without the constant cleanup. We’ll delve into their unique personalities, care requirements, and why they make such fantastic additions to family life, helping you make an informed decision for your beloved home.
Understanding Hypoallergenic and Low-Shedding Dogs
When searching for a dog that won’t trigger allergies or leave hair all over your furniture, you’ll often encounter the term “hypoallergenic.” While appealing, it’s crucial to understand what this really means.
What Does “Hypoallergenic” Really Mean?
All dogs produce allergens, but so-called hypoallergenic dogs are specifically bred to produce fewer allergens in their hair. This can make them a better fit for some people with allergies. However, it’s important to remember that no dog is 100% allergen-free. Even breeds that produce minimal dander still contain allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine, which can trigger an allergic response such as coughing, itching, or wheezing. The primary allergens are often proteins found in skin flakes (dander), saliva, and urine, not just the hair itself. Low-shedding dogs are often considered hypoallergenic because they release less dander into the environment as their dead hair is trapped in their coat rather than falling out.
Why Low-Shedding Matters for Families
For many families, especially those with young children or individuals prone to allergies, a dog that doesn’t shed much is a significant advantage. Reduced shedding means less pet hair on furniture, clothing, and floors, leading to a cleaner home environment. It also translates to less time spent vacuuming and dusting, freeing up valuable family time. More importantly, for family members with allergies, a low-shedding dog can make the difference between a comfortable home and a constant battle with allergic reactions. This is why finding the best dog breeds that don’t shed is a priority for many families.
The good news is that many of these low-shedding breeds are also known for their gentle, patient, and playful natures, making them ideal companions for children and other pets. This combination makes them some of the most sought-after breeds of dogs that don’t shed for family households.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed and Are Excellent Family Companions
Here’s a look at some of the best family-friendly dogs that come with the added benefit of minimal shedding, making them a joy to live with. Many of these are considered the best medium-sized family dog that doesn’t shed, while others cater to those looking for smaller or larger companions.
1. Poodle
white poodle walking through grass
There are three types of Poodles—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—and each has a reputation for being among the top hypoallergenic dog breeds. These highly intelligent dogs are known for their minimal shedding and eager-to-please nature, making them exceptionally trainable and excellent family pets. The Standard Poodle, originally bred for hunting, is the largest, while the Miniature and Toy Poodles were selectively bred for smaller sizes. Regardless of size, Poodles thrive on companionship and mental stimulation. They are generally patient and playful with children, adapting well to family life. Their curly coats require regular grooming, including frequent brushing to prevent matting, ensuring they remain comfortable and their low-shedding quality is maintained.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
blue and tan torkie lounging on an arm chair
Little Yorkies are cute, spirited dogs that don’t shed hair and possess spunky yet affectionate personalities. They are highly adaptable, thriving in various living situations, from spacious homes to cozy apartments, as long as they receive ample attention and love from their family. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and are known to be fearless and confident. They bond closely with their families and can be good with older, respectful children who understand how to interact gently with a small dog. Their silky, non-shedding coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and keep it looking its best.
3. Shih Tzu
brown and white shih tzu lying on a living room floor
The Shih Tzu is another delightful small, low-shedding dog breed with ancient origins as a companion to royalty. They are renowned for their flowing thick coat and wonderfully friendly temperament, making them one of the most amiable dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs. Shih Tzus adore being close to their humans and are generally great with children and other pets, enjoying playtime and cuddles equally. However, due to their brachycephalic (flat) face, they can be susceptible to certain health issues like overheating and breathing problems, and tear stains are common. Regular grooming is essential for their long coats, but a shorter “puppy cut” can simplify maintenance for busy families.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
salt and pepper miniature schnauzer wearing a pink harness in a park
Among the three Schnauzer breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest, typically standing no more than 14 inches tall and weighing between 10–20 pounds. These smart, alert, and spirited dogs fit well into many different living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive at least an hour of daily exercise. They are known for their robust health, intelligence, and a protective, yet friendly nature that makes them excellent watchdogs and devoted family members. Miniature Schnauzers are typically good with children who are taught how to interact respectfully, and their wiry, low-shedding coat requires professional grooming or hand-stripping to maintain its characteristic appearance.
5. Standard Schnauzer
gray standard schnauzer standing in a field
The larger Standard Schnauzer shares many of the appealing qualities of its miniature counterpart, just in a slightly larger package, weighing up to 45 pounds. These versatile dogs are robust, intelligent, and highly trainable, making them adaptable to various family settings. They love to spend their days taking long walks, playing fetch, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities. Their protective instincts are strong, but they are also deeply loyal and affectionate with their families, generally doing well with children and other pets with proper socialization. Their dense, wiry coats are low-shedding but require regular grooming to prevent matting. For families seeking a medium-sized, low-shedding, and active companion, the Standard Schnauzer is a strong contender.
6. Giant Schnauzer
black wet giant schnauzer wearing a blue bow collar standing in a park
Capable of reaching heights over 27 inches and weighing up to 85 pounds, Giant Schnauzers are among the biggest hypoallergenic dogs, big dogs that don’t shed. These powerful and imposing dogs are also incredibly loyal, protective, and intelligent, making them exceptional guardians and devoted family members for experienced owners. They require extensive exercise, such as long walks, neighborhood runs, and weekend hikes, to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their strong personalities mean they need consistent training and early socialization, but with the right guidance, they can be patient and loving with children. Their coarse, low-shedding coats need regular grooming to maintain their distinctive look.
7. Bichon Frise
white bichon frise dog looking up in the grass
Small, playful, and incredibly affectionate, the Bichon Frise is a charming little pup with a curly, low-shedding coat. Their cheerful disposition and intelligence make them highly trainable, quickly mastering basics with positive reinforcement and delighting families with fun tricks. Bichons are renowned for their joyful nature and their ability to get along well with everyone, including children and other pets. They thrive on companionship and make wonderful lap dogs, yet they also enjoy playtime and moderate daily exercise. Regular grooming is essential to prevent their soft, dense coat from matting, ensuring they remain comfortable and looking their best.
8. Chinese Crested
black hairless chinese crested looking at the camera
The Chinese Crested is a unique small breed of dogs that don’t shed hair, known for its distinctive appearance. There are two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The powderpuff is covered in long, silky hair, while the hairless Crested has smooth skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws. Both varieties are considered hypoallergenic and are playful, affectionate, and make great companions for families. They are typically gentle and loving, making them suitable for families with older children. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living, and they cherish close bonds with their human family members. The hairless variety requires skin care, while the powderpuff needs regular brushing.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
black and white portuguese water dog wearing a red maple leaf bandana in front of water
This robust, medium-sized breed was originally an aid to fishermen in Portugal, renowned for its strong swimming abilities. With a thick, curly coat that sheds minimally, Portuguese Water Dogs are a popular choice among breeds of dogs that don’t shed. They are intelligent, highly trainable, and possess a friendly, adventurous spirit. These high-energy pups require regular, vigorous exercise, ideally including swimming, to keep them happy and healthy. Portuguese Water Dogs are known for being enthusiastic and fun-loving family members, generally good with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for active families who can meet their exercise needs. Their coats require regular grooming to prevent matting.
10. Labradoodle
brown standard labradoodle walking in a park
A crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally bred to be a hypoallergenic service dog. They are intelligent, friendly, and possess a gentle nature, making them truly excellent family pets. Labradoodles are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement, especially when socialized from an early age. They typically get along wonderfully with children and other animals, eager to be a part of all family activities. Their coats vary but are generally low-shedding, requiring regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. This delightful doodle is a top choice for families seeking a loving, active, and low-allergen companion. Many consider them to be among the best dog breeds that don’t shed.
11. Goldendoodle
goldendoodle lying on a couch with a person sitting in the background
Goldendoodles are another popular doodle dog, a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like the Labradoodle, these dogs are known for their minimal shedding, friendly nature, and high intelligence. Their charming personalities and eagerness to please make them incredibly adaptable and fantastic family companions, often excelling with children and other pets. While many are known for their characteristic golden coat, Goldendoodles can come in a wide range of colors and coat textures. They are active dogs that enjoy playtime and daily walks, and their coats need frequent grooming with a slicker brush to prevent matting and maintain their soft, appealing look. They are a prime example of dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
two lagotto romagnolo dogs lying in dirt staring at the camera
Lagotto Romagnolo dogs were originally bred as water retrievers, with their curly, woolly coat protecting them from chilly waters. While less common than some other low-shedding breeds, Lagotti Romagnoli (the proper plural) are known for being good with children and other pets, making them wonderful family dogs. They are intelligent, affectionate, and possess a lively spirit, enjoying active play and mental challenges. Their moderate size and cheerful disposition allow them to thrive in various family settings, as long as their need for mental and physical exercise is met. Their unique waterproof coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain health.
13. Affenpinscher
black affenpinscher dog close-up
Affenpinschers are small, charming dogs known for their monkey-like appearance and big personalities. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens than many other dog breeds, making them a good choice for those sensitive to dander. They are typically fearless, curious, and fiercely loyal to their families, often showing a comical side. Affenpinschers can be good with older, respectful children but may not tolerate rough play from very young kids. Their coat requires lots of care, including regular at-home brushing and hand-stripping, a process where dead hair is removed by the root rather than trimmed, ensuring their low-shedding qualities.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
brown irish water spaniel profile
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are another water dog breed originally bred for retrieving game. Their thick, curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming and is always a rich liver (brown) color. These dogs possess a high energy level, making exercise essential to keep them happy and healthy; they particularly love activities involving water. Irish Water Spaniels are known for their clownish nature and devoted companionship, generally getting along well with children and other pets with proper introduction. Their enthusiasm and affectionate nature make them a great fit for active families looking for a unique and loyal companion.
15. Aussiedoodle
standard aussiedoodle dog standing on a beach
An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle. This low-shedding dog is very smart and very energetic, thanks to both parent breeds, making them a fantastic, active family companion. They thrive on activity and mental stimulation; if they become bored, they can be destructive. Therefore, lots of exercise and enrichment toys are needed to keep an Aussiedoodle happy. They are generally good with children and other pets, exhibiting a friendly and eager-to-please temperament. Their coats can vary and require regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting. For families seeking an intelligent, playful, and low-shedding dog, the Aussiedoodle is an excellent option. This is another example of the best dog breeds that don’t shed.
16. Bolognese
white bolognese dog sitting in an autumn forest
Bolognese are cute, fluffy, and low-shedding dogs that originated in Italy. They have a long, fluffy white coat that needs regular grooming despite its characteristic messy appearance. These playful and easygoing pups have a reputation for getting along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family additions. Bolognese can fit into all types of living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive adequate attention and affection. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their calm and devoted nature, making them one of the charming dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs.
17. Maltese
woman holding a white maltese dog on a bed
Another small, low-shedding dog, the Maltese is known for their luxurious, flowing white coat. Maltese make affectionate and playful companions for pet parents who can keep up with their grooming needs, especially if you desire their hair to be long. They are gentle, charming, and responsive, often thriving in homes with older, gentle children or in quieter family environments. To make grooming easier, many Maltese owners opt for a short “puppy” cut. Despite their delicate appearance, they are quite hardy and enjoy daily walks and playtime. Their devoted nature ensures they are wonderful additions to families seeking a small, elegant, and loving companion.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
soft coated wheaten terrier dog on a log
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed known for its silky, incredibly soft coat that barely sheds. As the name implies, their coat is a joy to touch, making them very appealing for cuddles. Because they’re terriers, Wheatens maintain a high energy level throughout their life and need ample exercise and mental stimulation to be on their best behavior. They are joyful, friendly, and affectionate dogs that typically get along very well with children and other pets, making them fantastic family members. Their playful nature and moderate size make them a great fit for active families, and their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting.
19. Coton de Tulear
white coton de tulear sitting in grass with hair blowing in the wind
A small, low-shedding breed that originated in Madagascar, Cotons de Tulear are easygoing pups with a charming personality. Their good nature makes them a perfect fit for other pets and kids, especially when introductions are made properly. Cotons are known for their loving, gentle, and playful demeanor, often referred to as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” They thrive on companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities, adapting well to various living situations. Their soft, cotton-like coat requires regular grooming to keep it tangle-free and healthy. These delightful dogs are true companions, embodying the spirit of dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs.
20. Schnoodle
gray schnoodle close-up
While many “doodle” breeds are a mix of a Poodle and an allergenic dog, the Schnoodle combines two low-shedding dog breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their coat can be curly or wavy, depending on what they inherit from their parents, but it’s always low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, inheriting the best qualities from both parent breeds. They are known for their cheerful disposition and make wonderful family pets, generally good with children and other animals. Their energy levels can vary, but most enjoy daily walks and playtime. Regular grooming is essential for their low-shedding coats.
21. Bedlington Terrier
white bedlington terrier running through snow
Often called “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed known for their distinctive topknot hairdo and pom-pom ear tufts. This unique appearance is matched by a loving and gentle personality. These dogs adore being beside their people and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, highlighting their need for close companionship. Bedlington Terriers are playful, energetic, and generally good with older, respectful children. Their low-shedding coat requires regular professional grooming to maintain its characteristic texture and appearance. They are a charming option for families seeking a distinctive and devoted companion among dogs that don’t shed.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
black mexican hairless dog standing in grass
Mexican Hairless Dogs, also known as Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “sho-lo-eets-kweent-lee”), are one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds. This breed comes in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or covered in a short, smooth coat. Both hairless and short-coated Xolos are considered low-shedding, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. They are calm, intelligent, and loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their families. Xolos are generally good with children and other pets, though early socialization is important. Their unique appearance and affectionate nature make them intriguing and devoted family companions, requiring minimal grooming for the hairless variety and simple brushing for the coated type.
23. Whoodle
tan whoodle puppy dragging a wash cloth
When a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is crossed with a Poodle, the result is a Whoodle: a friendly dog that doesn’t shed very much at all. These delightful dogs inherit their intelligence and affectionate nature from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and eager to please. Whoodles are known for their joyful, outgoing personalities and are generally excellent with children and other pets, fitting seamlessly into active family life. They possess a moderate to high energy level, enjoying playtime and daily exercise. Their soft, wavy to curly coats are low-shedding but require regular brushing to prevent tangles and keep them looking their best.
24. Bernedoodle
large bernedoodle dog lying in grass with his tongue out
Bernedoodles are a popular crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, combining the gentle nature of the Bernese with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. Their friendly, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor make these large low-shedding dogs a popular pick for families with children and other pets. They are known for being patient and playful, fitting well into various family dynamics. Bernedoodles need plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, enjoying walks, playtime, and outdoor adventures. Their coats can vary in texture but are generally low-shedding and require regular grooming to prevent matting. For those seeking hypoallergenic dogs big dogs that don’t shed, the Bernedoodle is an outstanding choice.
25. Shorkie
tan and black shih tzu and yorkie mix sitting on a hiking trail
Another cross between two low-shedding dogs, the Shorkie is a mixed breed created from Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers. They’re the best of both breeds: small, playful, and friendly. Shorkies are affectionate lap dogs that thrive on human companionship and are generally good with older, respectful children. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living, and their lively personalities ensure there’s never a dull moment. Like most dogs on this list, they require dedication to a regular grooming routine to maintain their long, silky, non-shedding coats. Shorkies are charming and devoted companions, perfect for families seeking a small, loving, and low-allergen pet.
26. Afghan Hound
gray and tan afghan hound looking at the camera
Afghan Hounds are known for their long, flowing coats and slender builds, making them one of the most distinctive breeds of dogs that don’t shed. These pups are built for running and are one of the fastest dog breeds in the world, requiring ample exercise to satisfy their athletic nature. Afghan Hounds are loving toward their family but can be aloof toward people they’ve just met, so early and consistent socialization is vital for this breed. While they can be affectionate and playful with children they know, their independent nature means they are best suited for families with older children who understand boundaries. Their luxurious, low-shedding coats demand extensive and regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting.
27. Barbet
close-up of a curly red barbet dog face
The Barbet (pronounced “bar-bay”), whose name comes from the French word barbe (beard), is a cheerful pup with a shaggy, woolly, low-shedding coat. This big low-shedding dog loves to swim, thanks to their protective curly coat, and enjoys an active lifestyle. Barbets are known for their intelligent, friendly, and docile temperament, making them wonderful family companions. They are generally good with children and other pets, eager to please, and highly trainable. To keep your Barbet’s coat in good condition, especially after swimming, brush them with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week. They are a delightful choice for active families who appreciate a playful and affectionate large dog that doesn’t shed.
28. Shih-Poo
tan and black shih-poo dog close-up
The Shih-Poo mixed breed is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly the Toy Poodle), combining the best traits of two low-shedding breeds. This small pup can do well in almost any living situation, as long as they get about 30 minutes of exercise and a good brushing session every day. Shih-Poos are known for their playful, affectionate, and charming personalities, often bonding strongly with their families. They are generally good with children and other pets, making them delightful additions to a family. Their coat is typically low-shedding and can range from wavy to curly, requiring regular grooming to stay neat and healthy.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
peruvian inca orchid dog
Though Peruvian Inca Orchids are rare dogs, they are considered low-shedding thanks to their nearly hairless bodies. They are an ancient dog breed that comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and are the national dog of Peru. These elegant dogs are typically alert, intelligent, and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers. With proper socialization, they can be good with children and other pets. Their unique hairless quality means they require special skin care, including protection from sun and cold, but grooming is minimal. For families seeking a unique, devoted, and low-allergen companion, the Peruvian Inca Orchid offers a fascinating option.
30. Malshi
tricolor malshi dog in green grass
As a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small, and low-shedding dog. They thrive when their favorite humans are close to them and need close companionship to be happy. Malshis are known for their affectionate, outgoing, and playful personalities, making them wonderful lap dogs and charming family members. They are generally good with children and other pets, enjoying being the center of attention. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, and their non-shedding coats require regular brushing and occasional grooming to prevent tangles and matting. The Malshi is a true companion dog, perfect for families seeking a loving and low-maintenance furry friend.
Essential Tips for Families with Low-Shedding Dogs
Even with a dog that doesn’t shed much, there are a few important considerations for pet parents to ensure a harmonious and allergy-friendly home environment.
Regular Grooming is Key
While these dogs are low-shedding, most still require some extra care and maintenance to ensure a clean coat and minimize potential allergens. Keeping the dog’s coat clean and reducing dander in the home requires regular grooming and bathing. Ideally, low-shedding dogs should be brushed frequently (several times a week) and bathed every four to six weeks. Using a special shampoo designed to reduce pet dander can further help for those sensitive to allergies. Many low-shedding breeds also require regular trimming, hand-stripping, or professional grooming upkeep. Factor in the budget for regular professional groomer visits, or be prepared to learn how to groom your pup at home. This commitment is vital for both your dog’s comfort and maintaining their low-shedding qualities.
Maintaining a Clean Home Environment
Minimizing allergens in your home goes beyond just grooming your dog. It’s important to vacuum, dust, and wash your bedding regularly to minimize pet dander that inevitably settles. Pay special attention to areas where your dog spends most of its time. You can further reduce allergens in the air by using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers and keeping the house well-ventilated by opening windows when possible. Designating certain “allergy-free” zones, like bedrooms, where your dog is not allowed, can also provide a sanctuary for allergy sufferers.
Consulting Your Doctor and Veterinarian
Managing allergies and preventing allergic reactions is crucial when living with any dog, even a low-shedding one. The best way to manage allergies is to consult with your healthcare provider. There are many ways to treat allergies, including medication, nasal sprays, and injections. It’s also important to avoid close contact with the dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, discuss any concerns with your veterinarian. They can offer advice on diet, supplements, and specific grooming products that might further help reduce dander and improve your dog’s skin and coat health, contributing to a healthier environment for your family.
Choosing a dog that fits your family’s lifestyle and helps manage allergy concerns is a significant decision. By focusing on dogs that don’t shed and are good family dogs, you can bring the joy and companionship of a pet into your home without the added stress of excessive shedding or allergy flare-ups. With proper research, care, and a little planning, you can find the perfect furry friend to become a cherished member of your family.
