Welcoming a dog into your home brings immense joy and companionship, but for individuals with allergies, choosing the right breed is a critical decision. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, many large breeds are known for their low-shedding coats, significantly reducing the amount of dander and allergens they release into the environment. If you’re dreaming of a substantial canine companion but worried about shedding and allergy symptoms, you’ve come to the right place. This guide explores the best full-size dogs that don’t shed, offering detailed insights to help you find your perfect furry match.
Understanding “Non-Shedding” and Hypoallergenic Dogs
The term “hypoallergenic” is often misunderstood. All dogs produce dander – tiny flecks of skin, saliva, and urine that contain proteins responsible for triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Dogs labeled “hypoallergenic” typically have coats that shed minimally or have hair-like coats that grow continuously, similar to human hair, rather than shedding in cycles. This means less dander is released into your home, making them a better fit for allergy sufferers.
It’s important to remember that even full size dogs that don’t shed still produce allergens. Their dander can be present in their saliva, urine, and skin, regardless of how much hair they lose. The key benefit of these breeds is the reduced spread of allergens due to their low-shedding coats, which minimizes the primary carrier of dander – loose hair. For those seeking a larger dog without the constant cleanup and potential allergic reactions, focusing on low-shedding large breeds is an excellent strategy.
Why Choose a Full-Size Dog That Doesn’t Shed?
Opting for a larger, low-shedding dog offers a unique blend of benefits, especially for families or individuals seeking a robust companion without the common inconveniences of shedding.
- Reduced Allergens: This is the primary driver for many. Less shedding means fewer airborne allergens, leading to a more comfortable living environment for allergy sufferers.
- Less Cleanup: No more tumbleweeds of dog hair across your floors and furniture. While grooming is still necessary, it’s typically a controlled process, rather than a daily battle against loose fur.
- Impressive Presence & Protection: Full-size dogs often offer a sense of security and a more commanding presence. They can be excellent guard dogs or simply provide a comforting, substantial presence in the home.
- Active Companionship: Many large breeds require and enjoy considerable exercise, making them ideal partners for active individuals or families who love outdoor adventures.
- Gentle Giants: Despite their size, many full-size non-shedding breeds are known for their calm, gentle temperaments, making them wonderful family pets when properly trained and socialized.
For those who love the idea of a big dog but dread the hair, finding a full size dog that doesn’t shed is a game-changer.
Top Full-Size Dogs That Don’t Shed
Here are some of the most popular and suitable full-size dog breeds known for their low-shedding coats, perfect for those seeking a larger companion without the fuss of excessive hair.
1. Standard Poodle
Graceful white Standard Poodle walking confidently through green grass
The Standard Poodle is perhaps the most iconic of all low-shedding breeds, and for good reason. Renowned for their elegance and keen intelligence, Standard Poodles are far from being just a “fancy” dog. Originally bred as water retrievers in Germany, their dense, curly, non-shedding coat was perfect for protecting them from cold water. They typically weigh between 40-70 pounds and stand over 15 inches tall at the shoulder, firmly placing them in the full-size category.
Standard Poodles are incredibly smart, highly trainable, and excel in various dog sports and activities. They are active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their coats, while low-shedding, demand consistent grooming to prevent matting. Regular brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks are essential to keep their distinctive curls in top condition. Their adaptable and affectionate nature makes them wonderful family pets, fitting seamlessly into various households. If you’re looking for a full size dog that doesn’t shed and offers intelligence and versatility, the Standard Poodle is an excellent choice.
2. Giant Schnauzer
Powerful black Giant Schnauzer with a blue bow collar standing alertly in a park
The Giant Schnauzer lives up to its name, being a robust, powerful, and imposing breed. Reaching heights of over 27 inches and weighing up to 85 pounds, these dogs are truly full-sized. Their harsh, wiry double coat sheds very little, making them a great option for allergy sufferers. Originating in Germany, they were bred as cattle drivers and guard dogs, retaining strong protective instincts and a watchful nature.
Giant Schnauzers are intelligent, courageous, and loyal to their families. They require significant exercise and mental engagement to thrive. Daily long walks, runs, or engaging play sessions are a must. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial due to their strong will and protective tendencies. Grooming involves regular brushing to prevent tangles and professional stripping or clipping every few months to maintain coat health and appearance. Their commanding presence combined with a low-shedding coat makes them an excellent candidate for those seeking a large, protective, and clean companion. You might also consider exploring other medium sized house dogs that don t shed if you prefer a slightly smaller, yet still substantial, low-shedding breed.
3. Standard Schnauzer
Alert gray Standard Schnauzer standing in a field, observing its surroundings
Sharing many traits with its larger cousin, the Standard Schnauzer is a fantastic mid-to-full-size option, typically weighing up to 45 pounds. They possess the same distinctive wiry coat that sheds minimally, a boon for allergy-prone households. Standards are known for their lively and clever personalities, making them enjoyable companions.
These dogs are highly active and intelligent, needing at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily. They excel in dog sports like agility and obedience. Their devotion to family, coupled with a playful spirit, makes them great additions to active homes. Like the Giant Schnauzer, their coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to keep it neat and free of mats. The Standard Schnauzer offers a balanced choice for those who want a full size dog that doesn’t shed but is a bit more manageable than a truly giant breed.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Energetic black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red bandana in front of water
The Portuguese Water Dog is a robust, intelligent, and highly active breed that falls squarely into the full-size category, typically weighing between 40-60 pounds. True to their name, these dogs were originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, retrieving nets, herding fish, and carrying messages. Their distinctive single coat is thick, curly, and sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their lively personalities, high energy levels, and love for water. They are incredibly smart and highly trainable, eager to please, and thrive on having a “job” to do. Regular and vigorous exercise is crucial for this breed, including swimming, fetching, and long walks. Their coat requires frequent brushing and clipping to prevent matting. For active families seeking a clever and athletic full size dog that doesn’t shed, the Portuguese Water Dog is an outstanding candidate.
5. Labradoodle (Standard)
Friendly brown Standard Labradoodle walking through a park on a sunny day
The Standard Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed, typically resulting from a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are full-sized dogs, often weighing between 50-80 pounds, and were originally bred to be hypoallergenic service dogs. Their coat types can vary (from wavy fleece to curly wool), but many inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding qualities, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.
Labradoodles are known for their intelligent, friendly, and outgoing temperaments, making them superb family pets. They are highly trainable, gentle, and generally good with children and other pets, especially with early socialization. This energetic breed requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved. Grooming needs depend on their coat type, but frequent brushing is usually necessary to prevent matting. If you’re drawn to the friendly nature of a Labrador but need a full size dog that doesn’t shed, a carefully bred Standard Labradoodle could be your ideal companion. For similar options, consider cross breed dogs that don t shed to explore other doodle varieties.
6. Goldendoodle (Standard)
Content Goldendoodle lying comfortably on a couch with a person in the background
Another beloved “doodle” breed, the Standard Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. These full-sized dogs typically weigh between 50-90 pounds and boast a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate nature. Like Labradoodles, their coats vary, but most inherit the low-shedding traits of their Poodle parent, making them a popular choice for families with allergies.
Goldendoodles are highly sociable and thrive on companionship. They are intelligent and generally easy to train, making them excellent family dogs. They require moderate to high levels of exercise to burn off energy and stay mentally stimulated. Their beautiful coats demand regular grooming with a slicker brush to prevent matting and tangles. Available in a wide range of colors and textures, a Standard Goldendoodle offers the best of both worlds: the beloved temperament of a Golden Retriever with the low-shedding benefits of a Poodle, making them a superb full size dog that doesn’t shed.
7. Irish Water Spaniel
Distinguished brown Irish Water Spaniel in profile, showcasing its curly coat
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive and athletic full-size breed, typically weighing between 45-68 pounds. Their unique double coat consists of dense, tight curls with a natural oiliness that repels water, shedding minimally and making them an excellent choice for those with allergies. These intelligent dogs were originally bred for retrieving game from water, a task they excel at.
Known for being friendly, courageous, and intelligent, Irish Water Spaniels are highly trainable and enjoy activities that challenge both their minds and bodies. They possess a high energy level and require significant daily exercise, including swimming, running, and retrieving games. Their curly liver-colored coat needs regular grooming, including brushing and occasional clipping, to prevent matting. For an active family seeking a robust, intelligent, and low-shedding companion, the Irish Water Spaniel stands out as a unique and loyal full size dog that doesn’t shed.
8. Aussiedoodle (Standard)
Adventurous Standard Aussiedoodle standing on a beach, looking towards the camera
The Standard Aussiedoodle is a crossbreed resulting from an Australian Shepherd and a Standard Poodle. These smart and energetic dogs can be full-sized, often weighing between 40-70 pounds, inheriting the low-shedding qualities from their Poodle parent. They are highly intelligent, thanks to both parent breeds, and possess a playful and affectionate nature.
Standard Aussiedoodles require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Daily activities like long walks, playtime, and puzzle toys are essential. They are highly trainable and thrive in active homes where they can be part of family activities. Their wavy to curly coats need regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. For those seeking a vibrant, intelligent, and full size dog that doesn’t shed, the Standard Aussiedoodle offers a wonderful blend of traits for an active household.
9. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Joyful Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier resting on a log in a natural setting
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-to-large Irish breed, typically weighing between 30-40 pounds, often considered “full size” within the terrier group due to their solid build and active nature. As their name suggests, they possess a silky, wavy coat that is incredibly soft to the touch and sheds very little, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers.
Wheatens are known for their joyous, exuberant personalities and their characteristic “Wheaten Greetin'” — a joyful leap that greets family and friends. They maintain a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their coat requires diligent daily brushing to prevent matting and regular professional grooming. For a lively, affectionate, and low-shedding companion that’s a bit smaller than some of the other giants but still substantial, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a delightful full size dog that doesn’t shed.
10. Xoloitzcuintli (Standard)
Elegant black Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli) standing gracefully in green grass
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient and unique breed that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. The Standard Xoloitzcuintli is a full-size dog, typically weighing between 30-55 pounds, making it an excellent full size dog that doesn’t shed. While famous for its hairless variety (which is inherently non-shedding), Xolos also come in a coated variety with a very short, fine coat that also sheds minimally.
Known for their calm, alert, and loyal nature, Xolos make excellent companions. They are generally reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with their families. Despite their often slender appearance, they are sturdy and athletic, requiring moderate daily exercise. The hairless variety needs skin care, including sunscreen and moisturizing, while the coated variety is low maintenance. Their exotic looks and low-allergen qualities make the Standard Xoloitzcuintli a fascinating choice for those seeking a unique full size dog that doesn’t shed.
11. Bernedoodle (Standard)
Happy Standard Bernedoodle lying in grass with tongue out, enjoying the outdoors
The Bernedoodle is a delightful crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Standard Poodle, combining the best traits of both. Standard Bernedoodles are undoubtedly full-size dogs, often weighing between 70-90 pounds, making them one of the largest low-shedding options available. Their coats are typically wavy to curly, inheriting the Poodle’s characteristic low-shedding qualities.
Bernedoodles are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, gentle demeanor, and playful spirit. They make wonderful family pets, particularly good with children and other animals. They require moderate to high exercise to stay active and healthy, enjoying long walks, playtime, and outdoor adventures. Due to their dense coats, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting, along with professional grooming every few months. For a big, cuddly, and devoted full size dog that doesn’t shed, the Bernedoodle is an increasingly popular choice that brings joy and warmth to any home.
12. Afghan Hound
Majestic gray and tan Afghan Hound with flowing hair looking intently at the camera
The Afghan Hound is a truly majestic and ancient breed, easily recognized by its long, flowing coat and elegant, slender build. These noble dogs are full-sized, typically weighing between 50-60 pounds. While their coat is undeniably long, it is hair-like and sheds very little, placing them on the list of low-shedding dogs. The secret is the texture: more like human hair than typical dog fur, which means less dander is trapped and released.
Afghan Hounds are known for being independent, aloof, and dignified, though affectionate with their own families. They are built for speed and endurance, requiring ample exercise, including brisk walks or runs in a securely fenced area. Due to their highly specialized coat, extensive grooming is required, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and frequent bathing. For an elegant, regal, and unique full size dog that doesn’t shed, the Afghan Hound offers a distinctive presence. If you appreciate the beauty of such coats, you might also like to discover medium sized fluffy dogs that don t shed.
13. Barbet
Charming close-up of a curly red Barbet dog face, highlighting its characteristic beard
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful and shaggy full-size water dog, typically weighing between 35-65 pounds. Their name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard, which points to their distinctive hairy chin. Their dense, woolly, curly coat is designed to protect them in cold water and sheds minimally, making them a fantastic choice for allergy sufferers.
Barbet dogs are known for their friendly, outgoing, and intelligent nature. They are eager to please and relatively easy to train, forming strong bonds with their families. As water dogs, they love to swim and are high-energy pups that require regular and vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their profuse coat requires diligent grooming, including brushing two to three times a week with a slicker or pin brush to prevent matting, especially after swimming. For a charming, active, and low-shedding companion that loves the outdoors, the Barbet is an excellent full size dog that doesn’t shed.
14. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Standard)
Unique Peruvian Inca Orchid dog, showcasing its lean physique
The Peruvian Inca Orchid (PIO) is an ancient and rare breed that comes in three sizes, with the Standard size being a full-sized dog, weighing between 25-55 pounds. Like the Xoloitzcuintli, PIOs are primarily known for their hairless variety, making them an inherently non-shedding and hypoallergenic choice. They also come in a coated variety with a very short, sparse single coat that also sheds extremely little.
Peruvian Inca Orchids are generally noble, affectionate, and loyal to their families, though they can be wary of strangers. They are intelligent and agile, requiring moderate daily exercise. The hairless variety needs protection from the sun and cold, as well as regular moisturizing. Their unique appearance and low-allergen qualities make the Standard Peruvian Inca Orchid a fascinating and exotic option for those seeking a full size dog that doesn’t shed. If you are still exploring options for specific dog types, you might also consider looking at healthy dog breeds that don t shed.
Caring for Your Large, Non-Shedding Companion
Bringing home a full size dog that doesn’t shed is a commitment that extends beyond just minimal hair on your floor. While these breeds are excellent for allergy sufferers, they still require specific care to maintain their health, happiness, and low-allergen status.
Grooming Essentials for Big Low-Shedders
Even “non-shedding” coats need regular attention. In fact, many low-shedding breeds have continuously growing hair that can mat if not properly maintained. For full-size dogs, this can be a significant task.
- Frequent Brushing: Most low-shedding coats, especially curly or wavy ones (like Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs, Bernedoodles, Goldendoodles), need brushing every other day, or even daily, to prevent tangles and mats. For large breeds, this can take considerable time. Invest in quality brushes, such as a slicker brush and a long-toothed comb.
- Regular Bathing: Bathing every 4-6 weeks is generally recommended to keep their coat and skin healthy and to wash away accumulated dander. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. For allergy sufferers, specialized dander-reducing shampoos can be beneficial.
- Professional Grooming: Many full-size low-shedding breeds require professional clipping or stripping every 6-8 weeks. This helps maintain coat length, removes dead hair that doesn’t shed naturally, and prevents matting. Factor this cost into your budget, or commit to learning at-home grooming techniques for larger dogs, which can be physically demanding.
- Nail Trims and Ear Cleaning: Don’t forget these essential grooming tasks! Regular nail trims prevent discomfort and potential health issues, and ear cleaning (especially for floppy-eared breeds) can prevent infections.
Maintaining a Low-Allergen Home
While your full size dog that doesn’t shed helps reduce allergens, a clean home environment is still paramount for allergy management.
- Vacuum Regularly: Even with low-shedding dogs, dander can settle. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter on carpets, rugs, and upholstery multiple times a week.
- Dust Frequently: Dust surfaces with a damp cloth to pick up settled dander.
- Wash Bedding: Regularly wash pet beds and any bedding your dog has access to in hot water.
- Air Purification: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in main living areas and bedrooms to capture airborne allergens.
- Designated Dog-Free Zones: If allergies are severe, consider designating certain areas (like bedrooms) as off-limits to your dog to provide an allergen-free sanctuary.
Exercise and Training Needs of Large, Non-Shedding Breeds
Full-size dogs, regardless of shedding status, typically have higher exercise requirements than smaller breeds. This is essential not only for their physical health but also for their mental well-being, preventing boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Ample Daily Exercise: Most of these breeds need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity daily. This could include long walks, runs, hikes, swimming, or active play sessions.
- Mental Stimulation: Intelligent breeds, common among non-shedders (like Poodles and Schnauzers), need mental challenges as much as physical ones. Incorporate puzzle toys, obedience training, or dog sports like agility.
- Early Socialization and Training: For large breeds, proper socialization from a young age and consistent positive reinforcement training are crucial. This ensures they grow into well-behaved, confident companions. Their size makes good manners even more important.
Consulting with Your Doctor and Veterinarian
Before bringing home any dog, especially if allergies are a concern, it’s vital to consult with both your healthcare provider and a veterinarian.
- Allergy Management: Your doctor can advise on allergy testing, medication, or other strategies to manage your symptoms. Understanding your specific triggers can help you make an informed decision.
- Breed Suitability: Discuss your potential breed choices with your veterinarian. They can offer insights into breed-specific health concerns and grooming needs, ensuring you’re prepared for the commitment.
- Trial Period: If possible, spend time with the specific breed or even the individual dog you’re considering adopting to gauge your allergic reaction. This can be more effective than simply relying on a breed’s reputation.
Bringing home a full size dog that doesn’t shed can truly enrich the lives of individuals and families who navigate pet allergies. With the right choice, proper care, and a commitment to maintaining a low-allergen environment, you can enjoy the boundless love and companionship that only a large dog can offer, without the constant struggle of shedding and sniffles.
References
- Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH (Veterinarian Technician)
