Bringing a dog into your home is a joyous occasion, but for families, especially those with allergy sufferers, finding the right canine companion can be a challenge. The dream of a furry friend often clashes with concerns about shedding fur and potential allergic reactions. Fortunately, there are many wonderful dogs that fit the bill: they’re excellent family pets and produce minimal shedding. This guide will help you discover a world of loving, low-shedding breeds that could be the perfect addition to your family, offering companionship without the constant cleanup or allergy woes. We’ll explore breeds known for their gentle temperaments, suitability for children, and of course, their famous low-shedding coats. Whether you’re looking for a tiny lapdog or a larger, active companion, you’ll find a dog breed that doesn’t shed much among these fantastic options.
Understanding Low-Shedding and Hypoallergenic Dogs for Families
When people search for “dogs that don’t shed,” they are often looking for what are commonly referred to as “hypoallergenic” dogs. However, it’s crucial to understand that no dog is 100% allergen-free. All dogs produce dander (flakes of skin), saliva, and urine, which contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The term “hypoallergenic” typically refers to breeds that produce less dander or shed less hair, meaning fewer allergens are released into the environment.
For families, this distinction is important. A low-shedding dog minimizes the amount of hair and dander spread around the home, which can significantly reduce allergic symptoms. These breeds often have coats that are more like human hair, growing continuously rather than shedding seasonally, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. Beyond shedding, “good family dog breeds” also imply a temperament that is tolerant, gentle, and enjoys being around children and other pets, making them suitable for a lively household environment. For those with specific sensitivities, exploring types of dogs who don’t shed is a vital first step in finding a compatible furry family member.
Our Top Picks: Good Family Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
Here’s a comprehensive list of 30 excellent dog breeds that are renowned for their low-shedding coats and wonderful family-friendly temperaments, making them ideal companions for almost any household.
1. Poodle
A white Standard Poodle with curly fur gracefully walking through green grass, a good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Poodles come in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—each known for being incredibly intelligent and highly trainable. They possess a dense, curly coat that sheds minimally, making them a top choice for families seeking a non-shedding companion. Poodles are active and playful, thriving on mental stimulation and regular exercise. Their adaptable nature means they can be happy in various living situations, from apartments to large homes, as long as they receive consistent attention and affection from their family. Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential to keep their unique coats free of tangles and mats.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
A small blue and tan Yorkshire Terrier relaxing comfortably on a plush armchair, showcasing a good non-shedding family dog.
Affectionately known as “Yorkies,” these small dogs boast huge personalities. With their long, silky coats that are more akin to human hair, Yorkshire Terriers shed very little, making them an excellent choice for allergy-sensitive families. They are spirited, courageous, and deeply devoted to their human companions. Yorkies adapt well to apartment living but need regular playtime and attention to channel their energetic nature. Their compact size makes them perfect lapdogs, but they are also quite robust and enjoy family adventures.
3. Shih Tzu
A friendly brown and white Shih Tzu with a long coat lying calmly on a living room floor, a popular good family dog that doesn't shed much.
The Shih Tzu is an ancient Chinese companion breed, cherished for its friendly and outgoing temperament. Their flowing, luxurious double coat is low-shedding, requiring daily brushing to prevent matting. Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate nature and their ability to get along well with children and other pets, making them a fantastic family dog. Despite their regal appearance, they are playful and enjoy cuddles. Families should be aware of their brachycephalic (flat-faced) characteristics, which can make them prone to overheating and respiratory issues, especially in warm weather.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
A curious salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer wearing a pink harness in a vibrant green park, an excellent family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Miniature Schnauzers are robust, intelligent, and spirited dogs with a distinctive wiry coat that sheds minimally. They are known for their alert nature, making them excellent watchdogs, and their friendly disposition makes them great with children. This breed thrives on daily exercise and mental challenges, enjoying activities like walks, training, and puzzle toys. Their compact size (10-20 pounds) means they can comfortably live in various home environments, provided they receive sufficient outdoor activity and family interaction.
5. Standard Schnauzer
A majestic gray Standard Schnauzer standing alert in a grassy field, highlighting a good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Standard Schnauzer offers all the wonderful traits of the Miniature Schnauzer, but in a larger, more powerful package. Weighing up to 45 pounds, these dogs possess a similar wiry, low-shedding coat and a sharp, intelligent mind. They are loyal, protective, and playful, making them superb family guardians and companions. Standard Schnauzers require significant daily exercise, including long walks, runs, and engaging play sessions, to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their strong bond with their family makes them highly responsive to training.
6. Giant Schnauzer
A powerful black Giant Schnauzer with a blue bow collar, looking wet and standing in a park, representing a large family dog breed that doesn't shed.
As their name suggests, Giant Schnauzers are the largest of the Schnauzer family, capable of reaching up to 85 pounds. Despite their imposing size, they maintain the low-shedding, wiry coat and intelligent, protective nature common to the breed. Giant Schnauzers are incredibly loyal and make fantastic family dogs, especially for active households that can provide ample exercise and training. They thrive on long walks, challenging hikes, and vigorous play, which are crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Early socialization is key to ensure they are well-adjusted around strangers and other animals.
7. Bichon Frise
A fluffy white Bichon Frise puppy with a playful expression looking up from the green grass, a delightful good family dog that doesn't shed.
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, playful, and affectionate little dog with a fluffy, curly white coat that barely sheds. Their charming personalities and happy-go-lucky attitudes make them wonderful family pets, known for their ability to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Bichons are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable with positive reinforcement. They enjoy being the center of attention and thrive on close companionship, making them ideal for families who can include them in daily activities.
8. Chinese Crested
A sleek black hairless Chinese Crested dog looking directly at the camera, a unique and good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Chinese Crested is a unique breed available in two varieties: hairless and “powderpuff.” Both types are considered low-shedding. The hairless variety has smooth skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff has a full, silky coat. These dogs are affectionate, playful, and make excellent companions for families. They are generally good with children and other pets, provided they are socialized early. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living, and their quirky appearance is sure to be a conversation starter.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
A black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red maple leaf bandana, standing by water, a vibrant good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Originally bred to assist fishermen, Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, adventurous, and possess a robust, curly coat that sheds minimally. They are highly energetic and require significant daily exercise, making them perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and long walks. Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their loyalty, trainability, and friendly nature, making them excellent companions for children. Their strong work ethic means they thrive with consistent training and mental engagement.
10. Labradoodle
A cheerful brown Standard Labradoodle walking through a sunny park, an excellent good family dog breed that doesn't shed much.
A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally bred to be a low-shedding service dog. They combine the friendly, outgoing nature of the Lab with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. Labradoodles are known for being incredibly gentle, patient, and highly trainable, making them outstanding family pets, especially with children. They require regular exercise and early socialization to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults, bringing endless joy and laughter to their homes. These intelligent dogs are highly sought after by families looking for a dogs that dont shed and are family friendly option.
11. Goldendoodle
A fluffy Goldendoodle dog lying comfortably on a couch with a person in the background, a popular good family dog that doesn't shed.
Another popular “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They inherit the intelligence and low-shedding coat from their Poodle parent, combined with the gentle and friendly demeanor of the Golden Retriever. Goldendoodles are highly sociable, affectionate, and excellent with children and other pets. Their playful and intelligent nature makes them a joy to train and live with. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their curly or wavy coats and prevent matting. They are a true delight for families seeking a loving, active, and low-shedding companion.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Two curly-coated Lagotto Romagnolo dogs lying in the dirt and looking at the camera, showcasing good family dog breeds that don't shed.
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian breed originally used as water retrievers and truffle hunters. They possess a dense, woolly, curly coat that is low-shedding and provides protection in various climates. Lagottos are intelligent, eager to please, and generally good with children and other pets, making them fantastic family dogs. They have moderate energy levels and enjoy activities that engage both their bodies and minds. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their unique coat texture.
13. Affenpinscher
A close-up of a black Affenpinscher dog's face with its distinctive wiry coat, a small good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Affenpinschers are small dogs with a distinct, monkey-like expression and a wiry, dense coat that sheds minimally. These charming dogs are known for their playful, mischievous, and loyal personalities. They form strong bonds with their families and can be good with older, respectful children. While small, they are quite sturdy and enjoy a good play session. Their coat requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to maintain its texture and minimize shedding.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
A profile view of a strong brown Irish Water Spaniel with a curly coat, an energetic good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinguished, medium to large-sized dog known for its unique liver-colored, curly coat that is naturally water-repellent and low-shedding. They are intelligent, friendly, and possess a high energy level, making them ideal for active families who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs excel in various dog sports and love swimming. Their playful and devoted nature makes them excellent companions, especially for children who understand how to interact with an energetic dog.
15. Aussiedoodle
A beautiful Standard Aussiedoodle dog with multi-colored fur standing on a sandy beach, a smart good family dog that doesn't shed much.
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic dog with a low-shedding coat. They combine the herding instincts and intelligence of the Aussie with the Poodle’s smarts and minimal shedding. Aussiedoodles are incredibly loyal and affectionate, thriving in active families that can provide ample exercise, training, and mental enrichment. Without enough to do, they can become bored and destructive, so they are best suited for homes that can commit to their activity needs.
16. Bolognese
A charming white Bolognese dog with a fluffy coat sitting in an autumn forest, a friendly good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Originating from Italy, the Bolognese is a delightful small dog with a long, fluffy white coat that is low-shedding but requires consistent grooming to prevent matting. They are known for their playful, easygoing, and affectionate temperaments, making them wonderful family pets. Bolognese are generally good with children and other pets and are adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. They thrive on companionship and are content with moderate exercise.
17. Maltese
A woman gently holding a small white Maltese dog on a bed, illustrating a loving good family dog that doesn't shed.
The Maltese is a charming and elegant small dog renowned for its luxurious, silky white coat that sheds very little. They are affectionate, playful, and incredibly devoted to their families, making them excellent companions. Maltese are typically good with children, especially those who are gentle. Despite their delicate appearance, they are quite hardy and enjoy both indoor play and short outdoor walks. Regular grooming is essential to keep their long coats tangle-free, though many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
A shaggy Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog standing proudly on a fallen log, a playful good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
This medium-sized Irish terrier is famous for its soft, silky, wheat-colored coat that sheds minimally. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their joyful “Wheaten Greetin'” — an enthusiastic welcome involving wiggles and licks. They are energetic, playful, and friendly, making them fantastic family dogs, especially with active children. Wheatens require consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, and their coats need daily brushing to avoid mats.
19. Coton de Tulear
A beautiful white Coton de Tulear dog sitting in green grass with its soft hair gently blowing in the wind, a charming good family dog that doesn't shed.
Hailing from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, easygoing dog with a soft, cotton-like coat that sheds very little. They are known for their playful, intelligent, and highly affectionate nature, thriving on companionship. Cotons are excellent family dogs, getting along well with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized. Their adaptability makes them suitable for various living situations, and they are generally happy with moderate daily activity. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
20. Schnoodle
A close-up of a gray Schnoodle dog's face with its curly, low-shedding coat, an intelligent good family dog breed.
The Schnoodle is a designer breed resulting from crossing a Schnauzer with a Poodle, combining two low-shedding breeds. Their coat can be wavy or curly, depending on the parents, but it is consistently low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and devoted companions, making them wonderful family pets. They inherit the smarts and loyalty of both breeds, making them highly trainable. Their energy levels vary, but most enjoy daily walks and playtime with their families. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat.
21. Bedlington Terrier
A distinctive white Bedlington Terrier with a lamb-like appearance running playfully through fresh snow, a unique good family dog that doesn't shed.
Often described as looking like a lamb, the Bedlington Terrier is a unique and elegant dog with a curly, woolly coat that barely sheds. They are known for their charming personalities: gentle and loving with their families, yet spirited and playful outdoors. Bedlingtons are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental engagement. They form strong bonds with their human companions and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Their distinctive coat needs regular professional grooming to maintain its unique appearance.
22. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
A sleek black Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli) standing elegantly in green grass, a rare good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient and rare breed available in hairless and coated varieties, both of which are considered low-shedding. These elegant dogs come in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard) and are known for their calm, alert, and loyal temperaments. Xolos are devoted to their families and can be good with children, forming close bonds. They require protection from sun and cold due to their lack of fur (or thin coat), but their minimal grooming needs are a plus for many families.
23. Whoodle
A playful tan Whoodle puppy dragging a washcloth, showcasing an intelligent and good family dog breed that doesn't shed much.
A Whoodle is a delightful cross between a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, resulting in an intelligent, affectionate, and very low-shedding dog. They inherit the playful spirit of the Wheaten and the smarts of the Poodle, making them highly trainable and wonderful family companions. Whoodles typically have soft, wavy or curly coats that require regular grooming. They are energetic dogs that thrive on active playtime and interaction with their families, adapting well to various home environments.
24. Bernedoodle
A large, gentle Bernedoodle dog lying contentedly in green grass with its tongue out, an ideal good family dog that doesn't shed.
The Bernedoodle, a mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle, is a popular choice for families seeking a larger, gentle, and low-shedding companion. They are known for their friendly, affectionate, and patient temperaments, making them excellent with children and other pets. Bernedoodles combine the relaxed nature of the Bernese with the intelligence of the Poodle, resulting in a highly trainable and devoted family member. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, and their wavy or curly coats need consistent grooming. These wonderful dogs are among the best indoor dog breeds that don’t shed for larger homes.
25. Shorkie
A small tan and black Shorkie dog (Shih Tzu and Yorkie mix) sitting on a hiking trail, a spirited good family dog that doesn't shed.
The Shorkie is a charming mixed breed, combining the best traits of the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. These small dogs are playful, affectionate, and spirited, with a low-shedding coat that is typically long and silky. Shorkies thrive on human companionship and are well-suited for families seeking a cuddly lapdog with a lively personality. They are adaptable to various living situations, including apartments, and enjoy moderate daily activity. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coats beautiful and tangle-free.
26. Afghan Hound
A regal gray and tan Afghan Hound with long, flowing hair looking towards the camera, a distinctive good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
Known for their striking appearance with long, flowing coats and dignified demeanor, Afghan Hounds are also surprisingly low-shedding. While they do not shed heavily, their luxurious coats require significant grooming to prevent mats. Afghan Hounds are loving and loyal to their families, though they can be aloof with strangers. They are built for speed and require ample exercise, making them suitable for active families. Early and consistent socialization is vital for this independent and sometimes mischievous breed.
27. Barbet
A close-up of a cheerful red Barbet dog's curly face, an active good family dog breed that doesn't shed much.
The Barbet, a French water dog, is a cheerful and intelligent breed with a distinctive shaggy, woolly coat that is low-shedding and protects them in cold water. They are known for their friendly, playful, and devoted nature, making them excellent family dogs. Barbets thrive on activity and love to swim, requiring regular exercise to be happy and well-behaved. Their coat requires consistent brushing, two to three times a week, to keep it in good condition and free of mats.
28. Shih-Poo
A close-up of a tan and black Shih-Poo dog with a friendly expression, a versatile good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Shih-Poo is a delightful crossbreed, typically combining a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle. These small dogs inherit the best traits of both parents: a friendly, outgoing personality, intelligence, and a low-shedding coat. Shih-Poos are highly adaptable and can thrive in almost any living situation, making them excellent family companions. They enjoy daily walks and playtime, along with regular grooming to maintain their soft, often wavy coat. Their affectionate nature ensures they bond closely with their families.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
An elegant Peruvian Inca Orchid dog with its distinct hairless body, a rare good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an ancient and rare breed known for its hairless body (though coated varieties exist), making it a truly non-shedding option. They come in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and are the national dog of Peru. These dogs are noble, alert, and affectionate with their families, often forming strong bonds. They can be reserved with strangers, so early socialization is beneficial. Their hairless skin requires protection from extreme weather, but their minimal grooming needs are a major advantage for allergy sufferers.
30. Malshi
A small tricolor Malshi dog playing happily in vibrant green grass, a loving good family dog breed that doesn't shed.
A cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a cheerful, small dog with a gentle and loving disposition. Their coat is typically soft, long, and low-shedding, making them a wonderful choice for families concerned about allergies. Malshis thrive on close companionship and enjoy being part of all family activities. They are playful, adaptable, and generally good with children and other pets. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their beautiful coats free of tangles and looking their best. These small, affectionate dogs exemplify dogs that don’t shed and don’t need grooming when kept trimmed.
Essential Tips for Families with a Low-Shedding Dog
Even with a low-shedding breed, managing allergens and ensuring a happy, healthy environment for both your family and your new dog requires consistent effort.
Keep Up With Grooming
While these breeds shed minimally, their coats often grow continuously and can easily mat without proper care. Regular grooming is crucial, usually several times a week for brushing, and professional grooming appointments every 4-8 weeks for clipping and trimming. This routine not only keeps their coat healthy but also removes loose dander and hair that could still trigger allergies. Regular bathing, typically every 4-6 weeks with a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, helps further reduce dander on their skin and coat.
Maintain a Clean Home
Even with a low-shedding dog, allergens can still accumulate. Establish a regular cleaning routine:
- Vacuum frequently: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter on carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
- Dust surfaces: Wipe down hard surfaces regularly with a damp cloth.
- Wash bedding: Launder pet beds, blankets, and your own bedding frequently.
- Air purification: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in main living areas and bedrooms to capture airborne allergens.
- Ventilation: Keep your home well-ventilated, especially after cleaning, to circulate fresh air.
Consult Your Doctor and Veterinarian
If family members have severe allergies, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider before bringing a dog home. They can discuss allergy management strategies, which might include medications, nasal sprays, or even immunotherapy. Additionally, discuss any specific health considerations for your chosen breed with your veterinarian, and ensure your dog receives regular check-ups and preventative care.
Prioritize Socialization and Training
For any family dog, socialization and training are paramount. A well-socialized dog is comfortable around children, strangers, and other animals, leading to a harmonious household. Enroll your puppy in obedience classes, expose them to various sights and sounds, and encourage positive interactions with family members. A well-trained dog is a joy to live with, integrating seamlessly into family life and enhancing everyone’s experience.
Conclusion
Choosing a “good family dog breed that doesn’t shed” offers a wonderful opportunity for families, particularly those with allergy concerns, to experience the profound joys of dog ownership. From the intelligent Poodle to the affectionate Goldendoodle, the diverse breeds highlighted in this guide offer a range of sizes, temperaments, and energy levels to suit nearly any lifestyle. While no dog is truly allergen-free, these low-shedding companions significantly reduce dander in your home, creating a more comfortable environment. By committing to regular grooming, maintaining a clean living space, and prioritizing their health and training, you can welcome a loving, playful, and low-shedding dog into your family for years of cherished memories. Embrace the journey of finding your perfect furry family member and enjoy the unconditional love they bring!
WRITTEN BY
Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH
Veterinarian Technician
