Dogs are cherished companions in countless homes across the globe, but for many, the joy of pet ownership is overshadowed by allergic reactions or the constant battle with shedding fur. The good news is that certain dog breeds are known for their low-shedding coats, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking a more allergy-friendly pet. While it’s important to understand that no dog is 100% allergen-free, as allergens are also found in their skin, saliva, and urine, these breeds significantly reduce the amount of dander and hair released into your home. This guide provides a comprehensive list of dogs that don’t shed much, offering a pathway to enjoying canine companionship without the common drawbacks of excessive shedding. best dog breeds that don t shed
What Makes a Dog “Low-Shedding”?
The term “hypoallergenic” is often used to describe dogs that don’t shed, but a more accurate description for these breeds is “low-shedding.” Dogs that are considered low-shedding typically have hair (rather than fur) that grows continuously, similar to human hair, or a coat structure that traps loose hairs rather than releasing them into the environment. This characteristic means less dander (tiny flakes of skin that carry allergens) is dispersed, reducing the triggers for allergic reactions. Regular grooming, even for low-shedding breeds, is crucial to manage their coat and further minimize potential allergens. Understanding this distinction is key to finding a suitable canine companion for those with sensitivities or those who simply prefer a cleaner home.
A Detailed List of Dogs That Don’t Shed
Many people seek out dogs that don’t shed due to allergies, a desire for a cleaner home, or simply less upkeep. While no dog is entirely free from shedding, the following breeds are renowned for their minimal hair loss, making them excellent choices for various lifestyles.
1. Poodle
A white Standard Poodle stands elegantly in a grassy field.
Poodles are perhaps the most famous of all low-shedding breeds, known for their distinctive curly coats that trap loose hair. Available in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—they are not only highly intelligent and easily trainable but also make excellent companions for families. Their coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting and maintain its health. Originating as water retrievers, Poodles are active and enjoy engaging in various activities with their owners.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
These small dogs with big personalities are cherished for their long, silky, human-like hair that sheds minimally. Yorkies are adaptable to various living situations, from bustling city apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive ample attention and affection from their human family. Their vibrant and spunky nature, combined with their low-shedding coat, makes them a popular choice for many dog lovers. Regular grooming, including daily brushing, is essential to keep their long coats tangle-free and pristine.
3. Shih Tzu
A brown and white Shih Tzu with a distinctive long coat lies comfortably on a living room floor.
The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed with a luxurious double coat that, despite its thickness, sheds very little. Known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, Shih Tzus are beloved family pets. However, their brachycephalic (flat) faces can make them prone to certain health issues, such as overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather. Owners should also be mindful of tear stains, which are common in this breed and require regular cleaning. medium to large dogs that don t shed
4. Miniature Schnauzer
The smallest of the Schnauzer family, the Miniature Schnauzer stands out with its distinctive wiry coat and bushy eyebrows and beard. These intelligent and robust dogs typically weigh between 10-20 pounds and adapt well to various home environments. Miniature Schnauzers are active and require at least an hour of exercise daily to stay happy and well-behaved. Their coat needs regular stripping or clipping to maintain its texture and minimize shedding.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Sharing many excellent qualities with its miniature counterpart, the Standard Schnauzer is a larger, more robust version, weighing up to 45 pounds. These dogs possess the same keen intelligence and loyalty, making them highly trainable. They thrive on activity and love to spend their days engaging in long walks, games of fetch, and mentally stimulating puzzle toys. Like all Schnauzers, their wiry coat is low-shedding but requires consistent grooming to prevent matting and maintain its distinctive appearance.
6. Giant Schnauzer
A majestic black Giant Schnauzer, with a wet coat, stands alert in a lush park setting.
As their name suggests, Giant Schnauzers are among the largest low-shedding breeds, capable of reaching over 27 inches in height and weighing up to 85 pounds. These powerful and intelligent dogs require substantial daily exercise to remain content and well-adjusted. Activities such as long walks, running, hiking, and vigorous games of fetch are essential for their physical and mental well-being. Their dense, wiry coat is low-shedding but demands consistent grooming, including brushing and professional stripping, to keep it in optimal condition.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful, and highly affectionate dog breed known for its soft, curly, powder-puff coat that sheds minimally. These intelligent pups are eager to please and highly trainable, quickly mastering basic commands and enjoying learning new tricks. Bichons are excellent companions, thriving on close interaction with their families. Their beautiful white coat requires regular grooming, including daily brushing and professional trims, to prevent matting and maintain its characteristic fluffy appearance.
8. Chinese Crested
A hairless Chinese Crested dog with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws gazes intently at the camera.
The Chinese Crested is a unique small breed that comes in two distinct varieties: hairless and “powderpuff.” Both are considered low-shedding. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in a soft, silky coat. These playful and affectionate dogs make wonderful companions. Due to their minimal coat (or lack thereof), they require special care for their skin, including sun protection and moisturizing, and regular grooming for the powderpuff variety.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog is a robust, medium-sized breed with a thick, curly coat that sheds very little. They are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and possess a friendly disposition, making them excellent family pets. These dogs are high-energy and thrive on regular exercise, especially activities involving water, as they are natural swimmers. Engaging them with floating toys and plenty of outdoor adventures will keep them happy and healthy. most trainable dogs that don t shed
10. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed, a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, originally developed as a guide dog for people with allergies. These intelligent and friendly dogs make exceptional family pets due to their gentle nature and high trainability. Their coat type can vary depending on their Poodle lineage, ranging from wavy to curly, but most are low-shedding. Early socialization and consistent exercise are crucial to ensure a well-adjusted and happy Labradoodle.
11. Goldendoodle
A beautiful Goldendoodle relaxes on a comfortable couch, a person in the background adding to the cozy scene.
Another beloved “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, they are known for their low-shedding coats, friendly disposition, and high intelligence. Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors and coat textures, though many inherit the signature golden hue from their Golden Retriever parent. Frequent grooming with a slicker brush is necessary to prevent their soft, wavy or curly coats from matting.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, an ancient Italian breed, was originally bred as a water retriever and is renowned for its curly, woolly coat that offers protection in cold waters and sheds minimally. 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 excellent family dogs. Their active nature requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
13. Affenpinscher
Often described as having a “monkey-like” appearance, the Affenpinscher is a small, spirited low-shedding dog. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens than many other breeds but requires diligent care, including regular at-home brushing and professional hand-stripping to maintain its texture and reduce shedding. Despite their small size, Affenpinschers are confident and curious, bringing a lot of personality to any home.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinguished water dog breed, recognized by its tight, crisp liver-colored curls. These dogs are intelligent, friendly, and highly trainable, originally bred for retrieving game from water. Their unique coat sheds minimally but demands consistent grooming to prevent matting. With high energy levels, Irish Water Spaniels require plenty of exercise and thrive in active households where they can engage in swimming and other outdoor activities.
15. Aussiedoodle
A lively Aussiedoodle dog stands gracefully on a sandy beach, enjoying the coastal breeze.
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic low-shedding breed. Both parent breeds contribute to their keen minds and active dispositions. To prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors, Aussiedoodles require extensive exercise and significant mental stimulation through enrichment toys and training. Their wavy or curly coats need regular brushing to prevent tangles. big dogs that don t shed a lot
16. Bolognese
Hailing from Italy, the Bolognese is a charming small dog with a long, fluffy white coat that sheds very little. Despite its often whimsical, messy appearance, this coat requires diligent grooming to keep it in good condition. Bolognese pups are known for their playful and easygoing nature, getting along well with children and other pets. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive ample affection.
17. Maltese
A woman lovingly holds a white Maltese dog, showcasing its luxurious long coat.
The Maltese is a small, elegant low-shedding dog celebrated for its luxurious, silky white coat. These affectionate and playful companions are perfect for pet parents dedicated to maintaining their extensive grooming needs. While a long, flowing coat is characteristic, many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify daily care. Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential to prevent matting and keep their coat looking its best.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
As its name implies, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier boasts an incredibly soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. This medium-sized Irish breed retains a high energy level throughout its life, requiring consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and ensure good behavior. Wheatens are known for their joyful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful family pets for those who can keep up with their active lifestyle and grooming needs.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, easygoing low-shedding breed. Their cotton-like coat is soft to the touch and requires regular grooming to prevent tangles. Cotons are known for their good nature, making them suitable companions for other pets and children, especially when proper introductions are facilitated. They thrive on companionship and are happy in a variety of living environments.
20. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a designer dog breed that combines two low-shedding parents: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their coat can be curly or wavy, inheriting traits from both parents, but it is consistently low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them versatile and loving family pets that adapt well to different living situations with proper exercise and training.
21. Bedlington Terrier
A unique white Bedlington Terrier dashes gracefully through a snowy landscape.
Often likened to a lamb in appearance, the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired low-shedding breed recognized by its distinctive topknot and ear tufts. These loyal dogs thrive on companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Monitoring their activity with a dog camera can help manage this. Their unique coat requires regular grooming to maintain its characteristic appearance and texture.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “sho-lo-eets-kweent-lee”) is one of the world’s oldest and rarest breeds. They come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or coated. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless Xolo requires skin care such as moisturizing and sun protection, while the coated variety has a short, smooth coat that needs minimal grooming. These dogs are calm, attentive, and make devoted companions.
23. Whoodle
A delightful cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, the Whoodle is a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate low-shedding dog. They inherit the best qualities from both parent breeds, resulting in a dog that sheds very little and forms strong bonds with its family. Whoodles are playful and energetic, requiring regular exercise and mental engagement to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their soft, wavy coats need consistent grooming to prevent tangles.
24. Bernedoodle
A large, fluffy Bernedoodle lies peacefully in the grass with its tongue playfully out.
The Bernedoodle, a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, offers a large, friendly, and affectionate low-shedding companion. Their gentle demeanor makes them a popular choice for families with children and other pets. Bernedoodles are energetic and require plenty of exercise to stay active and healthy. Their wavy or curly coats need regular grooming to prevent matting, especially with their varying textures. top 10 dogs that don t shed
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a charming mixed breed, combining the best traits of two low-shedding dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. These small, playful, and friendly pups are celebrated for their affectionate nature and adaptability. Like most breeds on this list, Shorkies require a commitment to a regular grooming routine, including daily brushing, to keep their fine coats free of tangles and mats.
26. Afghan Hound
With their striking long, flowing coat and slender, aristocratic build, Afghan Hounds are truly distinctive. Despite their voluminous hair, they are considered low-shedding, with their coat requiring significant grooming to prevent tangles and mats. These elegant dogs are built for speed and are among the fastest breeds. While loving toward their families, Afghan Hounds can be aloof with strangers, making early and consistent socialization vital for their well-being.
27. Barbet
A close-up reveals the curly red coat and characteristic bearded chin of a Barbet dog.
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful dog with a shaggy, woolly coat that sheds minimally. The name itself comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard, referring to their distinctive facial hair. These large, water-loving dogs thrive on swimming, a trait enhanced by their protective curly coat. To maintain their coat in good condition, especially after water activities, regular brushing with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week is recommended.
28. Shih-Poo
A popular mixed breed, the Shih-Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly a Toy Poodle). This small, low-shedding pup adapts well to nearly any living situation, provided they receive about 30 minutes of exercise daily and consistent grooming. Shih-Poos are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, making them delightful companions for individuals and families alike. Their coat type can vary, but regular brushing is key to preventing mats.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
A distinctive Peruvian Inca Orchid dog stands gracefully outdoors, showcasing its unique appearance.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare and ancient breed, revered as the national dog of Peru. They are considered low-shedding due to their nearly hairless bodies, though some are born with a short coat. Available in small, medium, and large sizes, these dogs require special care for their sensitive skin, including sun protection. They are known for being alert, affectionate with their families, and wary of strangers, often making excellent watchdogs.
30. Malshi
The Malshi is a delightful cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, resulting in a happy, small, and low-shedding dog. These pups thrive on close companionship and are happiest when their favorite humans are near. Malshis are known for their affectionate and playful nature. Like their parent breeds, they require a dedicated grooming routine to keep their soft coats looking their best and to prevent matting.
Tips for Living with a Low-Shedding Dog
While choosing a low-shedding dog is a great step towards reducing allergens, it’s essential to understand that managing allergies and maintaining a clean home requires ongoing effort. Here are some key tips for living harmoniously with your low-shedding companion.
Keep Up With Regular Grooming
Even dogs that don’t shed much still require diligent grooming to manage their coats and minimize dander. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hairs that are trapped in their coats and distribute natural oils, keeping their skin and coat healthy. Bathing every four to six weeks with a specialized shampoo, such as an allergen-reducing formula, can significantly reduce the amount of dander in your home. Many low-shedding breeds also require professional trimming or hand-stripping to maintain their coat’s texture and prevent matting. Factor in the budget for regular professional grooming or learn how to perform essential grooming tasks at home.
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
Minimizing allergens in your living space is crucial for allergy sufferers. Regular vacuuming, especially with a HEPA filter vacuum, and dusting of surfaces will help remove pet dander and hair that does accumulate. Washing bedding (both yours and your dog’s) frequently in hot water can also make a big difference. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters and ensuring good ventilation throughout your home can help reduce airborne allergens, creating a more comfortable environment for everyone.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
For individuals with dog allergies, managing symptoms and preventing allergic reactions is paramount. The most effective strategy is to consult with a healthcare provider or allergist. They can offer personalized advice, which may include allergy medications, nasal sprays, or even immunotherapy (allergy shots). It’s also important to be mindful of avoiding direct contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also contain allergens that trigger reactions.
Bringing a low-shedding dog into your life can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the profound joy and companionship that only a pet can provide, without the constant struggle of severe allergic reactions.
Written by Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH
