For dog lovers, the joy of companionship can sometimes be overshadowed by allergies. While no dog is entirely “hypoallergenic” or 100% allergen-free, certain breeds produce significantly less dander and shed minimally, making them a more comfortable choice for individuals with sensitivities. This guide focuses on medium to large sized dogs that don’t shed, offering detailed insights for those seeking a larger canine companion without the constant upkeep of excessive shedding or the worry of triggering allergic reactions. If you’re looking for a substantial furry friend whose presence won’t leave a trail of hair or sniffles, you’re in the right place. We’ll explore various breeds that fit this description, highlighting their unique traits and what makes them ideal for allergy-prone households.
Understanding “Hypoallergenic” Dogs and Allergies
The term “hypoallergenic” can be misleading. It doesn’t mean “no allergens” but rather “fewer allergens.” All dogs produce dander (flakes of dead skin), saliva, and urine, which contain proteins that trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals. Dogs labeled “hypoallergenic” simply shed less hair and dander, or their hair type traps dander more effectively, preventing it from spreading as much in the environment. This significantly reduces the amount of airborne allergens, leading to fewer symptoms like coughing, itching, or wheezing for allergy sufferers.
Choosing a medium to large dog that doesn’t shed offers several advantages. These breeds often provide a more robust presence, suitable for active lifestyles, families with children, or those simply preferring a larger pet. Their generally low-shedding coats mean less vacuuming and fewer pet hairs on furniture and clothing, contributing to a cleaner home environment.
For those interested in exploring smaller options, you can also find many excellent choices when considering small dogs that dont shed for sale.
Top Medium to Large Sized Dogs That Don’t Shed
Here’s a look at some of the best medium to large dog breeds known for their low-shedding coats and suitability for allergy sufferers. Each breed brings its own unique personality, grooming needs, and exercise requirements.
1. Standard Poodle
White Standard Poodle trotting gracefully through green grass
The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three Poodle varieties, often weighing between 45 to 70 pounds and standing over 15 inches tall. Renowned for their exceptional intelligence and elegant appearance, Standard Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers. Their dense, curly coat is their most distinctive feature; it’s virtually non-shedding but requires consistent grooming to prevent matting. Weekly brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks are essential. Poodles are highly trainable and excel in various dog sports, making them excellent companions for active families. Their affectionate and playful nature, combined with their low-allergen coat, makes them a popular choice. While our focus here is on larger breeds, Poodles also come in smaller sizes for those considering other options. For those curious about specific smaller breeds, you might also want to research toy french bulldogs for sale near me.
2. Standard Schnauzer
Gray Standard Schnauzer standing alert in a field with a focused expression
Standing at 17.5 to 19.5 inches and weighing 30 to 50 pounds, the Standard Schnauzer is a robust, intelligent, and highly adaptable breed. Known for their distinctive wiry coat, bushy eyebrows, and magnificent beard, these dogs are considered “hypoallergenic” due to their low-shedding nature. Their coat requires regular maintenance, including brushing a few times a week and professional stripping or clipping every few months to maintain its texture and minimize shedding. Standard Schnauzers are loyal, protective, and energetic, needing at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily. They are great problem-solvers and enjoy activities like long walks, playing fetch, and engaging with dog puzzle toys.
3. Giant Schnauzer
Black Giant Schnauzer with a blue collar, wet from swimming, standing confidently in a park
The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the Schnauzer family, often reaching heights over 27 inches and weighing up to 85 pounds. This imposing yet dignified breed boasts a dense, wiry, low-shedding coat similar to its smaller relatives, requiring similar grooming: regular brushing and professional stripping or clipping. Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent, courageous, and fiercely loyal. They are not for the faint of heart, requiring extensive socialization and consistent training from a young age due to their strong guarding instincts. These energetic dogs need significant daily exercise, including long walks, runs, and engaging play sessions to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Black and white Portuguese Water Dog wearing a red maple leaf bandana, sitting calmly by the water's edge
Originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog is a highly active and intelligent medium-sized breed, typically weighing 35 to 60 pounds and standing 17 to 23 inches tall. Their thick, curly, waterproof coat is non-shedding and comes in various colors. While it doesn’t shed, it requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting. Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their lively personalities, trainability, and deep affection for their families. They thrive on activity and love to swim, making them perfect companions for outdoor enthusiasts. Regular exercise is crucial to their well-being.
5. Labradoodle
Brown Standard Labradoodle walking happily through a lush green park
A popular crossbreed, the Labradoodle combines the friendly nature of a Labrador Retriever with the low-shedding coat of a Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are medium to large, generally weighing 50 to 75 pounds and standing 21 to 24 inches tall. Their coats can vary from wavy to curly, and while they are often low-shedding, some may shed more depending on their genetic inheritance. Regular brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks are typically needed. Labradoodles are known for their intelligence, friendly disposition, and suitability as excellent family pets. They are highly trainable and gentle, especially when well-exercised and socialized early.
6. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodle resting comfortably on a couch with a person in the background, exuding calmness
Another beloved Poodle mix, the Goldendoodle, is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Standard Goldendoodles are medium to large, usually weighing 50 to 75 pounds and reaching 20 to 24 inches in height. Like Labradoodles, their coats range from wavy to curly and are generally low-shedding, though some individual variation exists. Frequent grooming with a dog slicker brush is necessary to prevent matting, along with professional trims. Goldendoodles inherit a friendly, intelligent, and gentle nature from both parent breeds, making them fantastic family companions. They are often described as easygoing and highly adaptable, thriving on human interaction and moderate exercise.
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Two Lagotto Romagnolo dogs lying in the dirt, looking intently at the camera with their characteristic curly coats
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian breed originally bred as a water retriever, now primarily known for its truffle-hunting abilities. They are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 24 to 35 pounds and standing 16 to 19 inches tall. Their unique curly, woolly coat is virtually non-shedding and protects them from cold water. This coat needs regular trimming and occasional brushing to keep it from matting and to maintain its functional texture. Lagotti Romagnoli are intelligent, affectionate, and easily trainable. They are good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs for active households that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
8. Irish Water Spaniel
Brown Irish Water Spaniel in profile, showcasing its characteristic curly coat and rat tail
Distinctive for its “rat tail” and liver-colored curly coat, the Irish Water Spaniel is a robust and energetic medium to large breed, weighing 45 to 68 pounds and standing 21 to 24 inches tall. Their thick, curly coat is low-shedding but requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent mats and maintain its condition. These dogs are highly intelligent, friendly, and possess a strong desire to please, making them very trainable. Originally bred for retrieving game from water, they have a high energy level and require substantial daily exercise, including swimming, fetching, and long walks. Early socialization is key for this playful and sometimes mischievous breed.
9. Aussiedoodle
Standard Aussiedoodle standing gracefully on a beach with a thoughtful expression
The Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, resulting in a highly intelligent and energetic medium to large dog, often weighing 40 to 70 pounds and standing 18 to 23 inches tall. Their coats can vary from wavy to curly, offering a low-shedding option. Regular brushing (several times a week) and professional grooming are essential to manage their coats. Aussiedoodles are known for their sharp minds and high energy, inherited from both parent breeds. They thrive on activity and mental stimulation; without enough exercise and engagement, they can become destructive. Enrichment toys and consistent training are vital for a happy Aussiedoodle.
10. Bernedoodle
Large Bernedoodle lying in grass with its tongue out, appearing relaxed and happy
Combining the gentle giant nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the low-shedding coat and intelligence of the Poodle, the Bernedoodle is a popular large hypoallergenic dog, weighing anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds and standing 23 to 29 inches tall. Their coats can range from wavy to curly and are generally low-shedding, but require regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting. Bernedoodles are renowned for their friendly, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor, making them an excellent choice for families with children and other pets. Despite their size, they are typically playful and devoted companions who need plenty of exercise to stay active and healthy. These traits make them one of the best large family dogs that don t shed.
11. Afghan Hound
Gray and tan Afghan Hound with its distinctive long, flowing coat, looking elegantly at the camera
The Afghan Hound is an aristocratic and elegant large breed, weighing 50 to 60 pounds and standing 25 to 27 inches tall. They are known for their magnificent long, silky coats and slender builds. Despite the voluminous hair, Afghan Hounds are considered low-shedding, with hair falling out only minimally, similar to human hair. However, this luxurious coat requires extensive daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Regular bathing and conditioning are also essential. These pups are built for running and are incredibly fast. Afghan Hounds are loving and devoted to their families but can be aloof and independent with strangers, emphasizing the importance of early and consistent socialization.
12. Barbet
Close-up of a curly red Barbet dog's face, showing its shaggy, woolly coat and characteristic beard
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful and medium-to-large French water dog, typically weighing 35 to 65 pounds and standing 19 to 25 inches tall. Its name comes from the French word barbe, meaning beard, a nod to its characteristically hairy chin. The Barbet’s dense, woolly, and shaggy coat is low-shedding and designed to protect it from cold water. This coat requires regular grooming with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week to prevent matting, especially after swimming. Barbets are intelligent, friendly, and highly adaptable, making them wonderful family companions. They love to swim and need ample exercise to satisfy their energetic nature.
13. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Standard)
Peruvian Inca Orchid dog with its smooth, elegant hairless body and tufts of hair on its head
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an ancient and rare dog breed that comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The standard size can weigh up to 55 pounds and stand up to 26 inches tall. They are considered hypoallergenic primarily due to their nearly hairless bodies, though some are born with a short, smooth coat, which is also low-shedding. Their skin requires special care, including sun protection and moisturizing. Peruvian Inca Orchids are affectionate, loyal, and agile dogs that thrive on close companionship. They are known for being wary of strangers but deeply devoted to their families, making them excellent watchdogs.
14. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier sitting on a log, displaying its silky, wheat-colored coat
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a charming medium-sized Irish breed, typically weighing 30 to 40 pounds and standing 17 to 19 inches tall. As their name suggests, they possess an incredibly soft, silky coat that is low-shedding. This beautiful coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting, along with regular trims every 4-6 weeks. Wheatens are known for their joyful, spirited personalities and their famous “Wheaten Greetin’,” a bouncy, enthusiastic welcome. They maintain a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample daily exercise and mental stimulation to be well-behaved and happy.
15. Whoodle
Tan Whoodle puppy playfully tugging at a washcloth, showing its soft, wavy coat
A Whoodle is a delightful crossbreed between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle. These medium-sized dogs typically weigh 20 to 50 pounds and stand 18 to 20 inches tall. They inherit a low-shedding coat from both parent breeds, which can be wavy or curly and requires regular brushing and professional grooming. Whoodles are known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and playful demeanor, making them excellent family companions. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of family activities. Like their parent breeds, they need consistent exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom.
16. Xoloitzcuintli (Standard)
Black Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli) standing elegantly in grass, highlighting its unique appearance
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds. It comes in three sizes, with the standard size being medium to large, weighing 30 to 55 pounds and standing 18 to 23 inches tall. Xolos can be hairless or coated (with a short, smooth coat), and both varieties are considered hypoallergenic. The hairless variety requires special skincare, including sun protection and moisturizing, while the coated variety needs minimal grooming. Xolos are known for being calm, attentive, and loyal companions. They are intelligent and sensitive, forming strong bonds with their families, though they can be reserved around strangers.
Living with a Non-Shedding Dog: Essential Tips
While choosing a medium to large dog that doesn’t shed can significantly reduce allergy symptoms, it’s important to remember that ongoing management is key to maintaining an allergen-friendly environment.
Regular Grooming is Key
Even though these dogs are low-shedding, their coats often require more frequent and specialized grooming than shedding breeds. Regular brushing (several times a week, sometimes daily) is crucial to prevent mats and tangles, which can still trap dander and skin cells. Many non-shedding breeds also need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks for clipping or stripping to maintain coat health and minimize allergen buildup. Consistent bathing every 4-6 weeks with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo can also help wash away dander and other potential allergens from the coat.
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
To further minimize allergens, maintaining a clean living space is paramount. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner, dusting surfaces frequently, and washing bedding (both human and pet) often helps reduce the accumulation of dander and pet hair. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters can also improve air quality by trapping airborne allergens. Designating “dog-free” zones, such as bedrooms, can provide an additional sanctuary for allergy sufferers.
Consult Your Doctor
Managing allergies is a personal journey, and consulting with a healthcare provider is always recommended. Your doctor can offer personalized advice, discuss allergy treatments such as medication, nasal sprays, or immunotherapy (allergy shots), and help you develop a comprehensive plan for living comfortably with your low-shedding dog. Additionally, avoiding close contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, which also contain allergens, can further help prevent reactions.
Bringing home a medium to large sized dog that doesn’t shed can be a truly enriching experience for individuals and families with allergies. These magnificent breeds offer the full joy of canine companionship without the constant worry of excessive shedding or severe allergic reactions. By understanding their unique needs and implementing consistent care and cleaning routines, you can create a harmonious and healthy home for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the intelligence of a Standard Poodle or the playful nature of a Bernedoodle, there’s a low-shedding large dog out there waiting to be your loyal companion. For individuals considering gentle dog breeds that don t shed or even small dogs that dont shed and are easy to train, there are numerous options to explore beyond this list.
References
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). “Allergens.”
- PetMD. (Various articles on dog breeds, grooming, and health mentioned in the text).
