Welcoming a dog into your family brings immense joy, companionship, and endless cuddles. However, for many families, especially those with allergy sufferers, the thought of constant shedding and airborne dander can be a significant deterrent. The good news is that you don’t have to miss out on the incredible experience of dog ownership. There’s a wonderful array of “non-shedding” or low-shedding dog breeds that can seamlessly integrate into your home, offering all the love without the excessive fur clean-up. These breeds are often referred to as “hypoallergenic,” a term that, while popular, requires a closer look.
While no dog is entirely 100% allergen-free, certain breeds produce significantly less dander—the microscopic flakes of skin that carry allergens and often cling to shed hair. By minimizing shedding, these dogs drastically reduce the amount of dander released into your environment, making them ideal companions for individuals with sensitivities. Beyond just low shedding, the best family dogs also possess temperaments that thrive in a home environment, characterized by patience, affection, and trainability. This comprehensive guide will explore some of the top non-shedding family dogs, along with essential tips for living a happy, fur-free life with your beloved canine.
Understanding “Hypoallergenic” and Low-Shedding Dogs
The term “hypoallergenic” is widely used to describe dog breeds that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people. However, it’s crucial to understand that this doesn’t mean these dogs are completely free of allergens. All dogs produce allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine, which can still cause reactions. The primary reason “hypoallergenic” dogs are better for allergy sufferers is their low-shedding coats. These coats tend to trap dander and hair, preventing it from being released into the home environment as frequently as with heavy-shedding breeds.
For families, the benefit extends beyond just allergy management. Low-shedding dogs mean less vacuuming, less fur on furniture and clothes, and an overall cleaner living space. This makes them a practical choice for busy households looking for a pet that doesn’t demand constant clean-up. When considering a non-shedding dog, think about not only their coat type but also their size, energy level, and temperament to ensure they’re a perfect fit for your family’s lifestyle. For those interested in a comprehensive overview, here’s a detailed list of dogs that don’t shed.
Top Non-Shedding Family Dogs
Many wonderful dog breeds are known for their minimal shedding and excellent family-friendly qualities. From playful pint-sized pups to gentle giants, there’s a low-shedding dog out there for nearly every type of household.
Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)
Poodles are perhaps the most famous of all low-shedding breeds, and for good reason. Available in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—there’s a Poodle to fit almost any family dynamic. Renowned for their exceptional intelligence and elegant curly coats, Poodles are highly trainable and eager to please. The Standard Poodle, originally bred as a water retriever, is a larger and robust companion, while Miniature and Toy Poodles offer the same charm and smarts in a more compact package. Their non-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, making them a commitment in terms of care but a dream for those sensitive to fur. Their playful yet gentle nature makes them fantastic companions for children, adapting well to various family activities.
White Poodle walking through lush green grass
Yorkshire Terrier
These spirited little dogs pack a lot of personality into a tiny frame. Yorkies are affectionate, confident, and highly adaptable, making them excellent family members, even for those living in smaller spaces like apartments. Their fine, human-like hair sheds minimally, though it does require regular brushing to keep it tangle-free. Yorkshire Terriers thrive on attention and companionship, forming strong bonds with their families. They are known for their spunky demeanor and are always ready for a game or a cuddle session, making them delightful companions for older children and adults.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, an ancient companion breed from Tibet, is a charming and friendly dog known for its long, flowing coat and affectionate nature. These small pups are bred specifically for companionship and are wonderfully suited for family life. Their thick coat sheds very little, but consistent grooming is essential to maintain its health and prevent mats. Shih Tzus are generally good-natured and enjoy being pampered, making them a lovely addition to homes seeking a devoted, low-key pet. Families should be aware that their flat faces can predispose them to certain health issues, such as overheating and breathing difficulties, requiring careful management, especially in warm weather.
Brown and white Shih Tzu lying calmly on a living room floor
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are robust, intelligent, and lively dogs that make fantastic family pets. Standing no more than 14 inches tall, these alert and spirited terriers are well-suited for various living environments, from urban apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive adequate exercise. Their wiry coat sheds very little but requires regular stripping or clipping to maintain its characteristic appearance and health. Miniature Schnauzers are known for their loyalty and playful antics, making them engaging companions for children and adults alike. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy participating in family activities.
Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer offers all the intelligence and spirited personality of its miniature counterpart in a slightly larger package. Weighing up to 45 pounds, these medium-sized dogs are known for their distinctive bearded snout and expressive eyebrows. They are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and possess a protective nature, making them excellent watchdogs and devoted family members. Their wiry coat is low-shedding but needs regular grooming, including brushing and occasional hand-stripping. Standard Schnauzers are active dogs that love long walks, playing fetch, and engaging in puzzle toys, making them ideal for families who enjoy an active lifestyle. For families looking for a versatile, non-shedding companion of a moderate size, these are among the best mid size dogs that dont shed.
Giant Schnauzer
For families seeking a large, protective, and intelligent non-shedding dog, the Giant Schnauzer is an excellent choice. Capable of reaching heights over 27 inches and weighing up to 85 pounds, these dogs require significant exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved. Their imposing presence combined with their deep loyalty makes them formidable protectors of their family and home. The Giant Schnauzer’s coarse, wiry coat is low-shedding but demands regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its texture. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to harness their intelligence and ensure they are well-adjusted family members. These are certainly among the large family dog breeds that don t shed.
Black Giant Schnauzer with a blue bow collar standing outdoors
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, playful, and affectionate small dog with a distinctive curly, powder-puff coat that sheds minimally. These charming pups are renowned for their outgoing personalities and ability to quickly master training basics with positive reinforcement. Bichons thrive on companionship and are incredibly adaptable, making them suitable for various living situations, including apartments. Their gentle and friendly demeanor makes them excellent companions for children and other pets. However, their fluffy coat does require daily brushing to prevent mats and regular professional grooming.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique and captivating small breed, known for its two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both varieties are considered low-shedding. The hairless type has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in a long, silky coat. These playful and affectionate dogs are wonderful companions that form strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized. Their unique appearance and loving nature make them truly stand out.
Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, robust, and energetic breed with a thick, curly, low-shedding coat. These intelligent and highly trainable dogs are known for their friendly disposition and boundless energy. They excel in activities that engage both their minds and bodies, especially those involving water. Regular exercise, such as swimming, long walks, or vigorous games of fetch, is essential to keep them happy and healthy. Their loving nature and eagerness to please make them fantastic family dogs, particularly for active households. For families with a penchant for larger, active companions, this breed represents a great large breed of dog that doesn’t shed.
Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a delightful crossbreed, combining the intelligence of a Poodle with the friendly nature of a Labrador Retriever. Originally bred as hypoallergenic service dogs, Labradoodles have quickly become popular family pets due to their intelligent, friendly, and gentle demeanor. Their coat can vary from wavy to curly, but it is typically low-shedding, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. Labradoodles are highly trainable and generally excellent with children and other pets, especially when socialized from an early age. They thrive on companionship and activity, making them ideal for families who can provide them with consistent exercise and mental stimulation.
Brown Standard Labradoodle walking on a pathway in a park
Goldendoodle
Another popular “doodle” breed, the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, they are cherished for their friendly nature, high intelligence, and low-shedding coats. Goldendoodles are adaptable, gentle, and make wonderful family companions. While many are known for their golden coats, they come in a wide range of colors and textures. They require frequent grooming, including brushing with a slicker brush, to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. Their playful spirit and affectionate temperament make them a joy to have around children.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, an ancient Italian breed, was originally a water retriever and truffle hunter. Their curly, woolly coat is low-shedding and protects them from cold water. Though less common than some other non-shedding breeds, Lagotti Romagnoli are known to be good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. They are intelligent, affectionate, and require both physical and mental exercise to thrive. Their cheerful disposition and robust nature make them a delightful addition to an active family home.
Affenpinscher
Often described as having a “monkey-like” appearance, the Affenpinscher is a small, playful, and curious dog with a dense, wiry coat that sheds minimally. These little dogs are full of personality and are known for their fearlessness and loyalty to their families. While they are small, they are not fragile and can be good companions for older children. Their coat requires specific grooming, including regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping, to keep it in optimal condition.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive, medium-to-large breed with a dense, curly, water-repellent coat that sheds minimally. Known for their intelligence, friendly nature, and high trainability, these dogs were originally bred for retrieving game from water. They are incredibly energetic and require ample exercise to stay happy and healthy, making them ideal for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. Their playful and inquisitive nature, combined with their striking liver-colored coat, makes them a unique and beloved family member.
Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic non-shedding dog. They inherit the smarts and active nature from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and eager to please. Aussiedoodles thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity; without enough of both, they can become bored and potentially destructive. For active families who can provide plenty of exercise, enrichment toys, and training, an Aussiedoodle can be a devoted and fun-loving companion.
Bolognese
Originating in Italy, the Bolognese is a charming small dog with a long, fluffy white coat that sheds very little. These playful and easygoing pups have a reputation for getting along well with children and other pets, making them highly adaptable to various family living situations. They are affectionate and thrive on close companionship. Despite their characteristic “messy” appearance, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it clean and healthy.
Maltese
The Maltese is a small, elegant dog known for its luxurious, silky white coat that sheds minimally. These affectionate and playful companions thrive on human interaction and make devoted family members. While their long coat is beautiful, it requires significant grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Many Maltese owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make grooming more manageable. They are gentle and loving, often forming strong bonds with their primary caregivers, and can be great with older, respectful children.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed distinguished by its silky, soft, wheat-colored coat that sheds very little. Wheatens are known for their joyful and exuberant personalities, maintaining a high energy level throughout their lives. They are intelligent and playful, making them engaging family members, particularly for those who can provide them with ample exercise and mental stimulation. Their affectionate nature means they thrive on being part of family activities.
Coton de Tulear
Hailing from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, easygoing, and affectionate breed with a soft, cotton-like coat that is low-shedding. Their good nature makes them a wonderful fit for families with children and other pets, especially when introductions are handled properly. Cotons are adaptable and thrive on companionship, enjoying both playtime and quiet cuddle sessions. Their cheerful disposition and relatively low-maintenance exercise needs make them popular choices for various family lifestyles.
Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a designer breed resulting from crossing a Schnauzer with a Poodle, combining two already low-shedding breeds. Their coat can be curly or wavy, depending on which parent’s genetics are more dominant, but it consistently remains low-shedding. Schnoodles inherit intelligence and a playful spirit from both sides, making them highly trainable and entertaining family companions. They are generally adaptable and can fit into various living situations, provided they receive regular exercise and mental engagement.
Bedlington Terrier
Often described as a “lamb in dog’s clothing” due to their distinctive woolly coat and gentle appearance, the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed that sheds minimally. These unique dogs are known for their loving and loyal nature, forming strong bonds with their families. They love being close to their people and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Bedlington Terriers are active and agile, requiring regular exercise to channel their energy. Their distinctive look and affectionate temperament make them a memorable family pet.
Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient and rare breed known for its striking appearance. Available in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard), Xolos can be either hairless or coated with a short, fine fur. Both varieties are considered hypoallergenic due to their minimal hair or complete lack thereof. They are loyal, alert, and calm companions, forming deep bonds with their families. Their unique qualities make them an intriguing and low-maintenance choice for families looking for a distinctive non-shedding pet.
Whoodle
A cross between a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, the Whoodle is a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate dog that sheds very little. They inherit desirable traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a charming and adaptable companion. Whoodles are playful and thrive on being part of family activities, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-adjusted. Their soft, wavy to curly coat is appealing and contributes to their low-shedding nature, though it still requires consistent grooming.
Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a popular crossbreed, combining the gentle demeanor of a Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle. These large, affectionate, and friendly dogs are renowned for their gentle nature, making them excellent family pets, especially for households with children and other pets. They require plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, enjoying outdoor adventures and playtime with their families. Their loving personality and minimal shedding make them a fantastic choice for families seeking a large breed of dog that doesn’t shed that is also great with kids.
Large Bernedoodle dog lying in green grass with its tongue out
Shorkie
The Shorkie is a delightful mixed breed resulting from a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier—both already low-shedding breeds. This combination creates a small, playful, and friendly companion that embodies the best qualities of both parents. Shorkies are affectionate and enjoy being close to their humans. Like most non-shedding dogs, they require dedication to a regular grooming routine to keep their fine hair healthy and free of tangles. They are well-suited for families seeking a small, lively, and low-maintenance shedding companion.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound, with its distinctive long, flowing coat and aristocratic appearance, is another breed known for its minimal shedding. While their coat is undeniably glamorous, it requires extensive grooming to prevent mats and maintain its condition. Beneath their elegant exterior, Afghan Hounds are loving towards their family but can be aloof with strangers, highlighting the importance of early and consistent socialization. These hounds are built for running and possess high energy levels, making them suitable for active families who can provide ample opportunities for exercise. For families specifically interested in long haired dog breeds that dont shed, the Afghan Hound is a stunning option.
Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful French water dog known for its shaggy, woolly, and dense coat that sheds minimally. The breed’s name, derived from the French word “barbe” (beard), refers to its characteristic hairy chin. Barbets are intelligent, active, and love to swim, making them great companions for families who enjoy water-based activities. Their protective curly coat helps them thrive in various climates. Regular brushing, two to three times a week with a slicker or pin brush, is essential to keep their coat in good condition, especially after swimming.
Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo is a mixed breed resulting from a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly the Toy Poodle). This small, charming pup typically inherits a low-shedding coat and an adaptable, friendly personality. Shih-Poos can thrive in almost any living situation, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive about 30 minutes of daily exercise and consistent brushing to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free. They are affectionate and enjoy being part of family life, making them a delightful companion for many households.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
Peruvian Inca Orchids are rare and ancient dogs that come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. They are considered hypoallergenic primarily due to their nearly hairless bodies. Coated varieties also exist with short, single coats. These unique dogs are known for being alert, loyal, and affectionate with their families. While they are a rare sight, their minimal shedding and distinctive appearance make them an interesting choice for families seeking a truly unique non-shedding companion.
Malshi
The Malshi is a happy, small, and affectionate hypoallergenic dog, created by crossing a Maltese with a Shih Tzu. These charming mixed breeds thrive on close companionship and form strong bonds with their favorite humans. Malshis are playful and adaptable, fitting well into various family environments. Like their parent breeds, they require a regular grooming routine to keep their soft, flowing coat free of mats and looking its best.
Living Happily with Your Non-Shedding Family Dog
Bringing a non-shedding dog into your home is a fantastic step towards a fur-free, allergy-friendly environment. However, owning any dog requires commitment, and low-shedding breeds have specific needs that families should be aware of to ensure a harmonious coexistence.
Essential Grooming for a Healthy Coat
While these dogs don’t shed much, their coats still require diligent care. Many non-shedding breeds have hair that grows continuously, much like human hair, making them prone to matting and tangles if not regularly maintained. Consistent grooming is crucial for their comfort and health. This typically includes:
- Regular Brushing: Daily or every-other-day brushing is often necessary to prevent mats, especially for breeds with curly or long coats.
- Bathing: While not as frequent as brushing, regular bathing (every four to six weeks, or as needed) helps keep their coats clean and reduces dander. Using a specialized dander-reducing shampoo can be particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Trimming/Clipping: Many non-shedding breeds require professional grooming every 4-8 weeks for trimming or clipping to keep their coats at a manageable length and prevent them from becoming overgrown. Learning basic at-home grooming techniques can also be a cost-effective alternative.
Maintaining a Clean Home Environment
Even with a low-shedding dog, maintaining a clean home is vital to minimize allergens and keep your living space fresh. Dander, saliva, and urine can still carry allergens. Implement these practices:
- Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to effectively trap pet dander from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
- Dust Frequently: Dust surfaces regularly with a damp cloth to remove settled allergens.
- Wash Bedding: Wash your pet’s bedding and your own bedding regularly in hot water to eliminate allergens.
- Air Purification: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in main living areas and bedrooms to help remove airborne allergens.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in your home to circulate fresh air and reduce allergen buildup.
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
For family members with diagnosed dog allergies, managing their condition is paramount. While a non-shedding dog significantly reduces allergen exposure, it might not eliminate it entirely. It is highly recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or allergist to discuss living with a dog. They can provide guidance on:
- Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, can help manage symptoms.
- Immunotherapy: In some cases, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended to build tolerance over time.
- Avoiding Contact: While difficult with a beloved family pet, minimizing direct contact with the dog’s saliva (e.g., licking) and urine can further reduce allergic reactions, as these also contain allergens. Establishing “allergy-free zones” in the home, such as bedrooms, can also be helpful.
Bringing a non-shedding family dog into your home can truly transform the lives of individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the profound joy and unconditional companionship that only a canine friend can provide, without the constant worry of allergic reactions. By choosing the right breed and committing to proper grooming and home maintenance, your family can enjoy a happy, healthy, and fur-light life with your new best friend.
