Dogs are cherished companions in countless homes, but for many, the joy of pet ownership can be overshadowed by allergies. While no dog is entirely free of allergens, understanding which dog breeds that don’t shed a lot can significantly impact the comfort of individuals with sensitivities. This guide explores the characteristics of these remarkable low-shedding dogs and offers practical advice for living harmoniously with them, ensuring that allergies don’t stand in the way of a loving canine relationship.
What Makes a Dog “Low-Shedding”?
The term “hypoallergenic” is often used in relation to dogs that don’t shed much, but it’s important to clarify its meaning. All dogs produce allergens, which are primarily found in their skin (dander), saliva, and urine, not just their hair. However, certain breeds are specifically known for producing less dander and shedding significantly less hair, thereby distributing fewer allergens into their environment. This characteristic makes them a more suitable option for some individuals prone to allergic reactions like coughing, itching, or wheezing. It’s crucial to remember that no dog is 100% allergen-free, but low-shedding breeds certainly offer a reduced allergen load compared to heavy-shedding counterparts. The unique coat types of these breeds often trap dander and loose hair, preventing them from scattering throughout the home, which is a major benefit for allergy sufferers.
Many people mistakenly believe that dog allergies are caused by the hair itself. In reality, it’s the proteins found in a dog’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine that trigger allergic responses. When a dog sheds, these tiny particles, laden with allergens, are released into the air and onto surfaces, becoming easily inhaled or coming into contact with sensitive skin. Low-shedding dogs, by virtue of their coat type, minimize this dispersion. Their hair often grows continuously, similar to human hair, or has a curly texture that holds onto shed hair and dander, requiring regular grooming to remove it manually. This concentrated removal helps to keep the general living environment cleaner and reduces the airborne allergen count.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed a Lot
While the concept of a completely allergen-free dog is a myth, there are many dog breeds that are known for their minimal shedding and are often better tolerated by individuals with allergies. These breeds come in various sizes, temperaments, and grooming requirements, offering a wide selection for prospective owners. From playful companions to calm, watchful guardians, the diversity among these low-shedding canines ensures there’s a perfect match for almost any lifestyle. Understanding their specific needs, especially regarding grooming, is key to enjoying a healthy and happy relationship with these wonderful animals.
1. Poodle
Poodles are renowned for their low-shedding coats and exceptional intelligence. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, these dogs shed very little and are highly trainable. Originally bred for hunting, Standard Poodles are the largest, while Miniature and Toy Poodles were developed as smaller companions. Regardless of size, Poodles require consistent grooming to prevent their distinctive curly coats from becoming tangled and matted. Regular brushing is essential to keep their fur healthy and free of knots, ensuring their coat remains a low-allergen haven.
A white Poodle walks gracefully through green grass
Their active minds also mean Poodles thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity. They are eager to please and excel in various dog sports and obedience training. Their elegant appearance combined with their playful and affectionate nature makes them a popular choice for families seeking a low-shedding companion. Poodles form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being an integral part of family life, making them one of the most well-behaved dog breeds that don’t shed if properly trained and socialized.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
These petite “Yorkies” are adored for their spirited personalities and silky, low-shedding coats. Yorkshire Terriers are adaptable to various living environments, from spacious homes to cozy apartments, provided they receive ample attention and affection from their families. Their long, fine hair, which is more akin to human hair than typical dog fur, contributes to their low-shedding reputation. This characteristic makes them a good option for people with allergies, as they don’t release much dander into the environment.
Yorkies are known for being confident and sometimes a bit feisty, despite their small stature. They are loyal and protective of their owners, often forming strong attachments. Regular grooming, including daily brushing, is necessary to keep their luxurious coats free of tangles and in good condition. Their small size and spirited disposition make them charming companions for individuals or families who can dedicate time to their grooming and companionship needs.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is another small, low-shedding breed with an ancient lineage, originally bred as a companion dog. These charming dogs are known for their flowing thick coats and friendly, outgoing temperaments. While their beautiful long hair requires diligent grooming to prevent matting, it is their non-shedding quality that makes them appealing to many allergy sufferers. Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful lap dogs and devoted family members.
However, due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, Shih Tzus can be prone to certain health issues, including overheating and breathing difficulties, and may experience tear stains around their eyes. Owners should be mindful of these potential challenges and provide appropriate care, such as keeping them cool in warm weather and using eye cleaning wipes to reduce tear stains. Despite these considerations, their loving disposition ensures they remain one of the best dogs that don’t shed for many households.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, typically standing no more than 14 inches tall and weighing between 10–20 pounds. These intelligent and robust dogs fit well into many different living situations, provided they get adequate daily exercise, usually at least an hour. Their wiry, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming, including clipping or hand-stripping, to maintain its distinctive appearance and minimize allergen dispersal.
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their alert nature, making them excellent watchdogs. They are playful, affectionate, and enjoy being involved in family activities. Their sturdy build and spirited personality make them versatile companions, suitable for active individuals or families who can provide consistent training and mental stimulation. They are quick learners and thrive on having a “job” to do, whether it’s learning new tricks or participating in agility courses.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Sharing many desirable traits with their miniature counterparts, the Standard Schnauzer offers a larger package of intelligence and loyalty. These dogs can weigh up to 45 pounds and thrive on activity, enjoying long walks, games of fetch, and solving dog puzzle toys. Their dense, wiry coat is low-shedding, similar to the Miniature Schnauzer, but also requires regular grooming to keep it in prime condition. They are known for their robust health and impressive versatility.
Standard Schnauzers are courageous, protective, and make excellent family guardians. They are highly intelligent and require consistent training and socialization from an early age to channel their energy positively. Their strong bond with their family makes them devoted companions, always ready for an adventure or a quiet evening at home, as long as their exercise needs have been met.
6. Giant Schnauzer
As one of the largest low-shedding breeds, Giant Schnauzers can reach heights over 27 inches and weigh up to 85 pounds. These impressive dogs require a significant amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy, benefiting from long walks, neighborhood runs, weekend hikes, and energetic games of fetch. Their commanding presence and protective instincts make them excellent working dogs and loyal family protectors.
Their harsh, wiry coat is low-shedding but needs regular grooming, including brushing and professional trimming, to maintain its texture and appearance. Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent and require an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent training and plenty of mental and physical stimulation. With proper care and training, they are devoted companions, known for their unwavering loyalty and imposing, yet gentle, demeanor.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, playful, and affectionate pup with a distinctive curly, low-shedding coat. These intelligent and highly trainable dogs quickly master basic commands with positive reinforcement and enjoy learning fun tricks to entertain their families. Their cheerful disposition and desire to please make them delightful companions for individuals and families alike.
Their fluffy white coat, while low-shedding, requires daily brushing and professional grooming every four to six weeks to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. Bichons are social dogs that thrive on companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Their joyful nature and adaptability to apartment living make them a popular choice among those seeking a cheerful, low-allergen pet.
8. Chinese Crested
Known for their unique appearance, the Chinese Crested comes in two distinct varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both types are considered low-shedding, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on their head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in a long, silky coat. These breeds are playful, affectionate, and make wonderful companions.
Chinese Cresteds are small, delicate dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. The hairless variety requires skin care, including moisturizing and sun protection, while the powderpuff needs regular brushing to keep its coat free of tangles. Despite their unique looks, they are known for their loving and devoted personalities, thriving on human companionship and interaction.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
This medium-sized breed was originally an aid to fishermen in Portugal. Portuguese Water Dogs are a popular low-shedding breed due to their thick, curly coats that shed minimally. They are also intelligent, highly trainable, and friendly, making them excellent family pets. These energetic pups require regular exercise, such as swimming, which they adore, to keep them happy and healthy.
Their waterproof coat requires frequent grooming to prevent matting, especially if they spend a lot of time in the water. Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their adventurous spirit and eager-to-please attitude, making them suitable for active families who can provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. They excel in dog sports and enjoy engaging in activities with their owners, strengthening their bond.
10. Labradoodle
A crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was originally bred to be a low-shedding service dog. They inherit the intelligence of the Poodle and the friendly, outgoing nature of the Labrador, making them excellent family pets. Moreover, Labradoodles are highly trainable and gentle, especially when well-exercised and socialized from an early age. Their wavy to curly coats typically shed very little.
The grooming needs of a Labradoodle vary depending on their coat type, which can range from straight to fleece to wool. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. They are known for their joyful and affectionate personalities, thriving on human interaction and becoming devoted members of the family.
11. Goldendoodle
Another popular “doodle dog” developed over recent decades, Goldendoodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Like Labradoodles, these dogs are known for their minimal shedding, friendly nature, and high intelligence. While many are recognized for their golden coats, Goldendoodles come in a wide range of colors and textures. They need frequent grooming with a slicker brush to prevent matting, especially their soft, wavy coats.
A Goldendoodle rests on a couch with a person in the background
Goldendoodles are highly sociable and thrive on companionship, making them excellent family pets. Their gentle demeanor and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, and they enjoy participating in various activities with their owners. Their joyful and playful spirit, combined with their low-shedding quality, has contributed to their widespread popularity among families and individuals looking for an affectionate and active companion.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally bred as water retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolo dogs possess a curly, woolly coat that protected them from chilly waters. 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 unique coat sheds minimally but requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its texture.
These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and possess a strong instinct for scent work. They thrive on mental and physical challenges and are happiest when they have a “job” to do. Their affectionate nature and trainability make them loyal companions, provided they receive adequate exercise and stimulation. They are particularly well-suited for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures and can engage them in activities that utilize their natural abilities.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small, charming low-shedding dogs known for their distinctive monkey-like appearance. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens than many other dog breeds, making them a suitable choice for some allergy sufferers. However, this unique coat requires a significant amount of care, including regular at-home brushing and occasional hand-stripping, a process where dead hair is removed by the root rather than trimmed.
These spirited dogs are confident, curious, and often described as having a big personality in a small package. They are loyal and affectionate with their families but can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is important. Their playful antics and endearing expressions make them entertaining companions, ideal for those who appreciate a dog with character and can commit to their grooming needs.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are another water dog breed, originally developed for retrieving game. Their thick, curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming and is always a distinct liver (brown) color. Exercise is paramount to keeping an Irish Water Spaniel happy and healthy, as the breed possesses a high energy level and a strong desire for activity.
These dogs thrive on having a purpose and excel in activities like swimming, retrieving, and dog sports. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their playful and sometimes mischievous nature. Their eagerness to please, combined with their energetic disposition, makes them ideal companions for active individuals or families who can provide them with consistent training and plenty of opportunities to burn off energy.
15. Aussiedoodle
An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, resulting in a highly intelligent and energetic low-shedding dog. Thanks to both parent breeds, Aussiedoodles are very smart and energetic, requiring lots of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors. Enrichment toys and activities like puzzle feeders are essential for keeping them happy.
Their coat can vary in texture, but it is typically low-shedding and requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them wonderful family pets for those who can meet their high energy demands. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for developing their full potential as well-adjusted and well-behaved companions.
16. Bolognese
Bolognese are charming low-shedding dogs that originated in Italy. They have a long, fluffy white coat that, despite its characteristically messy appearance, needs diligent grooming to prevent matting. These playful and easygoing pups have a reputation for getting along well with children and other pets, and their adaptable nature means they can fit into various living situations, including apartments.
Bolognese dogs thrive on companionship and are devoted to their families. They are intelligent and relatively easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement. Their calm yet playful demeanor makes them excellent lap dogs, always eager to snuggle and be close to their loved ones. Regular brushing and professional grooming appointments are key to maintaining their beautiful, low-allergen coat.
17. Maltese
Another small, low-shedding dog, the Maltese is famed for their luxurious, flowing white coat. Maltese make affectionate and playful companions for pet parents who are dedicated to keeping up with their significant grooming needs, especially if they wish to maintain a long coat. For easier grooming, many Maltese owners opt for a shorter “puppy” cut, which still requires regular brushing to prevent tangles.
A woman gently holds a white Maltese dog on a comfortable bed
These dainty dogs are known for their charming personalities and a surprisingly spirited nature. They thrive on human companionship and are often described as fearless despite their small size. Maltese are highly intelligent and trainable, enjoying interactive play and learning new tricks. Their loving disposition ensures they are devoted family members, bringing joy and warmth to their homes.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed aptly named for its incredibly soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. Wheatens maintain a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample exercise and mental stimulation to be on their best behavior. Their joyful and spirited nature makes them engaging companions for active families.
Their distinctive coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep it soft and healthy. Wheatens are known for their “Wheaten Greetin’,” a joyful jump-up welcome for their loved ones. They are intelligent, playful, and generally good with children, making them excellent family dogs for those who can provide the necessary exercise and attention. Their low-shedding quality makes them a top choice among types of terriers that don’t shed.
19. Coton de Tulear
A small, low-shedding breed that originated in Madagascar, Cotons de Tulear are easygoing pups known for their good nature. Their amiable disposition makes them a good fit for other pets and children, especially when introductions are handled properly. Their soft, cotton-like coat sheds very little but requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it clean.
Cotons de Tulear are intelligent, playful, and highly adaptable, thriving in various living environments. They are known for their charming personalities and strong desire for companionship, often forming deep bonds with their families. Their gentle nature and minimal shedding make them wonderful indoor companions, bringing joy and comfort to their owners.
20. Schnoodle
While many “doodle” breeds combine a Poodle with a shedding dog, the Schnoodle is unique, bringing together two low-shedding breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. Their coat can be curly or wavy, depending on the inherited traits from their parents, but it is consistently low-shedding. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals seeking a double dose of low-allergen qualities.
Schnoodles are known for their intelligence, playful nature, and affectionate personalities. They are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, provided they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their friendly demeanor makes them good with children and other pets, and their eagerness to please makes them relatively easy to train. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often likened to “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed recognized for their distinctive topknot hairdo and pom-pom ear tufts. This low-shedding dog loves being close to their people and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Monitoring their activity with a dog camera can help manage and address such behaviors.
Bedlington Terriers are intelligent, charming, and possess a playful spirit. Their unique coat, which sheds minimally, requires regular grooming, including clipping, to maintain its sculpted appearance. They are agile and enjoy various activities, from walks to dog sports. With consistent training and plenty of companionship, they make devoted and entertaining family members.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as Mexican Hairless Dogs, Xoloitzcuintli are one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds. This low-shedding breed comes in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or covered in a short coat. Both hairless and short-coated Xolos are considered low-allergen dogs. Their striking appearance and calm demeanor make them unique and loyal companions.
The hairless variety requires specific skin care, including protection from sun and cold, while the coated variety has minimal grooming needs. Xolos are known for being intelligent, calm, and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers. Their ancient lineage and unique characteristics make them a fascinating and devoted addition to the right home.
23. Whoodle
When a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is crossed with a Poodle, the result is a Whoodle: a friendly dog that sheds very little. These dogs inherit intelligence and an affectionate nature from both parent breeds, making them highly desirable companions. Their soft, wavy to curly coat is low-shedding but requires regular brushing to keep it free of tangles and mats.
Whoodles are known for their playful spirit, gentle disposition, and eagerness to please. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy participating in family activities. Their adaptability and trainability make them suitable for various lifestyles, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. They form strong bonds with their families, bringing joy and laughter to their homes.
24. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Their friendly, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor make these large low-shedding dogs a popular choice for families with children and other pets. They combine the loyal and calm nature of the Bernese with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle.
These dogs need plenty of exercise to stay active and happy, enjoying outdoor adventures and playtime with their families. Their coat can vary in texture and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Bernedoodles are known for their devotion to their families, excellent temperament, and adaptability, making them wonderful companions for those seeking a large, low-shedding dog with a loving disposition.
25. Shorkie
Another cross between two low-shedding dogs, the Shorkie is a mixed breed created from Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers. They embody the best qualities of both breeds: small, playful, and friendly. Like most dogs on this list, Shorkies require dedication to a regular grooming routine to maintain their fine, silky coats and prevent tangles.
Shorkies are affectionate, spirited, and thrive on human companionship, making them excellent lap dogs. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, and their playful nature keeps their families entertained. Early socialization and consistent training are beneficial for these charming little dogs, ensuring they grow into well-adjusted and beloved family members.
26. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are recognized for their long, flowing coats and slender builds. These elegant pups are built for running and are among the fastest dog breeds in the world. Afghan Hounds are loving toward their families but can be aloof with people they’ve just met, so early and consistent socialization is crucial for this breed. Their unique coat, while visually impressive, sheds minimally.
Despite their low-shedding quality, their abundant and fine hair requires significant grooming, including frequent brushing and bathing, to prevent tangles and matting. Afghan Hounds possess an independent and dignified nature, coupled with a playful side. They are best suited for owners who appreciate their unique temperament and can commit to their extensive grooming and exercise requirements.
A majestic gray and tan Afghan Hound gazes directly at the camera
27. Barbet
Pronounced “bar-bay,” the Barbet is a cheerful pup with a shaggy, woolly, low-shedding coat. The name Barbet is derived from the French word barbe, meaning beard, a nod to the dog’s characteristically hairy chin. This large low-shedding dog loves to swim, thanks to their protective curly coat. To maintain their coat in good condition, especially after swimming, they should be brushed two to three times a week with a slicker or pin brush.
Barbet dogs are known for their friendly, intelligent, and even-tempered personalities. They are highly trainable and thrive on companionship, making them excellent family pets. Their active nature means they require regular exercise and mental stimulation, enjoying activities like retrieving and water sports. Their joyful disposition and charming appearance make them delightful additions to any active family.
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo mixed breed is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly the Toy Poodle). This small, low-shedding pup can thrive in almost any living situation, as long as they receive approximately 30 minutes of exercise and a good brushing session every day. They inherit the loving nature of the Shih Tzu and the intelligence of the Poodle, making them affectionate and playful companions.
Shih-Poos are adaptable and enjoy being close to their families. Their coat type can vary, but it is typically low-shedding and requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. They are generally good with children and other pets, and their charming personalities ensure they quickly become cherished members of the household.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Though Peruvian Inca Orchids are rare dogs, they are considered low-shedding thanks to their nearly hairless bodies. They are an ancient dog breed that comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and are the national dog of Peru. Their unique appearance and historical significance make them intriguing companions for those seeking an unusual and low-allergen pet.
While the hairless variety sheds no hair, the coated variety has a very short, sparse coat that sheds minimally. The hairless type requires diligent skin care, including protection from the sun and cold weather. Peruvian Inca Orchids are known for being intelligent, affectionate with their families, and sometimes reserved with strangers. They are sensitive and require a gentle, consistent approach to training and socialization.
30. Malshi
As a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small low-shedding dog. They thrive on close companionship with their favorite humans and require significant interaction to be happy. Their loving and playful nature makes them excellent lap dogs and devoted family members. Their soft, flowing coat is low-shedding but needs regular grooming to prevent matting.
Malshis are adaptable to various living environments, including apartments, and are generally good with children and other pets. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement. Their charming personalities and strong desire for affection ensure they quickly become the center of attention in any home.
Tips for Living With a Low-Shedding Dog
Even with a low-shedding dog, managing allergens and ensuring a comfortable environment requires proactive steps. It’s not just about the breed; it’s also about consistent care and maintaining a clean home. For pet parents embarking on life with one of these wonderful breeds, understanding these tips can make a significant difference in minimizing allergic responses and maximizing the joy of pet ownership. These practices are crucial for both the well-being of the dog and the comfort of the household.
Prioritize Regular Grooming
Low-shedding dogs often require more dedicated grooming than their shedding counterparts. Keeping their coat clean and reducing dander in the home necessitates regular brushing and bathing. Ideally, dogs should be groomed every week and bathed every four to six weeks. Using special shampoos, such as dander-reducing formulas, can significantly help to minimize pet dander. Many low-shedding breeds also need regular trimming, hand-stripping, or other professional grooming upkeep. Budgeting for regular visits to a professional groomer or learning to groom your pup at home is essential to prevent matting and maintain a healthy, low-allergen coat.
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
Minimizing allergens extends beyond just grooming your dog; it also involves keeping your home meticulously clean and well-maintained. Regular vacuuming, dusting, and washing of bedding are crucial to minimize the accumulation of pet dander and other allergens. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can capture fine particles more effectively. Additionally, you can reduce airborne allergens by using air purifiers throughout your home and ensuring good ventilation. Creating allergen-free zones, such as the bedroom, can also provide a sanctuary for allergy sufferers, offering respite from potential triggers.
Consult with Your Doctor for Allergy Management
Managing allergies and preventing allergic reactions is paramount when living with a low-shedding dog, especially if you have a known sensitivity. The most effective way to manage your allergies is to consult with your healthcare provider or an allergist. They can offer various treatment options, including medication, nasal sprays, and injections, tailored to your specific needs. It’s also important to be mindful of avoiding close contact with the dog’s saliva or urine, as these bodily fluids can also trigger allergic reactions. Creating a comprehensive allergy management plan with medical advice ensures that you can enjoy the companionship of your low-shedding dog with minimal discomfort.
Bringing home one of these low-shedding dog breeds can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with allergies. These dogs offer the immense joy and companionship of pet parenthood, allowing those with sensitivities to experience a loving bond without the constant worry of severe allergic reactions. With proper care, grooming, and household management, a low-shedding dog can truly become a cherished and harmonious part of your family.
