If you love dogs, but hate the hassle of cleaning up dog hair, you might be wondering if there are any dog breeds that don’t shed. The answer is not quite. All dogs shed to some degree, but some shed much less than others. These low-shedding dogs are also known as hypoallergenic dogs, because they produce less dander and saliva, which are the main triggers for allergies.
In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best dog breeds that don’t shed much, and help you find the perfect furry companion for your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a small, medium or large dog, a playful or calm dog, a curly or straight-haired dog, we have you covered.
Why Do Some Dogs Shed Less Than Others?
Dogs have different types of hair follicles that determine the texture, length and rate of growth and shedding of their fur. Some dogs have hair that grows continuously and needs regular trimming, such as poodles and terriers. These dogs tend to shed very little, because their hair falls out only when it’s cut or broken.
Other dogs have hair that grows to a certain length and then falls out naturally, such as retrievers and shepherds. These dogs tend to shed more, especially during seasonal changes when they need to adjust their coat thickness.
The amount of shedding also depends on other factors, such as genetics, health, nutrition and grooming. Some dogs may shed more or less than others within the same breed, depending on their individual characteristics.
How to Choose a Low-Shedding Dog Breed
Before you decide on a low-shedding dog breed, you should consider some important aspects of owning a dog that don’t have much to do with shedding. For example:
- How much space do you have for your dog? Some low-shedding dogs are large and need room to run and play.
- How much time do you have for your dog? Some low-shedding dogs are high-energy and need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
- How much money do you have for your dog? Some low-shedding dogs have special grooming needs and may require frequent visits to the salon.
- How much experience do you have with dogs? Some low-shedding dogs are independent and stubborn and may need more training and socialization.
Once you have a clear idea of what kind of dog suits your lifestyle and personality, you can narrow down your options based on the level of shedding. Here are some of the most popular low-shedding dog breeds in different categories:
Small Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you’re looking for a small dog that doesn’t shed much, you have plenty of choices. Small dogs are ideal for apartment living, traveling and cuddling. Here are some of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed:
- Bichon Frise: This fluffy white dog is cheerful, playful and affectionate. It has a soft, dense coat that needs regular brushing and trimming to prevent mats and tangles.
- Yorkshire Terrier: This feisty little dog is loyal, confident and energetic. It has a silky, long coat that needs daily brushing and occasional trimming to keep it neat.
- Maltese: This elegant toy dog is gentle, sweet and devoted. It has a silky, white coat that needs daily brushing and regular bathing to keep it clean.
- Shih Tzu: This adorable lap dog is friendly, outgoing and adaptable. It has a long, flowing coat that needs daily brushing and trimming to avoid eye irritation.
- Havanese: This Cuban native is lively, intelligent and affectionate. It has a soft, wavy coat that needs regular brushing and trimming to prevent mats.
Medium Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you’re looking for a medium-sized dog that doesn’t shed much, you have some great options as well. Medium-sized dogs are versatile, adaptable and easy to train. Here are some of the best medium dog breeds that don’t shed:
- Poodle: This curly-haired dog is smart, active and elegant. It has a dense, curly coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to maintain its shape.
- Portuguese Water Dog: This aquatic dog is loyal, adventurous and fun-loving. It has a thick, wavy coat that needs regular brushing and trimming to prevent mats.
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: This Irish breed is cheerful, friendly and energetic. It has a soft, silky coat that needs regular brushing and trimming to keep it tidy.
- Schnauzer: This German breed is alert, spirited and loyal. It has a wiry, double coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to keep it neat.
- Labradoodle: This crossbreed is a mix of a Labrador retriever and a poodle. It has a curly or wavy coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to prevent mats.
Large Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you’re looking for a large dog that doesn’t shed much, you have a few choices as well. Large dogs are powerful, protective and loyal. Here are some of the best large dog breeds that don’t shed:
- Airedale Terrier: This breed is the largest of the terriers. It is brave, intelligent and playful. It has a coarse, wiry coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to keep it neat.
- Standard Poodle: This breed is the largest of the poodles. It is smart, active and elegant. It has a dense, curly coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to maintain its shape.
- Afghan Hound: This breed is one of the oldest in the world. It is graceful, independent and dignified. It has a long, silky coat that needs daily brushing and occasional trimming to keep it healthy.
- Saluki: This breed is one of the fastest in the world. It is swift, graceful and loyal. It has a smooth or feathered coat that needs regular brushing and occasional trimming to keep it tidy.
- Giant Schnauzer: This breed is the largest of the schnauzers. It is bold, protective and loyal. It has a wiry, double coat that needs regular brushing and clipping to keep it neat.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many dog breeds that don’t shed much, and each one has its own unique personality and appearance. Whether you want a small, medium or large dog, you can find a low-shedding breed that matches your preferences and needs.
However, keep in mind that no dog is completely non-shedding or hypoallergenic. All dogs shed to some degree, and all dogs produce dander and saliva, which can trigger allergies. If you have allergies, you should consult your doctor before getting a dog, and spend some time with the breed you’re interested in to see how you react.
Also, remember that low-shedding dogs still need proper care and grooming to keep their coats healthy and clean. Depending on the breed, you may need to brush, trim, clip or bathe your dog regularly to prevent mats, tangles, dirt and odors.
Finally, remember that shedding is not the only factor to consider when choosing a dog. You should also think about your lifestyle, budget, experience and expectations, and find a dog that suits you best.
We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about dogs that don’t shed, and find your perfect furry companion. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And if you’re looking for a professional pet photographer to capture the special bond between you and your low-shedding dog, please contact us today. We would love to help you create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. 🐾
