For many dog lovers, the idea of having a furry companion is irresistible. However, one concern that often comes up is shedding. While shedding is a natural process for most dogs, it can be a challenge for people with allergies, those who want to keep their homes clean, or anyone tired of constantly vacuuming dog hair off their furniture. The good news is that there are several dog breeds that shed very little or not at all. These hypoallergenic dogs can make great pets without the constant battle of cleaning up after them. In this article, we’ll explore dog breeds that don’t shed and why they might be the perfect choice for you.
What Does “Non-Shedding” Mean?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to clarify what we mean by “non-shedding.” While no dog is truly 100% non-shedding, some breeds are considered “low-shedding” or shed minimally. These dogs typically have hair rather than fur, and their hair grows continuously, much like human hair. This means they shed less because the hair doesn’t fall out in clumps or as frequently as in dogs with fur. Instead, they require regular grooming to maintain their coats.
Additionally, “hypoallergenic” is a term often used for dogs that shed less. These dogs produce fewer allergens like dander, which can trigger allergic reactions. However, even hypoallergenic dogs can still cause allergies in sensitive individuals, so it’s essential to spend time with the breed before making a decision.
Let’s take a look at some popular dog breeds that are known for shedding very little or not at all.
1. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
Size and Temperament:
The Poodle comes in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—but all are known for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. Poodles have curly hair that sheds very little and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They are friendly, energetic, and highly trainable dogs, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Poodles have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously. As a result, they shed very little. However, their dense, curly coats require regular brushing and professional grooming to keep them neat and healthy. Regular trims are essential to prevent the coat from becoming tangled or matted.
Care Tips:
Poodles are generally easy to train and thrive in homes with active lifestyles. They do require regular grooming, including professional haircuts every few months. Due to their intelligence and energetic nature, Poodles need mental stimulation and exercise to stay happy.
2. Bichon Frise
Size and Temperament:
The Bichon Frise is a small, affectionate, and playful dog that has a thick, curly coat that sheds minimally. Typically weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, Bichons are known for their cheerful disposition and get along well with children, other pets, and strangers. They are lively and social, making them great companions for families or individuals looking for a dog with a gentle temperament.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Bichon Frises have a double coat that consists of a soft undercoat and a curly outer coat. The outer coat grows continuously and sheds minimally, which makes them a great choice for people who want to avoid excessive hair in the home. Regular grooming is required to prevent matting, and their coat should be brushed several times a week.
Care Tips:
Bichons are relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise, but they do need regular grooming to keep their coat looking its best. Regular visits to a groomer are recommended for trims, and you should also brush their coat frequently to prevent tangles and mats.
3. Maltese
Size and Temperament:
The Maltese is a small dog with a long, flowing white coat. These dogs are known for their affectionate and playful nature, and they typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds. While they are often recognized for their beauty, their lack of shedding is another key selling point.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Maltese dogs have hair, not fur, and it grows continuously. This means they shed very little, if at all. Their coats require regular grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Because their hair grows similarly to human hair, regular brushing and periodic haircuts are essential to keep them comfortable and looking their best.
Care Tips:
Maltese dogs require daily brushing to keep their long coats tangle-free. They also need regular baths and visits to the groomer to maintain their luxurious coat. While they don’t shed much, their hair can still collect dirt and debris, so regular grooming is necessary.
4. Shih Tzu
Size and Temperament:
The Shih Tzu is a small dog known for its sweet temperament and long, flowing coat. These dogs typically weigh between 9 and 16 pounds and are friendly, affectionate, and good with children. Shih Tzus are well-suited for apartment living due to their calm and laid-back nature.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Shih Tzus have a double coat made of long, silky hair that sheds very little. The hair grows continuously, so regular grooming and trimming are required to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. While they do shed very little, the dog’s hair can still accumulate, so brushing them regularly is important.
Care Tips:
Shih Tzus require daily brushing to maintain their long coat. They are prone to developing eye issues and other health concerns, so regular veterinary check-ups are necessary. Despite their long hair, they are relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise needs and can be happy with a few short walks and play sessions each day.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Size and Temperament:
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small but feisty dog breed known for its silky, straight coat. Yorkies are typically around 7 pounds or less, making them ideal for apartment living. Despite their small size, Yorkies are confident, energetic, and have a strong personality.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Yorkies have hair that grows continuously, much like human hair, and they shed very little. Their coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Although they don’t shed much, Yorkies are known to be hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Care Tips:
Regular grooming is essential for Yorkies to keep their coats looking their best. You may need to trim their hair every few months and brush them daily to prevent mats. Yorkies have moderate exercise needs and enjoy short walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
6. Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)
Size and Temperament:
Schnauzers come in three sizes—Miniature, Standard, and Giant—but all share the same characteristic wiry coat that sheds very little. These dogs are known for being friendly, alert, and highly trainable. They are also great watchdogs and do well in families and with active individuals.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Schnauzers have a wiry coat that sheds minimally. Their coat grows continuously, and regular grooming and hand-stripping are needed to keep it healthy and neat. While they do shed less, the wiry texture of their hair can trap dirt and debris, so regular care is essential.
Care Tips:
Schnauzers need regular grooming, including hand-stripping or clipping, depending on the type of coat they have. They are active dogs that require regular exercise, so be prepared to take them on daily walks and engage in playtime.
7. Portuguese Water Dog
Size and Temperament:
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed that was originally bred to help fishermen in Portugal. These dogs are highly energetic, intelligent, and loyal. They typically weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and have a curly or wavy coat that sheds minimally.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Portuguese Water Dogs have curly coats that grow continuously and shed very little. The curly hair helps trap shedding hairs, which reduces the amount of loose hair in the environment. However, they do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting.
Care Tips:
Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting in the coat. They also need a lot of exercise due to their high energy levels, so they’re best suited for active families or individuals who can provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
8. Basenji
Size and Temperament:
The Basenji is a small to medium-sized breed that is well-known for being “cat-like” in its cleanliness and self-grooming habits. These dogs typically weigh between 20 and 24 pounds and stand 16 to 17 inches tall. Basenjis are quiet, independent, and energetic dogs.
Why They Don’t Shed:
Basenjis have short, fine coats that shed very little. They are known for being clean dogs and often groom themselves like cats. While they do shed some, it is minimal compared to other breeds, and their grooming requirements are relatively low.
Care Tips:
Basenjis are generally easy to groom due to their short coats, but they still need regular baths to maintain cleanliness. They are active dogs and require plenty of exercise, so they are best suited for owners who can provide them with regular outdoor activity.
Conclusion
If you love dogs but dread the constant shedding that comes with many breeds, the good news is there are plenty of hypoallergenic, low-shedding dog breeds that can be the perfect fit for your home. Breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terrier are not only charming and affectionate, but their coats are designed to shed minimally, making them easier to care for.
