When choosing a dog, shedding is one of the primary considerations for many pet lovers. Not only can excessive shedding lead to a lot of cleaning, but it can also trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you’re an animal lover looking for a furry companion that doesn’t leave a trail of hair behind, you’ve come to the right place! This article explores the 26 best low-shedding dog breeds, including options for small, large, and even big dog breeds that shed minimally.
Why Choose a Low Shedding Dog?
Low-shedding dogs offer a range of benefits for pet lovers. Whether you’re a busy professional, someone with allergies, or prefer a tidier home, these dogs make excellent pets. They shed less than other breeds, reducing the amount of hair around the house, making cleaning more straightforward, and helping to create a cleaner living environment. Low-shedding dog breeds are also great for individuals with allergies, as they produce fewer allergens.
Low-shedding dogs are also known for being relatively easy to groom, though they still require regular care to keep their coats healthy. Let’s dive into the best breeds that are low-shedding.
Low Shedding Small Dog Breeds
Several breeds fit the bill if you’re looking for a small dog that sheds very little. These dogs are perfect for people who live in apartments or those looking for a companion that’s easy to care for.
1. Poodle (Toy and Miniature)
The Poodle is known for its curly coat that sheds minimally. They are intelligent and highly trainable, making them a top choice for many dog lovers.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu’s long, flowing coat may look high-maintenance but sheds very little. They require regular grooming but are friendly and loving companions.
3. Bichon Frise
Bichons are a small breed with a soft, curly coat that sheds very little. They are great for people with allergies and are known for being playful and friendly.
4. Maltese
The Maltese has a long, silky coat that doesn’t shed much. They are small, affectionate, and make excellent pets for those who enjoy grooming.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkie is a small dog with a long, straight coat. Though they require frequent grooming, they shed very little, making them a good choice for those seeking a low-shedding companion.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
While this breed has a silky, medium-length coat, they shed less than many other dogs. They are friendly, easygoing, and great with families.
7. Havanese
Havanese dogs have silky coats that don’t shed much. They are small, sweet-natured, and easy to train.
Low Shedding Large Dog Breeds
For those who prefer a larger dog but want to avoid excessive shedding, a few breeds are known for being low shedders.
8. Basenji
The Basenji is a medium-to-large breed with a short coat that sheds minimally. They are known for their cat-like grooming habits and quiet demeanor.
9. Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans have a short, smooth coat that doesn’t shed much. They are loyal, protective, and great for experienced dog owners.
10. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a large dog with a short coat that sheds minimally. They are active intelligent, and make excellent companions for outdoor lovers.
11. Great Dane
Despite their large size, Great Danes have a short coat that shed very little. They are gentle giants with calm and loving personalities.
12. Boxer
Boxers have short, low-maintenance coats that shed very little. They are playful energetic, and make great family pets.
13. Greyhound
Known for their sleek, short coats, Greyhounds shed very little. They are calm, affectionate dogs that are surprisingly low-maintenance for their size.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
This large breed has a curly, water-resistant coat that sheds very little. They are energetic, intelligent, and love outdoor activities.
15. Schnauzer (Giant and Standard)
Schnauzers have a wiry coat that sheds very little. They are protective intelligent, and make excellent family pets.
Low Shedding Big Dog Breeds
If you’re after a big dog that doesn’t shed heavily, you’ll be happy to know that a few breeds fit this description.
16. Lagotto Romagnolo
This medium-to-large breed has a curly coat that sheds very little. They are energetic, affectionate, and excellent working dogs.
17. Portuguese Water Dog
Known for their curly coats, Portuguese Water Dogs shed very little. They are athletic, intelligent, and require regular grooming.
18. Airedale Terrier
Airedales are large dogs with a wiry coat that sheds minimally. They are intelligent, active, and great for experienced dog owners.
19. Belgian Malinois
While they have a short coat, the Belgian Malinois sheds very little. These dogs are brilliant, protective, and great for active owners.
20. Komondor
The Komondor is a large, unique breed with a corded coat that sheds minimally. They are protective, loyal, and great for people looking for a guard dog.
21. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a compact but strong dog that sheds very little. Their fox-like appearance and independent nature make them a favorite among dog lovers.
22. Samoyed
Known for their beautiful white coats, Samoyeds shed more during seasonal changes but shed less year-round than many other large breeds. Their friendly nature and striking appearance make them a popular choice.
More Low-Shedding Dog Breeds to Consider
Choosing a dog breed can be a big decision, and one factor to consider is shedding. If you’re looking for a furry friend that won’t leave your home covered in fur, here are some additional low-shedding dog breeds to consider:
23. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a small-to-medium breed with a long, silky coat that sheds very little. They are friendly, affectionate, and great with families.
24. Australian Terrier
Small in size, the Australian Terrier has a wiry coat that sheds minimally. They are intelligent, independent, and make great companions.
25. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a hairless dog breed, which means they don’t shed much. They are affectionate and alert and make great companions for people with allergies.
26. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that sheds minimally. They are low-maintenance, charming, and great for people looking for a small, easy-to-care-for dog.
Which Low-Shedding Dog Breed Is Right for You?
Choosing the right dog for you is a personal decision that depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. Whether you are looking for a small, low-shedding dog for an apartment or a larger breed to accompany you on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options. These 26 low-shedding dog breeds will allow you to enjoy the companionship of a furry friend without worrying about excessive hair around the house.
When selecting a dog, consider the breed’s temperament, energy level, and grooming requirements. With the proper care and attention, these low-shedding dogs can make an excellent addition to your home.
By choosing a low-shedding dog breed, you’ll enjoy the companionship of a loving pet and the peace of mind of knowing that your dog won’t leave piles of fur all over your home.
