what is the best family dog that doesn t shed
9 Family Friendly Dogs That Don`t Shed (Hypoallergenic Dogs)
It has often been pointed out that dogs have been featured in ancient communities, in hunting, guarding, serving as transport means (sled dogs), and even for companionship.
That said however, not all dogs make ideal family dogs.
The best family dogs are compassionate, tolerant, and lovable. However, if you suffer grass or pet allergies, or dont want dog hair all through your home, then getting a family friendly dog that doesnt shed is important.
Nothing is more frustrating than wanting to keep a lovable pet around you, but cant due to ongoing health issues. Luckily there are a number of breeds that are a good match for families with children, as well as having low shedding coats which helps prevent health issues.
In this guide, we highlight the best family dogs that are low shedding.
17 dog breeds that are low-shedding check out our other guide also!
What Are The Best Family Dogs That Dont Shed?
1. The Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, popularly known as the Yorkie is named from the English city where they originated.
They were originally owned by the middle class, especially weavers.
Yorkies live for companionship and are constantly showing endless love and trust for their owners.
However, they can be jealous of their relationship with their owner and sometimes, they are not happy to welcome anyone else or any other pet into that relationship.
When it comes to their coat, you might get tempted to think their wispy curls, or often golden-colored cute coat is prone to shedding.
You would be wrong to think so because the Yorkshire Terrier is a great example when it comes to low-shedding canines.
However, due to their immense amount of long hair regular brushing is recommended.
As their hair gets longer it tends to get tangled, and gets even worse if neglected for a while.
2. The Xoloitzcuintli
Pronounced zoh-loh-eets-KWEENT-le the Xoloitzcuintli is also referred to as the Mexican Hairless dog, or more simply the Xolo.
The Xolo is an ancient Mexican dog that dates back 3,000 years and served both as a companion as well as a watchdog.
When it comes to people with allergy problems, then the Xolos almost bald coated body becomes a natural go-to dog for them.
Originally, doctors had introduced Xolo as a therapy dog in Mexico.
Besides that, peoples believed that his warm, bald skin would ward-off illness and evil spirits. As such, it has a great honor to bring health and life.
Today, the Xolo offers a remarkable companionship that will keep your family and kids devoted, with love and warm cuddles!
With patience and introduction to socialization, the Xolo will perform excellently to nature a great deal of friendship with its family and kids.
Its rather important to note, though theXolo was not groomed to work alongside humans or to answer to orders, they provide steadfast companionship, and they are excellent bed warmers too.
Nevertheless, even though the pronunciation of the name can be intimidating, the Xoloitzcuintli is a one-of-a-kind, also being one of the most intelligent breeds among non-shedding dogs.
3. The Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is synonymous with cheerful love, energy, and mischievousness.
This animated powder puff sports a tightly coiled and almost wooly non-shedding coat.
The toy face and frizzy coat of the Bichon shares plenty of similarities to the physical traits of the Poodle.
Their non-shedding coat makes the Frise ideal for families with kids that are allergic to dogs.
However, on the flipside, Bichon Frise non-shedding coat grows continuously.
As a result, it requires regular grooming. As the owner of this dog youll need at least once a month grooming to keep its coat in good condition.
Besides the non-shedding coat, this cute hypoallergenic dog has plenty of personality to share with everyone.
Though the Bichon is highly intelligent, they are not always easy to house-train, so patience is a must.
Nonetheless, the Bichon always demands attention and companionship, and don`t like being left alone for long periods.
4. The Maltese
Elegant, and energetic is the perfect way to describe the Maltese.
For hundreds of years, the Maltese have been gracing the laps of European royalty.
This low shedding dog gains favor and popularity, thanks to its affectionate and intelligent personality.
The Maltese often prefers the finer things in life, and becomes very attached to their owner.
They don`t like being left alone for long periods, and they may resort to barking, digging, and other destructive behavior.
Besides companionship, they are protective of their owners, and this makes them suspicious of strangers and outsiders.
A Maltese is characterized by a single layer of long beautiful hair similar to that of a human. Despite that its hair usually grows long, it does not shed.
Though there are numerous fantastical and fancy ways of grooming the Maltese, most Maltese owners prefer to cut the hair in what`s is called a puppy cut which leaves for low maintenance and low shedding.
5. The Dachshund
The Dachshund is also referred to as wiener dogs, thanks to their distinctive hot-dog-like appearance.
Though these short-legged hypoallergenic dogs were originally used in Europe to hunt for foxes as well as the larger game, they are excellent house pets and tend to be fairly intelligent as well.
One thing to notice though, there are three different types of Dachshunds closely identified by their coats.
They include the long haired, short haired, and wire-haired, with all three coats types being smooth as well as low-shedding.
While the Long-haired Dachshund sheds less, its not a low maintenance dog breed and needs regular grooming a few times a week.
The short hair and the wire coat, on the other hand, are low maintenance hypoallergenic breeds requiring grooming once a week.
Besides the coat, you should not forget to keep the Dachshunds droopy ears clean and dry.
A major highlight of the Dachshund breed is that they are extremely flexible, and adapt well to almost every type of accommodation.
6. The Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is somewhat like a blend of a miniature bulldog and a pug.
It happens to be among the best low shedding dogs that a family can adopt.
The relatively short and sleek coat of this low maintenance terrier shed little and does not require constant grooming.
Their high energy levels mean that they constantly need exercising, and failure to that may see them engage in destructive behavior like digging and barking, typical of all bored terriers.
Nonetheless, it`s important that you do not overdo them with exercises, especially in warm temperatures.
Besides the low-shedding nature, the Boston Terrier is also a highly sociable dog, extremely energetic, and good-natured.
Finally, this low-shedding dog makes a great companion for adults and children alike.
Like hunting? Read great hunting dogs that are low-shedding.
7. The Bedlington Terrier
Known for its non-shedding and cotton-like coat, its one of the popular dog breeds that gained quick attention among dog lovers.
This is due to its queer lamb-like appearance with the texture and color of a Merino sheep.
This medium low-shedding dog was bred as an all-purpose terrier that can perform several tasks including guarding, hunting badgers, and chasing rabbits.
Despite its pampered appearance, the Bedlington features a unique coat of both soft and harsh hair.
Though having the advantage of being non-shedding, its coat grows fairly fast, so they need regular trimming and grooming, and its recommended to brush their coat at least twice a week to avoid coiling.
Just like its namesake the lamb, its DNA is encoded with gentleness, pureness, and spirited to obedience.
However, besides its nature of loyalty and charming physic, the Bedlington can be overprotective of its loved ones.
If you already have other small pets established in your home, then it could be difficult to introduce a Bedlington Terrier, as they arent known for friendliness toward cats in-particular unless introduced at a very young age.
Nonetheless, this angelic dog is worth the hustle if you are looking for a famous yet athletic, and most importantly a hypoallergenic dog.
8. The Goldendoodle
Technically, the Goldendoodle, also known as the Groodle is not strictly a hypoallergenic dog.
This is because, it`s a designer dog, a hybrid of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever.
With the Groodle, it all depends on the dominant genes.
If the puppy follows the Poodle route, then you will have a hypoallergenic dog, but if the Retriever gene is dominant, you`ll have more shedding.
A good rule to follow when selecting this dog is to always look for the one with a classic poodle curly coat.
But just you know, sometimes general rules fail. That is to say, you should not use this method as a silver bullet, always make a point to discuss the matter with your breeder.
Nonetheless, this crossbreed is enjoying rapid popularity among families.
Alongside its low-shedding nature, the Groodle is equally an all-around dog, and can perform various tasks including guiding, and as a service dog.
Finally, besides the strong personality curated from both the Poodle and the Retriever, the Groodle also perform exceedingly well when it comes to showing gentleness, affection, and forming close friendships with its human family.
9. The Coton De Tulear
When you mention the dog by the name Coton De Tulear, whats springs to mind?
Well, if youve ever heard about heroic tales of a hardworking devoted dog that survived a shipwreck by swimming to the islands of Madagascar despite its pint-sized body, then this is your hero.
Besides its heroic success stories, its name is from the magnificent island, the port city of Tulear, and it`s alluring cotton-like hair.
The Coton De Tulear is not your usual breed, this is because unlike most breeds which were bred for particular tasks, it was purely bred for royalty.
Thus, in those early days it was owned by the royal families attracting the name Royal Dog of Madagascar and only lived amongst the elite community. Today, its reserved as the country`s national dog.
To gain such royalty treatment and admiration, the Tulear has consistently shown a great deal of loyalty, love, and affection to its masters over and over again.
Some of the pastime favorites of this medium-low shedding dog include sleeping, spending time with family, and playing.
As a result, it takes its companionship job seriously!
Final Thought
In this article, we have attempted to segment dog ownership to family type, and also breeds that are non-shedding.
Just owning a dog might not be the final argument, there are many other parameters in the equation of dog parenting.
These responsibilities may include finding the best nutrition based on given criteria (health, aging, nutritional needs, and more), dealing with a given ailment, toys, treats, leashes, among other items to make your dogs life fun.
Nonetheless, whether you are in search for a dog to keep you company, a play or a hunting mate, or a guard, there are endless opportunities with the hypoallergenic dogs.
38 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds (Recommended for Allergic People!)
Are you looking for the best non-shedding dog breeds to get for allergy sufferers like you (or a family member?)
That's what I wrote this article for!
As a fellow allergic dog lover, I can attest that my toy poodle hasn't triggered any harmful reactions yet. (Yes, poodles are allergy-friendly!)
In this article, you'll find:
Let's get started!
38 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
Non-shedding dog breeds are basically dogs that don't shedat least not as much as other breeds do.
And not only they're the best options for people with dog allergies, but they also require minimal grooming attention!
What's not to love, right?
Let's start off the list with one of the most recognizable dog breeds around the world!
1. Toy Poodle
At the top of our list of low-shedding dogs is everyones favorite loving, playful rascal.
Poodles are not only low-shedding dogs but they're also lauded as among the most intelligent dog breeds out there.
Very prone to training, very talkative, and very loyal, these non-shedding dog breeds are prime best friend material.
And yes you can forget about the shedding.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 10 inches |
Weight: | 6-10 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Curly coat, apartment-friendly, easy to train, good for first-time owners |
2. Affenpinscher
This German Terrier breed (pinscher means terrier in German) is another bundle of cuteness.
Originally bred as rat hunters, these dogs retain their hunting instincts which makes them great guard dogs.
However, Affenpinschers are also brilliant, playful, and loving and make amazing apartment pets.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9-12 inches |
Weight: | 7-10 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Monkey-like, likes to entertain owners, needs weekly brushing, full of energy, very alert |
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Schnauzers are rightfully famous for their big hearts and seemingly unending energy.
And they are much more, too a Schnauzer loves to be the center of attention.
But this non-shedding dog breed is also exceptionally intelligent, so they fill that center easily.
A Schnauzer lives to please and needs a ton of mental and physical stimulation dont let them get bored.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 11-14 inches |
Weight: | 10-18 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Highly intelligent, easy to train but with a stubborn streak, playful, makes great family pets |
4. Saluki
Saluki dogs are both one of the oldest dog breeds known to man approximately 6,000 years old and are also the fastest dogs globally, surpassing other sighthounds like Greyhounds.
These non-shedding dog breeds are very calm and gentle.
They are brilliant and quite elegant as well they require a lot of soft surfaces and comfort, but to repay you for that, they wont shed on said surfaces.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 23-28 inches |
Weight: | 35-65 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Gentle, loyal pets, needs a huge living space, graceful, aloof, intelligent |
5. Irish Terrier
Another iconic breed, Irish Terriers, makes for the best guard dogs and an ideal choice for dogs that shed the least.
More than that, Irish Terriers are also excellent athletes and make for both a great competition dog as well as a great sports buddy.
As fearless as they are when they guard your home, theyll have nothing but love in their big hearts toward you.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 18 inches |
Weight: | 25-27 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-15 years |
Characteristics: | Daredevil, bold and courageous, loyal, adaptable, with spirited nature |
6. Maltese
The definition of cuteness, a Maltese will love and crave your company and presence more than any other animal or person in the world.
Itll reward your company with an endless supply of love and affection.
But its more than just a cuddle buddy, too.
This non-shedding dog breed is famously intelligent and loves games and tricks.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 7-12 inches |
Weight: | 4-8 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Good family dogs, gentle, affectionate, intelligent, enjoys learning tricks, playful |
7. Kerry Blue Terrier
Yet another Terrier, the Kerry Blue, is a working dog bred primarily for herding and guarding.
As such, they are not just great guard dogs for your home but also a knowledgeable and friendly companion.
All that, coupled with their distinctive, beautiful look, makes them a great pet for many people.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 17.5-19.5 inches |
Weight: | 44-51 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-15 years |
Characteristics: | Good family dogs, gentle, affectionate, intelligent, enjoy learning tricks, playful |
8. Shih Tzu
A literally created dog to be your best friend, the Shih Tzu, will always be by your side and will always try to make you smile.
Gorgeous and cute, as they are intelligent and funny, these non-shedding dog breeds make for amazing pets.
Its no surprise why they are among the most popular dog breeds in the world.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 8-11 inches |
Weight: | 9-16 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-16 years |
Characteristics: | Short snouts, round eyes, playful, clever, affectionate, friendly, good family dog |
9. Standard Poodle
Another classical breed, the Standard Poodle, is known for its quick feet and quick mind.
An intelligent athlete, the Poodle makes for an amazing play partner they love to run, play, and learn tricks, and theyll do all that without shedding almost any hair in your home.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 18-24 inches |
Weight: | 40-70 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Kind and friendly, very energetic, eager to please, highly trainable, highly intelligent |
10. Scottish Terrier
On the almost opposite spectrum of Poodles, Scottish Terriers are not the best athletes.
They are also not just intelligent but wickedly intelligent to the point that they really dislike training.
A Scottish Terrier does what it wants, but fortunately, one of the key things it wants is to be by your side and make you happy.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 10 inches |
Weight: | 19-22 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Compact dog, vivid personality, dignified, persistent, independent, feisty |
11. Australian Silky Terrier
Named precisely after their gorgeous, silky coat, the Australian Silky Terrier is also one of the very low shedding dogs.
Very loving and cuddly dogs, but also quite active Silky Terriers dont like being bored and can get destructive when left alone.
When they are with you, however, theyll be your best friends.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9-10 inches |
Weight: | 8-10 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Friendly, highly-spirited, inquisitive, alert, responsive, quick, joyful |
12. Irish Water Spaniel
A retrieving dog, the Irish Water Spaniel loves water almost as much as it loves people. Very funny and smart.
These dogs live to please you and are great training buddies.
And while theyll keep you busy, you should keep them busy too they require quite a lot of exercise.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 21-24 inches |
Weight: | 45-65 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-12 years |
Characteristics: | Energetic, intelligent, inquisitive, clownish, alert, quick, active, does better with one owner |
RELEVANT READ:Most Popular Irish Dog Breeds
13. Cairn Terrier
Yes, Toto from The Wizard of Oz made our list as well maybe non-shedding is magical?
However, aside from non-shedding, Cairn Terriers have much more to offer very intelligent and loyal.
A Cairn will follow you everywhere and do its best to help you however it can.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9.5-10 inches |
Weight: | 13-14 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Happy and cheerful, independent, tough, alert, hardy, intelligent, assertive, active |
14. West Highland White Terrier
Another white bundle of love, the West Highland White Terrier or the Westie can be a bit of mischief, so dont let these non-shedding dog breeds get bored.
They are very playful and intelligent and will repay your attention and time with many fun times and love.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 10-11 inches |
Weight: | 13-22 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-16 years |
Characteristics: | Self-reliant, independent, challenging to train, friendly, alert, active, hardy |
15. Brussels Griffon
An exceptionally loyal companion, the Brussels Griffon can even be loyal to a fault and distrust strangers.
Among the dogs that shed the least, they dont get along with kids too well since they can be moody.
However, a Griffon shows nothing but love and attention toward you as long as you repay him in kind.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 7-10 inches |
Weight: | 6-4 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-15 years |
Characteristics: | Smart, devoted, watchful, great companion, sensitive, inquisitive, self-important |
16. Wheaten Terrier
Another fun-loving breed, the Wheaten Terrier, loves to run and play both outside and indoors.
A Wheaten will shower you with attention, but these non-shedding dog breeds also love to cuddle and nap on your feet.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 17-19 inches |
Weight: | 30-40 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Affectionate, Intelligent, Energetic, Spirited, Playful, Faithful |
RELEVANT READ: 30 Most Lazy Dog Breeds Perfect for a Couch Potato Owner
17. Chinese Crested
Definitely not your typical dog; the Chinese Crested, however, is also a very non-shedding dog.
In addition to that and their unique appearance, the Crested love their owners and family and distrust strangers and children.
And being almost naked they are not good dogs for cold climates.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 11-13 inches |
Weight: | 10-13 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-15 years |
Characteristics: | Playful, love attention, energetic, sweet-tempered but can be good watchdogs |
18. Lakeland Terrier
A scent hound, the Lakeland Terrier, makes for a great watchdog.
They also have a huge capacity for energy and are ready to burst into play at any second.
That, coupled with their impressive intelligence, makes for great pals, and their undying love for their family turns them into amazing pets.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 13.5-15 inches |
Weight: | 17 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-16 years |
Characteristics: | Impish and assertive, needs plenty of human contact, intelligent, confident, trainable |
19. Basenji
One of the more independent, non-shedding dog breeds on this list, this short-haired pooch, comes from the Congo.
Basenjis do great on their own and can even be stubborn in training, but they do love attention and require a lot of playtime with their owner every day.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 16 to 17 inches |
Weight: | 22-24 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-14 years |
Characteristics: | Curious, Intelligent, Affectionate, Quiet, Alert, Energetic, Confident, Playful |
20. Yorkshire Terrier
Another attention-grabber, Yorkies are one of the most famous dog breeds in the world for a reason.
They may be small, but their personality is enormous only towards their owner.
Yorkshire Terriers can be very focused on their love and often mistrust strangers, other dogs, kids, and even other family members.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 6-7 inches |
Weight: | 2-7 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-16 years |
Characteristics: | Among the smallest terriers, confident, energetic, dominant, great for apartments |
21. Coton De Tulear
Widely known as a Velcro dog, the Coton De Tulear is the almost perfect lap dog.
Similar to the Maltese, but much calmer and cuddlier, Coton De Tulear still needs daily walks and playtime, of course, but during the rest of the day, they will be happiest in your lap.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9-11 inches |
Weight: | 18-13 lbs. |
Life Span: | 14-16 years |
Characteristics: | Playful and clownish, lighthearted, gentle, lively, trainable, vocal |
22. Giant Schnauzer
A Miniature Schnauzer in every aspect other than size, the Giant Schnauzer is a former working dog.
These non-shedding dog breeds need a lot of mental stimulation training, playtime, tricks, etc.
As their smaller brethren, these giants are very loving and loyal companions with a heart that are as giant as they are.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 23.5-27.5 inches |
Weight: | 55-90 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Composed, courageous, loyal and playful, easily trained, strong-willed, dominant |
23. Border Terrier
A former fox hunting dog, the Border Terrier, has an amazing hunting instinct. If there are squirrels in your nearby park, theyll soon learn to hate your furry friend.
A Border Terrier is much more than just a hunter. They're also very social, loving, and intelligent dogs.
Being one of the dogs that don't shed, they make great family pets as long as they also get the exercise and playtime they need.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 10-11 inches |
Weight: | 11.5-15.5 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Good-tempered, affectionate, trainable, alert, loves outdoors, best for country-living |
24. Portuguese Water Dog
A retriever dog, the only thing the Portuguese Water Dog loves more than water is its owner.
Literally bred to please, these Water Dogs are very intelligent and loving and love to play with you until exhaustion.
Fortunately, you wouldn't worry about much hair fall after playing in the water with these dog breeds that don't shed.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 17-23 inches |
Weight: | 35-60lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Eager and athletic companions built for water, smart, easy to train, and eager to please |
25. Havanese
If you want a dog that will love you almost unnaturally, then you should consider a Havanese.
Small in size but enormous in heart, the Havanese will soak up your attention while you are there and compose the saddest songs and howl them to no end while you are away.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 8.5-11.5 inches |
Weight: | 7-13 lbs. |
Life Span: | 14-16 years |
Characteristics: | Highly intelligent, eager to please, easy to train, playful, good companion dogs |
26. Airedale Terrier
A working dog like most Terriers, the Airedale was more specially bred for agility and swimming.
They are also the largest Terrier breed, which doesnt affect their agility one bit.
Other than that, they are precisely what youd expect from a terrier full of energy, highly intelligent, and extremely loyal and loving.
Breed Overview:
Height: | average 23 inches |
Weight: | 45-70 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-12 years |
Characteristics: | Bold, determined, and stubborn, friendly, alert, confident, outgoing |
27. Bedlington Terrier
Dont be fooled by its lamb-like coat the Bedlington Terrier is as much of a hunting dog as a lot of its Terrier brethren.
Like all Terriers, these non-shedding dog breeds also make for an amazing guard dog and will shower you with love and with its seemingly endless playful energy.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 15.5-16.5 inches |
Weight: | 17-23 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Active and loving, loves the outdoors and good company, intelligent, spirited |
28. Labradoodle
Labradoodles may surprise many people for being on this list many Labradoodles are not hypoallergenic and shed a lot.
Thats because while Poodles are non-shedding, Labradors shed quite a lot.
So whether or not a Labradoodle will shed is highly dependent on its ancestry.
However, if you get a 3rd generation Labradoodle and know that its parents and grandparents are non-shedding, this Labradoodle will be a very non-shedding dog.
And more than that, Labradoodles are great in many ways loving, playful, and very loyal. They make for amazing pets.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 21-24 inches |
Weight: | 50-65 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-16 years |
Characteristics: | Friendly, intelligent, social, intelligent and affable, needs regular exercise to be happy |
29. Standard Schnauzer
Like their bigger and smaller counterparts, the Standard Schnauzer is characterized by its huge heart's unlimited energy supply as well as being a dog that sheds the least.
They are also very gentle and affectionate dogs that are guaranteed to make your life brighter.
That is unless youve neglected them and theyve destroyed your furniture out of boredom.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 17.5-19.5 inches |
Weight: | 30-45 lbs. |
Life Span: | 13-16 years |
Characteristics: | Intelligent and reliable, high-spirited, devoted and brave, lively, playful, highly trainable |
30. Bichon Frise
The Bichon is a little bundle of cheerful joy that just so happens to be quite non-shedding.
Very affectionate and gentle, this ball of white goodness is sure to make you smile.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9.5-11.5 inches |
Weight: | 12-18 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Energetic, playful, affectionate, sensitive, eager to please, easy to train |
31. Komondor
You can be forgiven if you dont bet on the Komondor as a qualifier in a non-shedding dog list. Yet, here he is.
The Komondor love deeply and gently known as the dreads for his signature mop-like look.
However, while their coat doesnt shed much, these non-shedding dog breeds still require a lot of grooming and brushing since they quite literally act as a mop around the house.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 25.5-27.5 inches |
Weight: | 80-120 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-12 years |
Characteristics: | Have powerful bodies yet gentle, steady, affectionate, calm, and independent |
32. Lhasa Apso
A truly royal dog, Lhasa Apso dogs were used as palace guards in Tibet.
And just as their heritage implies, they are proud and confident dogs.
That doesnt stop them from also being loyal and loving towards their owner.
However, it does mean that they are suspicious of strangers.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9-11 inches |
Weight: | 13-18 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Smart, confident and complex, assertive, playful, spirited, fearless, obedient, and devoted |
33. Bolognese
The Bolognese is easily mistaken for a Bichon or a Maltese, but it is a separate breed.
Intelligent dogs that love games and puzzles, the Bologneses main priority is still to be close to you.
And as long as they have your presence, attention, and gentle petting, theyll be happy, and theyll do their best to make you happy as well.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 9-11 inches |
Weight: | 13-18 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Smart, confident and complex, assertive, playful, spirited, fearless, obedient, and devoted |
34. Tibetan Terrier
Another entry from Tibet and another Terrier, too the Tibetan is not an actual terrier, despite its name.
Called Tsang Apso (or Shaggy Dog) in their homelands language, the Tibetans were bred for working and herding, just like western terriers.
As such, they are intelligent, loyal, and loving towards their owner and family.
However, they are wary of strangers.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 14-17 inches |
Weight: | 18-30 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-16 years |
Characteristics: | Smart, pleasant and affectionate, fun-loving, gentle, sensitive, energetic |
35. Bouvier Des Flandres
These non-shedding dog breeds are powerful and fearless, as they were bred for herding and working.
But today, they are considered to be great athletes.
They require a lot of exercise, as well as strong leadership and assertiveness from their owners.
Bouviers are very gentle, loyal, and loving friends.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 27 inches |
Weight: | 95 lbs. |
Life Span: | 10-12 years |
Characteristics: | calm and docile, great family dogs, goes well with other pets, protective, loyal, trainable |
36.Dandie Dinmont Terriers
Who could resist this breed, often referred to as just Dandies, This small terrier is similar in build to a dachshund with their short legs and long body.
This breed doesnt shed, but they do have a reasonable amount of energy.
If you have a large garden or like to go on plenty of walks, these non-shedding dogs may be right for you.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 8-11 inches |
Weight: | 18-24 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-15 years |
Characteristics: | Friendly, playful, devoted, affectionate, independent, better with only one owner |
37. Afghan Hound
How can I include the Afghan Hound on my list of non-shedding dogs and not mention their luscious locks?
They are often discounted as a possible choice for allergy sufferers because of the sheer volume of their hair.
This often results in the misconception that they must shed copious amounts, but the opposite is true.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 25-27 inches |
Weight: | 50-60 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-14 years |
Characteristics: | Strong-willed, independent, aloof, dignified, self-confident |
38. Hungarian Puli
If youre into dreadlocks, these non-shedding dogs may be just your style.
The Hungarian Puli is fiercely loyal and renowned for their guarding ability.
Its best to start their obedience training when theyre young, as theyre intelligent dogs that can get into mischief if they arent taught whats good and whats bad from the get-go.
Breed Overview:
Height: | 15-18 inches |
Weight: | 25-35 lbs. |
Life Span: | 12-16 years |
Characteristics: | Active, intelligent, self-confident, devoted, slightly smaller than the Komodor, can be manipulative |
The Truth about Hypoallergenic Dogs
Some may have labeled non-shedding dogs as hypoallergenics.
But the truth is, no dogs are 100% shed-free and hypoallergenic.
Non-shedding is only equal to low-shedding, which means they still shed but only so minimal that our naked eyes won't notice.
A study even stated that:
[There are] no statistically significant differences between reportedly hypoallergenic and nonhypoallergenic dogs
This means hypoallergenic breeds' can still trigger a persons allergies.
Hold up. I thought you said they're good for allergic people.
Well, yeah. I have allergies, and I cuddle with my poodle just fine.
The non-shedder dog breeds in this article are still the better choice for people with sensitivities because they may cause less possibility to create a reaction due to the type of coat that breed has, according to AKC's Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein.
And by the way, the dogs hair has nothing to do with your allergies. They are caused by the dogs dander and sometimes by its saliva or urine.
And yes, even coatless and hypoallergenic dogs have dander.
But some dogs are much more hypoallergenic than others, and regular grooming can further reduce dander to a much tolerable amount.
With regularly groomed low-shedders, you could have allergic reactions so mild that you wouldn't even notice it.
Otherwise, severe symptoms that you should be concerned about include:
- Rashes
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Wheezing or dizziness
Either way, it's best to test out if your allergies are caused by dogs.
6 Tips for Living With Allergies and Dogs
If you're allergic, I'm sure your doctor (as mine have) explained from the get-go that allergies are incurable.
We can only manage our symptoms.
So if you're a fellow allergen sensitive-slash-dog lover like me, let me share with you tips I've learned through the years on how to live with both allergies and dogs safely.
1. Feed high-quality food to reduce shedding
This might not be the first thought to pop into your head when trying to come up with solutions to allergy symptoms.
But trust me, by feeding your dog a high-quality natural diet, their skin will be healthier and shed far less.
Be sure that the diet you choose includes omega fatty acids, even if you have non-shedding dogs.
Check out these foods you can feed them for a healthy and shiny coat.
2. Replace carpets with tiles or wooden flooring
Carpets will be the bane of your existence if you suffer from a pet allergy.
Theres just something about the texture and depth of a carpet that likes to trap and gradually disperse those pesky dog hairs and dander.
If you have the budget to replace your carpet with a nice hygienic tile or wooden floor, it will be worth it!
3. Wash your hands
Are you guilty of stroking your pet and then forgetting to wash your hands? Weve all been there.
But, for those suffering with an allergy, this can make the difference between a great day and a sneezy day.
A quick fix for this is to always have a bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket!
4. Invest in a quality air purifier with HEPA filters
An air purifier with a HEPA filter can benefit an allergic person with dogs by removing allergens such as pet hair, dander, and dust from the air.
HEPA filters are designed to capture small particles, including those that can trigger allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals.
5. Vacuum regularly!
This is a no-brainer but another way to lessen the fur and dander from spreading is to vacuum regularly.
In addition to vacuuming, other strategies for reducing dog dander and other allergens in your home include regular grooming of your dog, washing bedding and other fabrics in hot water.
6. Set up a dog-free zone
Find yourself still sneezing? Set up a dog-free zone!
That means having a room that is off-limits to your dog.
In my case, my ensuite bath and is my dog-free zone, where I also set up a small humidifier and purifier.
My poodles aren't allowed there, so when I'm starting to feel sniffly, I'd go there to calm my allergy.
Non-Shedding Dog Breeds: Before You Go
Just like choosing any pet, there are several things to consider. Most soon-to-be owners choose dogs that don't shed due to allergies or hygiene reasons.
The best thing about non-shedding dogs is that there is always a great option in every category.
As I said before, we all wish all dogs were low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs. But you have to weigh the pros and cons of each and find the dog that best fits your needs.
Do you want a smaller pooch?
Or a family-friendly canine?
Or perhaps a large low-shedding dog that is energetic?
Hopefully, this list of the best non-shedding dog breeds will help you find the ideal pooch for you!
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