Dog Breeds That Shed the Least

For allergy sufferers or those simply wanting to minimize pet hair cleanup, choosing a low-shedding dog breed can be a game-changer. While no dog is truly “non-shedding,” certain breeds are known for shedding significantly less than others. This is often due to the type of coat they possess – single-coated breeds or those with continuously growing hair tend to leave less fur around the house.

Top Low-Shedding Breeds

Here are some popular dog breeds that are generally considered to be low shedders:

Poodle

Poodles, in their various sizes (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), are perhaps the most well-known low-shedding breed. Their curly, dense coat traps loose hair, preventing it from falling out easily. Regular grooming, including brushing and professional clipping, is essential to prevent matting.

Bichon Frise

With their fluffy white coat, Bichons might seem like heavy shedders, but they are actually relatively low-shedding. Similar to Poodles, their curly hair traps loose fur, requiring regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming is recommended to maintain their signature appearance.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting. While they do shed, it’s generally less than many other long-haired breeds. Many owners opt to keep their Shih Tzus in a shorter “puppy cut” to minimize grooming demands.

Maltese

Another small breed with a long, white coat, the Maltese sheds very little. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles. Their gentle nature and small size make them ideal companions for apartment living.

Portuguese Water Dog

This intelligent and energetic breed was bred to assist fishermen, and their water-resistant coat sheds very little. They come in two coat types: curly and wavy. Regular grooming is still required to maintain their coat health.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terriers have a soft, wavy coat that sheds minimally. Regular brushing and trimming are necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They are known for their distinctive blue-grey coat color.

Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)

Schnauzers, in all their sizes, are known for their wiry coat and distinctive facial hair. They shed very little, but regular grooming, including brushing and stripping (removing dead hair), is essential to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

Irish Water Spaniel

Similar to the Portuguese Water Dog, the Irish Water Spaniel has a tightly curled coat that sheds very little. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their waterproof coat.

Important Considerations

It’s important to remember that even low-shedding dogs require regular grooming to prevent mats, tangles, and skin problems. Regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming are essential for maintaining their coat health and minimizing shedding. Furthermore, individual dogs within a breed can vary in their shedding tendencies. If allergies are a concern, it’s always best to spend time with a dog before bringing them home to ensure they are a good fit.