Dogs That Don't Shed: Low-Shedding Breeds by Size

What non-shedding really means

All dogs lose some hair. The difference is the coat. Heavy shedders such as Labradors and Huskies have a dense undercoat that drops out in clumps, especially in spring and fall. Low-shedding breeds usually have hair that grows continuously, often curly or wiry, so the few hairs that come loose get trapped in the coat instead of landing on your floor. Hairless breeds have very little hair to lose at all.

That is why non-shedding dogs are not low-maintenance dogs. The trapped hair has to be brushed out, which is what a slicker brush is made for, or it tangles and mats against the skin. The AKC notes that many low-shedding breeds need brushing several times a week and regular professional trims, and the cost of grooming is worth factoring in before you choose.

Low-shedding dogs and allergies

Many people look for a dog that does not shed because of allergies. It helps to know that dog allergens come mainly from dander, saliva and urine, not the hair itself. The AKC states plainly that no breed is completely hypoallergenic, and research has found that low-shedding breeds still produce allergens; some studies found levels in homes with these dogs similar to homes with other breeds.

Some allergy sufferers do react less to particular dogs, and less hair around the house can reduce how far dander spreads. The most reliable test is spending time with the specific dog, ideally over several visits, before committing. Washing your dog's bedding often, keeping the dog out of the bedroom and using a HEPA air filter all help, and an allergist can advise on your own situation.

Small dogs that don't shed

Among small breeds, the AKC lists the Bichon Frise, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Havanese, Coton de Tulear, Yorkshire Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Miniature and Toy Poodles, Miniature Schnauzer, Affenpinscher, Brussels Griffon, Bolognese, Chinese Crested, West Highland White Terrier and Scottish Terrier as minimal shedders. Several small terriers, such as Cairn, Border and Wire Fox Terriers, are also low-shedding with wiry coats.

Most of these need frequent brushing, and a self-cleaning slicker brush keeps those sessions quick: the Maltese, Yorkie and Coton de Tulear daily, others several times a week. Many owners keep a short puppy cut to make home care easier, tidying between trims with a rounded-tip grooming scissors kit. Wiry terrier coats may be hand-stripped or clipped, which changes their texture.

Medium dogs that don't shed

Good medium-sized options include the Standard Schnauzer, Portuguese Water Dog, Spanish Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Lagotto Romagnolo, Irish Water Spaniel, Basenji and the standard Xoloitzcuintli. Many are energetic working or sporting dogs, so they need daily exercise and training as well as grooming.

The Portuguese Water Dog and Lagotto have thick, curly coats that need regular brushing and trimming to prevent mats. The Basenji has a short, fine coat that sheds little and needs only occasional brushing, for which a rubber grooming glove is enough. The Wheaten's silky coat tangles easily and needs brushing several times a week.

Large dogs that don't shed

Large low-shedders are fewer, but the Standard Poodle, Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, Afghan Hound, Black Russian Terrier and the larger Peruvian Inca Orchid are often recommended. The Standard Poodle is the best known, intelligent and athletic, with a coat that needs professional grooming roughly every four to six weeks.

Afghan Hounds have long, silky coats that the AKC notes need brushing and bathing about twice a week, so they suit owners who enjoy grooming. Giant Schnauzers need regular clipping or stripping, and owners who clip at home usually start with a dog grooming kit that includes clippers. All of these are large, active dogs that need space, exercise and training.

What about doodles and mixes?

Poodle crosses such as Labradoodles, Goldendoodles and Cavapoos are popular because of their Poodle parent, but their coats vary a lot, even within one litter. Some inherit a curly, low-shedding coat, others a looser, shedding coat from the other parent, and many have a combination that mats easily. Ask the breeder about the parents' coats and see the puppy's coat as it develops. A doodle coat that mats needs the same dog brushes and routine as a Poodle's, and our guide to choosing a dog brush matches brush types to coats.

Mixed-breed dogs in shelters can also be low-shedders. Ask staff about the dog's coat and spend time with it to see how you react. Whatever the breed, talk to your vet about coat and skin care, especially if your dog develops itching, hair loss or skin changes, which can happen in any breed.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.