Adding a new dog or puppy to your family can be exciting and fun, especially if it’s your first pet. Many new owners know that dogs require a lot of care and maintenance from getting shots and finding the right food. However, it can get tiresome and frustrating to constantly clean up dog hair from shedding, especially when it gets all over your furniture and clothes. People sometimes don’t want to adopt or buy puppies because they don’t want hair all over the place.
Keep in mind that no dog is genuinely 100% non-shedding, and those that are hypoallergenic could still trigger allergies. Therefore, you should do research and identify whether it’s the dog’s actual fur or if it’s something else (such as their saliva) that triggers your allergies.
Several breeds of dogs don’t shed or shed very little, so don’t rule out getting a pet for hair alone. However, they require more grooming since their hair still grows, and regular grooming reduces dander. You should be able to locate the perfect dog for you with this compiled list of breeds that don’t shed.
Poodles
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Poodles don’t shed, but one of the best reasons for getting a poodle for a pet is that they are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They come in different sizes, too - you can get a standard, miniature, or even a toy poodle, depending on your preference. They do well with training, are loyal, and are even considered “talkative.”
Their coat is virtually hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed, but they do require grooming, and if you’ve seen how some poodles are groomed, you aren’t surprised at how fun it can be to display a poodle’s personality by its haircut!
Miniature Schnauzer
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Schnauzers have fun and energetic personalities, making them great pets besides non-shedding. They love being the center of attention and love to please their owners. However, they require a lot of mental and physical stimulation, so a family with kids would be most helpful, so your schnauzer gets plenty of activity.
Irish Terrier
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Irish terriers are excellent guard dogs and one of the ideal choices of breeds that sheds the least. They, like the Schnauzers, need a lot of physical activity since they are athletes so you might consider some agility training. However, they are exceptional protectors and loyal pets.
French Bulldog
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French bulldogs are considered a low-shedding breed, but be cautious, as they can shed due to their age, the weather, and nutrition. Choosing the right shampoo for their sensitive skin and frequent grooming keep their shedding at a minimum.
The sale of french bulldogs has risen substantially over the last few years, as they are very playful and affectionate. In addition, they have prominent and demanding personalities and do well with children, so they are excellent companions.
Maltese
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Malteses are not only adorable but also an excellent option for a non-shedding dog. They love lots of attention and will supply their family with extra love and affection, too, so if you have a lot of love to give, this is the dog for you. The Maltese breed is also known for being intelligent and enjoying lots of playful games, so consider investing in some fun toys and puzzles to keep your pup’s mind stimulated.
Bichon Frise
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Another adorable pup bred to be hypoallergenic; this is one of the top picks if you want a dog desperately but suffer from allergies. They are fluffy, white, and love lots of cuddles and attention. They are intelligent, so they will easily pick up commands and tricks. They are also relatively small, making them excellent pets for those living in smaller spaces, like an apartment.
Yorkshire Terrier
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Like Toto from The Wizard of Oz, Yorkies are great lap dogs and can fit in purses (or baskets). Their fine hair is similar to human hair and less like fur, so they are considered hypoallergenic for allergy sufferers and do not shed.
However, Yorkies do require regular brushing and grooming to ensure their fur doesn’t get knotted and tangled. They have an adventurous spirit with an intense devotion to their owners. They do a lot of yipping, so be cautious if you have neighbors that might not enjoy their talkative nature.
Shih Tzu
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The Shih Tzu is a loyal dog ready to be your best friend. They are one of the more popular dog breeds in the world, and it’s easy to see why. They are intelligent, non-shedding, and excellent family dogs, getting along well with everyone and eager to please.
Shih Tzus do require grooming for their fur and display happy temperaments. However, since they love being around people and following you if you have a busy work life or social schedule, this may not be an ideal dog since they can suffer from separation anxiety.
Brussels Griffon
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Brussels Griffons are loyal to their owners as well, not shedding. With these breeds, you need to be careful if you have children, as they tend to be moodier in temperament and may not get along well with kids. On the other hand, they are smart, alert, and curious, and similar to the Shih Tzu, they need constant companionship.
Xoloitzcuintli
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The Xoloitzcuintli is the dog of ancient Aztecs. They come in two varieties, hairless or coated. The bald or hairless companion is ideal for those with pet allergies. However, the hairless type is more sensitive to the environment, so you must protect it against harsh temperatures.
Finding Your Ideal Dog
You can find many breeds that don’t shed, particularly those in the Terrier breeds with coarse hair. However, you must know that just because a dog doesn’t shed doesn’t mean it doesn’t require any maintenance for its coat. Speak with the breeder or shelter to learn more about the dog breed you’re interested in taking home.
Make sure to schedule regular exams with your veterinarian, bring about any concerns you may have, and pay attention to your dog’s nutritional requirements. Take time to research the non-shedding dogs that will match your personality and lifestyle needs, and you’ll be sure to find a great match.
