Low Shedding Dog Breeds
January 30, 2019
Looking for a dog that doesn’t shed?
Pets Training & Boarding takes a look at low shedding dog breeds and how to reduce the amount of dog-hair in your life.
Regardless of your chosen breeds, all dogs will shed. However, some dog breeds will most certainly have a lot more hair than others. Surprisingly, most non-shedding or low shedding dog breeds actually require more grooming.
The biggest myth when it comes to low-shedding or non-shedding dog breeds is that their coats are maintenance-free. When in fact; the reason most are low-shedding is because they have double coats and the one coat will actually trap the dead hair, instead of it landing on your floor. So even though your chosen breed may be a non-shedding dog breed, they will require a decent amount of grooming. But if you’re prepared to keep up with your furry pals grooming needs, a low shedding dog can help keep your house dog hair free which is a big plus for people or families with pet allergies.
Below is a breakdown of the different types of low shedding dog breeds, categorised into small breeds, medium breeds and large breeds:
SMALL LOW SHEDDING DOG BREEDS
The Australian Silky Terrier is a small and elegant toy breed known for its fine and silky coat, which requires regular grooming. Originating in Australia, this terrier is intelligent, alert, and affectionate. Despite its small size, it is lively and energetic, enjoying play and outdoor activities. The breed is often good with families and can adapt well to apartment living, but it may exhibit a strong prey drive and should be socialized early with other pets.
2. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized terrier breed with a distinctive lamb-like appearance due to its curly and woolly coat. Originating in England, it’s known for its graceful build, arched back, and distinctive pear-shaped head. Despite its charming appearance, Bedlington Terriers are courageous, active, and possess a good balance of playfulness and tenacity. They were originally bred for hunting and later developed into companion animals. With proper training and socialization, Bedlington Terriers make affectionate and loyal family pets. Their unique coat requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and prevent matting.
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog breed known for its playful and affectionate nature. Originating in the Mediterranean region, it has a distinctive curly coat that is hypoallergenic and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Bichons are known for their friendly disposition, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. They are generally good with children and other pets, and their social nature means they enjoy being around people. Bichon Frises are intelligent and respond well to training, making them adaptable to various living environments, including apartments. They thrive on human interaction and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
The Brussels Griffon is a small toy breed known for its unique and expressive appearance. Originating in Belgium, these dogs have a distinctive pushed-in face, large eyes, and a wiry coat. Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons are confident, alert, and possess a charming personality. They are known for their strong bond with their owners and tend to be affectionate and loyal. This breed can be quite spirited and enjoys playtime, but they also appreciate spending time with their human companions. Brussels Griffons are adaptable to apartment living but benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and prevent matting.
The Chinese Crested is a small to medium-sized breed known for its distinct appearance, characterized by hairless and coated varieties. Originating in China, this dog has a fine, silky coat on its head, tail, and feet if it’s the coated variety. The hairless variety, as the name suggests, has exposed skin that may have tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail. Chinese Cresteds are known for being affectionate, alert, and lively. They often form strong bonds with their owners and can be both playful and cuddly. Due to their lack of coat, hairless Chinese Cresteds may require special care for their skin, including sun protection. Both coated and hairless varieties benefit from regular grooming and attention to dental health. Overall, Chinese Cresteds make loving and entertaining companions.
6. Havanese
The Havanese is a small toy breed known for its friendly and sociable nature. Originating in Cuba, these dogs are characterized by their long, silky coat and lively expression. Havanese are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them excellent family pets. They typically get along well with children and other animals, and their playful demeanor makes them well-suited for families or individuals seeking a companion. Havanese dogs enjoy being part of the family and can adapt to various living environments, including apartments. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and they thrive on human companionship and positive interaction. Overall, Havanese dogs are charming, trainable, and make delightful additions to households seeking a loving and spirited canine companion.
The Italian Greyhound is a small and slender breed known for its elegant appearance and graceful movement. Originating in Italy, these dogs are a miniature version of the Greyhound. They have a short, smooth coat and are characterized by their fine bone structure and slim build. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, gentle, and often reserved with strangers. Despite their delicate appearance, they are active and agile, enjoying play and short sprints. These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and can be sensitive to changes in their environment. Italian Greyhounds typically do well in homes with gentle and considerate children. Due to their short coat, they may be sensitive to cold weather and may need extra protection. Regular exercise and companionship are essential for their well-being.
8. Maltese
The Maltese is a small toy breed known for its long, silky white coat and friendly demeanor. Originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, these dogs have a distinctive appearance with a compact body and a plume-like tail that arches over their back. Maltese dogs are known for their affectionate and lively nature, making them excellent companions. They often form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on human interaction. Despite their small size, Maltese are energetic and enjoy playtime, but they can adapt well to apartment living. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their beautiful coat and prevent matting. Maltese dogs are generally good with families, including older children, and can make loving additions to households seeking a small and charming canine companion.
9. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small toy breed known for its distinctive appearance and friendly demeanor. Originating in China, these dogs have a long, flowing double coat, a pushed-in face, and a distinctive underbite. Shih Tzus are characterized by their affectionate and outgoing nature, making them excellent companions. They typically get along well with children and other pets, and their adaptable temperament makes them suitable for various living environments, including apartments. Shih Tzus require regular grooming to maintain their coat, and they may benefit from early socialization and training. They enjoy being around people and often form strong bonds with their owners, bringing joy and companionship to households seeking a small and lovable canine companion.
10. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a small-sized dog breed known for its intelligence, elegance, and hypoallergenic coat. Originating from Germany, it is one of the three Poodle varieties, with the Standard and Miniature being the other two. Toy Poodles have a compact yet well-proportioned build and a dense, curly or corded coat that requires regular grooming. They are characterized by their alert expression, high intelligence, and lively demeanor.
MEDIUM LOW SHEDDING DOG BREEDS
1. Basenji
The Basenji is a medium-sized dog breed known for its elegant appearance, unique yodel-like vocalizations, and hunting instincts. Originating from Central Africa, particularly the Congo, the Basenji is sometimes referred to as the “barkless dog” due to its unique vocalizations that include yodels, howls, and other unusual sounds instead of traditional barking.
2. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed from Ireland, recognized for its distinctive blue-gray curly coat. Known for intelligence and playfulness, this terrier is generally friendly and protective. With a history as a farm dog and small-game hunter, Kerry Blues are active and benefit from regular exercise. They make loyal family companions, but their unique coat requires consistent grooming. Trainable with positive reinforcement, Kerry Blue Terriers excel in various activities, combining versatility with a charming personality.
3. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed resulting from the mating of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Known for its friendly and sociable nature, Labradoodles often have low-shedding or hypoallergenic coats, making them suitable for families and individuals with allergies. Available in various sizes, they are intelligent, trainable, and adaptable, excelling as both assistance dogs and family pets. Regular exercise and grooming are important for their well-being, and their versatility and amicable temperament contribute to their widespread popularity as companion animals.
4. Irish terrier
The Irish Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed originating from Ireland, recognized for its distinctive red, wiry coat. Known for its intelligence and courage, this terrier has a lively and spirited personality. Affectionate with its family, the Irish Terrier requires regular exercise and grooming. With a strong-willed nature, it responds well to consistent and positive training. Originally bred for hunting and farm work, it is a versatile and protective companion, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an energetic and loyal canine friend.
5. Puli
The Puli is a Hungarian herding dog renowned for its distinctive corded coat, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance. With a small to medium-sized sturdy build, Pulis are characterized by their playful and intelligent nature. Originally bred for herding, they retain strong instincts and can form close bonds with their families. Energetic and agile, Pulis require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their corded coat demands dedicated grooming to prevent matting. Known for their alertness, they make excellent watchdogs and can adapt to various living environments, making them a distinctive and loyal companion for those willing to invest in their grooming needs.
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized German breed known for its distinctive appearance, including a wiry coat and bushy eyebrows. With a spirited and alert nature, these dogs are intelligent, trainable, and good-natured. They form strong bonds with their families and can be protective. Originally working on farms, Standard Schnauzers are versatile, adapting well to various roles including family companion and watchdog. They require regular exercise, grooming, and early socialization to thrive as energetic and loyal members of the household.
7. Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog from Tibet with a distinctive long, double coat that requires regular grooming. Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, they make excellent family pets and get along well with children and other animals. Despite their independence, they form close bonds with their families. Moderately active, they need regular exercise and respond well to consistent, positive training. Originally bred as companions in Tibetan monasteries, they adapt well to various living environments and bring charm and loyalty to households willing to provide proper care.
8. Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier is a spirited medium-sized breed from Wales, known for its friendly and outgoing nature. With a wiry black and tan coat, these terriers are intelligent and moderately active, requiring regular exercise. They are adaptable to various living environments, good with children, and respond well to consistent training. Grooming is essential to maintain their coat. Originally bred for hunting, Welsh Terriers have become affectionate companions, making them a lively and charming addition to households that can meet their needs for attention and care.
9. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized, friendly, and outgoing terrier breed. It is known for its distinctive soft and silky wheaten-colored coat, which is often wavy or curly. Originating from Ireland, it was traditionally used as a versatile farm dog, excelling in tasks such as herding, guarding, and hunting. The Wheaten Terrier is characterized by its square build, well-balanced structure, and a sweet, playful temperament. This breed is generally good with families and other pets, but it requires regular grooming and training to keep its coat in good condition and to ensure proper behavior.
10. Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized, slender dog breed known for its elegant and athletic build. Originating in England, it was originally bred for racing and hunting small game. The Whippet resembles a smaller version of the Greyhound, featuring a sleek coat, a deep chest, and a distinctive, aerodynamic appearance. Despite its racing background, the Whippet is a gentle and affectionate companion. It tends to be calm indoors but can be quite energetic and agile when given the opportunity to run and play. Known for their friendly nature, Whippets are generally good with families and other pets. They require regular exercise but are adaptable to various living environments, making them suitable for both city and suburban life.
LARGE LOW SHEDDING DOG BREEDS
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a distinctive and elegant dog breed known for its long, flowing coat, regal appearance, and dignified demeanor. Originating from Afghanistan, this ancient breed was traditionally used for hunting large game in the rugged terrain of the region. The Afghan Hound is characterized by its slender, athletic build, silky coat, and a distinctive topknot of hair on the head. Despite its glamorous appearance, it is an independent and aloof breed, often reserved with strangers but loyal to its family. Regular grooming is essential to maintain the beauty of its coat, and Afghan Hounds typically require a moderate amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
2. Airdale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier, often referred to as the “King of Terriers,” is a large and versatile dog breed originating from the Aire Valley in Yorkshire, England. It’s the largest of the terrier breeds. Airedales were originally developed to be hunting and working dogs, capable of tackling a variety of tasks.
They are characterized by a strong, muscular build, a distinctive tan and black coat, and a wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat. Their head is long with a flat skull and a well-defined stop. Airedales typically have a keen and alert expression.
3. Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a large, robust herding dog originating from Belgium. Recognized for its distinctive rough coat and square build, it has a loyal and protective temperament. Intelligent and trainable, Bouviers excel in various roles, historically serving as farm dogs, cattle herders, and cart pullers. They are adaptable to different living environments, requiring regular exercise and grooming. Known for their work ethic, Bouviers make excellent watchdogs and loyal companions.
The Giant Schnauzer is a large and powerful working dog breed originating from Germany. Known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows, this breed is intelligent, energetic, and protective. With a robust build and a wiry coat, it comes in solid black or salt-and-pepper colors. Giants Schnauzers are versatile and have been employed in roles such as herding, guarding, and police work. They are loyal to their families, require regular exercise and training, and can make excellent companions for those who can provide them with proper care and stimulation.
5. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive and versatile dog originating from Ireland. Known for its curly, water-resistant coat and friendly temperament, it excels in water-related activities and retrieving. Intelligent and affectionate, it makes a loyal family companion. Regular grooming and exercise are essential for this active breed.
6. Komondor
The Komondor is a large Hungarian breed known for its unique corded coat resembling a mop. With a strong protective instinct, it is loyal and reserved, making an excellent guard dog. Independent yet trainable, early socialization and consistent training are essential. While not overly energetic, regular exercise and specialized grooming are necessary for their well-being.
7. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an intelligent, and versatile breed known for its curly or wavy coat. Originating from Portugal, it was historically used by fishermen to assist in water-related tasks. The breed is characterized by its agility, friendly demeanor, and strong swimming abilities. Portuguese Water Dogs are known for being loyal family companions, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them suitable for individuals with allergies. Regular grooming is essential to maintain the coat and overall health.
8. Saluki
The Saluki is an elegant and ancient dog breed known for its slender and graceful appearance. Originating in the Middle East, it was historically bred for hunting and is one of the oldest known breeds. The Saluki is characterized by its long legs, deep chest, and a distinctive narrow head with long ears. Known for its speed and endurance, it excels in various dog sports. Salukis are gentle, reserved, and independent, forming strong bonds with their families. Regular exercise and proper care are essential to meet their physical and mental needs.
9. Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is a versatile and intelligent dog breed known for its elegant appearance and hypoallergenic coat. It is the largest among the three Poodle varieties (Standard, Miniature, Toy). Originally bred as a water retriever, the Standard Poodle is characterized by its curly or corded coat, long neck, and distinctive topknot. Poodles are highly trainable, making them excellent in various dog sports and as service or therapy dogs. They are friendly, social, and typically good with families. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat, and they require mental and physical stimulation to thrive as active and intelligent companions.
10. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is known for its distinctive harsh, wiry coat and versatile skills. Originating from Europe, particularly the Netherlands and France, it was developed for pointing and retrieving game. The Griffon has a robust build with a wiry coat that provides protection in various weather conditions. Known for its intelligence and trainability, it excels in both hunting and as a family companion. The breed is characterized by its friendly and affectionate nature. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s well-being, and its coat requires regular grooming to maintain its quality.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
It is very important to seek professional medical advice when it comes your allergies. In many cases people who are allergic to dogs are actually allergic to their dander (skin) or the actual saliva of the dog but not necessarily the hair. Always double check that your allergies will be able to allow you to cope with having a licky jumpy puppy around the home. It’s also advisable to visit the breeder and have lots of exposure to your puppy before you bring them home to double-check your reactions and seek your doctor’s opinion after the exposure.
Debunking Myths: Do Non-Shedding Dogs Smell?
Understanding the factors that contribute to a dog’s smell, particularly in non-shedding breeds, involves delving deeper into their skin and coat health. Contrary to popular belief, non-shedding dogs can still have a noticeable odor, which is often influenced by their skin condition and grooming habits. Skin allergies, for instance, can cause a musty smell in a dog’s coat. Such conditions may require more frequent bathing, but it’s crucial to balance this with maintaining the natural oils in the dog’s skin, which are vital for a healthy coat and skin. These oils also contribute to the ‘wet dog’ smell after bathing, a temporary scent that dissipates as the dog dries.
On the other hand, over-bathing can lead to the removal of these beneficial oils, resulting in dry skin and a lackluster coat. Each dog breed has its unique grooming needs and susceptibilities to skin conditions, which can affect their overall scent. Understanding these nuances ensures that your non-shedding dog remains healthy and as odor-free as possible.