Dog Breeds That Don't Shed

Forget the Fur

Whether you’re concerned about pet allergies or are just looking to limit the amount of hair in your home, there are a variety of dogs with minimal amounts of shedding. From large breeds with short coats to toy breeds with long, luxurious coats, here are our top picks for dogs that shed so little it's hard to tell.

1. Bichon Frise
While completely non-shedding dogs are impossible to come by, the Bichon comes very close with their curled double coat. They’re active, playful dogs that have a cheerful disposition and are compatible with allergy sufferers, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). They do, however, require frequent grooming to keep their coats healthy and mat-free.

2. Daschund
Known for their long bodies and short legs, smooth and wirehaired Daschunds are light shedders with a loveable and playful disposition. Their small size makes them a great dog for apartment living and with the appropriate supervision can be an ideal pet for owners with children, according to the AKC. 

3. Poodle
This active, intelligent breed is a great choice for allergy sufferers but will need regular, professional grooming to maintain its coat. All three breed varieties, the standard, miniature and toy, come in various colors including white, black, apricot and gray and make excellent companions, according to the AKC. 

4. Portuguese Water Dog
Known for its strength and spirit, Portuguese Water Dog’s coats are waterproof and hypoallergenic. It can either curly or wavy and requires regular maintenance to prevent mats. These dogs make loyal companions but are an active and athletic breed that requires regular, vigorous exercise to stay fit and happy, according to the AKC.

5. Yorkshire Terrier
In addition to being light shedders, Yorkies also make wonderful travel companions and can accommodate to living in nearly every type of environment. They’re personable, energetic dogs that like exploring new places and interacting with their owners. Their long, blue and tan coats require regular brushing to prevent tangles.

6. Standard Schnauzer
While they don’t shed regularly as much as other breeds might, Standard Schnauzers do require their body coats to be stripped — or loose, dead hair plucked out — at least twice a year, according to the AKC. Their beard and leg hair requires regular brushing to prevent mats. Schnauzers are social and affectionate and are especially good with children, but their strong-willed nature requires a stern hand in training.

7. Border Terrier
A working breed of terrier known for their persistence and alertness in the field, Border Terriers make affectionate and very trainable pets. Their active nature requires regular exercise while their weather resistant coats require only an occasional brushing and hand stripping twice a year, according to the AKC.

8. Maltese
A toy breed easily recognized by its long, silky white hair, Maltese are brave and gentle. A great family dog that has a big personality for such a small body, they do require daily brushing and regular grooming if their coats are kept long to prevent matting.