Dog breeds that don't shed

If you're dreaming of a furry companion but dread the thought of dog hair covering your couch, clothes, and basically everything you own, you're not alone. Many pet parents seek out dogs with minimal shedding — whether due to allergies, cleanliness preferences or simply wanting to retire the lint roller. While no dog is completely shed-free, certain breeds come close.

These low-shedding breeds have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously and falls out much less frequently than typical dog coats. This distinction makes a real difference for your home and potentially your allergies, though individual reactions can vary from person to person. 

Popular Poodle varieties lead the pack 

Poodles — whether toy, miniature, or standard — rank among the most beloved non-shedding breeds for good reason. Their curly, dense coats act like a natural trap for loose hair and dander, keeping it from spreading throughout your home. This unique coat quality has made Poodles the go-to choice for creating popular crossbreeds like Labradoodles and Goldendoodles, passing along those coveted low-shedding genes to mixed breeds. 

Small breeds that keep shedding to a minimum 

Several smaller breeds offer big personalities without the big shedding. The Bichon Frise charms with its soft, curly coat and naturally gentle temperament while producing minimal shedding. Similarly, the Maltese sports a long, silky white coat that, despite its flowing appearance, sheds remarkably little. Yorkshire Terriers have hair that grows continuously like human hair rather than cycling through shedding seasons like typical dog fur. 

The Havanese brings Cuban flair with its silky, wavy coat that produces less dander than many other breeds. Shih Tzus, with their regal bearing and flowing locks, have coats more similar to human hair than dog fur. The Brussels Griffon, particularly the wire-coated variety, rounds out this group of small dogs that won't leave your apartment looking like a fur factory.

Medium and large breeds for bigger dog lovers 

Not everyone wants a lap dog, and fortunately, larger low-shedding options exist. All three Schnauzer varieties — miniature, standard, and giant — feature wiry double coats that shed minimally despite their size. The Portuguese Water Dog gained fame when chosen by the Obama family specifically because of daughter Malia's allergies, showcasing how these curly-coated swimmers work well for sensitive households. 

"Dogs with continuously growing hair coats tend to be better tolerated by pet parents with allergies," Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch's Chief Veterinary Officer, explains. "However, it's important to remember that allergens come from proteins in saliva and skin cells, not just fur, so individual reactions can still vary." 

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier brings Irish charm with its silky, single-layer coat that requires diligent care but rewards you with minimal shedding. Kerry Blue Terriers sport unique blue-gray coats that grow continuously, while the Irish Water Spaniel's tight curls effectively trap loose hair and dander. 

Unique and rare breeds worth considering 

For those seeking something different, several distinctive breeds offer low-shedding benefits. The Lagotto Romagnolo, originally bred as Italian truffle hunters, has a woolly, curly coat similar to a poodle's. The Spanish Water Dog's coat naturally forms cords that trap loose hair, while the rare French Barbet features a dense, waterproof coat that produces less dander. 

The Coton de Tulear, known as the Royal Dog of Madagascar, lives up to its name with a cotton-like coat that sheds minimally when properly maintained. These unique breeds prove that you don't have to sacrifice personality or distinctiveness for a cleaner home. 

Hairless breeds: the ultimate non-shedders 

For the most dramatic reduction in shedding, hairless breeds offer an obvious solution. The Chinese Crested comes in both hairless and powderpuff varieties, with the hairless version having hair only on the head, feet, and tail. The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, produces minimal dander and is virtually non-shedding, making them ideal for severe allergy sufferers who still want canine companionship. 

Grooming requirements for non-shedding breeds 

Here's the trade-off: what these breeds save you in vacuuming time, they often require in grooming maintenance. Their continuously growing coats need regular trimming, typically every 6-8 weeks, to prevent matting and maintain their hypoallergenic qualities. Daily brushing helps prevent tangles and distributes natural oils throughout their coat. Many pet parents find that establishing a regular grooming routine early makes the process easier for both dog and human.

Making the right choice for your lifestyle 

While these breeds shed less, they're not maintenance-free. Consider your lifestyle, budget for grooming, and activity level when choosing your new companion. A high-energy Portuguese Water Dog might not suit apartment living, while a laid-back Shih Tzu could be perfect. Remember that every dog has unique needs beyond their coat type — temperament, exercise requirements, and health considerations all matter when selecting your new best friend. 

Finding a dog that doesn't shed can make pet parenthood more manageable, especially for those with allergies or a preference for cleaner living spaces. From the popular poodle to the exotic Xoloitzcuintli, these breeds prove you can enjoy all the love and companionship dogs offer without drowning in fur. Just remember that "non-shedding" doesn't mean "no maintenance" — these special coats need regular care to keep them healthy and your home hair-free.