Dog lovers looking for minimal mess and maximum intelligence often lean toward low-shedding breeds. These dogs are perfect for families, individuals with allergies, or anyone seeking a pet that doesn’t leave fur everywhere. This guide highlights 15 exceptional hypoallergnic breeds, their characteristics, and care tips
Understanding Dog Shedding:
Dog shedding is a natural process influenced by a dog's genetics, coat type, and overall health. Different breeds have varying shedding patterns, with some losing fur year-round and others shedding seasonally. Low-shedding breeds typically have hair that grows continuously or features unique textures, like curls or tight waves, which trap loose fur and reduce shedding. While these dogs are not always hypoallergenic, their reduced shedding levels make them an excellent choice for individuals sensitive to pet dander or those who prefer a tidier home environment.
However, owning a low-shedding dog doesn’t eliminate the need for coat maintenance. Regular grooming, including brushing and occasional trims, is essential to keep their coats healthy and minimise tangles or matting. Proper grooming also reduces the build-up of allergens like dander, ensuring a cleaner living space. Combined with a healthy diet and consistent care, low-shedding breeds can be a fantastic option for anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet loving canine companion.
What's the difference between Hypoallergenic vs. Low Shedding Dog Breeds?
There's a key difference between the two, and it's important you understand the differences:
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: Hypoallergenic dogs are breeds that produce fewer allergens, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Breeds like the Poodle and Bichon Frise have hair instead of fur, reducing dander. These dogs require regular grooming but are great companions for those with allergies.
Low Shedding Dog Breeds: Low shedding dogs are ideal for those seeking minimal pet hair around the home. Breeds like the Basenji and Dachshund shed very little, making maintenance easier. They still require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy but are excellent for tidy households.
Top Low-Shedding and Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
These hypoallergenic dog breeds are ideal for families or individuals seeking a pet with minimal allergies and potentially lower fur mess. Each breed combines charm, low-maintenance shedding, and unique personality traits.
Poodle
Sizes: Standard, Miniature, Toy.
Traits: Highly intelligent and trainable.
Grooming: Poodles have a curly, dense coat that traps loose hair, making them virtually non-shedding. Regular trims and grooming prevent matting and maintain their hypoallergenic properties.
Allergy-Friendliness: Poodles are an excellent choice for allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coat, which reduces dander in the home.
See Poodle (Standard) puppies here or
See Poodle (Miniature) puppies here or
See Poodle (Toy) puppies here.
Bichon Frise
Traits: Cheerful and adaptable.
Grooming: The Bichon Frise has a soft, curly coat that rarely sheds, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Regular brushing and grooming help prevent tangles and keep their coat fluffy.
Allergy-Friendliness: Their low-shedding coat produces less dander, making them a great choice for those with mild pet allergies.
See Bichon Frise puppies here.
Maltese
Traits: Gentle and affectionate.
Grooming: Maltese dogs have a long, silky coat that doesn’t shed much, but daily care is needed to avoid tangles and maintain its shine. Their coat structure is also ideal for people with mild allergies.
Allergy-Friendliness: The Maltese’s minimal shedding reduces the spread of allergens, making them a good option for allergy-prone individuals.
See Maltese puppies here.
Portuguese Water Dog
Traits: Energetic and loyal.
Grooming: With a curly or wavy coat that sheds minimally, this breed is considered hypoallergenic. Regular grooming and trims keep their coat healthy and free of mats.
Allergy-Friendliness: Their non-shedding coat is ideal for allergy sufferers, as it traps dander and prevents it from spreading.
See Portuguese Water Dog puppies here.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Traits: Loyal and hypoallergenic.
Grooming: Kerry Blue Terriers have a dense, soft coat that doesn’t shed. Routine brushing and professional grooming maintain their coat and minimise allergens.
Allergy-Friendliness: Known for being hypoallergenic, their coat reduces the spread of dander and is suitable for allergy-sensitive households.
See Kerry Blue Terrier puppies here.
Basenji
Traits: Independent and clever.
Grooming: Basenjis have a short, fine coat that naturally repels dirt and sheds very little. Weekly brushing keeps their coat clean and glossy with minimal effort.
Allergy-Friendliness: While not entirely hypoallergenic, their minimal shedding and lack of a heavy doggy odor make them a better choice for allergy sufferers than many other breeds.
See Basenji puppies here.
Havanese
Traits: Friendly and social.
Grooming: The silky, low-shedding coat of the Havanese requires regular brushing to prevent tangles. Their coat is hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for allergy-prone owners.
Allergy-Friendliness: Havanese dogs produce very little dander and hair, making them one of the top choices for allergy-sensitive individuals.
See Havanese puppies here.
Shih Tzu
Traits: Loyal and loving.
Grooming: Shih Tzus have a long coat that sheds minimally but requires daily brushing to prevent tangles. Proper grooming also keeps their coat soft and manageable.
Allergy-Friendliness: Their low-shedding coat reduces allergens, and regular grooming helps maintain a clean, allergen-friendly environment.
See Shih Tzu puppies here.
Lhasa Apso
Traits: Independent and alert.
Grooming: The Lhasa Apso has a thick, double coat that sheds minimally. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent mats and ensure a smooth, manageable coat.
Allergy-Friendliness: Lhasa Apsos are considered a low-allergen breed due to their minimal shedding, making them suitable for people with mild allergies.
See Lhasa Apso puppies here.
Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant)
Sizes: Miniature, Standard, Giant
Traits: Intelligent and loyal.
Grooming: With a wiry, non-shedding coat, Miniature Schnauzers are low-maintenance and hypoallergenic. Brushing and occasional grooming keep their coat in top shape.
Allergy-Friendliness: Miniature Schnauzers are a hypoallergenic breed, with their wiry coat reducing the spread of allergens.
See Miniature Schnauzer puppies here or
See Standard Schnauzer puppies here or
See Giant Schnauzer puppies here.
Yorkshire Terrier
Traits: Small but energetic.
Grooming: Yorkshire Terriers have fine, silky hair that grows continuously, making them a non-shedding breed. Regular trims and brushing prevent tangles and maintain their elegant appearance.
Allergy-Friendliness: Their non-shedding coat significantly reduces allergens, making them an excellent companion for those with allergies.
See Yorkshire Terrier puppies here.
West Highland White Terrier
Traits: Confident and lively.
Grooming: Westies have a straight, double coat that sheds minimally. Weekly brushing and periodic grooming keep their coat healthy and dirt-resistant.
Allergy-Friendliness: While not hypoallergenic, their minimal shedding and regular grooming help reduce allergens in the home.
See West Highland White Terrier puppies here.
Scottish Terrier
Traits: Spirited and independent.
Grooming: Scottish Terriers have a hard, wiry coat that sheds very little. Regular brushing and occasional stripping or trimming maintain its distinctive texture.
Allergy-Friendliness: Their low-shedding coat makes them a better option for individuals with mild allergies.
See Scottish Terrier puppies here.
Griffon Bruxellois (aka Brussels Griffon)
Traits: Alert and affectionate.
Grooming: The Brussels Griffon has a smooth or rough coat that sheds minimally. Regular brushing reduces loose hair, keeping their coat clean and manageable.
Allergy-Friendliness: With minimal shedding and low dander production, Brussels Griffons are a good choice for allergy-sensitive homes.
See Griffon Bruxellois puppies here.
Cairn Terrier
Traits: Cheerful and active.
Grooming: Cairn Terriers have a weather-resistant double coat that sheds lightly. Brushing a few times a week helps remove dirt and keep their coat neat and tidy.
Allergy-Friendliness: While not entirely hypoallergenic, their low shedding helps minimise allergens, making them suitable for some allergy sufferers.
See Cairn Terrier puppies here.
See Full List of Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds and Low Shedding Dog Breeds
Tips for Caring for Low-Shedding Breeds
Caring for low-shedding dog breeds involves regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and minimise allergens. Provide a balanced diet to support coat and skin health, and engage them with consistent training to stimulate their intelligent minds. Proper care ensures your furry companion stays happy, healthy, and beautiful.
- Grooming: Brush regularly to prevent tangles and keep their coat healthy.
- Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet to support their coat and skin health.
- Training: Engage their minds with training sessions to keep them happy and well-behaved.
Low-shedding dogs are more than just allergy-friendly companions. Choose the breed that fits your lifestyle, and enjoy a cleaner, happier home with your new furry friend.
Ready to welcome one of these amazing breeds into your home? Explore all verified and registered dog breeders to find your perfect companion.
