20 Dogs That Don’t Shed: Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Everybody loves a fuzzy dog whose fur feels as soft and lustrous as velvet. Like walking clouds and cotton candies, one cannot help but find these dogs irresistibly cute and huggable! However, owning a dog is not always rainbows and glitters, especially if your dog sports a thick double coat. Anyone who owns a Siberian Husky or an American Eskimo Dog knows what I am talking about: molting hair 24/7.
With a smug glow of victory, many vacuum-clad owners win their daily battles against dog hair effortlessly. Unfortunately, 10% of US citizens suffer from dog allergy and have deprived themselves of the loving company of a four-legged buddy. The good news is that there are hypoallergenic dog breeds, which are considered to be more suitable for allergy sufferers.
Small Dog Breeds that Don’t Shed
Bichon Frise
Did you know that the Bichon Frise is the ultimate lap dog? Pronounced as bee-shon free-zay, the breed’s name stands for “curly lapdog” in French. This cotton ball of a dog is living proof that being fluffy won’t make you sneeze. Bichons sport an entirely white hypoallergenic coat of hair, not fur. Its iconic puffy look is due to its double coat — a thick, soft undercoat topped with a layer of kinky hairs. This little darling sheds little to no hair. With the proper haircut, the Bichon Frise is a breeze to maintain. The Bichon Frise has a sunny disposition and enjoys being the center of attention. Witty and smart, these canine comedians can quickly build an illustrious career as entertainers.
Havanese
With the increasing instances of people suffering from allergies, it should come as no surprise that the Havanese secured the 31st spot of America’s most popular dogs. This little love bug hailing from Cuba also makes a suitable pet for families with children because they are sweet and playful. Also known as the “Velcro Dog,” the Havanese can be a little bit too clingy to their loving owners. Don’t worry, though, as there won’t be hairs clinging onto your jeans. These dogs love to trail beside their owners so they can alert them of strangers.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred to resemble little lions as depicted in ancient Chinese art. Although their size is a far cry from a lion’s, these small dogs have a stout heart. They are loyal to their owners, tolerant with kids, and they also happen to have hair, instead of fur. Back in the days, only the Chinese nobility could own this breed. Well, that should come as no surprise since these mini lions are quite high-maintenance. Nowadays. Shih-Tzu owners prefer their dogs to grow their long silky hair and have them wear a bow to keep the hair out of their eyes. Their lustrous manes require daily brushing using a quality bristle brush, Not to mention shampoos and conditioners galore. Just like humans, a few strands of hair will come off if you brush too hard.
Maltese
The Maltese, also known as “the Roman ladies’ dog,” is an ancient breed whose origins are somewhat murky. Some say these dogs originated in Malta and were later taken by Romans who fell in love with their gorgeous white coat. Despite contrasting theories, one thing is for sure — these dogs won’t leave their white hair all over your furniture and clothes. Likewise, these charming balls of fluff are quite flexible and easygoing despite their aristocratic bearing. Although compact in size, they also make excellent watchdogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies flaunt a gorgeous tan and steel blue coat. Just like its terrier cousins, this breed sheds little to no hair. A Yorkie’s coat grows continuously, which means they can sport various hairstyles. Whether it is a long show coat or a short puppy cut, Yorkies look incredible either way. Although bantam in stature, Yorkies are bold and adventurous. They are oblivious of their size and are sometimes stubborn to boot. These toy terriers were initially bred to hunt rodents, but throughout the years, they have proven themselves devoted and affectionate to their families.
Scottish Terrier
Who wouldn’t recognize a Scottie? Scotties have silhouettes in pop culture, including the famous game, Monopoly! Not to mention these dogs have also occupied the White House with Pres. Roosevelt and Pres. Bush. Scottish Terriers are independent, vigilant, and territorial. Their distinctive eyebrows and beard make them look grouchy. Compact, stubby-legged, and yet big-boned, these terriers prove that sometimes power comes in small packages, too. While they are often eager for action, they are also quite caring and loving towards their family. This breed is one of the most preferred dogs for allergy sufferers, thanks to its low-shedding double coat.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a gentle, loving lap dog that will make you happy, rather than make you sneeze. This breed of a dog is like a mini version of a greyhound, which is content with the apartment life. It has long slender legs and sleek, curvy lines combined with a beautiful silky coat and beautifully expressive eyes. This elegant breed is one of the most straightforward dogs to groom, as it only requires a gentle massage with a towel. The Italian Greyhound is sensitive to the cold, so you may want to give it a jacket during the cold months.
Brussels Griffon
Nope, this dog is not a Chewbacca but a Brussels Griffon with an innate silly human-like expression. This expressive dog with a long wiry coat exhibits little to no shedding, making it ideal for families looking for a low-maintenance hypoallergenic pet.
The Brussels Griffon tends to choose a favorite among its family members, but this doesn’t stop them from being lovable, playful, and friendly. This breed is excellent with children and adults alike.
West Highland White Terrier
Westies will shed some of their double coat, but not much. They have a furry face, sparkling eyes, and a button-like nose that makes them distinguishable from other white toy breeds. These cuties are quite active, curious, and cheerful. Unfortunately, Westies do not get along well with other small animals, but that doesn’t stop them from being friendly and loyal to their owners.
Medium and Large Dog Breeds that Don’t Shed
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog with distinguished snowshoe-like feet and a long wavy coat that is fine and very profuse. Fluffy and charming, this breed is proof that being hypoallergenic doesn’t always mean you have little hair. This bushy dog hailing from the Lost Valley of Tibet may only shed short hair but does require a lot of brushing. Additionally, these dogs make great loyal pets and reliable watchdogs. They used to be the companions of Buddhist monks and nomadic herdsmen.
Portuguese Water Dog
As their name suggests, Portuguese Water Dogs love water. They have webbed feet and a muscular physique, making them strong, agile swimmers. This dog hailing from the Portuguese region of the Algarve used to be a rare breed, but because of their low-grooming needs and minimal shedding, they are growing increasingly popular. These medium-sized dogs are also quite intelligent and are eager to please their owners. Perhaps the most recognizable dog of this breed is Pres. Obama’s furry sidekick, Bo.
Labradoodle
Labradors shed as though their skin is continuously on fire, but the Labradoodle is so unlike its parent breed. This hybrid breed is quickly growing in popularity because it is hypoallergenic, low-shedding, and good-natured to boot. Likewise, they are playful, curious, and energetic.
Saluki
The Saluki is an ancient breed of tall, agile, keen-eyed hunting dogs resembling the Greyhound. Also known as the gazelle hound, these elegant dogs have explosive speeds that could even surpass an Olympian sprinter. However, they require rigorous exercise and training. On the contrary, they rarely require grooming, and they rarely shed.
Whippet
Whippets are characterized by their elegant, silky, short coat that is a cinch to groom. Another reason why this dog is a delight to own is the fact they are free of lousy doggie smells, and they rarely shed. These dogs look strictly identical to their Greyhound cousins. They are also quite smart and graceful as them. Nevertheless, these Cheetah-like dogs are sweet, docile, and intelligent.
Airedale Terrier
Terriers aren’t always teensy-weensy dogs. The Airedale Terrier, the King of Terriers, is a large versatile breed who does a great job at being an athlete, hunter, or just a loving furry sidekick. These dogs are perfect for dynamic people, little children, and allergy sufferers. They exhibit a tan wiry dense coat with black markings. Although they shed, it is very minimal and can be reduced to zero by consistent brushing. Being typical terriers, these dignified dogs are willing to put up a fight to protect their beloved home.
Schnauzer
Throughout the years, giant Schnauzers have been employed as draft dogs, police dogs, detection dogs, search and rescue dogs, and whatnot! Equipped with a sunny disposition, nimble wits, and high energy, they make their owners proud and happy. These dogs also bring relief to allergy sufferers. Their stout square-shaped bodies are covered with a hypoallergenic wiry coat. Although they require weekly brushing, these bushy dogs rarely shed. The same thing can be said for the Mini and Standard Schnauzers. However, these dogs require great physical and mental efforts. Experts discourage owning this breed if you can’t keep up with its high exercise needs. This breed is difficult to handle otherwise.
Poodle
Don’t let the flashy ribbons and ‘do intimidate you. Behind all that excellent stuff and ostensibly diva attitude, the Poodle is an incredible family dog. Poodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and obedient. Most importantly, these sweet dogs are hypoallergenic. Another good thing about this breed is that it is also virtually odor-free. However, they can be a little high maintenance. Their curly coats need to be clipped and brushed regularly to prevent matting.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is an old breed of large spaniels developed in Ireland. It exhibits a heavy coat of liver-colored curls and a topknot of long curls and a nearly hairless tail. Their coat requires frequent baths to stay neat and prissy. Nonetheless, these dogs are suitable for allergy sufferers because their coat is hypoallergenic. Their curls get knotty fast without regular brushing, but regardless, they are hypoallergenic, and they shed less.
Komondor
At first glance, the Komondor is always mistaken for some high-tech android canine designed to mop floors. But no, it is a real dog who used to guard livestock in Hungary. This dominant shaggy dog is currently the 144th most popular dog breed in AKC. They are smart, defensive, and loyal to their owners. Above all, their unique, eye-catching coats won’t give you pesky allergies.
Puli
Just like the Komondor, the Puli looks like a giant mop. It is a breed that originated in Asia and was used to herd animals. Nowadays, people love to keep them as pets because their unique coat makes them so huggable. While they don’t shed, these dogs are magnets for twigs and leaves. These dogs have a bouncy gait and high energy levels.
Do All Dogs Shed?
Technically, all dogs shed, even the great Xoloitzcuintli. There is just a big difference between how much dogs shed. Most dogs have a heavy molt in the spring, while others, particularly the “hairless” variety, shed so little that it is barely possible to tell how much they dropped in a year. A few strands, perhaps?
Is It True That Hypoallergenic Dogs Don’t Need Maintenance?
Just because they don’t shed in large quantities, doesn’t mean you should give grooming the brush off. Non-shedding dogs also require daily brushings, regular baths, and occasional trips to the doggie salon. Often, hypoallergenic dogs need more brushing since they are covered with hair, rather than fur. Thus, they are more prone to matting and tangles.
Will Dog Hair Trigger Allergies in People?
Dog hair per se won’t trigger allergies in humans. It is the dander and saliva that causes allergic reactions in some people. Dander is animal dandruff — dead skin particles that a dog flakes off its skin. Without an air purifier, these particles will continue to drift in midair until you inhale them.
Conclusion
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, as all dogs lick their skin and shed some dander. However, certain breeds have minimal shedding coats. This means pet hair and dander released are put at a minimum and you won’t be seeing the lint roller any time soon. So, don’t deprive yourself of the loving company of a dog. Go ahead and adopt any of these 20 hypoallergenic dog breeds and make your life more colorful!
References:
https://merchdope.com/hypoallergenic-dogs/https://blog.homesalive.ca/dogs-that-dont-shed-23-hypoallergenic-dog-breedshttps://petterritory.com/breeds-dogs-dont-shed/https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/pets/g4503/dogs-that-dont-shed/?slide=20
