Low shedding dogs

What are low-shedding dogs?

Non-shedding dogs are dog breeds that don’t moult in the same way other dogs do. Low-shedding dogs have a different kind of coat that grows long, similar to human hair. 

They might have long or curly hair that needs to be clipped or trimmed rather than falling out on its own. There are even a few rare breeds of dogs with no fur apart from on their heads and tails. But – it’s important to remember, there is no completely non-shedding dog breed, only breeds that shed less than others. 

People with allergies often find dogs that don’t shed are less triggering for their symptoms. This is because dogs that shed less release fewer allergens and are often referred to as hypoallergenic dogs.

Low-shedding dog breeds

While no dog is completely non-shedding, there are plenty of breeds that shed much less fur than others.

Small low-shedding dog breeds

These small low-shedding dogs  will make great companions without filling your home with fur. 

• Yorkshire Terrier 
• Poodle (miniature and toy)
• Mexican hairless dog (toy and miniature)
• Hairless Chihuahua 
• Bichon Frise 
• Chinese Crested Dog 
• Shih Tzu
• Bedlington Terrier 
• Peruvian Hairless (small)
• Maltese 
• Mniature Schnauzer 
• West Highland Terrier   

Medium low-shedding dog breeds

Looking for a midsize dog that won’t leave hair everywhere? These medium-sized low-shedding dogs could be perfect. 

• Spanish water dog
• Puli 
• Cockapoo
• Peruvian Hairless (medium)
• Irish water spaniel
• Barbet 

Large low-shedding dog breeds 

Large in size and personality without leaving bits of themselves behind everywhere, these are some of the most popular large low-shedding dog breeds. 

• Portuguese Water Dog
• Standard poodle
• Peruvian hairless
• Labradoodle
• Mexican hairless dog (standard)
• Giant Schnauzer

How to reduce dog hair build-up

Whether you have a high or low-shedding breed, there are steps you can take to manage dog hair at home. 

Groom your dog regularly 

Regular grooming will not only keep your dog’s coat healthy and glossy, but it will also help prevent dog hair from accumulating on your favourite jumper. If your dog is a high-shedding breed, brush them with a grooming brush or mitt two to three times a week and even more frequently during shedding season. Do it outside in the garden so the fur isn’t released into the air in the house. Your dog will learn to love its pamper sessions. A monthly bath or shower can also work wonders for reducing dog hair at home. 

If your dog is a low-shedding breed, a monthly trip to the groomers will be well worth the investment. Not only does it keep their coat looking smart and well cared for, but it will also help reduce that doggy smell and mean less hair deposits around the house. 

Train your dog not to climb on furniture 

Hate finding dog hair all over the sofa? You might need to train your pooch that it’s off limits. Consistent reward-based training will help your dog learn that the sofa is out of bounds. Give them a nice comfy alternative in the form of a cosy dog bed, and you might find they prefer their own spot anyway. 

Alternatively, a throw or blanket placed in your dog’s favourite spot on the sofa can easily be washed and removed before guests arrive.

Keep the house clean 

Regularly sweeping and vacuuming at home will help reduce the buildup of dog hair. Make sure you don’t miss hard to reach places like under the sofa and behind furniture, as this is where it can accumulate without you noticing. Invest in a good quality vacuum designed to tackle pet hair and make extra time to vacuum soft furnishings. 

If it’s dog hair on your clothes that you hate, a lint roller can help. Roll the lint roller over your clothing before you leave the house, and the sticky surface will pick up hair from your clothes.

Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance

Once you’ve decided on which low shedding dog is for you, don’t forget about pet insurance to provide cover for any unexpected situations.