15 Great dog breeds who shed little to none

Love dogs but hate the pet hair? You’re in luck!

There are a TON of beautiful dog breeds with great personalities and characteristics that would make perfect additions to homes of all kinds. Whether you suffer from allergies or just hate messes, prefer a small, medium, or large-sized dog, there is a virtually non-shedding breed that will fit perfectly with your lifestyle.

Categorized by size, here are 15 awesome dogs breeds and a brief synopsis of their characteristics, according to Dog Channel and the American Kennel Club (AKC):

(Click the links above to find out more information about whether a certain breed is right for you!)

Small

1. Bichon Frise

AKC description: “Playful, curious, peppy”

If you’re looking for a pint-size companion that’s compact enough for apartment living, this may be your guy.

2. Italian Greyhound

AKC description: “Alert, playful, sensitive.”

These mini-Greyhounds are very affectionate, but due to their delicate limbs, may do best in a home with adults and older children. (Want a bigger version? Check out Greyhounds.)

3. Maltese

AKC description: “Charming, gentle, playful.”

If you hate shedding but love fluff, this cuddly lapdog is a great option.

4. Miniature Schnauzer

AKC description: “Friendly, smart, obedient.”

Popular for a reason, these dogs are obedient, loyal, and versatile, thriving in both city and country environments. (Note: this breed comes in standard and giant sizes, too!)

5. Yorkshire Terrier

AKC description: “Affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.”

If you’re looking for a big personality in a small package, you may want a confident and tenacious Yorkie. (Note: this can make them difficult to train, though!)

Medium

6. Irish Terrier

AKC description: “Bold, dashing, tenderhearted.”

Though he can be known as a “daredevil,” this spunky dog can also make a great companion for children. (As always, exercise caution on an individual basis.)

7. Portuguese Water Dog

AKC description: “Adventurous, affectionate, athletic.”

As insinuated by his name, this swimmer would be a great companion for sea and lakeside living.

8. Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier

AKC description: “Deeply devoted, friendly, happy.”

Though they don’t shed, they do need regular grooming- but their cheerful loyalty will more than compensate for the extra effort.

9. Tibetan Terrier

AKC description: “Affectionate, loyal, sensitive.”

A perfect companion for snow bunnies who love winter sports, this dog is bred to walk easily through snow.

10. Whippet

AKC description: “Affectionate, calm, playful.”

Although they love to lounge while indoors, once Whippets are outside, they’ll need a lot of space to sprint–and a fence to keep all that energy contained! (Also, best for homes without small animals, including cats.)

Large

11. Doberman Pinscher

AKC description: “Alert, fearless, loyal.”

If you’re looking for a light shedder that will love your family while keeping them safe, this pup may be the perfect fit. (Too big for you? Check out Miniature Pinschers, or “min-pins.”)

12. Standard Poodle

AKC description: “Active, proud, very smart.”

This bright breed needs room to roam and is also a great playmate for children. (Prefer a pocket-sized poodle? There’s also miniature and toy poodle breeds.)

13. Irish Water Spaniel

AKC description: “Brave, hardworking, playful.”

These dogs are protective, trainable and eager to please, and of course, love being in water!

14. Bouvier Des Flandres

AKC description: “Strong-willed, even-tempered, courageous.”

This protective working breed makes a great guard dog and may try to herd the family into a group- but that can be a good, right?

Video: 38 Breeds of Non Shedding Dogs

15. Wirehaired Pointing Griffin

AKC description: “Devoted, friendly, trainable.”

This dog is charming yet rugged and great for athletic owners, as he can withstand the elements: frigid temperatures, muddy ground, and thick brush. Plus, he’s a great swimmer!

Poodle Hybrids

If you have your heart set on a breed that tends to shed, remember there are tons of poodle hybrids out there, from Chi-Poos (Chihuahua/Poodle) to Aussie-Poos (Australian Shepherd/Poodle) to Saint Berdoodles (Saint Bernard/Poodle). These mixes generally tend to be lighter shedders, as well!

ALWAYS CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL SHELTERS AND RESCUES! Just knowing what breeds have a low capacity for shedding may help you find a great light-shedding mutt (or even purebred) at your local shelter. And of course, you should always check out breed-specific rescues–every dog deserves a good home!

Reviews & Comments