There are over 470 million pet dogs across the globe, occupying approximately 63% of homes. This is no surprise — there’s nothing quite like being a pup parent. Dogs make the perfect best friend for everyone. These creative, intelligent, gentle, sweet, funny companions are the perfect addition to any family.

While adopting a dog can be an amazing experience, it’s important to take into consideration the lifestyle changes that come with a new pup. For many who have allergies and can’t tolerate dog hair, figuring out how to take care of a pup while taking care of yourself can be a challenge.

Luckily, you don’t have to let dog hair stop you from enjoying a furry friend. Let’s explore eight dog breeds that don’t shed!

What Does It Mean If a Dog Is Hypoallergenic?

There are certain dog breeds that don’t shed as often as other breeds. This is where we get the term “hypoallergenic.” If you’re allergic to dogs, the allergic reaction you experience is usually to pet dander that’s in pet fur.

Hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction because their fur is shorter or is less likely to shed. If you have dog allergies, finding a low-shedding dog breed that has more manageable shedding habits can help keep your allergy symptoms at bay.

10 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

Let’s take a look at ten of the best dog breeds for those with allergies that don’t shed.

1: American Hairless Terrier

If you have severe dog allergies but want a canine companion, there’s no better choice than the American Hairless Terrier. This breed lacks a coat of fur (i.e. they’re completely non-shedding), but has the same energetic, bubbly friendliness terriers are known for.

An occasional bath, daily walk, and frequent affection will keep this pup happy and healthy in your home. This pup is one of the easiest dog breeds to train as they thrive on praise and pleasing others. The American Hairless Terrier is a great option for families with young kids, other animals, and of course, those with allergies. They adapt to new environments and people quickly.

2: Afghan Hound

If you’re looking for a breed that doesn’t shed while still having a beautiful mane of hair, the Afghan Hound is an excellent breed to consider. Known for their sweet, loyal, yet independent character, these canines are perfect for families that exercise often and enjoy lots of play.

The Afghan Hound is a popular show dog because of their beautiful head of hair. The best practice is to bathe your pup two times each week and to brush out their fur to maintain their soft and silky coat.

3: Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is the perfect lap dog for those with allergies. These pups are affectionate with family, children, and other animals. They’re adaptable, playful, and open to new scenarios and environments.

It’s important to note that these pups do require frequent maintenance with their coats to prevent matting. Bichon Frise pups also need frequent hair cuts as their coats never stop growing. They also require frequent play and exercise to stay happy and healthy!

4: Chinese Crested

Known for their playfulness, small size, and bold personality, the Chinese Crested is another no-shed dog. With hair only on their head, feet, and tail, this breed is easy to maintain with light grooming and occasional baths — a preferable choice of lap dog for allergy sufferers.

In extreme heat and cold, this breed needs extra help staying at a normal temperature. Sunscreen will help keep them safe in the summer and heated dog houses or sweaters will help them stay warm in the winter.

5: Coton de Tulear

Have you ever wanted to have royalty in your family? If so, the Coton de Tulear is the perfect pup for you. With minimal shedding, a thick luxurious coat, and an affectionate personality, this pup is cuddly and friendly. Be sure to brush this pup’s coat frequently to maintain healthy hair.

6: The Giant Schnauzer & The Mini Schnauzer

Two breeds that are excellent dog breeds that don’t shed are the Giant Schnauzer and the Miniature Schnauzer. In larger breeds, the Schnauzer is protective, bold, energetic, and hard-working. Schnauzers love having work to do, whether it be chasing a ball or walking with you to grab the mail.

These breeds are great for those with children and other dogs, and they’re very fast learners as far as training is concerned.

The Miniature Schnauzer is similar in appearance and character, but is more playful and outgoing. These charming, bright pups can get up to 14 inches tall when standing. Their bushy eyebrows and bears will make anyone smile, and they’re eager to keep learning.

7: Irish Water Spaniel & Portuguese Water Dog

The Irish Water Spaniel and the Portuguese Water Dog are two breeds with water-repellant coats that don’t shed. Both breeds have curly hair, playful energy, and a high need for exercise. Be sure to maintain their coats with regular brushing, regular grooming, and frequent bathing.

8: Kerry Blue Terrier

This intelligent breed is an excellent option when it comes to dogs that don’t shed. These people-loving, social companions love exercise, activity, and cognitive stimulation. They’re soft, cuddly, and fun creatures to welcome into your family.

9: Poodle

The poodle is one of the more popular dog breeds that don’t shed often. Available as toy-sized dogs, medium-sized dogs, and large-sized dogs, frequent brushing will help minimize shedding as much as possible and maintain a healthy coat. Poodles are known for their outgoing, friendly, social personalities, high energy, and trainability.

10: Xoloitzcuintli

Lastly, the Xoloitzcuintli (also known as Xolos) comes in hairless and coated options, both of which don’t shed. They have moderate exercise needs, friendly personalities, and intelligent minds.

Dog Breeds That Shed the Most

If you have allergies, there are certain dogs that shed a lot and can trigger an allergic reaction.

Here are some breeds to be careful around with allergies:

• German Shepherd
• Chow Chow
• Akita
• Alaskan Malamute
• Corgi
• American Eskimo
• Great Pyrenees
• Labrador Retriever
• Siberian Husky
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Golden Retriever
• Saint Bernard
• Norwegian Elkhound

These dog breeds are full of intelligence, charisma, and personality, but if you decide to bring one into your family, be prepared for lots of fur.

How To Support Your Pup’s Skin & Coat

Whether you have a dog that sheds often or doesn’t shed at all, it’s important to know how to support their skin and coat. The best way to do this is through dietary nutrition.

Here at Optimeal^®, our dog food recipes help support healthy skin and a shiny coat for your pup. With ingredients rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, zinc, copper, and protein, your pup can enjoy the nutrients they need for a thick and healthy coat.

Take a look at our Chicken and Rice Recipe, our Salmon and Brown Rice Recipe, or our Turkey and Veggies Grain Free Recipe to find the best dog food option for your pup’s coat. Whether your furry family member sheds or not, support for their skin is easy through the right diet!

Sources:

American Hairless Terrier Dog Breed Information | AKC

Hypoallergenic Dogs: What Breeds Are Best? | Cleveland Clinic

Giant Schnauzer Dog Breed Information | AKC

Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed Information | AKC