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If you’re a dog lover who prefers to keep your home relatively fur-free, there’s good news—some breeds shed far less than you might expect. While no breed is entirely hypoallergenic, many dogs are known for their minimal shedding, making them great companions for those with allergies or people who want less cleanup. These low-shedding dogs still need regular grooming, but their fur is much more manageable compared to notorious heavy shedders. With these breeds, you can enjoy all the companionship of a dog without the constant battle against pet hair.
Poodle
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The Poodle, whether it’s Standard, Miniature, or Toy, is often celebrated for its low-shedding coat. Their curly fur doesn’t shed like that of other dogs but rather grows continuously, much like human hair. This means that while you won’t find a lot of loose hair around your home, regular grooming and trimming is a must to keep their coats in shape and prevent matting. Poodles are a smart and active breed known for their intelligence and versatility. Their low-shedding coat is just one of the many reasons they’re so popular among dog owners. Additionally, Poodles are often chosen by those with allergies since their hair doesn’t shed much into the environment.
Bichon Frise
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The Bichon Frise is another small breed that surprises people with how little it sheds. With its fluffy, cotton-ball-like coat, you might expect this dog to leave a trail of fur everywhere, but the opposite is true. Their double coat doesn’t shed much, making them a good option for those who want a low-maintenance home in terms of fur. However, their coats do require regular grooming to keep them looking neat and free from tangles. Bichons are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, often forming strong bonds with their families. Despite their minimal shedding, they do require a good deal of brushing to keep their fluffy appearance in top condition.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus has a long, flowing coat that looks like it would shed a lot, but these small dogs are actually low shedders. Their hair grows continuously, much like human hair, which means they don’t shed much but do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, often thriving as companion animals. Because their coat doesn’t shed excessively, they’re a great choice for people who love a dog with long, beautiful hair but don’t want the hassle of constant vacuuming. Just be ready to invest time in brushing and grooming to maintain their luxurious look.
Portuguese Water Dog
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The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed known for its athleticism and love of water. Surprisingly, despite their thick, curly coat, they shed very little. These dogs were originally bred to assist fishermen, so their coats are not only water-resistant but also shed minimally, which is a bonus for anyone who loves an active dog without the mess of fur everywhere. Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic, intelligent, and loyal, making them excellent companions for active families. Regular grooming is required to keep their coat free from mats, but their low-shedding nature makes them a popular choice for those seeking a low-fur dog.
Maltese
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The Maltese is a small, toy-sized breed with long, silky hair that rarely sheds. Unlike many other breeds, the Maltese have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously and sheds very little. This makes them an excellent option for people who want a small dog that won’t leave fur all over their home. While they don’t shed much, Maltese do require regular grooming and brushing to keep their coats from tangling and to maintain their luxurious appearance. Their affectionate, playful nature makes them ideal for families or individuals looking for a low-shedding lap dog.
Basenji
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The Basenji is a unique breed known for its lack of barking, but it’s also a great option for those who want a dog that sheds minimally. With its short, fine coat, the Basenji sheds very little, making it easy to maintain. These dogs are known for their cleanliness, often grooming themselves like cats. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and you won’t find much fur lying around your home. Basenjis are independent, intelligent, and athletic, making them a good choice for active owners who want a low-shedding dog with plenty of personality.
Afghan Hound
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The Afghan Hound is a regal-looking breed with long, flowing hair that surprisingly doesn’t shed much. While their appearance may suggest a high-maintenance grooming routine, Afghan Hounds are actually relatively low-shedding dogs. Their long coat doesn’t shed excessively, but it does require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Afghan Hounds are known for their aloof yet affectionate nature, making them a great choice for those who want a sophisticated and elegant dog without the hassle of constant shedding. However, be prepared to invest in regular grooming sessions to keep their luxurious coats in top shape.
Schnauzer
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Schnauzers, whether Miniature, Standard, or Giant, are known for their distinctive beards and eyebrows, but they’re also surprisingly low-shedding. These wiry-coated dogs don’t shed much, but their coats do require regular grooming to keep them looking tidy. Schnauzers have a double coat, but the outer layer is wiry and doesn’t release a lot of loose fur. This makes them a great option for people who want an intelligent, alert dog that won’t leave fur all over the house. Schnauzers are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent companions for families.
Yorkshire Terrier
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Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are tiny dogs with big personalities and even bigger hair—yet they shed very little. Their long, silky coat is more like human hair than typical dog fur, meaning it doesn’t shed much. However, Yorkies do require regular grooming to keep their coats free of tangles and mats. Yorkies are known for their feisty, confident nature and their ability to form strong bonds with their owners. If you’re looking for a small dog that won’t leave a lot of fur behind but still has plenty of personality, the Yorkie is a great choice.
Havanese
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The Havanese, a small and cheerful breed, has a long, silky coat that sheds very little. Like many other low-shedding breeds, their hair grows continuously and needs regular grooming to prevent tangles. Despite their low shedding, Havanese are a playful and affectionate breed, making them ideal for families or individuals looking for a loving companion. Their minimal shedding makes them a popular choice for people with allergies, and their friendly nature ensures they’re always ready for a cuddle. Regular grooming is required, but their low shedding makes them an excellent choice for those who want less fur around the house.
Scottish Terrier
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The Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is known for its distinctive appearance and dignified personality. These small dogs have a wiry coat that sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for people who want a low-shedding dog. Scotties require regular grooming to keep their coats looking neat, but their low-shedding nature means you won’t have to deal with a house full of fur. Scotties are independent, bold, and loyal, making them great companions for those who appreciate a dog with a strong personality and minimal shedding.
When Your Dog Keeps It All Together!
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Living with a low-shedding dog gives you the best of both worlds: enjoying a furry companion without constantly battling hair-covered furniture and clothes. Although these breeds still require regular grooming and care, their minimal shedding makes them ideal for people who want to avoid the mess while enjoying a dog’s love and companionship. Whether you’re looking for a small, cuddly friend or an active, energetic dog, these low-shedding breeds offer a more manageable, cleaner home environment. With these dogs, you don’t have to choose between cleanliness and companionship.
Toledo, United States.
