13 Dog Breeds That Shed The Most

Dogs shed. It’s just a fact of life that we’ve become accustomed to. But as many dog parents know, there are breeds that take shedding to a new extreme. When people are looking for a new companion, shedding is often a concern.

Whether it’s due to allergies or extra effort, figuring out which dog breeds shed the most is an important part of your research for your next dog.

Maybe canine confetti 24/7 isn’t your thing or you just want to be able to wear black pants once in a while. Then, you may want to avoid bringing these high-shedding dog breeds into your life. Luckily, there are plenty of other dog breeds that barely shed.

#1 – Akita

Akitas are large dogs that come from Japan. Since they originate from the mountainous regions, they have the coat to keep them warm. While their coats are short, they have a very thick double layer that sheds constantly.

#2 – Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute, another large northern breed, was bred to haul heavy loads across icy lands in Alaska. They have a very thick double coat to keep them warm during these ventures. Yet, it produces a lot of loose fur. Similar to the Siberian Husky, this is one of the dog breeds that sheds the most for one very obvious reason. I mean, just look at all that fluff!

#3 – American Eskimo

Despite the name, American Eskimos originated from northern Europe and are related to the German Spitz. They might be small, but they’re constant shedders. Their cloud-like coats will stick out like a sore thumb on your dark clothes.

RELATED: Check Out These Breeds That Shed the Least

#4 – Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Despite their popularity, these Corgis with tails are another top shedding dog breed. Cardigans are a double-coated breed that sheds year-round. After all, Corgis are more than just a cute face, they require a lot of extensive care. So, you should always consider that before bringing one home.

#5 – Chow Chow

It might be no surprise that these Chinese dogs will shed daily, as they’ve got quite a lot of fur! This breed originates from northern China and was used as a guard dog. Unfortunately, they’re not the cuddliest companions though. Instead, they’re more independent than other fluffy breeds.

#6 – German Shepherd

The German Shepherd, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, sheds almost constantly. While they usually “blow” their coat twice a year, you’ll still see a lot of shedding in between. Be prepared to have a brush ready at all times!

#7 – Great Pyrenees

These large, beautiful dogs originate from the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain where they are livestock guardians. To protect them from the cold, they’ve developed long, thick coats. This gives them the appearance of a cuddly polar bear. These big beauties are certainly one of the dog breeds that shed the most.

#8 – Labrador Retriever

America’s favorite dogs, the Labrador Retrievers, are also constant shedders despite their short coats. Since they’re water retrievers, they have a thick coat that keeps them warm and dry. So, you need to consider this before choosing them based on their charm and looks.

#9 – Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgis without tails are heavy shedders, just like their tailed cousins. These dogs were originally cattle drivers that needed a thick “wash and wear” coat to keep them clean and warm during the cold and rainy English weather. Of course, they’re adorable, but they can also be a lot to handle.

#10 – Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is also a very heavy shedder, and it’s no surprise given they originate from Siberia. These dogs were bred to haul heavy loads across one of the coldest places on earth! If you don’t like to wear dog hair on your clothes, you may want to pass on this fuzzy breed.

#11 – Bernese Mountain Dog

The beautiful tricolor coat of a Bernese Mountain Dog is breathtaking, but you better get used to fur floating around your home. Their coat is dark and easy to see on light-colored furniture. Without proper brushing, their loose fur will also get trapped in their undercoat, which could result in painful mats.

#12 – Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards shed almost as much as they drool, which means extra work for you. You’ll need to clean your home several times a week, along with weekly brushing to maintain their fluffy coats. Luckily, these laidback dogs make great cuddle buddies in return for the excessive chores they bring.

#13 – Golden Retriever

Despite being one of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are one of the breeds that shed the most. Their luxurious golden coats need to be brushed frequently to control the masses of loose fur.

All dogs can make great companions, but you need to be prepared for the work that comes with them. Instead of choosing a dog simply based on looks, pay attention to their personality, their exercise needs, and, of course, their shedding.

Best Ways to Reduce Your Dog’s Shedding

Managing your dog’s shedding effectively can significantly improve the cleanliness of your home and your pet’s overall health. Here are some tips to help reduce shedding.

One of the most effective ways to control shedding is regular grooming. Brushing your dog’s fur helps to remove loose hairs before they end up on your furniture or clothing. It also distributes natural oils, promoting a healthier coat. The type of brush and frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s breed and coat type, so consult with a professional groomer or vet for the best advice.

Proper nutrition is key. High-quality dog food containing Omega-3 fatty acids can improve your pet’s skin and coat health, reducing shedding. Avoid cheap food options with filler ingredients, as they don’t provide the necessary nutrients for a healthy coat.

Hydration also plays a crucial role. Just like in humans, a dog’s skin can get dry and flaky, leading to increased shedding. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water.

Lastly, regular vet check-ups are essential. Excessive shedding can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. Your vet can rule out any medical conditions and provide further advice tailored to your pet’s needs.

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