20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (2024)

Maybe you're curious about the best non-shedding dog breeds because you or someone in your family has a dog allergy. Or perhaps the robot-vacuum and lint roller simply can't keep up with Fido's fluff all over everything, and you'd like to wear non-furry clothes again!

If you're thinking you need a hypoallergenic dog, it's important to note there's really no such thing. All dogs produce certain types of proteins that contribute to allergic reactions—the most common is Can f 1, often found in urine, saliva, and dried skin debris called dander. When Spot sheds, this allergy-laden dander floats into the air.

Does this mean a hairless dog won't make you sneeze or have itchy eyes? Not necessarily, because she'll likely still have a smattering of dander—or she loves to lick you! Each individual's immune system determines their allergic response to Can f 1. While you might snuff up around one breed, another person won't be affected at all.

The majority of dogs shed, as it's the normal way for them to release damaged or old hair. But PetMD points out that some canine companions might do it more depending on the season, or when they're ill, stressed, or experiencing an allergic reaction or skin irritation.

"Breeds associated with being 'hypoallergenic' are generally those with single-layer coats, and those that shed less," says Jerry Klein, DVM, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club (AKC). "Breeds with double coats, like retrievers, Siberian huskies, and collies, among others, have protective dual-layer coats that usually shed significantly."

He helped us put together a list of both common and not-so-common AKC-registered breeds, including small dogs that don't shed much.

01of 20

Afghan Hound

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (1)

She's elegant and dignified, with a single layer of long flowing hair that requires much bathing and grooming, which helps reduce her shedding. The Afghan hound is a loving and loyal pet who fits in well with most families.

02of 20

American Hairless Terrier

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (2)

The American hairless terrier is a good consideration for people who want an active, trainable, smaller dog with a friendly disposition. Intelligent and great at agility sports, the American is also a feisty watchdog.

03of 20

Bedlington Terrier

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (3)

With the looks of a lamb but the tenacity of a terrier, Bedlington terriers require consistent grooming to maintain their looks, but they don't shed. As devoted family members, they're content to frolic in the backyard or take leisurely walks.

04of 20

Bichon Frise

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (4)

Personable and energetic, cheerful bichons need attentive grooming to maintain their crisp white coats. Her hair continuously grows instead of shedding, so she has less dander, which might make her a good dog for allergy sufferers.

05of 20

Brussels Griffon

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (5)

The rough-coated version of the Brussels griffon doesn't shed and is easy to groom. She's a tiny bundle of love and dedication and an excellent companion for an adult who appreciates her intelligence and sensitivity.

Cairn Terrier

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (6)

Like most terriers, family-friendly and loyal cairns are earthdogs who like to keep busy, so give them a place to dig and they'll be happy! Even though they have a double coat, the exterior is wiry, which reduces shedding.

07of 20

Chinese Crested

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (7)

There are two varieties of the affectionate Chinese crested: the hairless and the "powderpuff," which has a long-hair coat. They're diminutive, intelligent, and sweet dogs with an ancient history.

08of 20

Coton de Tulear

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (8)

Small, white, and with a long coat they're famous for, playful cotons have great personalities. They need a little more spa time, which helps keep them from shedding, but love your dedicated attention.

09of 20

Irish Water Spaniel

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (9)

The Irish water spaniel is a sporting dog with a shorter, brown, curly coat that helps her glide easily through the water and rarely leave fur on the couch. This lovable breed is energetic and clownish—ideal for an active family who loves the outdoors.

10of 20

Kerry Blue Terrier

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (10)

One of the better choices for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs, the medium-sized Kerry blue terrier has low dander and a striking wavy blue-gray coat. Active, devoted, and versatile, she lives well in apartments or on farms.

11of 20

Lagotto Romagnolo

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (11)

Most famous for sniffing out truffles in her native Italy, a Lagotto gets her teddy-bear looks from a coat of hair-like curls. A Lagotto is a smart, undemanding, and athletic breed with a big heart.

12of 20

Maltese

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (12)

Tiny, delicate, and charming with a single white glamorous silky coat, a Maltese requires dedicated maintenance to keep her attractive appearance. Fortunately, she's another one of the small dogs that don't shed much, which leaves more time for play instead of cleaning.

13of 20

Peruvian Inca Orchid

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (13)

An ancient hairless breed that originated in Peru, the Peruvian Inca orchid releases less dander, which means she might place high on your list of hypoallergenic dogs. Sweet, agile, and loyal, she comes in three sizes: small, medium, or large variety.

14of 20

Poodle

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (14)

The original "hypoallergenic breed," the adoring and intelligent poodle is a versatile solid-color dog that comes in three varieties: toy, miniature, and standard. People who search for hybrid breeds that are good for dog allergy sufferers should simply consider one of these purebred versions.

15of 20

Portuguese Water Dog

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (15)

Related to poodles, Portuguese water dogs are athletic, fun-loving, eager to please, and great family members. They have dense, wavy coats in many showy colors and combinations with white, and also get high marks for low dander and low shedding.

16of 20

Schnauzer

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (16)

You can have your choice of a miniature, standard, or giant schnauzer, but all shed less than other breeds and don't release a lot of airborne dander. Each variety is also an energetic playmate for most children and extremely loyal—you'll be proud of your fierce protector.

17of 20

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (17)

This versatile, medium-size golden terrier is a big mush puppet, which makes the wheaten a terrific family dog. She's possibly more allergy-free(ish) than other breeds because her soft, wavy coat doesn't shed much or release a lot of dander, but she needs consistent grooming to look her best.

18of 20

Spanish Water Dog

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (18)

Also a medium-sized dog, the lively Spanish water dog is rare in the U.S. but gaining popularity. She has curls all over her face and body and looks adorable! Generally easy to care for, she's a tireless canine companion, especially with people who enjoy hunting and other sports in the great outdoors.

19of 20

Barbet

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (19)

Hailing from France, the barbet is creating a buzz in the U.S. because she's social, loyal, sweet, and quite active, plus her tightly-curled coat is non-shedding. As a sporting water-loving canine, she has the nickname of "Mud Dog" because she'll never hesitate to go into the swampy places to fetch what you need.

20of 20

Xoloitzcuintli

20 Dog Breeds That Don't Shed (Much) (20)

A beautiful hairless Mexican breed with a proud heritage comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Xolos have elegant, refined demeanors but show their flash with various color combinations. She's a quiet, attentive companion for an adult household.