Looking for a pet pooch, but don’t want to deal with cleaning up excessive amounts of dog hair? Perhaps you or another family member has allergies, and you’re looking for a dog that you can actually live with. It’s important to note that all dogs shed, but some shed more than others. Below is a list of the dog breeds that shed the least:
10. Labradoodle
The labradoodle is a cross between a standard or miniature poodle and a labrador retriever. These dogs have curly or shaggy coats that require some maintenance. People who have allergies to dogs usually tolerate poodles well. Labradoodles are often promoted as being hypoallergenic, because they’re part poodle. The good news is that dog breeds with curly coats such as the labradoodle’s tend to shed less than many other breeds.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
The long, silky coat of the Yorkie is one of its unique physical characteristics, and since it has no undercoat, it sheds less than most other breeds. The breed was developed in Yorkshire, England, to kill rats in mills and mines, and though modern Yorkies are smaller than their original counterparts, they are just as fearless. These small dogs are lively and outgoing, and despite their size, they make excellent watchdogs.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as "sausage dogs" because of their physical appearance, are loving and kind, and are well known for their excellent sense of smell. These dogs have very short coats, which are not prone to shedding. Despite its small size, this watchdog can defend its territory very well.
7. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas can be either smooth- or long-coated. Rumor has it that the practice of crossing chis with Yorkshire terriers may have resulted in the long-coated variety. Long-coated chis require only minimal grooming, and these dogs typically shed less than their smooth-coated counterparts. It can take more than three years for a full longhaired coat to develop.
6. Great Dane
These gentle giants don’t shed much, although they’re seldom cited on lists of low-shedding canines. You’ll sometimes see a few of their short hairs around, but never the big clumps you might find with other large breeds shedding for the summer. Unlike curly-haired and longhaired dogs, their coats require little maintenance beyond an occasional brushing.
5. Chinese Crested
This particular variety of hairless dog was developed in China, as their name would show. Whether they were deliberately bred in this manner, and for what reason is still unknown. They can be pretty resentful to other pets so they’re best suited for a single-dog family, but they’re clever canines that respond well to obedience training.
4. Bichon Frise
These easy to train walking marshmallows, like many other curly-haired breeds, do not shed much. Families looking for a small dog with a sunny disposition would do well to choose the bichon frise as a companion. They weigh only 7 to 12 pounds, and are perfect for apartments. Another bonus: they usually get plenty of exercise indoors.
3. Poodle
Although poodles need regular professional grooming to maintain their coats, this bright, lively breed is a great choice for allergy sufferers. According to the American Kennel Club, poodles come in three sizes, standard, miniature, and toy, and in a range of colors, including black, white, gray and apricot. Poodles are first-rate companions.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
This medium-sized dogs double coat keeps it from shedding in much the same way as poodles, by trapping hair in the undercoat. They make great companions, but require a place to swim, so they’re best suited for families with access to a body of water. It’s also a hypoallergenic breed, and the Obamas selected a Portuguese water dog as First Pet due to daughter Malia’s allergies.
1. Shih Tzu
The number one low-shedding dog is the Shih Tzu. In spite of its name, which means "little lion", this dog is not a fighter, but a lover. Besides when its coat is groomed, this affectionate, sociable house dog doesn’t usually shed. Daily brushing might be necessary, and you may need to hire a professional to clip your Shih Tzu’s fur from time to time.
You can significantly reduce shedding in any dog breed by following these tips,but keep in mind that it’s almost impossible to avoid facing some loose hair if you share your home with a dog. Brush your dog every day, or at least several times a week, and bathe him about twice a month. You can also try running the vacuum hose attachment over your dog to remove loose fur if he isn’t afraid of the noise.