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. Low-Shedding Dog Breeds “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. blonde afghan hound running along the beach The average Afghan hound can reach speeds of up to 40 mph! | Credit: THEGIFT777 / Getty Afghan Hound 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. two american hairless terrier puppies running Credit: lenanet / Getty American Hairless Terrier This hairless breed 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. gray bedlington terrier lying on rug Credit: alkir / Getty Bedlington Terrier With the looks of a lamb but the tenacity of a terrier, Bedlingtons 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. happy looking bichon frise dog The bichon is the ultimate people-pleaser. All she wants is to make you happy! | Credit: Pai-Shih Lee / Getty Bichon Frise 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. brussels griffon dog sitting on ledge Credit: fotojagodka / getty Brussels Griffon 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. young cairn terrier lying on dock Credit: superwaldi / getty Cairn Terrier 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. chinese crested dog standing outside Dental hygiene is a must for hairless Chinese cresteds, as they can be prone to missing, overcrowded or decaying teeth. | Credit: Kseniya Abramova / Getty Chinese Crested 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. young coton de tulear running in park Credit: Bigandt_Photography / Getty Coton de Tulear 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. irish water setter standing in grass Credit: Julie Morrish / Shutterstock Irish Water Spaniel The Irish 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. kerry blue terrier outside Credit: VKarlov / Shutterstock Kerry Blue Terrier One of the better choices for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs, the medium-sized Kerry has low dander and a striking wavy blue-gray coat. Active, devoted, and versatile, she lives well in apartments or on farms. brown lagotto romagnolo or roman water dog standing on dirt path Credit: StefanSorean / Getty Lagotto Romagnolo 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. white maltese puppy running through fall leaves Credit: White_bcgrd / Getty Maltese 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. peruvian inca orchid dog on leash Credit: Anna Krivitskaya / shutterstock Peruvian Inca Orchid An ancient hairless breed that originated in Peru, this dog (also known as a PIO) 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. light brown standard poodle standing on path in woods Credit: Teemu Tretjakov / EyeEm / Getty Poodle The original “hypoallergenic breed,” the adoring and intelligent poodle is a versatile solid-color dog that comes in three varieties: toy, medium, and standard. People who search for hybrid breeds that are good for dog allergy sufferers should simply consider one of these purebred versions. portuguese water dog puppy in grass Portuguese water dogs have coats that are either curly or wavy, making them ultra-soft cuddle buddies. | Credit: suefeldberg / Getty Portuguese Water Dog 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. gray miniature schnauzer standing in grass Credit: Feverstockphoto / Getty Schnauzer 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. soft coated wheaten terrier standing on dirt path As long as they get enough exercise, wheatens don’t need a ton of space. Playing inside or going on daily walkies will make them happy! | Credit: Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier 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. spanish water dog standing on rock Credit: Lucia Romero / Shutterstock Spanish Water Dog Also a medium-sized dog, the lively Spanish 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. brown barbet dog Credit: slowmotiongli / shutterstock Barbet 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. spotted xoloitzcuintle or Mexican hairless dog in grass Most xolos are dark colors such as black, gray, bronze, or red. But some have white spots that give them a little extra flair. | Credit: Ирина Мещерякова / Getty Xoloitzcuintli 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. As you’ve noticed in our descriptions, proper grooming is really essential to keep normal shedding in check. Your veterinarian and a professional dog groomer can extend additional tips for your breed.
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.
Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
“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.
blonde afghan hound running along the beach The average Afghan hound can reach speeds of up to 40 mph! | Credit: THEGIFT777 / Getty
Afghan Hound
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.
two american hairless terrier puppies running Credit: lenanet / Getty
American Hairless Terrier
This hairless breed 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.
gray bedlington terrier lying on rug Credit: alkir / Getty
Bedlington Terrier
With the looks of a lamb but the tenacity of a terrier, Bedlingtons 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.
happy looking bichon frise dog The bichon is the ultimate people-pleaser. All she wants is to make you happy! | Credit: Pai-Shih Lee / Getty
Bichon Frise
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.
brussels griffon dog sitting on ledge Credit: fotojagodka / getty
Brussels Griffon
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.
young cairn terrier lying on dock Credit: superwaldi / getty
Cairn Terrier
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.
chinese crested dog standing outside Dental hygiene is a must for hairless Chinese cresteds, as they can be prone to missing, overcrowded or decaying teeth. | Credit: Kseniya Abramova / Getty
Chinese Crested
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.
young coton de tulear running in park Credit: Bigandt_Photography / Getty
Coton de Tulear
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.
irish water setter standing in grass Credit: Julie Morrish / Shutterstock
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish 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.
kerry blue terrier outside Credit: VKarlov / Shutterstock
Kerry Blue Terrier
One of the better choices for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs, the medium-sized Kerry has low dander and a striking wavy blue-gray coat. Active, devoted, and versatile, she lives well in apartments or on farms.
brown lagotto romagnolo or roman water dog standing on dirt path Credit: StefanSorean / Getty
Lagotto Romagnolo
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.
white maltese puppy running through fall leaves Credit: White_bcgrd / Getty
Maltese
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.
peruvian inca orchid dog on leash Credit: Anna Krivitskaya / shutterstock
Peruvian Inca Orchid
An ancient hairless breed that originated in Peru, this dog (also known as a PIO) 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.
light brown standard poodle standing on path in woods Credit: Teemu Tretjakov / EyeEm / Getty
Poodle
The original “hypoallergenic breed,” the adoring and intelligent poodle is a versatile solid-color dog that comes in three varieties: toy, medium, and standard. People who search for hybrid breeds that are good for dog allergy sufferers should simply consider one of these purebred versions.
portuguese water dog puppy in grass Portuguese water dogs have coats that are either curly or wavy, making them ultra-soft cuddle buddies. | Credit: suefeldberg / Getty
Portuguese Water Dog
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.
gray miniature schnauzer standing in grass Credit: Feverstockphoto / Getty
Schnauzer
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.
soft coated wheaten terrier standing on dirt path As long as they get enough exercise, wheatens don't need a ton of space. Playing inside or going on daily walkies will make them happy! | Credit: Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
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.
spanish water dog standing on rock Credit: Lucia Romero / Shutterstock
Spanish Water Dog
Also a medium-sized dog, the lively Spanish 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.
brown barbet dog Credit: slowmotiongli / shutterstock
Barbet
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.
spotted xoloitzcuintle or Mexican hairless dog in grass Most xolos are dark colors such as black, gray, bronze, or red. But some have white spots that give them a little extra flair. | Credit: Ирина Мещерякова / Getty
Xoloitzcuintli
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.
As you’ve noticed in our descriptions, proper grooming is really essential to keep normal shedding in check. Your veterinarian and a professional dog groomer can extend additional tips for your breed.
blonde afghan hound running along the beach The average Afghan hound can reach speeds of up to 40 mph! | Credit: THEGIFT777 / Getty
blonde afghan hound running along the beach
The average Afghan hound can reach speeds of up to 40 mph! | Credit: THEGIFT777 / Getty
| Credit: THEGIFT777 / Getty
two american hairless terrier puppies running Credit: lenanet / Getty
two american hairless terrier puppies running
Credit: lenanet / Getty
gray bedlington terrier lying on rug Credit: alkir / Getty
gray bedlington terrier lying on rug
Credit: alkir / Getty
happy looking bichon frise dog The bichon is the ultimate people-pleaser. All she wants is to make you happy! | Credit: Pai-Shih Lee / Getty
happy looking bichon frise dog
The bichon is the ultimate people-pleaser. All she wants is to make you happy! | Credit: Pai-Shih Lee / Getty
| Credit: Pai-Shih Lee / Getty
brussels griffon dog sitting on ledge Credit: fotojagodka / getty
brussels griffon dog sitting on ledge
Credit: fotojagodka / getty
young cairn terrier lying on dock Credit: superwaldi / getty
young cairn terrier lying on dock
Credit: superwaldi / getty
chinese crested dog standing outside Dental hygiene is a must for hairless Chinese cresteds, as they can be prone to missing, overcrowded or decaying teeth. | Credit: Kseniya Abramova / Getty
chinese crested dog standing outside
Dental hygiene is a must for hairless Chinese cresteds, as they can be prone to missing, overcrowded or decaying teeth. | Credit: Kseniya Abramova / Getty
| Credit: Kseniya Abramova / Getty
young coton de tulear running in park Credit: Bigandt_Photography / Getty
young coton de tulear running in park
Credit: Bigandt_Photography / Getty
irish water setter standing in grass Credit: Julie Morrish / Shutterstock
irish water setter standing in grass
Credit: Julie Morrish / Shutterstock
kerry blue terrier outside Credit: VKarlov / Shutterstock
kerry blue terrier outside
Credit: VKarlov / Shutterstock
brown lagotto romagnolo or roman water dog standing on dirt path Credit: StefanSorean / Getty
brown lagotto romagnolo or roman water dog standing on dirt path
Credit: StefanSorean / Getty
white maltese puppy running through fall leaves Credit: White_bcgrd / Getty
white maltese puppy running through fall leaves
Credit: White_bcgrd / Getty
peruvian inca orchid dog on leash Credit: Anna Krivitskaya / shutterstock
peruvian inca orchid dog on leash
Credit: Anna Krivitskaya / shutterstock
light brown standard poodle standing on path in woods Credit: Teemu Tretjakov / EyeEm / Getty
light brown standard poodle standing on path in woods
Credit: Teemu Tretjakov / EyeEm / Getty
portuguese water dog puppy in grass Portuguese water dogs have coats that are either curly or wavy, making them ultra-soft cuddle buddies. | Credit: suefeldberg / Getty
portuguese water dog puppy in grass
Portuguese water dogs have coats that are either curly or wavy, making them ultra-soft cuddle buddies. | Credit: suefeldberg / Getty
| Credit: suefeldberg / Getty
gray miniature schnauzer standing in grass Credit: Feverstockphoto / Getty
gray miniature schnauzer standing in grass
Credit: Feverstockphoto / Getty
soft coated wheaten terrier standing on dirt path As long as they get enough exercise, wheatens don’t need a ton of space. Playing inside or going on daily walkies will make them happy! | Credit: Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock
soft coated wheaten terrier standing on dirt path
As long as they get enough exercise, wheatens don’t need a ton of space. Playing inside or going on daily walkies will make them happy! | Credit: Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock
| Credit: Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock
spanish water dog standing on rock Credit: Lucia Romero / Shutterstock
spanish water dog standing on rock
Credit: Lucia Romero / Shutterstock
brown barbet dog Credit: slowmotiongli / shutterstock
brown barbet dog
Credit: slowmotiongli / shutterstock
spotted xoloitzcuintle or Mexican hairless dog in grass Most xolos are dark colors such as black, gray, bronze, or red. But some have white spots that give them a little extra flair. | Credit: Ирина Мещерякова / Getty
spotted xoloitzcuintle or Mexican hairless dog in grass
Most xolos are dark colors such as black, gray, bronze, or red. But some have white spots that give them a little extra flair. | Credit: Ирина Мещерякова / Getty
| Credit: Ирина Мещерякова / Getty
