Non-Shedding Dogs For Those With Allergies

Anyone who is looking for non-shedding dogs is in luck because there are plenty of allergy-friendly breeds to choose from. Some dogs have been bred specifically to not shed, while others are naturally hypoallergenic. In today’s post. we will be sharing over 22 different breeds for those looking for non-shedding dogs!

Just because someone has an allergy to dogs does not mean that they can’t own one! There are all kinds of breeds that do not shed, ranging from small to medium to large. This makes it easier than ever to own a dog without the unpleasant side effects of allergies or sensitivities.

Where Do Dog Allergies Come From?

Many people believe that it is the hair that causes allergies to animals, but it is actually not about the hair at all! It is the saliva, urine, and skin cells that are actually causing the allergic reaction.

We associate allergies with hair because hair often carries these allergens, giving the misconception that hair is the problem. Dog hair is just the carrier of these allergens since it can get everywhere, from clothes to furniture to food.

Owning a dog that does not shed or sheds very little can greatly help lessen dog allergies because less saliva, urine, and dander are spread. This is why people with allergies can have great success owning non-shedding dogs or hypoallergenic dogs.

Don’t have a dog allergy? Check out these cute fluffy dog breeds people go crazy for!

22 Types Of Non-Shedding Dogs

In this article, we are talking about 22 different types of dog breeds that either shed very little or don’t shed at all. Depending on the severity of the allergies, some people may need to choose hypoallergenic dogs over the other options.

The good thing is that there is a wide variety of allergy-friendly dogs, ranging from very small toy dogs all the way up to giant breeds!

Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

If someone wants a dog but doesn’t have much space to offer, a small breed is a perfect option! These are all small non-shedding dogs, making them perfect for anyone with allergies or sensitivities to dog hair and dander.

Bichon Frise

Weight: 6.6 – 11 lbs

Height: 9 – 12 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Playful, affectionate, feisty, and gentle.

Type of Coat: Silky and curly coat with a soft undercoat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs to be brushed regularly to avoid matting.

The Bichon Frise is a sweet and bubbly dog that is hypoallergenic and small. With a thick and fluffy coat, they may look like they shed, but they are one of the best non-shedding dogs. They need to be groomed very regularly to avoid their hair getting matted and tangled. Daily brushing is suggested in order to keep their coat under control.

The Bichon Frise breed does require a decent amount of attention as they are rambunctious and feisty, always ready to play or get into mischief. They are the perfect-sized dog for small homes or apartments and do not require a very large backyard.

Brussels Griffon

Weight: 8 – 10 lbs

Height: 7 – 8 inches

Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

Temperament: Self-important, watchful, curious, sensitive.

Type of Coat: Thin coat with stiff and wiry hair.

Grooming Requirements: They need consistent brushing with a bristle brush or fine-tooth comb.

Brussels Griffon is an adorable breed of dog that is toy-sized and perfect for anyone with limited space. Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons are very active dogs and still want to run around and play. This makes them perfect for anyone who still wants an energetic dog that is still small.

They have a thin and wiry coat that requires minimal brushing throughout the week just to keep it under control. They shed very little and are very easy dogs to keep groomed and happy!

Cairn Terrier

Weight: 13 – 18 lbs

Height: 9 – 13 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Intelligent, active, fearless, and assertive.

Type of Coat: Double coat with a scruffy outer coat and soft undercoat.

Grooming Requirements: Requires weekly brushing and minimal grooming.

Cairn Terriers are small dogs that have a double coat which gives them their distinct shaggy look. They require very minimal upkeep with a few brushing sessions a week and very little grooming necessary.

These dogs are spunky and curious and will keep their owner on their toes.

Havanese

Weight: 7 – 13 lbs

Height: 8 – 11 inches

Lifespan: 13 – 15 years

Temperament: Playful, affectionate, gentle, and intelligent.

Type of Coat: Soft double coat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs weekly brushing and monthly baths for coat upkeep.

Havanese dogs are one of the cutest breeds that anyone could ever find. Their personalities shine with a happy and playful disposition, and they require only minimal activity. This makes them the perfect option for anyone living in the city with less time for activity.

Their long and thick coat doesn’t shed hardly at all and needs consistent grooming. Several brushing sessions a week are necessary, as well as a bath every one to two weeks. It’s important to never brush their hair dry. Always lightly mist it with water beforehand to avoid damaging the hair.

Chinese Crested

Weight: 5.1 – 12 lbs

Height: 9 – 13 inches

Lifespan: 13 – 15 years

Temperament: Playful, lively, affectionate, happy, and sweet-tempered.

Type of Coat: Mainly hairless with a few tufts of fluffy fur.

Grooming Requirements: Minimal brushing with consistent skincare.

Chinese Crested dogs are another one of the dog breeds that don’t shed. Though they may look a bit strange, they are great for anyone with allergies wanting a small dog.

Because this breed is mostly hairless, they require even more upkeep than most hypoallergenic dogs. This is because they are prone to skin irritation and sunburns, and their skin will need to be looked after.

Chinese Crested dogs are sweet and affectionate and perfect for anyone looking for a snuggle buddy.

Maltese

Weight: 6.6 – 8.8 lbs

Height: 8 – 10 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Playful, intelligent, docile, and easygoing.

Type of Coat: Silky two-layer coat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs weekly brushing and baths as well as monthly grooming.

Maltese are beautiful dogs with a distinct white coat that often reaches the ground. Though they do not shed, they do require plenty of grooming between hair trims, baths, and weekly brushing.

Maltese are generally easygoing and do not require too much activity or entertainment. They could easily be happy living in a small home or apartment as long as they are played with regularly. This makes them an excellent family dog that doesn’t require a large amount of activity or entertainment on a consistent basis.

Anyone looking for a small dog with a big and bright personality will find that in a Maltese!

Australian Silky Terrier

Weight: 8 – 10 lbs

Height: 9 – 10 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Friendly, curious, alert, and joyful.

Type of Coat: Fine, flat, and silky.

Grooming Requirements: Needs to be brushed twice a week and bathed every 1 to 2 weeks.

Australian Silky Terriers are an adorable toy-sized dog breed that is hypoallergenic and fun to have around. Their long and silky coat requires consistent upkeep with a full brushing at least twice a week and a bath every 1 to 2 weeks. Never brush their coats dry always mist them with water beforehand.

These little dogs are surprisingly active and love to play and run around. The good thing is that their size makes it much easier to tire them out. So, they are not too difficult to keep active. If they are kept in a small house or apartment, it is best to take them on regular walks or trips to the dog park. Even a short walk should be enough to tire out this spunky little dog!

They love to meet new people and require a certain amount of mental activity as well as physical activity to keep them happy and entertained.

Medium Sized Non-Shedding Dogs

What we refer to as medium-sized dogs are really just average-sized. They are neither very small or very large but are the perfect size in between.

Medium-sized dogs are still small enough to live in an apartment or a small backyard comfortably. They are often more manageable than larger dogs but can be more active than smaller dogs.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Weight: 33 – 40 lbs

Height: 17 – 20 inches

Lifespan: 13 – 15 years

Temperament: Affectionate, strong-willed, gentle, and loyal.

Type of Coat: Soft and dense coat that is wavy.

Grooming Requirements: Requires daily brushing and grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

Kerry Blue Terriers are another non-shedding dog that is perfect for anyone with allergies. Their beautiful bluish-black coat doesn’t shed and requires regular upkeep, but it is definitely worth it! They need to be brushed on a daily basis and need to be groomed and bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. This will keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.

They are a high-energy breed that loves to play and run around, so it’s important to have an environment that allows that. They can also be taken on walks throughout the day to give them an outlet for all of that energy.

Wheaten Terrier

Weight: 35 – 45 lbs

Height: 17 – 19 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Intelligent, playful, energetic, and spirited.

Type of Coat: Thick and full coat or a silky and wavy coat.

Grooming Requirements: Requires daily brushing and grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

Wheaten Terriers are fun and spunky dogs that have a reputation for being joyful and playful. They are friendly, affectionate, and enjoy meeting new people. These terriers also make excellent family dogs since their personality is so fun-loving.

Their energy level is pretty high and requires plenty of activity and exercise on a daily basis. They either need a good-sized yard to play in or daily walks to get out their energy. Wheaten terriers should be played with and interacted with consistently in order to keep them entertained and happy.

They are hypoallergenic and require a certain amount of upkeep. They can either have a thick and full coat or a silky and wavy coat. Both need regular brushing, preferably daily, and grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

Basenji

Weight: 22 – 24 lbs

Height: 15 – 17 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 16 years

Temperament: Intelligent, playful, curious, and affectionate.

Type of Coat: Fine and short coat.

Grooming Requirements: Minimal brushing and bathing.

Basenjis are one of the smaller dogs in the hound family, making them the perfect medium-sized dog for all living environments.

Their coat is short and fine and requires little to no grooming, and they are excellent non-shedding dogs. They are known to be self cleaners and only require the occasional bath and a gentle brushing once or twice a week.

Though this dog is small in stature, it is important to understand that this is a very active breed. Basenjis are known to be high maintenance and need plenty of activity and entertainment! Without the right amount of activity and entertainment, they can become naughty and destructive. So, anyone interested should make sure that they have the energy to keep up with them!

Tibetan Terrier

Weight: 18 – 31 lbs

Height: 14 – 15 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, sensitive, and gentle.

Type of Coat: They have a double coat with a full top coat and wooly undercoat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs to be brushed multiple times a week and bathed every 1 to 2 weeks.

The Tibetan Terrier is a trustworthy and loyal dog that makes the perfect watchdog or protector. They are intelligent and always on the alert. Because of their energy, Tibetan Terriers should be given plenty of space to roam around and play. They need plenty of interaction and one-on-one time with their owners to keep them happy throughout the day.

This breed doesn’t shed and requires general grooming to keep its coat in tip-top shape. Brushing every few days and regular baths every 1 to 2 weeks is enough to keep these dogs happy.

Miniature Schnauzer

Weight: 12 – 20 lbs

Height: 12 – 14 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, alert, and fearless.

Type of Coat: Wiry coat that is thin and flat.

Grooming Requirements: Requires regular brushing and grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

Miniature Schnauzers are a perfect medium-sized breed of dog that is completely hypoallergenic. They require regular brushing a few times a week and grooming appointments every month or so. More grooming and brushing are required depending on the type of haircut they have.

Though they may look a bit like old men with their full beards, miniature schnauzers are fun and feisty! They love to run around and play, which is why it is best to give them a good-sized yard to enjoy.

Bedlington Terrier

Weight: 17 – 23 lbs

Height: 15 – 18 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 14 years

Temperament: Intelligent, spirited, good-tempered, and affectionate.

Type of Coat: A crisp and curly coat that is not quite wiry.

Grooming Requirements: Requires consistent brushing and monthly grooming.

Bedlington terriers are another one of the non-shedding dogs on this list that are completely hypoallergenic. They do not shed at all and have a coat that is similar to a poodle. They need to be brushed daily and have to have regular grooming appointments for general upkeep.

Bedlington terriers are also racing dogs, which means that they require plenty of exercise. They make excellent pets as long as they are walked on a daily basis and have a large backyard to run around in. With enough exercise, these dogs are happy to lounge around the house with their owners.

Airedale Terrier

Weight: 40 – 64 lbs

Height: 22 – 24 inches

Lifespan: 10 – 12 years

Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, intelligent, and alert.

Type of Coat: Double coat with a harsh overcoat and soft undercoat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs weekly brushing and needs to be fully groomed at least 4 times per year.

Airedale terriers are a handsome breed of dog with very noticeable characteristics. They do not shed, but they do require a decent amount of hands-on grooming. Their coat will need to be fully groomed at least 4 times a year and require monthly trimming and upkeep. It is also best to brush them every few days to keep their fur tangle-free and soft.

Airedale terriers are just on the verge of being considered large dogs since they can weigh up to 64 lbs. But many stay medium-sized. They are a friendly and outgoing dog breed that loves to meet new people and see new places. It can be a challenge to keep them interested and entertained, which is why they often keep their owners on their toes.

They are very playful and need at least a certain amount of dedicated playtime each day to keep them happy and out of mischief. Even though they are medium-sized dogs, it is best for them to have access to a larger yard to play in.

Large Dogs That Don’t Shed

For anyone who loves large dogs but has an allergy, these big dogs that don’t shed are a great option! There are also plenty of large dog breeds to choose from that are hypoallergenic. It is important that anyone interested understands how to properly take care of these furry giants since they are often big balls of energy too.

Afghan Hound

Weight: 57 – 75 lbs

Height: 24 – 29 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 14 years

Temperament: Dignified, independent, happy, and aloof.

Type of Coat: Thick and silky coat that grows long.

Grooming Requirements: Needs rigorous grooming and brushing on a daily basis.

Afghan Hounds are beautiful and unique-looking dogs known for their long and silky hair that often makes them look a bit human. They require plenty of daily grooming that can sometimes take hours to complete. They must be groomed often and correctly in order to keep their hair healthy and tangle-free. Despite their large amount of hair, afghan hounds do not shed much – if at all.

Like their looks, Afghan Hounds also have a very unique personality that is both silly and sophisticated. They can often seem aloof or indifferent and need to have time to themselves. They can sometimes be energetic and playful but often prefer to entertain themselves.

Giant Schnauzer

Weight: 55 – 110 lbs

Height: 24 – 28 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Powerful, intelligent, strong-willed, and kind.

Type of Coat: Double coat with a soft undercoat and dense and wiry topcoat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs weekly brushing and monthly grooming.

Giant Schnauzers are truly giant dogs, perfect for anyone looking for a big breed that doesn’t shed. They only require a few brushing sessions a week plus monthly grooming. This is why they are on the list of very low-maintenance non-shedding dogs.

Like miniature schnauzers, giant schnauzers are energetic and happy dogs with big personalities. They love to run and play and require a certain amount of activity per day. Giant schnauzers are also very loyal and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.

This is a very large dog breed that can weigh as much as 110 lbs, so it is important that they have a large living space and backyard to accommodate their size. Also, it’s best for them to have an owner that can match their energy and keep them active and entertained.

Portuguese Water Dog

Weight: 35 – 60 lbs

Height: 17 – 22 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Intelligent, brave, obedient, and impetuous.

Type of Coat: Either compact curls or a wavy coat.

Grooming Requirements: Needs regular brushing and frequent baths as well as monthly grooming.

Portuguese Water Dogs are a magnificent breed of non-shedding dogs that is incredibly intelligent. They are fun-loving, smart, and witty and can sometimes be a handful to manage. This is a very energetic dog breed that requires an owner that can keep up with them and keep them entertained.

Like any big dog, they can become destructive if not properly cared for. Because this breed is so large and energetic, they need plenty of space to play in and will even benefit from several daily walks. Playing with them throughout the day is a great way of getting out some of that silly energy.

Portuguese Water Dogs can have two different kinds of coats, a wavy coat or a compact and curly coat. Both need to be brushed very frequently, preferably daily. They also benefit from frequent baths, even as often as once a week! Their coat does need monthly grooming and trimming to keep it under control.

Saluki

Weight: 40 – 60 lbs

Height: 23 – 28 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 14 years

Temperament: Aloof, intelligent, quiet.

Type of Coat: Feathered or smooth coat.

Grooming Requirements: Weekly brushing and ear trimming.

Saluki dogs are beautiful and sophisticated looking with a smooth and silky coat that doesn’t shed much, if at all. There are two types of coat, feathered or smooth, and both are very easy to take care of. They only require weekly brushing, and if their coat is feathered, their ear hair will need to be trimmed regularly. This minimal grooming makes them one of the easiest breeds of non-shedding dogs.

This breed is rather aloof and quiet and generally doesn’t like to be around people they do not know. Though, with their owners, they are very sweet and gentle-natured. Salukis are not particularly active or energetic, so they do not need constant exercise or activity.

Labradoodle

Weight: 50 – 65 lbs

Height: 22 – 24 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 14 years

Temperament: Energetic, sociable, friendly, and smart.

Type of Coat: Thick and wooly coat that is slightly wiry and curly.

Grooming Requirements: Needs regular brushing and grooming each month.

Labradoodles are the best of both worlds, giving you the personality of a labrador with the hypoallergenic benefits of a poodle. These dogs are a fun and loving breed that loves to meet people and play to their heart’s content.

This breed requires very minimal brushing, just a few sessions per week, to keep their thick and curly coat under control. They do need professional grooming, so it might not be worth trying to groom them at home.

Because this breed is so big and energetic, it is best to provide them with a spacious yard to run around in. They require plenty of exercise and playtime in order to stay active and happy. Walks and trips to the dog park are always welcome. The more people they can meet – the better!

Standard Poodle

Weight: 45 – 70 lbs

Height: 18 – 24 inches

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Temperament: Intelligent, alert, active, faithful, and trainable.

Type of Coat: Single layer coat with dense and curly hair.

Grooming Requirements: Daily brushing and grooming every 3 to 6 weeks is needed.

Standard poodles are the largest of all of the poodles. All poodles are extremely hypoallergenic with their curly hair that doesn’t shed. These giant non-shedding dogs are fun-loving and sweet by nature, making perfect pets for all kinds of people.

For anyone who loves big dogs, these standard poodles are a great option and don’t require too much maintenance. Their dense coat needs daily brushing just to keep it under control, and they only need grooming every 3 to 6 weeks.

They are easy to train and are energetic, and enjoy all kinds of activities. Unlike other dogs, they are a very dignified dog breed and can be trained to do all kinds of tricks. Their mind needs to be entertained as well as kept active for them to be happy and content.

Irish Water Spaniel

Weight: 45 – 65 lbs

Height: 21 – 24 inches

Lifespan: 10 – 12 years

Temperament: Active, intelligent, curious, alert, and quick.

Type of Coat: Double coat with tight and crisp hair that’s curly.

Grooming Requirements: Regular brushing and very minimal grooming are required.

Irish Water Spaniels are another one of the non-shedding dogs great for anyone who wants a big breed! They don’t shed or require very much grooming whatsoever, making them an excellent low-maintenance option. Their curly and wiry hair only needs regular brushing through the week and very minimal grooming every month or so.

These big dogs are active and need plenty of space to romp around and have fun. Because they are so curious and intelligent, it is a good idea to take them for frequent walks or trips to the park to keep them engaged. Another way to keep these giants busy is to give them plenty of interactive dog toys that challenge them.

Bouvier Des Flandres

Weight: 60 – 77 lbs

Height: 23 – 27 inches

Lifespan: 10 – 12 years

Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, gentle, and protective.

Type of Coat: Double coat with a coarse and long overcoat and fine and dense undercoat.

Grooming Requirements: Weekly brushing and monthly grooming and trims.

The Bouvier Des Flandres dog breed is a strong and sophisticated breed of big non-shedding dogs. They are working dogs, which gives them a strong sense of purpose, making it easier to train them. They are fiercely loyal and protective and have a big heart to go with their big stature.

Because of their waterproof coat, these dogs are able to withstand the elements. They are surprisingly low maintenance and require only a few brushing sessions a week with monthly grooming. Bouvier Des Flandres is a great option for anyone looking for a big dog that doesn’t shed and requires minimal grooming.

How To Care For Non-Shedding Dogs

Many, if not all, of these non-shedding dogs, require some element of grooming. Brushing dogs can make a huge difference in decreasing dog allergies as brushing removes excess hair that would otherwise end up dispersed through the home.

Many of these dogs also need to be groomed about once a month, which is often best done by a professional. Anyone who is not confident grooming their own dog should find a good groomer to go to. There are all kinds of grooming styles for different breeds; some are more allergy-friendly than others.

Bathing dogs once every 1 to 2 weeks is also a good way of removing allergens before they can start to become irritating. Just make sure that they are not over bathed, as that can cause dry skin and irritation.

I hope this article was helpful and you are able to find a dog that suits you and your lifestyle! If you enjoyed this post, comment down below which dog breed you love the most.