Who doesn’t love dogs? One of the great joys of life, dogs provide true unconditional love, emotional support, and many other free perks.
Whether you can’t stand picking hair off your clothes or suffer from allergies, you can find a new best friend in low-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs.
While all dogs shed to some level, there are low-shedding dogs that keep shedding to a minimum, you probably won’t even notice. Be careful, just because they light-shed doesn’t mean they don’t require grooming or are necessarily low maintenance.
If you’re looking for a companion to bring home, but are worried about allergies or dog hair, consider one of these 9 low-shedding dog breeds to add to your family!
1. Poodle
The poodle is a hypoallergenic breed that rarely sheds and is one of the most popular dogs in the world. It comes in 3 sizes: standard, toy, and miniature.
Perfect for families, the poodle has a fun personality, very active and smart, but it is also easy to train.
Poodles are also known for being practically odorless.
2. Basenji
One of the top 100 most popular breeds, this African hunting dog have short, beautiful hair that rarely sheds. They are hypoallergenic and require minimal grooming because they clean themselves similar to cats.
Energetic and intelligent, Basenjis have a great sense of smell and sign, but they can also be stubborn, so you need to train them.
3. Havanese
Perfect for people with allergies, the Havanese has a soft and silky fur, which comes a variety of colors and different markings.
Because of their long hair requiring regular grooming, some owners prefer to give them a shorter cut for easier maintenance.
Curious, friendly, and affectionate, the Havanese is perfect for families. Also known as “Velcro Dog,” because of how close they are to their owners, were bred initially for Cuban aristocrat.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Wondering how they got this name? Portuguese water dogs can swim for extended periods without tiring.
This medium-sized dog is loyal and energetic, with wavy or curly fur that is both waterproof and hypoallergenic. Because his coat is abundant, significant grooming is required.
Easy to train, with playful and laid-back personalities, make a great companion for any family.
5. Bichon Frise
This fluffy white dog that rarely sheds is one of the top picks of Americans for allergy sufferers. The bichon has hair, not fur, so you will have to brush it regularly to prevent matting.
Social, independent, and easy-to-train dog, the bichon is perfect for any living spaces because of his small size.
6. Cairn Terrier
The Cairn terrier, or as you may know him, Toto from “The Wizard of Oz has a wire coat, hypoallergenic, and water repellent.
Happy and fearless, the Cairn Terrier is a popular companion for those who suffer from allergies. He requires low maintenance; you need to brush them only once a week.
7. Scottish Terrier
Bred initially as fierce hunters, the Scottish terriers have wiry, weather-resistant coats kept them protected in all climates.
Also known as Scottie dog from Disney classic Lady and the Tramp, this dog breed has a low-shed, hypoallergenic coat and require minimal grooming.
Independent and territorial, the Scottie makes an excellent watchdog and a loyal companion for any household.
8. Chinese Crested
There is no way you can confuse a Chinese crested with any other breed. Both Hairless and Powderpuff (with soft hair all over) varieties of Chinese Crested are hypoallergenic.
Known to act more like a cat, this dog breed requires much grooming responsibility. If you choose a hairless, you’ll have to put in a little extra work to prevent sunburn, cleanliness, and vulnerability to cold.
Chinese Crested’s are famous lap dogs, so they’re most happy when cuddling with their family.
9. Schnauzer
Schnauzers are popular as companion pets due to their loyal nature and hypoallergenic coat. Whether Miniature or Standard, they are a smart, high-energy breed that makes excellent watchdogs.
With coats made of continuously growing hair, the Schnauzers require to strip or trim them regularly.
Playful and protective, they make the perfect energetic family dog.