Are you looking for a furry friend but worried about the constant shedding that comes with dog ownership? Well, worry no more! Hypoallergenic breeds do exist, and we’ve compiled a list of ten low-shed dog breeds that make excellent companions. These breeds bring unending joy and love while keeping your home relatively fur-free.
So, get ready to meet these adorable low-shed canines that will be the perfect addition to your household.
1. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are beloved for their curly, hypoallergenic coat, making them a perfect match for individuals with allergies. Their minimal shedding makes them appealing to those seeking a low-maintenance pet. Not only do they excel in the allergy-friendly department, but their playful and affectionate nature guarantees they will brighten up your days with their joyful presence.
In addition to their hypoallergenic coat and playful demeanor, Bichon Frises are known for their friendly, sociable nature. They are typically outgoing and get along well with other pets and people. This makes them the perfect choice for families and individuals who enjoy a lively and interactive companion.
2. Morkie
The Morkie is a delightful combination of the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. With its charming appearance and small size, this pooch is a popular choice for those seeking a fun-loving companion.
As a hypoallergenic breed, its coat combines the luxurious, silky hair of the Maltese with the low-shedding characteristics of the Yorkshire Terrier. These traits are why the Morkie is ideal for dog-loving individuals with allergies and those who don’t want hair all over the house.
Beyond its desirable coat, this dog is affectionate and playful by nature. It forms strong bonds with its owners and thrives on companionship and attention. If you’re in the market for a new pet, definitely look for Morkie puppies for sale by a reputable breeder.
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small dogs that originated in China and are known for their luxurious, long hair that hardly sheds. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking beautiful and healthy.
These pups have a distinctive regal appearance with their flowing hair and proud posture.
Despite this elegant look, they have a mischievous streak that adds a playful and entertaining element to their personality. Shih Tzus are generally gentle and friendly dogs, making them great companions for individuals and families alike.
4. Poodle
The Poodle is a highly-intelligent and versatile dog that has gained popularity for its distinctive curly coat. It comes in three different sizes—standard, miniature, and toy—and all three share the same impressive intelligence and trainable nature.
You’ll often see these animals participating in various dog sports and activities, such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them an excellent choice for people with dander allergies, as they shed minimally.
Poodles are naturally loyal and friendly and tend to form strong bonds with their owners. They are adaptable and can thrive in different living situations, whether in an active household or a more relaxed environment.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed that hails from Portugal. They have a distinctly thick and curly coat, which is both hypoallergenic and low-shedding. Originally bred as working dogs for fishermen, they are well-suited for an active lifestyle. Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent and require mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and fulfilled.
They enjoy activities such as swimming and retrieving, thanks to their love for water. This breed possesses a friendly and dedicated temperament, making them excellent companions for individuals or large families. Their adventurous spirit and enjoyment of outdoor activities make them an ideal choice for those living an active lifestyle.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, commonly known as Yorkies, are small toy dogs with big personalities. They have a long, silky coat similar to human hair, which requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Yorkies shed very little, making them suitable for those with sensitivities to fur and dander.
Despite their small size, Yorkies are confident and bold, often displaying a feisty and energetic demeanor. They love to be the center of attention and enjoy participating in activities and spending time with their owners. Yorkies are known for their loyalty and devotion, forming strong bonds with their human companions.
7. Maltese
The Maltese are an elegant and glamorous small breed with a history dating back thousands of years. They are known for their long, silky white hair, which requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting. These dogs shed minimally, making them popular for those who need low-shedding breeds. Their gentle and affectionate nature has them often seeking close physical contact with their owners.
Maltese dogs are known for their love of lap time and enjoy being pampered and spoiled. Despite their small size, they have a confident and spirited personality. They can adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, and make great companions.
8. Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a charming mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. With their soft, wavy, or curly coat, this breed is another popular low-shedding dog. They come in various sizes, so you have options to choose from that can accommodate your living arrangements.
Cockapoos inherit the affectionate and gentle temperament of the Spaniel, as well as the intelligence and hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle. They are especially social, playful, and adaptable, so you’ll have a lifetime of enjoyment with them as your pet.
9. Basenji
The Basenji is a unique and ancient breed known for its barkless nature, which sets it apart from other dog breeds. Instead of barking, they produce distinctive vocalizations, such as yodels or howls. They have a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming, making them low-maintenance in terms of maintenance needs. You’ll also love their compact, athletic build and independent spirit.
While they can be somewhat aloof with strangers, they are deeply affectionate and loyal towards their owners. Despite their independent nature, they still enjoy spending quality time with their families and are great companions for those who appreciate a unique and spirited dog.
10. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a stunning breed to look at and can be bred as a Hairless or Powderpuff. The Hairless variety, as the name suggests, has very little hair on its body but does require regular skincare to keep its skin healthy.
On the other hand, the Powderpuff variety boasts a long, silky double coat that sheds minimally. Both variations of Chinese Cresteds are attention seekers and thrive on human companionship. These dogs are extremely affectionate, loving, and eager to please their owners.
11. Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog breed known for its beautiful, silky coat that hardly sheds. This makes them a great choice for individuals or families wanting a dog that is hypoallergenic, or a pet that doesn’t cover the house in fur. They are also outgoing and friendly and typically get along well with children and other pets. Their sociable temperament quickly endears them to their families.
Havanese dogs are known for their adaptability and willingness to please their owners. They are highly trainable and often excel in activities, such as obedience and agility. With their charming personality and low-shedding coat, Havanese dogs are a delightful addition to any home.
Don’t Let Allergies Get in the Way of Pet Ownership
In your quest for canine companionship, finding a dog that doesn’t shed excessively can be a game-changer. These eleven low-shed dog breeds offer the ideal solution, bringing joy, love, and minimal fur-related worries to your life.
Whether it’s the curly hypoallergenic coat of a Bichon Frise or the stylish elegance of a Poodle, these breeds bring the best of both worlds: unwavering companionship without the constant shedding.