Dogs are a (wo)man’s best friend, even when our robot vacuum cleaners can’t pick up the enormous piles of dog hair. We love our mutts regardless. However, if you’re in the market for a new dog or puppy, and dog hair just isn’t your jam, it may be beneficial to get a non-shedding breed.
People who suffer from pet allergies or those who just dislike dog hair everywhere may choose to get a breed that sheds less. Do your homework to find a responsible dog breeder so you don’t inadvertently contribute to a puppy mill, and have fun choosing your new pet. Even better, check at local animal shelters for your new buddy; you never know who could be waiting at the shelter for their fur-ever home.
Take a look at your life as it is and try to find a breed that has characteristics that fit your lifestyle. However, remember that just because a breed is known to be “laidback” or claims to be “athletic” there is definitely a spectrum and your dog will likely have its own personality and quirks. Congrats on this big decision and good luck finding your new best friend! Below is a list of some non-shedding dogs sized small to large to help you find your perfect puppy pal.
Bichon Frise
Not only are these dogs friggin’ adorable, but they’re also a hypoallergenic non-shedding breed. Small, cuddly, and cute, Bichons make the perfect pet for city-dwellers in small apartments and those with other pets and kids. Their temperament, according to the American Kennel Club, is happy-go-lucky, gentle, playful, and affectionate. Their top weight is around 12-18 pounds, they can grow up to around 10 inches in height, and their life expectancy is 15 years. These dogs are truly sweet little floofs.
Havanese
The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese is an active dog, but small enough its needs are typically met in a small yard or during short walks. Friendly and quiet, this breed has a silky coat of many different colors and can be clipped short to reduce grooming needs. Although they do not shed, they still need to be brushed to prevent tangles. These playful, intelligent, and gentle companions make great family pets. They weigh in at about 10 pounds, top out on height around 11.5 inches, and can live up to 16 years.
Basenji
Graceful, energetic, and basically self-grooming (except for their nails) Basenjis can make great family pets if socialized early and trained well. Physically unable to bark, virtually odorless, and quick learners the Basenji is a hunting dog that came from central Africa according to the American Kennel Club. At 24 pounds, 17 inches high, and with a life expectancy of 14 years, the Basenji could be your next adorable best friend.
American Water Spaniel
Standing at 18 inches high and weighing about 35 pounds, American Water Spaniels are energetic swimmers and hunters. This breed is a very low shedder, however, keep in mind that their coat is double-layered and will shed seasonally. With low maintenance grooming, the breed can get by with a few brushing sessions a week. Obedient, trainable, and good with kids, these are great family pets, as long as the family is active and energetic!
Peruvian Inca Orchid
Typically hairless, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is an affectionate and sweet companion. The medium-sized of the breed will be around 20 inches high and will weigh somewhere between 18-27 pounds. Loyal to a fault, this breed enjoys being with their family and exercise. However, the breed is not an outdoor breed—their skin can be sensitive to extreme weather.
Whippet
As long as they have a backyard for running, Whippets are great pets. They can be pretty chill in the house, saving up all their energy for quick jaunts—running at a top speed of 35 mph. Without a particularly “doggy” smell, Whippet’s short coat just needs the occasional bathing and brushing. Standing at around 20 inches high, weighing between 25-40 pounds, and living up to around 15 years, Whippets are intelligent, affectionate, and quiet.
Xoloitzcuintli
Cheerful and protective the Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo is a Mexican hairless breed. Standard Xolos stand at 23 inches high and weigh 30-55 pounds. These loving hairless dogs come in a variety of colors and sizes and may live up to 18 years. According to the American Kennel Club, the word Xoloitzcuintli is derived from the Aztec word for dog (Itzcuintli) and the Aztec god (Xolotl).
Poodle
An active breed, Poodles were originally bred as retrieving water dogs from Germany, according to the American Kennel Club. The national dog of France, Poodle sizes can range from miniature, toy, and standard. The Standard Poodle is around 24 inches high and can weigh about 70 pounds. Brush their coats to keep them from matting, take them on daily walks, and let them swim if there’s a body of water nearby. These non-shedding dogs are big bundles of joy, who just want to make their families proud.
Komondor
Weighing in at 100 pounds and standing at a minimum of 27 inches tall, the Komondor is a gentle giant, at least with their people. Covered in white cords and often called “mop dogs,” the Komondor is a protective dog that needs socialization and training at an early age. While the Komondor doesn’t shed (except the undercoat seasonally) maintaining their cords is essential. Having a groomer take off their coat is a good idea. Komondors are typically healthy dogs with a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
