For dog lovers who adore large breeds but despise constant cleaning, breeds that don’t shed much are a blessing.
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, certain breeds are known for minimal shedding, making them excellent companions for those sensitive to dog hair.
Here’s a list of 14 large dog breeds that are not only big in size but also big on charm without the mess of excessive shedding.
1. Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles are not just known for their intelligence and elegance; they also boast a low-shedding coat. Their curly fur traps loose hairs, preventing them from scattering around the house. This makes them an ideal choice for those who are not fond of constant vacuuming.
Moreover, Poodles are incredibly versatile, excelling in various dog sports and activities. Their keen intelligence makes them easy to train, and they often enjoy learning new tricks and commands. With their lively and friendly disposition, they are great companions for active families.
In terms of grooming, Poodles do require regular maintenance. Their curly coats need to be clipped and brushed frequently to prevent matting.
However, this grooming routine contributes to their minimal shedding, making them a favorite among those looking for a large, low-shedding dog.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their love of water and their non-shedding coats. These dogs have a dense, curly coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Despite their grooming needs, the coat doesn’t shed much, making them a good option for those sensitive to pet hair.
These dogs are spirited and energetic, thriving on adventure and exercise. They are excellent swimmers, a trait that reflects their history as working dogs on fishing boats. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable.
Portuguese Water Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and affection toward family members. They are excellent with children, being one of the least aggressive dog breeds, and typically get along well with other pets.
While they do need regular exercise, their friendly and outgoing nature makes them a joy to be around, especially for active families seeking a hypoallergenic companion.
3. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a unique breed known for its distinctively curly, liver-colored coat. This breed stands out not only for its appearance but also for its low-shedding nature. Their dense, water-repellent coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles but shed very minimally.
These dogs are known for their energetic and playful disposition. They love to be active and are especially fond of water activities. This makes them excellent companions for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
In terms of temperament, Irish Water Spaniels are often described as intelligent and independent. They can be a bit stubborn, but with consistent training, they become obedient companions.
Their playful nature and minimal shedding make them a favorite among families looking for an active, large dog that won’t leave hair all over the house.
4. Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers are known as the “King of Terriers” due to their size and distinctive appearance. These dogs have a dense and wiry coat that sheds very little, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a cleaner home environment.
Aside from their hypoallergenic coat, Airedales are known for their intelligence and versatility. They can excel in various roles, from hunting to search and rescue, thanks to their keen sense of smell and trainability. This makes them perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Their playful and energetic nature makes them great companions for children, and they tend to get along well with other pets when properly socialized.
Grooming an Airedale Terrier involves regular brushing to maintain their coat’s texture and prevent matting. With their minimal shedding and lively personality, Airedales are a fantastic choice for those seeking a large, low-shedding dog.
5. Bouvier Des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a robust and versatile breed, known for its dense, tousled coat that sheds minimally. Originally bred for farm work, these dogs have a strong and sturdy build, complemented by their hardworking nature.
Despite their rugged appearance, Bouviers are gentle and affectionate companions. They are known for their calm demeanor, making them excellent family pets. Their loyalty and strong protective instincts also rank them among the best guard dogs, always alert to their surroundings.
In terms of grooming, the Bouvier’s coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and maintain its texture. Their minimal shedding makes them suitable for those who prefer less cleaning around the house.
With their combination of strength, loyalty, and low-shedding coat, Bouviers are an ideal choice for families seeking a dependable and hypoallergenic large dog.
6. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are impressive dogs, known for their commanding presence and minimal shedding. Their dense, wiry coat rarely sheds, making them a great option for allergy sufferers or those who prefer a cleaner home.
These dogs are intelligent and require mental stimulation as well as physical activity. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, often forming strong bonds with their families. This makes them excellent guard dogs and companions for those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Grooming a Giant Schnauzer involves regular clipping to maintain their coat’s characteristic texture. Their energy and intelligence mean they need regular exercise and training to keep them engaged.
With their minimal shedding and loyal nature, Giant Schnauzers are a top choice for those looking for a large, hypoallergenic dog.
7. Komondor
The Komondor is an impressive breed known for its distinctive corded coat. This unique coat is not only striking in appearance but also sheds minimally, making this breed a unique choice for dog lovers.
Originally bred to guard livestock, Komondors have a protective nature. These dogs are independent and can be reserved around strangers, but they form strong bonds with their family members. Their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs, always alert and ready to defend their loved ones.
Grooming a Komondor requires special attention to their corded coat, ensuring it remains clean and free of debris. Despite the need for regular grooming, their coat sheds very little, which is a bonus for those sensitive to pet hair.
With their loyal and protective nature, Komondors make excellent companions for families seeking a large dog with minimal shedding.
8. Briard
Briards are known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by a long, flowing coat that sheds minimally. These dogs have a rich history as herding animals, known for their intelligence and loyalty. Their long coats require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful texture and prevent tangles.
Despite the grooming needs, Briards shed very little, making them a suitable choice for those who prefer less cleaning.
Briards are affectionate and protective, often forming close bonds with their family members. They are known for their alertness and make excellent watchdogs.
Their combination of loyalty, intelligence, and minimal shedding makes them a favorite among those seeking a large, hypoallergenic dog.
9. Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and lively, known for their curly, low-shedding coats. This breed’s coat is unique, resembling wool, and sheds very little, making these dogs a suitable choice for those with allergies.
These dogs are intelligent and versatile, excelling in various dog sports and activities. They love to swim and are often happiest when playing in water. Their spirited nature makes them great companions for active families.
Regular grooming is necessary to maintain the Spanish Water Dog’s coat, preventing tangles and keeping it clean. Despite this, their minimal shedding is a significant advantage for those who prefer a cleaner home environment.
With their friendly and energetic nature, Spanish Water Dogs make excellent companions for those seeking a large, hypoallergenic breed.
10. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a distinctive breed known for its unique matted coat, which sheds minimally. This coat forms naturally into mats, serving as protection from harsh weather and reducing shedding.
These dogs are calm and dependable, known for their loyalty to their families. They have a gentle disposition, making them excellent companions for children and adults alike.
Grooming a Bergamasco involves maintaining the mats to ensure they remain clean and free from debris. Despite their unique coat, these dogs shed very little, making them suitable for those with allergies.
With their calm nature and minimal shedding, Bergamascos are a great choice for families seeking a hypoallergenic large dog.
11. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their silky, low-shedding coats. This breed’s coat is soft to the touch and sheds very little, making them an attractive choice for those who prefer a cleaner home.
These dogs are friendly and lively, known for their joyful disposition. They are great with children and often get along well with other pets. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for families.
Regular grooming is needed to keep their coat looking its best, but minimal shedding is a definite advantage.
With their friendly personality and low-shedding coat, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are a favorite among those seeking a hypoallergenic large dog breed.
12. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a regal breed known for its long, flowing coat and elegant appearance. Despite their luxurious coat, they shed very little, making them a suitable choice for those sensitive to pet hair.
These dogs are independent and often aloof, but they form close bonds with their families. They are known for their athleticism and enjoy activities that challenge their agility and speed.
Grooming an Afghan Hound involves regular brushing to prevent tangles and maintain their coat’s beauty. Their minimal shedding is a significant advantage for those who prefer a cleaner home.
With their regal appearance and low-shedding coat, Afghan Hounds are a top choice for those seeking a large, hypoallergenic dog.
13. Saluki
Salukis are known for their grace and speed, boasting a sleek, elegant coat that sheds very little. This breed is one of the oldest, revered for its history as a hunting dog in ancient cultures.
These dogs are gentle and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families. They are known for their calm demeanor indoors, but they thrive on exercise and enjoy running and playing in open spaces.
Grooming a Saluki involves regular brushing to maintain their coat’s sleek appearance, but their minimal shedding is a benefit for those with allergies.
With their grace, history, and low-shedding coat, Salukis make excellent companions for those seeking a large, hypoallergenic dog.
14. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a unique breed known for its curly, low-shedding coat. Originally bred as a truffle hunter, this breed has a keen sense of smell and a love for exploration.
These dogs have a dense, water-resistant coat that requires regular grooming to keep it tidy and free of tangles. Despite the grooming needs, their coat sheds minimally, making them a great choice for those sensitive to pet hair.
Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their affectionate nature and intelligence. They are easy to train and enjoy learning new things. Their friendly disposition makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
With their minimal shedding and loving nature, they are a top choice for those seeking a hypoallergenic large dog.