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.
1. Barbet
This rare French water dog has a dense, curly coat similar to the Poodle. Shedding is minimal, but brushing is essential to avoid matting. The Barbet is sociable, bright, and loves being part of the family.
2. Black Russian Terrier
Big, bold, and bearded, this breed sports a dense, low-shedding coat perfect for cooler climates.
Their strong guarding instincts make them excellent protectors. While grooming is a must, you’ll rarely find loose fur around the home.
3. Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is not only intelligent and elegant, but also blessed with a curly, low-shedding coat.
Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat tangle-free, but the lack of loose fur around the house is a big plus. They’re hypoallergenic favorites for allergy-prone families.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen, this energetic dog has a waterproof, curly coat that sheds minimally.
Their playful spirit and loyalty make them excellent companions. They do require consistent grooming to keep their curls healthy and neat.
5. Irish Water Spaniel
This breed combines the size of a larger dog with the charm of ringlet curls. Irish Water Spaniels have a double coat that repels water and resists shedding.
They’re full of energy and need an active family who enjoys outdoor adventures.
6. Airedale Terrier
Known as the “King of Terriers,” Airedales have a wiry, low-shedding coat and a bold personality.
Their coat benefits from regular hand-stripping or clipping, but you won’t find much fur on your floors. They’re alert, loyal, and full of character.
7. Bouvier des Flandres
This powerful herding dog is covered in a thick, tousled coat that doesn’t shed much. They’re calm, protective, and affectionate, making them great for families.
Their grooming needs are high, but their minimal shedding makes it worthwhile.
8. Giant Schnauzer
With their trademark beard and dignified look, Giant Schnauzers are smart and strong.
Their dense, wiry coat is low-shedding but needs regular brushing and clipping. These loyal dogs thrive with active owners who can match their energy.
9. Komondor
This Hungarian guardian dog is best known for its corded, mop-like coat. While dramatic in appearance, it sheds very little.
Grooming involves maintaining those cords, but you won’t find fur around the house—just the occasional awe-struck stare from passersby.
10. Briard
With a long, wavy coat and a heart full of affection, the Briard sheds surprisingly little for a dog its size.
Their double coat requires frequent brushing to avoid mats, but loose hair is minimal. They’re intelligent herders with a protective streak.
11. Spanish Water Dog
Their curly, woolly coat is not only low-shedding, but also water-resistant.
Spanish Water Dogs are lively, hardworking, and deeply loyal. Their coat is best left natural and can be trimmed to prevent matting with minimal upkeep.
12. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco’s coat naturally forms mats or “flocks” that protect them from the elements.
Once their unique coat forms properly, it’s surprisingly low-maintenance and doesn’t shed much at all. They’re calm, patient, and devoted companions.
13. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Though medium in some standards, their square build and lively energy give them a “big dog” presence.
Their silky, soft coat doesn’t shed much but does need brushing to avoid tangles. They’re cheerful, affectionate, and full of enthusiasm.
14. Afghan Hound
With flowing locks and graceful strides, Afghan Hounds are showstoppers. Their long coat doesn’t shed much, but it demands regular brushing to prevent mats.
Their quiet, independent nature is balanced by an unexpected streak of goofiness.
15. Saluki
These elegant sighthounds have smooth or feathered coats that shed very little.
They’re calm indoors and incredibly fast when in motion, often compared to feline personalities. Their coat is easy to maintain, making them a sleek, low-shedding option.
16. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally bred to hunt truffles, this curly-coated Italian breed has a non-shedding, woolly coat.
It’s hypoallergenic and only needs regular trims to keep it in shape. They’re affectionate, alert, and quick learners.