A towering figure with a wavy coat stands beside you, its eyes filled with warmth. You reach out, expecting a flurry of loose hair, but to your surprise, barely a strand clings to your hand. Unlike most dogs, some large dog breeds shed minimally, making them perfect for those who love big, affectionate companions without the endless cleanup.
But what are these low-shedding large dog breeds, and what makes them different from other dogs that naturally shed? From curly coats to wiry textures, these breeds have unique fur types that trap hair instead of spreading it. Some are even hypoallergenic, producing less pet dander, which is great for allergy sufferers.
If you’re searching for a laid-back dog with a non-shedding coat, you’re in the right place. Our blog explores the nine best large dog breeds that shed minimally, making life easier for dog owners.
Low-Shedding Large Dog Breeds
1. Saluki
The Saluki’s flowing coat adds to its elegance, but despite its long fur, this breed sheds minimally. Unlike double-coated breeds, it has a fine, silky hair texture that prevents excess shedding, making it a great option for tidy homes.
For those with allergies, a low-shedding dog breed like the Saluki is a blessing. Since it doesn’t produce much loose hair, it reduces exposure to pet dander, lowering the risk of an allergic reaction compared to shedding dogs.
Grooming at Home vs. Professional Care
Although it doesn’t shed much, its long coat needs frequent care. PetMD says regular grooming with a soft brush helps prevent tangles and removes any dirt that accumulates in its fine fur.
Regular professional grooming can keep the Saluki’s coat in perfect shape. Monthly trims and a gentle bath will maintain its sleek, smooth fur while keeping the skin healthy.
Is This Graceful Giant a Good Fit for Your Lifestyle?
This laid-back dog thrives in spacious homes. It enjoys lounging indoors but benefits from daily regular exercise to keep it happy. Although calm, it appreciates active play in open areas.
2. Airedale Terrier
Known as the largest terrier breed, the Airedale Terrier has a wiry coat that sheds very little. Its dense fur traps dog hair, preventing it from spreading, unlike other dogs that shed heavily.
Unlike some shedding dogs, this breed is ideal for allergy sufferers. Its non-shedding coat produces less dander, making it a comfortable companion for those sensitive to pet allergens.
Wiry Coat Maintenance: Home Brushing and Expert Trims
This breed requires regular grooming to keep its coat tidy. Brushing a few times a week prevents dirt buildup and maintains its signature short coat, which is both durable and weather-resistant.
A professional groomer should trim its fur every few months. The corded coat needs stripping to remove old hairs, ensuring a neat appearance without excessive fluff.
Does This Energetic Terrier Fit Your Lifestyle?
Airedales need space to roam. While adaptable, they do best in homes with yards where they can run freely. Active dog owners will appreciate their energetic and intelligent nature.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog has a curly coat that is both waterproof and shed minimally. Unlike shedding depends on season cycles, this breed’s tight curls keep loose hair trapped, preventing excessive fur in your home.
Because they don’t shed much, hypoallergenic dog breeds like this are great for families concerned about allergies. Their non-shedding breeds status makes them a preferred option for those looking for a clean, low-maintenance companion.
From Daily Brushing to Salon Trims: Grooming Essentials
Keeping its coat in shape requires frequent brushing. Since curls can tangle easily, combing out knots prevents mats while maintaining a soft, fluffy texture.
A visit to a professional groomer every six weeks is necessary. Trims help maintain its wavy coat, keeping it manageable while also ensuring the dog stays comfortable.
Can This Water-Loving Dog Adapt to Your Home?
These dogs love adventure. Whether in an apartment or a house, they require regular exercise and enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, or playtime with their families.
4. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound boasts a luxurious flowing coat that’s surprisingly low-shedding. Unlike most dogs, this breed’s long coat doesn’t leave fur scattered around, making it a good choice for cleaner households.
With minimal shedding, this breed is easier for allergy sufferers to tolerate. Its sleek fur doesn’t spread pet dander as much as shedding dogs, reducing common allergic reactions.
Maintaining Elegance: Home Brushing and Salon Grooming
Despite its non-shedding coat, this breed requires daily brushing to prevent tangles. Its fur is fine and delicate, needing extra care to keep it smooth and silky.
Orvis notes that regular trips to a professional groomer ensure its coat remains manageable. A bath with mild shampoo and precise trims helps maintain its signature elegance without excess upkeep.
Does This Laid-Back Beauty Match Your Lifestyle?
These elegant dogs prefer peaceful environments. While they enjoy lounging indoors, they need space for exercise, making them better suited for larger homes rather than small apartments.
5. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel has a woolly coat that repels dirt and moisture while keeping shedding to a minimum. Unlike golden retriever fur, its tight curls hold onto dog hair, preventing excess mess.
It’s hypoallergenic thanks to its coat structure. Since it produces less dander than many breeds, it’s a comfortable choice for those sensitive to allergens in a dog’s saliva or fur.
Grooming Tips: Preventing Tangles and Keeping Curls Fresh
Brushing at home is essential to maintain its curls. Regular combing stops mats from forming, keeping the coat fluffy while also preventing tangles.
A professional groomer should trim it every six weeks. Since its curls grow continuously, shaping the coat ensures it stays manageable without losing its natural bounce.
Is This Spirited Breed the Right Companion for You?
This breed thrives in active households. Whether living in a home with a backyard or an apartment with frequent outdoor activities, it enjoys staying engaged through swimming and running.
6. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a powerful breed with a dense wiry coat. Unlike breeds that shed seasonally, its coarse fur keeps loose hair from spreading, making it a top choice among low-shedding large dog breeds.
This breed’s minimal shedding reduces allergens in the home. Unlike shedding dogs, its non-shedding coat helps keep spaces cleaner, making it easier for people with allergies to coexist with pets.
Grooming Guide: Home Trims and Professional Touch-Ups
At-home maintenance is crucial. Weekly brushing helps manage its thick coat, while occasional hand-stripping removes old hairs, ensuring a tidy, well-kept appearance.
Professional grooming keeps its iconic beard and fur in shape. Trimming and bathing every two months maintain its bold look while preventing matting and dirt buildup.
Is This Loyal Giant Ideal for Your Family?
Best suited for spacious homes, this breed requires an active lifestyle. It thrives in households with daily routines that involve training, running, or structured playtime.
7. Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres has a dense thick coat that acts as a protective layer against harsh weather. Unlike shedding depends on seasonal changes, its fur retains most of its volume without excessive shedding.
Thanks to its unique coat, it’s considered a hypoallergenic dog breed. Unlike many breeds, it produces less dander, making it a comfortable option for sensitive individuals.
Balancing Home Grooming and Professional Maintenance
Despite its low shedding, brushing a few times a week is essential. Since its coat is naturally coarse, regular care prevents dirt from sticking while maintaining its texture.
AKC says that to keep its coat structured, grooming appointments every two months are recommended. Trimming and hand-stripping help preserve its rugged yet controlled appearance.
Does This Giant Breed Match Your Lifestyle?
This breed adapts well to family homes. While it enjoys relaxation indoors, it also benefits from outdoor activities, making it ideal for people who enjoy active lifestyles.
8. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a distinctive wiry coat that resists dirt and shedding. Unlike soft-coated wheaten terrier, its rough fur traps dog hair, keeping shedding under control.
This breed is a great option for allergy sufferers since it doesn’t release excessive pet dander. Unlike double-coated breeds, its fur structure minimizes airborne allergens.
Keeping the Coat Healthy: Brushing, Bathing, and Trims
Although it sheds less, its coat needs frequent care. Weekly brushing removes any trapped debris, keeping it in top condition while ensuring a neat look.
A professional groomer can help maintain its coat by stripping and trimming it every few months. Since its fur is naturally rough, shaping it properly enhances its rugged appearance.
Is This Versatile Dog Right for You?
This big breed suits active families. It thrives in environments with ample outdoor space, making it an excellent companion for those who love hiking or adventure.
9. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo has a dense curly coat that repels water and dirt while keeping shedding at a minimum. Unlike short hair breeds, its textured fur keeps loose hair contained.
With less dander than other breeds, it’s an excellent choice for those prone to allergies. Unlike shedding dogs, it doesn’t leave fur scattered around, making cleaning easier.
Caring for Curls: Simple Home Grooming & Pro Trims
Frequent care is necessary to keep its curls in shape. Regular brushing prevents knots while maintaining the coat’s soft, wool-like texture.
To preserve its unique look, a professional groomer should trim it regularly. Proper cuts help prevent overgrowth, ensuring the dog remains comfortable and well-kept.
Does This Intelligent Breed Fit Your Household?
This breed adjusts well to various living situations. Whether in an apartment or a home with a yard, it enjoys staying active through training, swimming, and play.
Conclusion
Finding the best dogs that match your lifestyle isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort, cleanliness, and companionship. If you love great companions but worry about shedding, these low-shedding large dog breeds offer the perfect balance of beauty and practicality. Why settle for constant cleanup when you can enjoy a tidy home with a loving pet?
From the Giant Schnauzer to the Lagotto Romagnolo, each breed has unique traits that help reduce shedding while offering an affectionate nature. Although not included in this list, breeds like the Standard Poodle, Kerry Blue Terrier, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Standard Schnauzer, German Shepherd, and Miniature Schnauzer are also worth considering for their manageable coats.
Choosing a dog isn’t just about fur—it’s about finding the right fit for your home and heart. Ready to welcome a loyal, low-shedding companion? The perfect match is waiting!
