Dogs are among the most popular pets across the globe. But their shedding levels make them more or less suitable for pet parents. Heavily shedding breeds are not a good choice for fastidious owners or people prone to allergies.
Fortunately, some breeds shed less than others. In general, curly, wiry, or constantly growing coats tend to shed less visibly. On the contrary, breeds with a double coat or dense undercoat shed more heavily than others. However, there can be a few exceptions.
Some low-shedding dog breeds are hypoallergenic, which means they produce minimal allergens. It makes them a great choice for allergy sufferers. Grooming needs may also vary depending on shedding levels and the dog’s coat type.
Here are the top dog breeds that shed very little. Let’s read ahead to learn about them.
Top Dog Breeds That Shed Very Little: A Complete Guide
1. Basenji
Basenjis are smart and active dogs famous for their ‘barkless nature’ and unique yodel-like vocalizations. They can be instantly recognized through their wrinkled forehead, tightly curled tail, and glossy short coat. This short-haired breed comes in different coat colors and patterns.
The American Kennel Club describes Basenjis as fastidious dogs that groom themselves like cats. These fastidious creatures do not shed heavily. They require only weekly brushing to maintain their coat. Brushing helps distribute skin oils throughout the coat.
Professional grooming is not required. Basenjis do not have a ‘doggy smell’ and do not need a bath until they get into something really messy.
Basenjis are active and energetic dogs, prone to mischief. They enjoy playing with their humans, but tend to be aloof towards strangers. Basenjis can have an independent streak and require proper training and early socialization to behave well.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Best known for their luxurious, floor-length coat, Yorkshire Terriers are spunky and entertaining companion dogs. Their floor-length coat of steel blue and rich golden tan resembles human hair and requires similar care.
Daily brushing and frequent bathing are needed to keep a Yorkie’s coat in top-notch condition. The upper part of the head should be trimmed short or tied up into a top knot. Brushing helps manage shedding and prevent matting.
According to Purina, Yorkshire Terriers are a hypoallergenic dog breed, prone to minimal shedding. Professional grooming may also be needed from time to time. Some pet parents clip their Yorkie’s coat into a ‘puppy cut’ to ensure easier maintenance.
Yorkshire Terriers are among the most popular lap dogs. Highly affectionate to their owners, these small dogs are a great choice for allergy sufferers and apartment dwellers.
3. Chinese Crested
Often referred to as ‘Velcro dogs,’ Chinese Cresteds come in two distinctive varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Hairless dogs have their own advantages. For instance, there is no doggy odor, and they do not require frequent brushing.
Also, no hair means no shedding. Hairless Chinese Cresteds, however, have tufts of hair on their head, tail, lower legs, crest, plume, and socks.
Their exposed skin is prone to sunburns, irritation, and allergies. Skin infections and problems can be avoided by investing in a good-quality sunscreen and other doggy products.
Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds, on the other hand, have soft and silky hair on their entire body. Their low-shedding coat needs regular brushing to keep looking good.
Both Chinese Crested varieties are playful and affectionate. These sensitive souls are highly attuned to their owner’s moods and emotions. They bond closely to their humans, but can be suspicious of strangers. However, they behave nicely once they get to know you.
4. Bedlington Terrier
Having the personality traits of typical terriers, Bedlington Terriers are highly affectionate and charming. The unique feature of these elegant dogs is their lamb-like appearance. Soft and curly coat, pear-shaped head, and narrow muzzle are the trademark of this breed.
Bedlington Terriers are a low-shedding dog breed with a hypoallergenic coat. They make ideal pets for allergy sufferers.
Their crisp coat is a mixture of soft and harsh, but not wiry, hair. WebMD recommends brushing your Bedlington Terrier’s coat weekly. You can take them to a professional groomer from time to time or give them a haircut yourself.
Bedlington Terriers thrive on attention and possess bursts of energy. They are well suited for owners with an active lifestyle. These curious and intelligent dogs are easy to train and better suited for families with older children who know how to interact with dogs.
5. Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintli, also known as Mexican Hairless Terriers, are intelligent, calm, and compact dogs. Originally bred as working dogs, they form strong bonds with their humans and are often reserved towards strangers.
Xolos come in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard) and two coat varieties. Hairless dogs have a tough, smooth, close-fitting skin, while the coated variety is covered in a short and smooth coat. Both varieties require occasional brushing and minimal grooming to look good.
Xolos are a low-shedding breed that sheds minimally and tends to be hypoallergenic. Still, there may be a few allergens in a dog’s saliva and urine. However, they produce very little dander and make ideal dogs for individuals prone to allergies.
Having a Xolo by your side, you do not need to worry about pet hair everywhere. These dogs have a high prey drive, so they may end up chasing squirrels and other small animals.
6. American Hairless Terrier
American Hairless Terrier is the only hairless breed native to America. These come in both hairless and coated varieties. Hairless breed dogs need little care due to less hair, but are prone to sunburns. You need to apply a good quality sunscreen before taking them out to ensure skin protection.
Coated dogs have a short and low-maintenance coat. They are prone to minimal shedding and require occasional brushing. Brush your dog’s coat only once a week using a slicker brush or a soft bristle brush. Get their nails trimmed and clean their ears regularly.
Like all Terrier breeds, American Hairless Terriers are playful, affectionate, and inquisitive. They are happy to be lap dogs, but require regular exercise to stay healthy and content. Regular walks and playtime are needed to meet their energy requirements.
7. Maltese
Maltese are one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds loved for their silky coat. These playful, gentle, and charming canines make loving lap dogs and amazing pets for apartment dwellers. Their luscious locks have a low-shedding nature, making them well suited for people with dog allergies.
Consistent grooming is required for the coat management of these single-coated dogs. Daily brushing is needed to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. The long hair can be kept clean with regular baths.
Maltese are friendly and affectionate dogs who adapt well to family life. Thanks to their sociable personality, they get along nicely with everyone, including kids, other pets, and even strangers. Maltese form close bonds with their humans and prefer to stay by their side all the time.
Conclusion
Different dog breeds shed differently. Some are valued by dog owners due to their low-shedding coats. Low-shedding dog breeds may have a silky coat or a short coat. In both cases, the dogs require regular grooming to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
Grooming needs may vary from one breed to another. Some require high upkeep while others have low-maintenance coats. Many dogs that don’t shed are hypoallergenic as well. They do not produce much dander and make great pets for allergy sufferers.
