Dogs bring boundless joy into our lives, but let’s be honest—some bring a little too much fur along with them. If you adore large breeds but aren’t keen on constant vacuuming, you might be looking for a dog that sheds moderately rather than excessively.
While all dogs shed to some extent, certain large breeds are more manageable, making them perfect for owners who want a balance between a big, lovable companion and a relatively fur-free home.
Moderate-shedding breeds tend to have coats that require regular grooming but won’t leave your furniture looking like a fur rug. With the right care, a moderate-shedding large dog can be the perfect fit for families, individuals, and even first-time dog owners who want a gentle giant without excessive fur maintenance.
Let’s dive into some of the best moderate-shedding large dog breeds that offer the best of both worlds—size, personality, and manageable grooming needs.
Moderate Shedding Large Dog Breeds
1. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, affectionately known as the “Chessie,” is a rugged, athletic breed originally bred for retrieving waterfowl in icy waters. Their wavy, water-resistant coat provides excellent protection but surprisingly doesn’t shed as much as you’d expect from a working retriever.
Unlike their cousins, the Labrador and Golden Retriever, Chessies have an oilier coat that naturally repels water and dirt, reducing the amount of shedding compared to other retriever breeds.
A weekly brushing session is usually enough to keep this low-shedding dog breed’s coat in check and prevent excessive loose hair from spreading around the home. Their shedding tends to be seasonal rather than year-round, meaning most fur loss occurs during spring and fall.
In addition to their manageable coat, Purina says Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are known for their intelligence and strong work ethic. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and retrieval games. However, they have an independent streak, so early socialization and consistent training are necessary.
Chessies are naturally protective and form deep bonds with their families, making them excellent watchdogs in addition to loyal companions. They thrive in active households where they can get plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities to put their retrieving skills to use.
While they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed nature, these minimal-shedding dogs are excellent for those looking for a moderately shedding, highly capable, and affectionate companion.
2. Great Dane
Standing tall and proud, the Great Dane is often called the “gentle giant” of the dog world. Despite their enormous size, these dogs have a short, sleek coat that sheds moderately, making them one of the more low-maintenance large breeds when it comes to grooming.
They have a single-layer coat, which means they don’t experience heavy seasonal shedding like double-coated breeds. Regular brushing of the dog hair—about once or twice a week—helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat looking sleek. Since they have short fur, shedding is less noticeable than in breeds with longer coats, though their size means that even moderate shedding can add up.
PetMD says these dogs are affectionate, intelligent, and surprisingly calm indoors, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
Despite their size, they don’t require excessive exercise and are content with daily walks and playtime. However, they do need plenty of space due to their sheer size and long limbs.
Great Danes are known for their strong attachment to their owners. They are often called “Velcro dogs” because they like to be near their people at all times.
This loyalty makes them excellent guard dogs, even though they are typically friendly and good-natured. Their deep bark alone is often enough to deter potential intruders.
While they are relatively easy to groom, Great Danes do require careful attention to their diet and health, as they are prone to bloat (a serious condition in deep-chested dogs). Proper nutrition, regular vet checkups, and appropriate exercise can help them live a long and happy life.
3. Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerful yet calm breed known for its thick, shaggy coat. While it may look like a high-maintenance dog at first glance, the Bouvier actually sheds moderately and can be easily managed with regular grooming.
This breed’s dense, weather-resistant coat traps loose hair, reducing the amount that ends up on floors and furniture. However, regular brushing (at least 2-3 times a week) is necessary to prevent matting and tangles.
Many owners opt to have their Bouvier’s curly coat professionally trimmed every few months to keep their coats neat and manageable.
Beyond their grooming needs, Bouviers are intelligent, protective, and excellent family companions. They are often used as police and guard dogs due to their strong work ethic and loyalty. However, they also have a sweet and affectionate side, making them great for families with children.
While they require consistent training, Bouviers are highly trainable and eager to please. They do best with an owner who can provide firm, positive leadership and plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
If you’re looking for a strong, versatile dog with a balanced coat that won’t overwhelm you with shedding, the Bouvier des Flandres is a fantastic option.
4. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is an imposing yet intelligent breed that combines strength with a hypoallergenic, wiry coat that sheds minimally. Unlike heavy-shedding breeds, Schnauzers have hair rather than fur, meaning they shed less but require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Their double, hypoallergenic coat benefits from regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair. While they do shed moderately, their wiry coat holds onto loose hairs, preventing excessive fur from accumulating around the house.
Many Schnauzer owners opt for professional grooming every few months to maintain their coat’s appearance.
They are highly energetic, intelligent, and incredibly loyal to their families, as per AKC. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, but their trainability makes them excellent working dogs, watchdogs, and family protectors.
In addition to their grooming needs, Schnauzers are naturally clean dogs with minimal odor, making them an excellent choice for owners looking for a large dog that doesn’t leave fur everywhere.
The Giant Schnauzer is an excellent choice for those who want a large, protective dog with a manageable shedding level.
5. Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of the four Swiss Mountain Dog breeds, but don’t let that fool you—this medium-to-large breed packs a punch in terms of energy, intelligence, and work ethic.
Originally bred for herding cattle in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are known for their boundless enthusiasm and dedication to their families.
Their silky coat naturally repels dirt and debris, making grooming relatively easy. Brushing them once or twice a week helps remove loose hair and maintain their sleek appearance. Their shedding tends to increase slightly in seasonal changes, but they are far from the worst offenders when it comes to fur loss.
In terms of personality, these dogs are alert, affectionate, and protective. They form strong bonds with their families and are excellent watchdogs. They’re highly intelligent and eager to work, making them ideal for owners who enjoy training, agility activities, and outdoor adventures.
Due to their herding background, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs thrive in active households. They love to have a job to do and require consistent training to keep them mentally and physically engaged. If left without sufficient stimulation, they may develop stubborn or independent tendencies.
For families looking for a moderate-shedding, energetic, and loyal companion, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an excellent choice. They bring all the charm of a working dog without excessive grooming needs.
6. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a strikingly powerful breed known for its loyalty, courage, and hunting abilities. Originally bred in Argentina for big-game hunting, this breed is fearless, strong, and protective—qualities that make it an excellent guardian for homes and families.
Despite their impressive muscular build, Dogos have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately. Their shedding is more noticeable during seasonal changes but remains manageable with regular brushing (once or twice a week).
Their white coat does require occasional wiping to keep it looking clean, especially since they have a tendency to get dirty while playing outdoors.
Beyond their manageable grooming needs, WebMD says Dogo Argentinos are highly intelligent and trainable. However, they require an experienced owner who can provide firm leadership and proper socialization.
These dogs are naturally protective and territorial, making them one of the best guard dog breeds for families seeking both companionship and security.
Due to their high energy levels, Dogos need daily exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. They excel in activities like obedience training, agility courses, and protection work. If given the right environment, they make outstanding, fiercely loyal, loving, and brave companions.
The Dogo Argentino is a fantastic choice for those looking for a strong, protective dog with a moderate shedding coat. They offer unwavering loyalty, intelligence, and athleticism, all while keeping shedding under control.
7. Mastiff
Regarding sheer size and presence, few breeds can rival the Mastiff. These gentle giants are known for their calm demeanor, strength, and loyalty. While they were historically used for guarding and protection, today’s Mastiffs are equally loving family companions.
Despite their massive frame, the Mastiff dog breed has a short, dense coat that sheds moderately. Unlike thick-coated breeds, they don’t leave excessive hair around the house. However, their size means that even moderate shedding can add up.
Regular brushing (two to three times a week) helps manage loose fur and keeps their coat in top condition.
They are incredibly affectionate and tend to be gentle, even with children. They are naturally protective but not aggressive, making them fantastic family guardians. Their presence alone is often enough to deter intruders, as their towering size can be quite intimidating.
Though they are low-energy indoors, they do require daily walks and exercise to maintain good health. They are prone to weight gain, so a proper diet and regular activity are crucial. Additionally, they tend to drool, so owners should be prepared for some extra clean-up in that regard.
In terms of temperament, Mastiffs are known for being loyal, patient, and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their owners and follow them around the house like oversized lapdogs. This deep attachment makes them ideal for families looking for a protective but loving dog.
Conclusion
Owning a large dog doesn’t have to mean constantly battling fur. These moderate-shedding large breeds offer an outstanding balance—impressive size and personality without overwhelming shedding. Whether you prefer the sleek Great Dane, the protective Dogo Argentino, or the loyal Chesapeake Bay Retriever, there’s a perfect match for every household.
Apart from these dogs, the Portuguese water dog and Afghan hounds are also considered low-shedding breeds.
By choosing the right breed and maintaining a regular grooming routine, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—a large, loving companion without a house full of fur. Which of these breeds is your favorite?
