Dogs That Don't Shed: Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Say goodbye to your lint brush! With dog allergies so common, non-shedding/hypoallergenic dogs are more popular than ever. Many pet lovers are see hypoallergenic dog breeds as a livable alternative. And then of course, there is the benefit of not having your clothes and furniture covered in fur. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic as all dogs shed some allergens, there are some breeds that are known to be better for allergy-sufferers. Below is a list of the most popular.

POODLE (All Sizes)

Poodles, coming in three different sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard), are one of the most popular dogs in the world. These intelligent and responsive dogs are also considered hypoallergenic and as an added bonus, these dogs are know for being practically odorless.

BICHON FRISE

The Bichon Frise is truly a non-shedding small dog breed. These playful and affectionate dogs are an ideal dog breed for people with allergies, but they are not maintenance-free. The Bichon Frise's hair grows continuously, requiring frequent grooming, brushing, and the occasional bath in order to keep up with their powder-puff looks.

LHASA APSO

This small dog breed from Tibet makes an excellent companion. Calm yet playful, the Lhasa Apso enjoys brisk walks and resting in their owner's lap. Lhasa Apsos don't shed, but their coats do require maintenance. Many owners keep their Lhasa Apsos clipped in a "puppy cut" to avoid daily grooming and brushing of their long hair.

HAVANESE

Spirited and friendly, Havanese dogs make fitting pets for families with children. They are incredibly social and are known for their lively gait. The Havanese was originally bred for Cuban artistocrats. They adopted the nickname "Velcro Dog" because of how close they keep to their owners.

AFFENPINSCHER

Affenpinscher means "monkey-like terrier," and this breed's intelligence and appearance are true to its name. Despite its small size, this Toy breed is fearless, and with an Affenpinscher keeping an eye on things, you don't need to be afraid of unannounced guests or of finding dog hair in your food. The Affenpinscher's wiry coat sheds very little and also has almost no doggy odor. A twice-weekly brushing with a slicker brush and comb is all that is needed to keep the Affenpinscher looking shaggy yet neat, and this low-maintenance little canine is famous for its sense of humor.

MALTESE

Maltese have charmed their human counterparts for three millennia. This ancient dog of Malta has not changed much over the past 28 centuries, perhaps in part because their long, white coats shed very little, making them an ideal lap dog. Their coats do require regular brushing to prevent mats from forming, and an occasional bath removes any unwanted dirt and debris from their long, silky hair.

SHIH TZU

The Shih Tzu is another breed with a long pedigree. The favored house pet of the Tang Dynasty, these "little lions dogs" come in a variety of colors and patterns. Their long, silky hair is very low-shedding and looks exceptionally regal when brushed out, befitting their royal ancestry. This Toy breed is sturdy and lively, with a carriage often described as arrogant, due to their proudly held heads and curling tails. Shih Tzu were bred to be house pets, and their gentle, trusting nature makes them exceptional companions.

TERRIERS

The Terrier group is full of small dogs that don't shed or shed minimally. Wiry- and coarse-haired Terriers shed less than other breeds, making Terriers ideal small dogs for people who don't enjoy excessive shedding. Here are some other non- or low-shedding Terrier breeds:

• Wire Fox Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Scottish Terrier
• West Highland White Terrier
• Dandie Dinmont Terrier
• Cairn Terrier
• Australian Terrier
• Border Terrier
• Bedlington Terrier
• Sealyham Terrier
• Silky Terrier
• Welsh Terrier