If you have a dog in your home, you're certain to get some dog hair on your furniture. Their tendency to shed can be off-putting for neat freaks and those with allergies, but did you know there are a number of low shedding dog breeds?
Dogs are notorious for getting their hair just about everywhere, and they also seem to be able to sense when clothes are clean, making a beeline for them. But this fur shedding means that some clean freaks and allergy suffers avoid getting a four-legged friend as they either can't stand all the loose hair around the house, or the fur itself causes an allergic reaction. If you're one of these people, you may have given up all hope of ever having a dog, but did you know there are lots of low shedding dogs?
While completely non-shedding dogs are a myth as it's natural for all dogs to shed at least a little bit, there are certain dogs out there that do shed a lot less than others. Keep reading to discover our top 9 dogs that don't shed as much.
1. Miniature Schnauzer
Originally bred to be a ratter, this loving breed is most famous for having a grumpy expression.
But did you know that they are also low-shedding dogs. While Miniature Schnauzers shed minimally, they have to be groomed regularly and also often need to have their fur clipped, so you'll need to factor in regular trips to the groomers if you're considering this breed.
2. Lhasa Apso
This long-haired beauty sheds minimally and gradually, similar to the Yorkshire Terrier, and many owners say that they don't even notice them shedding at all. You'll have to ensure that you give your Lhasa Apso plenty of baths and grooming to prevent tangling though, and the long hair will need to be trimmed frequently.
3. Scottish Terrier
Thought to be Scotland's oldest breed, the Scottish Terrier is a low shedding dog. The main reason why this dog doesn't shed as much is because they have two coats: a wiry topcoat and a soft bottom coat. This prevents too much hair shedding, but it doesn't mean you can scrimp on the grooming - Scottish Terriers require frequent brushing to keep their coat in good condition.
4. Poodle
It should come as no surprise that the Poodle is virtually a non-shedding dog breed. Praised by allergy suffers for being a hypoallergenic dog, all varieties of the Poodle shed very minimally. When they do shed (usually every few weeks or so), the hair gets trapped in their curly fur, so it won't end up all over your couch! Also, because hair and dirt get trapped in their curly coat, you'll need to ensure that you make time to brush your Poodle every day.
5. Whippet
Known for being incredibly fast and looking like a tiny Greyhound, Whippets are another extremely low shedding dog breed. Unlike other dogs on this list, weekly grooming with a rubber curry brush is enough for them, so they're well suited to those looking for a dog that doesn't shed as much but doesn't need grooming each day.
Fun fact: Whippet comes from an old English word that literally means 'quickly moving little dog'.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a breed native to the UK that only appeared about in the 19th century. Known for their silky coats, this non-shedding dog has hair has been likened to humans, in the way that it tends to fall out gradually and tangles very easily.
Due to the easy-to-tangle nature of their coat, they need to be groomed regularly to keep it in tip-top condition.
7. West Highland Terrier
Similar to the Scottish Terrier, the West Highland Terrier has a wiry topcoat and a soft bottom coat. However, they also require plenty of brushing because if their grooming routine is neglected, their coat can become matted. Be sure to take your Westie for plenty of trips to the groomer for brushing and trimming!
8. Afghan Hound
With their silky flowing hair and looks that resemble royalty, the Afghan Hound looks nothing short of magnificent. This mostly non-shedding dog has one coat instead of two, and it constantly grows, much like human hair. Due to the constant growth they shed less but the fur will need frequent trimming to prevent it from getting too long.
Fun fact: Afghan Hounds were originally bred for hunting large prey in the mountains and deserts of Afghanistan, and their long coat protected them and kept them warm.
9. Cairn Terrier
Hailing from the Isle of Skye in Scotland, you may recognise this breed as the little brave pup Toto in the Wizard of Oz. While the Cairn Terrier is very low shedding, they'll usually need to be trimmed using a hand stripping method. This type of grooming takes skill and when don't incorrectly, it can cause the dog discomfort, so it's a good idea to take them to the groomer for this.
That's our list of top 9 dogs that don't shed as much! If you have a dog allergy, try our list of hypoallergenic dog breeds to find the perfect pup that won't make you sneeze! Want to find out more about grooming your dog? Read our article on how to bathe a dog.
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