Dogs that Don’t Shed
Dogs that Don’t Shed
There are a couple of reasons why you may be interested in keeping a dog that doesn’t shed hairs, or which sheds very little.
For example, you may love the idea of having a dog, but not the thought of cleaning up after its moulted hairs all the time.
Allergies are another common factor in the decision. However, be sure that you first understand what it is exactly you are allergic to. Most allergies, for example, are actually caused by dog dander, the dead skin that fall of the animal, rather than the hairs they shed. Dander can get all over the place, and into your nose and eyes. Some breeds produce less dander than others.
The other thing to realize is that most pooches pick up pollen while they are outdoors, and transfer it back to their owner’s home, which can exacerbate allergy problems. Thicker coats tend to pick up more pollen.
Before you commit to being its owner, spend some time with the animal, to be sure you can tolerate being around the animal without developing any of the symptoms of your allergy.
You should also be aware that while almost all dogs are going to shed at least some hair, there are many breeds which shed between very little and almost nothing that the human eye would notice. In fact, you may struggle to find a single stray hair in your home.
The other good news is that there are all sizes of dog breeds which are neither copious shedders, nor heavy producers of allergens. As ever, you need to evaluate your lifestyle when researching what breed of dog to have. Many may be quite high-maintenance in terms of grooming needs, so factor how much time you will need to spend looking after the animal into your decision. But it should be entirely possible to find the canine companion that’s perfect for you.
Here are some of the more common varieties which are no or low-shedders:
- Bichon Frise
This breed is considered one of the best smaller sized low shedders. Thanks to their intelligent, happy, cheerful and robust disposition, these friendly little creatures make excellent family pets. They have a silky undercoat and a textured outer coat.
Fairly regular grooming is essential, and many owners have professional trims for their bichon frise every six to eight weeks.
- Toy Poodle
This is another excellent choice, with one single-coated layer of hair which doesn’t shed. Rather, it tends to curl up, so owners need to get their pet professionally trimmed every six to eight weeks. These dogs love being the center of attention, and make wonderful pets.
There are also larger poodle varieties which don’t shed.
- Maltese
It may have a white, long flowing coat, but the Maltese’s single layer of hair doesn’t shed a lot. Brush it every day to prevent matting. A gentle and intelligent breed, the Maltese tends to be very clean in its ways, and also has a playful nature.
- Miniature Schnauzer
This wirehaired breed, with mainly black or salt and pepper colored coats, again needs regular professional grooming. These dogs are characterized by their bushy beard on their eyebrows and face. They are good watchdogs, and ideally suited to city and apartment life as well as being in the country.
Although the Miniature Schnauzer is a terrier breed, it is still quite small, standing at between 12 and 14 inches tall at the shoulder. They are quite energetic and will need plenty of exercise.
There are also standard and large sized schnauzers.
- Border Terrier
Mischievous and energetic, the Border Terrier has quite a thick undercoat, but a short topcoat, which is quite thin and wiry. Great with kids and ideal for families, these pooches also get on well with other pets. While professional grooming is only needed once or twice a year, its coat should be brushed weekly.
- Irish Water Spaniel
Medium to large in size, Irish Water Spaniels are sporty and excellent hunters. Owners have remarked on their clown-like temperament, and this breed’s sense of fun. These dogs take a little time to train, and their thick and curly coats will need frequent brushing.
These are just some of the breeds which are no to low shedders. There are others, such as the Portuguese Water Dog to West Highland white and Yorkshire terriers. So, whatever your allergy, or however much you hate hairs, there’ll be a breed that’s ideal for your household.
