Dog breeds that don’t shed
What are the dog breeds that don’t shed hair?
Low‑shedding dog breeds are dogs that lose significantly less hair than most other breeds because their coats grow continuously and trap loose hair. While no dog is completely non‑shedding, popular low‑shedding breeds in Australia include Poodles (Toy, Miniature and Standard), Maltese, Bichon Frises, Schnauzers, and Poodle crossbreeds such as Cavoodles and Labradoodles.
These breeds often have hair-like coats or minimal dander production, making them suitable for individuals sensitive to allergens.
Dander is the dead skin cells shed by any animal with fur. It can cause allergic reactions rather than a viral infection for those with allergies or even trigger asthma.
Many people choose low‑shedding breeds due to allergies; however, coat type is only one factor when choosing a dog, alongside temperament, activity needs, and grooming requirements. Every dog breed has a different personality, and you should always match the dog breed to your family’s needs.
What is a hypoallergenic dog?
A hypoallergenic dog produces fewer allergens than other breeds. This is primarily due to lower shedding and reduced dander.1 Because hair and dander may accumulate wherever your dog goes, their surroundings also become an allergy source. Hair and dander can trap pollen, mould, and other allergens, worsening allergy symptoms.
While no breed is entirely allergen-free, hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as Poodles and Bichon Frises, are better tolerated by people with mild allergies.2 If you’re concerned about allergies or managing pet hair, breeds that shed minimally or are considered hypoallergenic can be ideal companions.
Are there non-shedding dogs?
No dog is completely non-shedding,1 although, hypoallergenic breeds lose hair in much smaller amounts than other breeds, and proper care can help manage shedding and allergens. Additionally, their reduced shedding results in less dander, making them more suitable for allergy sufferers.
By choosing a low-shedding dog breed and maintaining proper care, you can enjoy the companionship of a dog with reduced allergenic impact.
Small dog breeds that don’t shed as much
Small low‑shedding dog breeds are compact dogs with hair‑like or curly coats that shed minimally and produce less dander. These breeds are suited to apartments or smaller homes, if their grooming requirements are maintained. Small dogs are classified as any breed weighing under 10–12 kg.24 They also may be suited for people with mild allergies.3
Shih Tzu
- Characteristics: The Shih Tzu is a loving and regal breed known for its flowing, long coat. Despite its appearance, this breed sheds very little, as its hair grows continuously like human hair.4
- Care: Regular brushing and grooming are necessary to maintain their silky coat and prevent tangles.
Brussels Griffon
- Characteristics: This spirited breed comes in rough and smooth coat varieties.5 The rough coat is wiry and sheds minimally, making it an excellent choice for allergy-conscious owners.
- Care: Regular brushing is sufficient for a rough-coated Brussels Griffon. Smooth-coated varieties require even less maintenance.
Maltese
- Characteristics: A small dog with long, silky white hair, they’re known for having a big personality in a small body and are friendly and affectionate.6
- Care: Daily brushing to avoid tangles and regular bathing to clean their white coats.
Toy Poodle
- Characteristics: Smart and playful, with a curly, hypoallergenic coat.7 Known to be a great family dog and a lapdog, a toy poodle is ideal for families who live in an apartment.
- Care: Requires professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkies)
- Characteristics: Tiny and bold, with a silky, non-shedding coat.7
- Care: Regular grooming is needed to prevent the matting of their long hair.
Havanese
- Characteristics: Havanese are happy and curious, small and sturdy, and have a long, silky double coat.8
- Care: Daily brushing and frequent trimming for maintenance.
Miniature Schnauzer
- Characteristics: Miniature Schnauzers have a wiry, low‑shedding coat that traps loose hair and reduces shedding around the home.
- Care: Requires periodic hand-stripping or clipping to maintain coat texture.
Chinese Crested
- Characteristics: This unique breed comes in two varieties: hairless (with soft hair on the head, feet, and tail) and powderpuff (a fine, silky coat).10 Both shed very little.
- Care: Hairless types need skin care to prevent dryness, while powderpuff coats require weekly brushing to prevent tangles.
Italian Greyhound
- Characteristics: These sleek, elegant dogs have a smooth, short coat that sheds minimally.11 They are affectionate and make great companions.
- Care: Occasional brushing with a soft brush and regular baths will keep their coat shiny and clean.
Medium dog breeds that don’t shed
Medium-sized dog breeds that don’t shed much hair are typically low-shedding or hypoallergenic breeds such as Terriers or Mini Poodles. These dogs are classified as any breed that weighs 11kg to 26kg.25 These breeds shed minimally and often have hypoallergenic qualities, which means that they are excellent for allergy sufferers. It’s important to note that they still require regular grooming.
Standard Schnauzer
- Characteristics: The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-to-large dog with a wiry, low-shedding coat.13 They are intelligent, energetic, and known for their loyal nature.
- Care: Their coat requires regular hand-stripping or clipping and weekly brushing to prevent matting and maintain texture.
Lagotto Romagnolo
- Characteristics: Originally bred as truffle hunters, Lagottos are friendly and eager-to-please dogs with a dense, curly coat that traps loose hair.14
- Care: Regular brushing and trimming prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.
Terrier Breeds (Kerry Blue Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, etc.)
- Characteristics: With a wavy, silky coat, these playful mixed breeds shed minimally and are often hypoallergenic.15 They are loyal and intelligent companions and can make good watchdogs.
- Care: Their non-shedding coat requires frequent brushing and regular trimming. Daily brushing helps avoid tangles; professional grooming is recommended every 6-8 weeks.
Miniature Poodle
- Characteristics: A medium-sized version of the popular Poodle, they share the same hypoallergenic, non-shedding traits.16
- Care: Professional grooming every few months, along with regular brushing, is essential.
Large dog breeds that don’t shed
If you’re looking for a large dog that doesn’t shed hair, your best bet might be low-shedding or hypoallergenic breeds with tightly curled coats instead of fur, such as Poodles or Afghan Hounds. They can make great pets for those who have a lot of space and are looking for a pet to fit in their allergy-sensitive home. Large dogs are classified as breeds that weigh 26kg to 44kg.26 With large dogs though it is important to compare suitability as these breeds may require more when it comes to liveability and space.
Standard Poodle
- Characteristics: Standard Poodles are a classic low-shedding breed known for their hypoallergenic coat and high intelligence.17 Their curly coats trap loose hair, preventing shedding around the home.
- Care: Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is necessary, along with weekly brushing to prevent matting.
Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and Poodle Mix)
- Characteristics: Labradoodles are popular for their friendly demeanour and hypoallergenic coats similar to a Poodle’s curly or wavy texture.18
- Care: Regular grooming is required to prevent matting, especially for those with curly coats. Labradoodles vary in shedding, depending on their genetics.
Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle Mix)
- Characteristics: A Goldendoodle (Groodles) combines the Poodle’s intelligence and the Golden Retriever’s affectionate nature.19 They are known for their low-shedding, wavy, or curly coats.
- Care: Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks and regular brushing keeps their coat in good condition.
Portuguese Water Dog
- Characteristics: This water-loving breed is highly energetic and has a dense, curly coat that sheds minimally.20 They’re affectionate, highly trainable, and great for active families.
- Care: Regular grooming and trimming are essential, along with weekly brushing.
Irish Water Spaniel
- Characteristics: A rare breed, Irish Water Spaniels have a tight, curly coat that sheds very little.21 They are playful and make excellent companions for active households.
- Care: Their coats require brushing and occasional trims to keep them tidy.
Giant Schnauzer
- Characteristics: A larger version of the Standard Schnauzer, the Giant Schnauzer has a protective personality and a low-shedding, wiry coat.22
- Care: Regular hand-stripping or professional grooming keeps their coat in good condition, along with frequent brushing.
Afghan Hound
- Characteristics: This elegant breed has a long, silky coat that sheds minimally.23 They are gentle and independent, though they require significant grooming.
- Care: Daily brushing and bathing are needed to maintain their luxurious coat.
How to care for a non-shedding dog breed
Low-shedding dog breeds usually require regular grooming to maintain skin and coat health. Because their coats can trap loose hair instead of shedding it, ongoing brushing and trimming is necessary to prevent matting and reduce allergens. Low-shedding coats are great for those with dog allergies but these coat types also need more maintenance to upkeep the dog’s skin and hair health.
When getting your new dog, ask your breeder for professional advice on how to care for your pet’s hair. Low-shedding coats require regular cutting to maintain a reasonable length and frequent brushing and combing to prevent matting and knots. Hairless dog breeds may require additional skincare, particularly during summer, due to their lack of UV protection.
Here are some tips to make sure your furry friend remains healthy as well as minimising allergens in your home:
- Regular grooming: Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) prevents tangles and keeps shedding under control. Bring your dog to a professional groomer every 4-8 weeks to maintain their coat’s texture and health.
- Frequent bathing: Use hypoallergenic dog shampoos to clean and maintain coat health and reduce skin dander.
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet helps your dog maintain healthy skin and coat, reducing shedding and flaking. Choose food that provides a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Home maintenance: Use HEPA filters and clean regularly to minimise allergens. Wash your dogs’ blankets, bedding and toys frequently as well.
- Veterinary check-ups: Routine check-ups can address skin conditions or allergies that may increase shedding.
Pet insurance for your non-shedding friend
Low shedding dog breeds can be prone to inherited and chronic health problems – due to the fact they are often mixed breeds. They can inherit health problems from their parent breeds.1 Health issues can pop up, meaning it is important to ensure your furry friend is covered.
Common issues include joint problems such as hip dysplasia in larger mixes, skin conditions in curly-coated breeds, and dental problems in smaller breeds.1 These breeds can also be prone to chronic illnesses such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or allergies, depending on their genetic background. Regular veterinary care and proper grooming are essential to managing these risks.
Pet insurance can help protect your family pet’s health and your finances. It may cover costs associated with genetic disorders, accidents, and chronic illnesses. Policies can include routine and preventive care, such as vaccinations and dental cleanings, which help catch potential issues early. Insurance can significantly ease the financial burden if your dog has a health emergency or needs expensive treatment such as surgery for orthopaedic conditions. Choosing pet insurance with comprehensive cover for hereditary and breed-specific conditions can help you provide the best care for your dog.
Meet our pet insurance expert, Adrian Taylor
As a General Insurance expert with over 13 years’ experience in financial services, Adrian Taylor knows that dogs and cats get themselves into all sorts of mischief. One part of Adrian’s work is to help empower consumers to understand how pet insurance can help save them from exorbitant vet bills when their pet gets injured or falls ill.
Want to know more about pet insurance?
1 Dogs Victoria. Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic Dogs. Accessed April 2026.
2 Purina AU. Hypoallergenic dog breeds. Accessed April 2026.
3 PetMD. 30 Hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed a lot. Accessed April 2026.
4 American Kennel Club. Shih Tzu Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
5 American Kennel Club. Brussels Griffon Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
6 American Kennel Club. Maltese Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
7 American Kennel Club. Toy Poodle Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
8 American Kennel Club. Yorkshire Terrier Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
9 American Kennel Club. Havanese Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
10 American Kennel Club. Miniature Schnauzer Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
11 American Kennel Club. Chinese Crested Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
12 American Kennel Club. Italian Greyhound Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
13 American Kennel Club. Standard Schnauzer Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
14 American Kennel Club. Lagotto Romagnolo Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
15 PetMD. 22 Terrier dog breeds. Accessed April 2026.
16 American Kennel Club. Miniature Poodle Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
17 American Kennel Club. Standard Poodle Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
18 Greencross Vets. Labradoodle owners guide. Accessed April 2026.
19 Hill’s Pet. Groodle Crossbreed: Information and Personality Traits. Accessed April 2026.
20 American Kennel Club. Portuguese Water Dog Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
21 American Kennel Club. Irish Water Spaniel Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
22 American Kennel Club. Giant Schnauzer Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
23 American Kennel Club. Afghan Hound Breed Traits and Characteristics. Accessed April 2026.
24 Purina. What are the smallest dog breeds? Accessed May 2026.
25 Purina. All Medium Sized Dog Breeds. Accessed May 2026.
26 Purina. Large Dog Breeds. Accessed May 2026.