20 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (Much)

Maybe you’re curious about the best non-shedding dog breeds because you or someone in your family has a dog allergy. Or perhaps the robot-vacuum and lint roller simply can’t keep up with Fido’s fluff all over everything, and you’d like to wear non-furry clothes again!

If you’re thinking you need a hypoallergenic dog, it’s important to note there’s really no such thing. All dogs produce certain types of proteins that contribute to allergic reactions—the most common is Can f 1, often found in urine, saliva, and dried skin debris called dander. When Spot sheds, this allergy-laden dander floats into the air.

Does this mean a hairless dog won’t make you sneeze or have itchy eyes? Not necessarily, because she’ll likely still have a smattering of dander—or she loves to lick you! Each individual’s immune system determines their allergic response to Can f 1. While you might snuff up around one breed, another person won’t be affected at all.

The majority of dogs shed, as it’s the normal way for them to release damaged or old hair. But PetMD points out that some canine companions might do it more depending on the season, or when they’re ill, stressed, or experiencing an allergic reaction or skin irritation.

“Breeds associated with being ‘hypoallergenic’ are generally those with single-layer coats, and those that shed less,” says Jerry Klein, DVM, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club (AKC). “Breeds with double coats, like retrievers, Siberian huskies, and collies, among others, have protective dual-layer coats that usually shed significantly.”

He helped us put together a list of both common and not-so-common AKC-registered breeds, including small dogs that don’t shed much.