Except for hairless breeds, there is no such thing as a dog that doesn’t shed but some dogs shed huge clumps of hair year round while others shed so little and only occasionally that they are considered nonshedding.
Most dog owners love their pet so much that they are willing to put up with a certain amount of hair. However, dog hair can stick in clothing and upholstery, spread bacteria, and trigger allergic reactions in some people, so pet hair control is one of the essentials of pet care.
Why Dogs Shed
During the cold season, the dog coat grows heavier and thicker for protection against the weather. When warmer weather comes, the coat thins out, shedding excess hair to allow the dog to stay cooler.
This does not work quite as well for indoor dogs as their coat acclimates to controlled indoor temperatures and then gets confused when the dog goes outdoors for potty breaks, playtime, and walks. For this reason, some indoor dogs seem to shed year round.
Dogs That Don’t Shed
A few dog breeds that shed very little are: the Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, Yorkie, Boston Terrier, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Llasa Apso, Schnauzer, Poodle, and any of the hairless breeds. Although no dog is totally nonshedding or completely hypoallergenic, dogs that shed minimally spread fewer allergens around the home and may be more easily tolerated by those who have allergic reactions to dogs.
Although dog hair itself is not a cause of human allergies, dog hair attracts and spreads skin dander, saliva proteins, dust, and pollen which trigger the stuffy nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. Heavy shedders like the German Shepherd, Malamute, Collie, Siberian Husky, Sheltie, and Pomeranian may not be good choices for those allergic to dogs.
Dog breeds that produce minimal dander, according to the AKC, are the Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Irish Water Spaniel, Kerry Blue Terrier, Maltese, Poodles, Portugese Water Dog, Schnauzers, Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier, and Xoloitzcuintli. Many mixed breeds can be low shedding and hypoallergenic as well. Talk to shelter workers about which dogs shed less and when you pick out a dog, spend some time with it to see how you react.
If you are interested in a certain breed, find a reputable breeder who can discuss that particular breed’s characteristics and grooming needs with you.
How to Control Shedding
For those who fall in love with a dog that sheds, daily brushing to remove loose hair is the best way to control dog hair. Some heavier coated indoor dogs may seem to shed constantly and can benefit from two or more brushings every day.
A dry skin and coat leads to heavier shedding. Feeding a premium food that supplies a quality protein and fatty acids will help keep the skin and coat shiny and healthy. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a good food for your individual dog.
Managing Dog Hair in the Home
Keeping dog hair under control can go a long way toward a clean home and minimizing allergic reactions.
- Dust daily
- Change clothes, wash face, hands, and arms after playing with the dog
- Use washable slipcovers on furniture
- Steam clean furniture and drapes regularly
- Vacuum and shampoo carpets regularly or better yet, get tile or linoleum flooring that can be mopped daily
- Clean heat and air conditioning ducts and vents regularly
- Make use of air purifiers
Managing pet hair is a part of dog ownership but it doesn’t have to be an impossible endeavor.
Beautiful crafts can also be created from spinning and knitting dog hair.
Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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