Choosing the perfect dog breed to become your family pet is an important decision. This is especially true if you're after large dogs that don't shed, or at least shed minimally. It's a common myth that truly "non-shedding" breeds exist, as all dogs shed some hair and dander.
Luckily, several large dog breeds produce significantly less shedding than others, making them suitable for allergy sufferers and those who prefer a tidy home. If you're keen on a big companion but worried about the fluff, Zach's Pet Shop's guide to large dogs that don't shed is for you.
Key Takeaways
- All dogs shed at least some hair and dander. While some breeds shed very little, all dogs naturally shed at least a small amount of hair and dander.
- Some large dogs shed less, making them great for allergy sufferers and those wanting a tidy home.
- Some top choices of large dogs that don't shed are Standard Poodle, Giant Schnauzer, Afghan Hound, Groodle.
- Non-shedding coats require frequent brushing to prevent matting and regular trims to keep fur manageable.
Table Of Contents:
- Understanding Dog Shedding and "Hypoallergenic" Dog Breeds
- Large Dogs That Don't Shed Much: Top Breeds
- Grooming Tips For Large Dogs That Don't Shed
- FAQs about large dogs that don't shed
- Ian's Wrap
Understanding Dog Shedding and "Hypoallergenic" Dog Breeds
Before we explore specific non- shedding dog breeds, let's understand what causes shedding and the idea of "hypoallergenic" dogs. Many people react to proteins found in a dog's saliva, urine, and dander, not the fur itself. Dander, those tiny skin flakes, cling to the fur and becomes airborne, triggering allergies.
So, even short-coated dogs can cause issues if they produce lots of dander. Hypoallergenic dogs aren't truly allergen-free. These breeds generally shed less fur, therefore spreading less dander.
Large Dogs That Don't Shed Much: Top Breeds
Let's take a look at some of the best large dog breeds that shed very little. Keep in mind, though, that shedding can still vary from dog to dog, even within these breeds.
Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is renowned for its intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. This single-layered coat sheds far less than the double-layered coat found on most large dog breeds. Standard Poodles need regular grooming to prevent mats, especially with the iconic Poodle hairstyles.
Giant Schnauzer
If you want a protective, calm, and trainable breed, the Giant Schnauzer is an excellent pick. They have minimal shedding compared to other breeds. Regular professional grooming will keep its wiry coat healthy and minimise dander.
Airedale Terrier
The lively Airedale Terrier holds the title of "King of Terriers". It's the largest terrier breed, with a wiry short coat. This makes it suitable for pet owners who prefer large dogs that don’t shed excessively.
Groodle
The Groodle is a friendly, intelligent mix of a Golden Retriever and Poodle, known for its affectionate nature and adaptability. Although their size can vary, they are often large breeds with a hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat. Instead of shedding, their soft, wavy, or curly coat grows continuously and requires regular grooming to stay clean and tangle-free.
Afghan Hound
With its long, flowing coat, the Afghan Hound might seem like an allergy nightmare. Surprisingly, it's considered a low-shedding breed. It's a good choice if you are concerned about hair on your clothes and furniture.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is an energetic, intelligent breed with a tightly curled, water-resistant coat that sheds minimally. They love being in water and require regular grooming to prevent matting. With a friendly, playful nature, they make great companions for active families.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian water dog with a dense, curly, non-shedding coat, originally bred for waterfowl hunting. Known for their affectionate and loyal temperament, they make excellent family companions. Energetic and intelligent, they enjoy outdoor activities and require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly trainable, friendly, and thrive in active families who can provide plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities to swim. Their unique coat is hypoallergenic and non-shedding, making them ideal for allergy-sensitive households. Instead of shedding, their hair grows continuously, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting.
Komondor
A large, powerful dog breed, also known as a Hungarian Sheepdog, it is renowned for its distinctive, heavy, corded coat that offers excellent protection against harsh weather and predators. While virtually non-shedding, the Komondor’s unique coat requires significant grooming to maintain its texture and prevent matting. This big dog is naturally protective and loyal, making it an excellent guardian for livestock or a devoted family companion with proper training and socialisation.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid, a rare and elegant dog breed, is generally low-shedding, with short, smooth coats requiring minimal grooming. However, like the Bouvier des Flandres, their skin needs protection from harsh weather, especially the hairless variety, which is sensitive to sunburn and cold. This affectionate and agile breed thrives in active homes with attentive care.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
These dogs shed less than other double coated breeds. Their thick, wiry coat requires regular professional grooming to prevent mats. They may need daily brushing but don't shed like other dog breeds.
Grooming Tips For Large Dogs That Don't Shed
Even low-shedding dogs need regular grooming. Brushing helps remove loose hair and dander and distributes natural oils for a healthier coat. Non-shedding coats often mean more regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling, as well as periodic trims to keep their fur manageable.
Gentle shampoos, like 'Drool' by Dr. Chris Brown, are excellent for cleansing without irritating sensitive skin, while conditioning treatments help keep their coats silky. Products like the 'Natural Dog Company’s Paw Soother' and 'Snout Soother' can also play a role in overall grooming by addressing cracked paws and dry noses, ensuring your dog is not only clean but comfortable.
Wiping your dog with a damp cloth or specially formulated dog wipes after a walk can remove lingering allergens. This helps keep fur and dander down throughout the house.
Establishing a grooming routine with the right tools and products tailored to their needs will keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best!
FAQs about large dogs that don't shed
What is the least shedding large dog?
All dogs shed something. Breeds like the Standard Poodle, Giant Schnauzer, and Komondor are known for minimal shedding.
Other low shedding dog breeds include the 'oodle' breeds' (Poodle crossbreeds), such as Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Bernedoodles, due to their hypoallergenic, curly coats.
What is the largest breed of non shedding dog?
The Standard Poodle is generally considered the largest non-shedding dog breed. While other large dog breeds like the Giant Schnauzer or Komondor also shed minimally, the Standard Poodle stands out due to its size, hypoallergenic coat, and low shedding. Poodles typically weigh between 18 to 32 kilograms and have a dense, curly coat that grows continuously and requires regular grooming to maintain.
What is the calmest large dog?
Temperament can vary widely between individual dogs and breeds, and there are no guarantees. However, many larger non-shedding breeds, such as the Standard Poodle, Irish Water Spaniel, and Bergamasco Sheepdog, are known for their gentle nature and typically require less intense exercise. These calm breeds often make excellent companions for families looking for a laid-back dog with minimal shedding.
Which dog sheds the least in Australia?
The same low-shedding breeds that are popular worldwide, like Poodles and Schnauzers, are suitable for Aussie homes. They reduce allergies with regular grooming. The Kerry Blue Terrier, Lagotto Romagnolo, Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Groodle and Belgian Malinois are just some breeds known to grow long.
Ian's Wrap
Choosing a furry friend is a big decision, especially when it comes to large dogs that don't shed. While completely "non-shedding" dogs don't exist, certain breeds shed minimally. These breeds can make wonderful, lifelong companions.
Picking a hypoallergenic dog for your Australian home is a fantastic way to enjoy the love and loyalty of a large dog without worrying about constant shedding. Breeds like the Standard Poodle, Groodle, or Portuguese Water Dog are great options, especially for families with allergy sufferers, since they shed very little dog hair.
Finding the right dog breed for your lifestyle means you can enjoy a clean, cosy home while building an incredible bond with your new furry companion.
