9 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

There are over 200 Kennel Club recognised breeds in the UK, each with their own unique traits and personalities. One thing that is common among most of them is that they shed hair! This can be an issue for owners that have allergies to pet hair – or a strong dislike of hoovering! Thankfully, there are a few non-shedding and low-shedding dog breeds known as ‘hypoallergenic’ dogs. We’ve listed nine of the most popular dog breeds that don’t shed, or at least shed very little, each with a brief description covering their size, character and exercise requirements.  

Cockapoo

Cockapoos have become one of the most popular breeds for new dog owners in recent years. Looking at their fluffy, smiley faces, it’s easy to see why. They’re a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle crossbreed and grow to a medium size, ideal for active families with a fair amount of space at home and enough time to give them a couple of good walks a day and lots of love and attention. Their low-shedding and hypoallergenic fur means they’re low maintenance around the house when it comes to cleaning up fur! However, they do require fairly frequent grooming to maintain their adorable curly coat. Cockapoos need to have regular trips to the groomer as well as daily brushing to avoid matting of their coat which could become irritating and painful if not kept at bay. 

Bichon Frise

These balls of white fluff are perfectly suited to small home and apartment living. Part of the Toy Dog category, they only need gentle exercise and have a sensitive and loving personality. They require lots of attention and don’t suit being left alone, so home workers, young families or retired people are ideal fits for the Bichon. Their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat is easy to manage, just don’t forget your White Wash shampoo.

Poodle

We’ve already mentioned that cockapoos are a great choice for those looking for a non-shedding dog, and Poodles are no different. They range in size depending on whether they are toy, miniature and full-sized. All sizes share a high-energy nature and will need at least an hour of exercise per day. Their caring and intelligent nature makes them a great dog for young children to grow up with, and you won’t be following them around with the vacuum as they barely shed any hair.

Scottish Terrier

‘Scottie’ dogs are full of personality. Small but sturdy, they are independent dogs but can be playful and energetic. They often make great companions for single households thanks to their loyal and dedicated nature and, whilst they make great walking companions, they don’t need excessive amounts of exercise. Closely related to their white-coated friend, the West Highland Terrier, both breeds are hypoallergenic and barely shed any fur, perfect for those with allergies.

Bedlington Terrier

Bedlingtons are small, springy dogs with a fun-loving and playful nature. Fitting in perfectly in busy family homes, they’ll be happy to make friends with other dogs and humans and their tight-curled coat won’t cause an issue for someone with allergies. They require at least an hour a day of exercise, and fairly frequent grooming to keep them looking at their best.

Miniature Schnauzer

Their unmistakable looks and vibrant personalities have made the Miniature Schnauzer a firm-favourite amongst dog owners in the UK. Small, yet mighty in their own minds, these bearded hounds love to play and suit a family lifestyle. They’re happy to adapt to their owners and will thrive in a city apartment just as much as a life in the countryside.

Shih Tzu

Another one for the Toy Dog category, the Shih Tzu really don’t live up to their translation of ‘Little Lion’. They’re lovers, not fighters and have plenty of energy to play and walk but will be just as happy snuggling in with their owner on a cold winter’s night. Despite their fluffy coat, they are hypoallergenic and don’t shed.

Border Terrier

Borders are gorgeous dogs with an easy to manage wire coat that sheds very lightly and doesn’t set off allergies. They only need to be hand stripped twice a year to keep their coats neat and tidy, and as small dogs require an hour or so of walking a day. As for their personalities, they’re affectionate, inquisitive, obedient and adaptable. Many owners who have a border never get any other breed of dog, which tells you all you need to know about these wonderful hounds.

Basenji

Basenjis are a rewarding dog for an experienced owner. Known for never barking, the African breed is also unique in that they groom themselves like a cat. They can be tricky to train and are free-willed but can make a very happy companion for their owners thanks to their curious and playful nature. They’re small and athletically built and require plenty of exercise to burn off their boundless energy.  Their short coats don’t need much grooming and are hypoallergenic and low-shedding.

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