Epic dogs tales
Having a dog doesn’t mean you have to deal with hair all over the house. Some breeds are known for their low-shedding coats, making them ideal for a cleaner home environment. These dogs are not only less likely to fill your space with fur, but they also come with delightful personalities that make them wonderful companions. From small lap dogs to larger breeds, there’s a low-shedding option for nearly every preference and lifestyle. Here are 20 dog breeds that can help keep your living space cleaner while providing loyal companionship.
Bichon Frise
Imagine a cloud that bounces—a Bichon Frise in a nutshell. This breed is known for its cheerful disposition and hypoallergenic coat.
Their curly, plush fur requires regular grooming but sheds minimally. Bichons are sociable, thriving on human interaction and are perfect for families.
Historically, they were sailors’ companions, bringing joy aboard ships. Today, they continue to charm with their merry nature and adaptability.
They fit well in apartments or homes, always ready to play or cuddle. Did you know? The name “Bichon” means “curly lap dog” in French.
Portuguese Water Dog
Once companions to Portuguese fishermen, these dogs are natural swimmers with webbed feet and love for water. Their dense, curly coat is hypoallergenic and sheds little.
Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic and intelligent, requiring both mental and physical exercise. They excel in water sports and obedience.
Their loyalty and friendly demeanor make them excellent family pets. With a history of herding fish into nets, they have a strong work ethic. Fun fact: Bo, the former First Dog of the United States, was a Portuguese Water Dog.
Shih Tzu
Bred for royalty, Shih Tzus are affectionate companions with a history in Chinese palaces. Despite their luxurious coats, they are low-shedding and hypoallergenic.
Regular grooming keeps their hair tangle-free, enhancing their beauty. Shih Tzus are known for their sweet nature and adaptability to different living situations.
They enjoy lounging but have bursts of playful energy. Historically, they were kept by Chinese emperors as treasured companions. Fun fact: “Shih Tzu” means “lion dog” in Mandarin, reflecting their regal charm.
Yorkshire Terrier
Small in size but big in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a beloved companion with a silky, low-shedding coat.
Originally bred to catch rats in clothing mills, they are courageous and energetic. Their hair-like coat requires regular care but doesn’t shed much.
Yorkies are adaptable, fitting well in both city apartments and country homes. Their loyalty and charm make them excellent companions.
Despite their small stature, they have a confident, spirited demeanor. Fun fact: Smoky, a famous war dog, was a Yorkshire Terrier who served in World War II.
Poodle
With brains matching their beauty, Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable. Their hypoallergenic coats are a blessing for those allergic to dog fur. Poodles are versatile, excelling in obedience and agility.
They’re often seen in elegant clips, but their coat can be styled in various ways. Originating in Germany as water retrievers, they love to swim. Despite their posh appearance, Poodles have a playful side.
From Standard to Toy sizes, there’s a Poodle for everyone. Fun fact: Poodles are the national dog of France, though they originated in Germany.
Havanese
The national dog of Cuba, Havanese are charming and affectionate companions with a silky, low-shedding coat.
Their playful nature and adaptability make them perfect for families or singles alike. Havanese are known for their lively personality and eagerness to please.
Regular grooming keeps their coat beautiful, and they’re a delight to have around. Historically, they were pampered pets of the Cuban aristocracy.
Fun fact: The Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba, cherished for its vibrant spirit and warm companionship.
Maltese
With their flowing white coats, Maltese dogs are the epitome of elegance. Despite their luxurious appearance, they have a low-shedding coat.
Playful and gentle, Maltese dogs are wonderful companions for those seeking a loving pet. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability.
Regular grooming keeps their coat looking pristine. Historically, they were favored by royalty and aristocrats as lap dogs.
Fun fact: Maltese dogs have been depicted in art and literature for centuries, symbolizing grace and loyalty.
Scottish Terrier
With their iconic beards and distinctive silhouette, Scottish Terriers are known for their dignified yet spirited nature.
Their wiry, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming. Originally bred for hunting in the Scottish Highlands, they are independent and confident.
Scotties are loyal companions, forming strong bonds with their families. Despite their small size, they’re brave and full of character.
Fun fact: A Scottish Terrier named Fala was President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s beloved pet and even has a statue near the Roosevelt Memorial.
West Highland White Terrier
Fondly called “Westies,” these terriers are cheerful and curious, with a striking white coat that sheds minimally.
Their playful nature and adaptability make them wonderful family pets. Westies are known for their confidence and lively spirit.
Regular grooming keeps their coat looking pristine. Originally bred to hunt vermin in Scotland, they have a strong prey drive.
Fun fact: Westies often appear in advertising and media due to their charming appearance and friendly demeanor.
Basenji
The ‘barkless dog,’ Basenjis are unique with their yodel-like vocalization and cat-like cleanliness.
Their short coat is low-shedding, making them suitable for those seeking a cleaner home. Basenjis are independent and curious, with a history as hunting dogs in Africa.
They form strong bonds with their families and require regular exercise to channel their energy. Fun fact: Basenjis are one of the oldest dog breeds, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt.
Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers, famous as Toto from ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ are spirited and hardy, with a low-shedding coat.
Their rugged appearance matches their adventurous spirit. Originally bred for hunting small game in Scotland, they’re alert and lively.
Cairns are affectionate and loyal, making them wonderful companions. Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its texture.
Fun fact: Cairn Terriers were one of the first working dogs in Scottish Highlands, known for their versatility and tenacity.
Lhasa Apso
Guardians of Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are regal and confident companions.
Their long, flowing coat is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, requiring regular grooming. Lhasa Apsos are known for their loyal and protective nature.
Despite their small size, they have a robust personality. Historically, they were considered sacred and were often gifted to Chinese nobility.
Fun fact: The name ‘Lhasa Apso’ reflects their origins near the sacred city of Lhasa, embodying their esteemed status.
Kerry Blue Terrier
With its striking blue-gray coat, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a showstopper. Known for their intelligence and versatility, they are excellent companions.
Their dense, wavy coat is low-shedding and requires regular grooming. Kerry Blues were originally bred in Ireland for herding and hunting.
They are spirited yet affectionate, forming close bonds with their families. Fun fact: Kerry Blue Terriers are born with black coats that gradually turn blue as they mature.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Renowned as truffle hunters, Lagotto Romagnolos have a keen sense of smell and an enthusiastic personality.
Their curly coat is low-shedding, making them ideal for those with allergies. Lagottos are energetic and intelligent, requiring both mental and physical stimulation.
They are affectionate and loyal, thriving in active households. Fun fact: The Lagotto Romagnolo is the only breed in the world known specifically for truffle hunting.
Irish Water Spaniel
Known for their distinctive curly and water-resistant coat, Irish Water Spaniels are excellent swimmers and retrievers.
Their coat requires regular grooming but is low-shedding, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Irish Water Spaniels are energetic and intelligent.
They form strong bonds with their families and excel in water sports. Fun fact: The Irish Water Spaniel has a unique ‘rat tail,’ which distinguishes it from other spaniels.
Afghan Hound
With a regal appearance, Afghan Hounds are known for their elegance and independence.
Their long, silky coat is low-shedding, requiring regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Afghan Hounds are aloof yet affectionate, forming deep connections with their families.
Historically, they were bred for hunting in the rugged terrains of Afghanistan. Fun fact: Afghan Hounds can reach speeds of up to 40 mph, making them one of the fastest dog breeds.
Miniature Schnauzer
With their distinctive beards and expressive eyebrows, Miniature Schnauzers are full of character.
Their wiry coat is low-shedding, making them ideal for those seeking a cleaner home. Schnauzers are alert and spirited, thriving in active households.
Originally bred for farm work in Germany, they are versatile and intelligent.
Fun fact: Miniature Schnauzers are the smallest of the Schnauzer breeds, yet they maintain the same robust and energetic personality.
Chinese Crested
Uniquely captivating, the Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff.
Their hairless variety is particularly low-shedding, ideal for those with allergies. These dogs are playful and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners.
They are known for their distinctive appearance and gentle nature. Fun fact: Chinese Cresteds were popular companions on Chinese trading ships, where they served as ratters.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
With their soft, silky coat, Wheaten Terriers are known for their joyful and friendly nature.
Their coat is low-shedding, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. Wheatens are spirited and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets.
Originally bred in Ireland for farm work, they are versatile and hardy.
Fun fact: Wheaten Terriers are known for their ‘Wheaten greetin’,’ an enthusiastic welcome given to their families.
Australian Terrier
Tough yet endearing, Australian Terriers are small dogs with big personalities.
Their wiry coat is low-shedding, ideal for those who prefer a tidier home environment. They are alert and intelligent, with a history of working on Australian farms.
Australian Terriers are loyal and spirited, forming strong bonds with their families. Fun fact: They were the first Australian breed recognized and shown in their country of origin.