If you’re planning on adding a large dog to your family but are worried about the potential for shedding, you’ll be happy to know there are several large dog breeds that have the potential to shed very little. It’s unrealistic to expect that you’ll find a dog breed that won’t release a single hair onto your couch, but these large dog breeds come pretty close to being non shedders:
The Greyhound is a dog that sheds very little. You should be able to keep your furniture almost completely free of hair by lightly brushing your greyhounds coat every few days. In addition, the Greyhound tends to be a clean breed that requires infrequent bathing and grooming. Combine this with a sweet and gentle disposition and you have the formula for a great indoor pet. Contrary to popular belief, Greyhounds don’t have high exercise requirements and can be content even in an apartment setting.
If you’re looking for a dog that comes close to being a non shedder, the Standard Poodle may be your answer. Many dog loving allergy sufferers have made the poodle their dog of choice due to the non allergic, nonirritating nature of their coat. Unfortunately, the Standard Poodle still requires grooming including weekly brushings and regular bathing and clipping. Some Poodle owners leave this task to the professional while others buy the supplies to do it themselves at home. In return, you get a dog that’s extremely intelligent and easy to train. Many Standard Poodle owners are quite enthusiastic about the breed and claim they wouldn’t have any other breed.
The Airdale terrier is another large dog breed that sheds very little, although they do require a thorough brushing at least once a week. Most Airdales are clipped every two months or so to keep their non shedding fur manageable. This can be rather expensive and is best done by a competent grooming shop that has knowledge of the peculiarities of Airdale fur. Surprisingly enough, the Airdale isn’t necessarily a good dog for allergy sufferers since some people are quite sensitive to their dander. The Airdale tends to be an intelligent but high energy pet. Be prepared to give them lots of exercise.
Non shedding large dog breeds: Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Spaniel has a very distinctive coat with dense curls that shed very little. Although shedding is not generally a problem with this breed, they do require regular grooming to keep their coat from becoming matted and unsightly. Brushing two to three times per week is recommended as well as regular clippings. The coat of this dog breed is ideal for those who suffer from allergies since they shed little dander. This majestic looking breed has a history of being an active hunting dog and will require regular exercise to diffuse their considerable energy. They tend to be easy to train and are extremely loyal to their owners.
Other larger dog breeds that tend to shed very little include the Spanish Waterdog, the Giant Schnauzer, the Basenji, and the Wirehaired Fox Terrier.
So, if you want a large dog but are worried about the hair, consider one of these non shedding dog breeds that have the reputation of being excellent pets.
