Big dogs can be a real blessing. A great big happy dog so full of love and energy can’t help but bring a smile to your face. But these dogs can also bring a lot of shedding, which takes time to clean up and might even cause allergic reactions in some people. If you want a big dog without all the shedding, then consider one of the many breeds of low-shedding dogs. We’ve put together an extensive list of big dogs that don’t shed, including Poodles, Schnauzers, Water Dogs, Doodles, and more.
Just remember, no dog is 100 percent allergy-free. Dog dander, saliva, and urine can all cause allergic reactions to varying degrees, and no dog is completely free of these.1 The good news is that hypoallergenic and low-shedding dogs can help minimize these reactions. The AKC recommends more than 30 dog breeds2 that shed infrequently and tend to be hypoallergenic.3
Here’s a closer look at 11 of these big dogs that could make loving additions to your family.
Afghan Hound
This loyal and intelligent dog may have long, flowing fur, but she can be a great choice for pet owners with allergies. Because these dogs have a coat that’s more like human hair than fur, they shed very little. Regular brushing is needed to keep this dog’s glorious coat tangle-free.
Giant Schnauzer
Much like the Miniature Schnauzer, which also doesn’t shed much, the Giant Schnauzer’s wiry coat is a good choice for keeping shedding levels down. This working dog is loyal, playful, protective, and needs lots of exercise. You’ll need to brush his coat every week and clip his fur regularly.
Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is the “big” dog of the Poodle family, standing taller than the Miniature or Toy Poodle. He may not grow quite as tall as some of the other breeds in this story, but he’s still an eager, athletic, and smart dog that makes a great pet. With a curly coat, the Standard Poodle sheds very little. Just remember to brush him down to the skin to prevent matting.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel technically falls right between the AKC’s definition of medium- and large-sized dogs. This beautiful, affectionate pup has a curly, waterproof coat that’s hypoallergenic. Brush her coat weekly and clip her coat every two months. She’s easy to train and loves to play. Take her for runs or hikes so she gets lots of exercise.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is another great choice if you want a water-loving dog that doesn’t shed much. This dog doesn’t have an undercoat, which helps reduce shedding. The “Portie” loves to run and take part in dog sports, so give him lots of exercise—preferably in water if you can. He also loves people, so expect him to greet your guests with excitement.
Spanish Water Dog
Although a little smaller than her other water dog counterparts, the Spanish Water Dog brings the same low-shedding benefits. This dog typically stands just under 20 inches tall and has a wooly, curly coat. The energetic pup loves both playtime (especially in the water) and time relaxing around the home with you.
Komondor
The Komondor is a large dog with unique “corded” fur that sheds very little. The Komondor Club of America suggests this breed for people with allergies.4 This independent, protective dog needs regular bathing and just sheds seasonally.
Labradoodle and Goldendoodle
The Labradoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, and the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. These friendly, energetic dogs’ fur can vary; some pups have fur that sheds quite a bit while others have fur that sheds very little, just like purebred Poodles. If your Doodle has the Poodle fur, you’ll have a lower-shedding, more hypoallergenic pup.5
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier’s height can reach just under 20 inches, making her one of the smaller of the breeds on this list. This pup has a dense, soft coat that’s considered hypoallergenic. She’s a great watchdog and friend who loves a day mixed with playtime and relaxation with the family.
Lagotto Romagnolo
This is the smallest dog on the list but is still fairly big, reaching a height of 18 to 19 inches. His wooly coat is much like a Poodle’s and rarely sheds, earning him a hypoallergenic recommendation from the AKC. This energetic, active dog can also be great at scent exercises or helping you find truffles. Trim his thick coat regularly.
How To Help Any Big Dog Shed Less
Even hypoallergenic dogs still shed sometimes, so it’s important to keep up with good hygiene practices for healthy fur. Bathe and brush your pup regularly to minimize shedding. A healthy diet can also help.
More Tips for a Happy Dog
While you’re looking for ways to give your dog the happiest of homes, why not try a delicious and nutritious food that he’ll enjoy eating every day? Consider grain-free, omega-rich canned and dry foods designed to support the coat and skin.
If you want to adopt a dog that won’t leave a lot of fur around the house, you have a lot of options in these big dog breeds. Try to choose the dog whose personality matches your own lifestyle the best. Look for a low-energy breed if you like to relax at home more, and try to find an active breed if you’re planning to go on lots of hikes and adventures. If you’re open to small breeds too, check out our story on smaller dogs that don’t shed.
1. Fetch by WebMD. “Hypoallergenic Dogs.” Pets.WebMD.com, 8 October 2019, https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/hypoallergenic-dogs#1.
2. Schamble, Melody. “Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed.” AKC.org, 5 August 2016, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-breeds-that-dont-shed/.
3. AKC. “Hypoallergenic Dogs.” AKC.org, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/hypoallergenic-dogs/page/3/.
4. Komondor Club of America. “About the Komondor.” KomondorClubofAmerica.org, https://komondorclubofamerica.org/about-the-komondor/.
5. Crockett Doodles. “Comparison Between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles.” CrockettDoodles.com, https://www.crockettdoodles.com/goldendoodle-vs-labradoodle.
