9 Big Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed – Top Dog Tips
Quite possibly one of the first questions people ask when researching a dog breed is, “But does it shed?” While dogs that shed can make wonderful companions, having to clean up dog fur or remove it from clothes can be frustrating to some dog owners. Additionally, the dander that is created by dogs that shed can irritate allergies, making non-shedding dogs the preferred choice for many. While most dogs shed at least a little bit, it can be barely noticeable with certain breeds. But not all dog breeds are alike. When you’re researching the perfect dog for your family, it isn’t just the shedding level you have to consider; it’s also the dog’s temperament, activity level and specific care needs that need to be considered. As such, if you’re not the “lap dog” type and instead prefer the companionship that a larger dog can offer, take a look at some of the most popular big dog breeds that don’t shed.
Airedale Terrier
Average height: 23 inches
Average weight: 50-70 pounds
Known as the “king of terriers,” the Airedale terrier is the tallest of the terrier family. It has a very muscular build, long pointy snout and small eyes. Its standout feature is its beard, which showcases its signature brown and black fur. They’re very handsome dogs, but they’re also very active. For that reason, city life isn’t ideal unless they can get plenty of exercise. They’re great companions to active kids who are willing to play fetch or hide-and-seek with them.
Bouvier des Flandres
Average height: 24.5-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26.5 inches (female)
Average weight: 70-110 pounds
Bouviers are dogs with a very pleasant nature, making for a great family dog. However, the family of a Bouvier des Flandres should be able to take the time to challenge it both mentally and physically. They’re very smart and are great at not only learning commands but retaining them. Their fur is shaggy and slightly rough, and can be one of a variety of colors. Their thick, shaggy, weatherproof coat is great for dealing with adverse weather, but it needs to be brushed at least weekly to prevent it from becoming matted.
Giant Schnauzer
Average height: 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-25.5 inches (female)
Average weight: 60-85 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)
This German breed was created long ago by breeding sheepdogs with Great Danes, used mostly for herding cattle. Their long legs and skinny tail are a contrast to their square head and bearded muzzle — their signature look. Their ears are a pointy upside-down V-shape, and their tail may be cropped, which is the standard look for a Giant Schnauzer. As for the coat of the Giant Schnauzer, it is typically black in color, or it may be salt and pepper. Giant Schnauzers are loyal family dogs, but they may be aggressive to other pets without proper training.
Komondor
Average height: 27.5 minimum inches (male), 25.5 minimum inches (female)
Average weight: 100 pounds or more (male), 80 pounds or more (female)
With its notorious “dreadlocks,” the Komondor is one of the most unique breeds as far as its coat is concerned. Its white fur naturally cords when left to grow, and it strongly resembles a cute, four-legged mop. Considering their large size, Komondors are highly athletic and require lots of exercise. Due to their guarding instincts, they have a tendency to react negatively to unfamiliar dogs, so they shouldn’t be introduced to dog parks without caution. They make a good guard dog though, and they’re fiercely protective of their families.
Bearded Collie
Average height: 21-22 inches (male), 20-21 inches (female)
Average weight: 45-55 pounds
Bearded collies strongly resemble sheepdogs, with their grey and wight shaggy coat. They’re great family dogs, sure to provide lots of fun and laughter due to their goofy nature. They also do well with other animals. In order to ensure you get the best out of a bearded collie, you should provide a good amount of outdoor exercise no matter what the weather’s like outside. Fenced yards are great for bearded collies, as they provide the ability to roam and play freely with animals or human companions. If you love going on outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, expect to take your bearded collie with you, as they love being part of the fun.
Portuguese Water Dog
Average height: 20-23 inches (male), 17-21 inches (female)
Average weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Rightfully named due to their love of water, the Portuguese water dog is very active, friendly and eager to please. They thrive on praise and having their superior intelligence challenged. Their coat tends to be groomed in one of two ways: either like a retriever with the entire coat about 1-inch long, or with the hindquarters and muzzle shaved down to the skin. On its own, the fur is wavy to curly and typically black. If you’re an active person who lives near water and are looking for a companion, the Portuguese water dog is a great choice.
Standard Poodle
Average height: Over 15 inches
Average weight: 60-70 pounds (male), 40-50 pounds (female)
One of the most elaborately groomed at all the dog shows is the poodle, with its moppy head, shaved legs, and fluffy ball at the tip of its tail. Although this is a common look, most poodle owners prefer a basic groom that isn’t so elaborate and instead follows the outline of the poodle’s body. Poodles are very smart and are popular among mixed breeds, hence the popularity of the term, “doodle.” Standard poodles are much larger than their toy and miniature counterparts. They make good family dogs and need moderate exercise, so expect to play lots of fetch with this breed, as they were bred to retrieve. As far as grooming, their curly, fine hair needs regular brushing to prevent it from becoming matted.
Goldendoodle
Average height: 15 inches
Average weight: 50 lbs
We can’t mention poodles without mentioning a couple of the “doodle” breeds that are so popular, starting with the Goldendoodle — half poodle and half golden retriever. It is important to know that, since there are different sizes of poodles, there are different sizes of “doodles.” The typical Goldendoodle is a combination of a golden retriever and a standard poodle. Here is a site if you are interested in adopting. However, there are also mini-Goldendoodles, which are a mix of a miniature poodle and a golden retriever. In regard to shedding, they typically don’t shed, but some might shed more than others, since golden retrievers naturally shed. The Goldendoodle will have the same traits as a golden retriever and a poodle, although some might be more apparent than others, depending on the dog. They’re a great breed for people who love the friendly, sweet, hardworking temperament of a golden retriever, without all the hair. If you are interested in adopting, here is a great website to check some out.
Labradoodle
Average height: 17 inches
Average weight: 65 lbs
Similar to the Goldendoodle, a labradoodle is also a poodle mix, but is a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle. Their fur tends to be shorter and straighter than a Goldendoodle and maybe even more coarse. Again, since the Labrador retriever sheds, some Labradoodles may also shed more than others. They may also be bigger or smaller depending on the type of poodle in the mix. Expect a labradoodle to enjoy swimming, fetching and doing lots of outdoor activities since labs are so energetic.
While there are other big dog breeds that don’t shed, these are just some of the most common. When searching for the perfect addition to your family, remember that non-shedding dogs do need regular brushing, so be sure to budget some time for a bit of grooming now and then. Brushing them regularly when they’re a puppy will help them become acclimated to it into adulthood.
