Small Dogs that Don't Shed

To think of a dog who does not shed is a bit difficult. But hey, those with allergies culminating from dog shedding need not be disheartened if they want to have one as a pet. There are small dogs that don't shed. Scroll down to know more about dogs that do not shed.
Small Dogs that Don't Shed
They say that the dog is a man's best friend. Of course, dogs are a man's best friend and one of the most intelligent animals at that. Those who love pets and especially have dogs as pets, never refrain from giving testimonies as to how dogs are the most amazing creatures on the face of this earth. However, sometimes, this 'best friend', can turn into a foe, if the breed is such that it sheds a lot. I will tell you why. One of my uncles, who got a golden retriever recently, had to go through agonizing experience of giving it away in just a few months. The reason? Well, the reason was that golden retriever sheds considerably and that proved to be a bane for my uncle who has asthmatic tendencies. So, you see why these friendly quadrupeds could get a few curses? However, that is not the end of the world for those who want to own dogs. There are dog breeds that don't shed or shed hair in negligible amount if you are by any chance allergic to dog shedding. Following is a list of dogs that do not shed or have the least amount of shedding.

Small Dogs That Do No Shed

Bichon Frise: In French, the word Bichon Frise means curly lap dog. In reality it also is. Basically, it is a breed of dog of the 'Bichon' type and is small in size. They are very popular as pets and even though their appearance is very hairy, they surprisingly have minimal shedding. These are small, but sturdy dogs, having a silky undercoat and curly outer coat. These are good for people who are prone to allergies. The curly hair of these dogs trap the dander, which can be easily cleared and cleaned during grooming. They are top notch amongst the dogs that don't shed.

Dachshund: These are the members of the hound family and are short legged and short legged. The name, being German, literally means a badger dog, with 'Dachs' meaning badger and 'hund' meaning dog. They are muscular and are distinguished by their coats and yes, they fall into the category of dog breeds that don't shed. There are short haired, long haired and wire-haired dachshunds. The smallest or miniature breed of dachshund weighs around 5 kg. These are one of the popular small dogs that do not shed.

Schnauzer: Unnoticeable or negligible shedding is what characterizes these dogs who look like they have beards, on account of their furry muzzle. Miniature Schnauzers have a bushy beard and a long head. Alert and spirited, these are obedient to command and are friendly and intelligent.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: This hairy terrier could be your perfect Irish mate! Having hair instead of fur, the soft coated wheaten terrier is believed to be hypoallergenic, which makes it a hit with asthmatic or allergic dog owners. These dogs hardly shed. If at all, you would probably find a couple of hairs here and there. Their body structure is somewhat squarish and hair color is light, characteristic of wheaten terriers.

Yorkshire Terrier: Well, another of the small dogs that don't shed is the Yorkshire Terrier. A long haired dog breed and a small one amongst the terriers, have a tan coat which is silky and blue. They have a continuous hair growth, like humans, so you wont find hairs all over unless you do not trim them. Read more on yorkshire terrier.

American Hairless Terrier: One of the best small dogs that do not shed. The reason? Well, American hairless terriers neither have hair nor fur! So, if you do not want to get mislead by so called (mis) conception that there are dogs who do not shed, go for this dog. These were initially believed to be a variation of Rat Terriers, known as all round farm dogs. For more on terrier dog breeds, read terrrier dog breeds.

Cocker Spaniel Poodle Mix: The cocker spaniel poodle mix could be called as a hybrid amongst small dogs that don't shed. They are a cross from an American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They are also called Spoodle, Cockapoo or cockerpoo. In addition to low shedding, they also have low dander qualities, obtained from the poodle.

Portuguese Water Dog: One of the breeds classified as the rare breeds, Portuguese water dogs are steadily gaining popularity as non shedding dog breeds. They have curly coats and webbed toes, suitable for swimming and have a robust built with stout legs.

These were a few small dogs that don't shed apart from a few others like Cairn Terriers, Maltese, Norfolk Terrier, Havanese, Poodles, Greyhound dogs, Irish Water Spaniel and a few more. Read more on dogs that do not shed.

Ultimately there are hardly any dog breeds whose shedding traits are zero. These are the dogs with almost no shedding. So which one are you buying?! Have a blast with your fluffy and hairy four-legged friend!

By Medha Godbole
Published: 10/6/2009
 
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