When people think of long-haired dogs, they often imagine tumbleweeds of fur rolling across the floor. While many long-coated breeds do shed heavily, some actually shed surprisingly little.
It’s important to remember that low shedding doesn’t mean low maintenance. Most of these dogs require regular brushing and professional grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats.
If you’re looking for a dog with a luxurious coat without constant clouds of hair, here are ten beautiful breeds that deserve a spot on your list.
1. Poodle
Poodles are one of the most popular low-shedding breeds in the world. Instead of falling onto your furniture, loose hairs stay trapped in their curly coat until they’re brushed out.
Why they shed less:
- Hair grows continuously instead of seasonally.
- Loose hairs remain trapped in the curls until brushing or bathing.
Grooming needs:
- Brush several times each week.
- Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks.
2. Maltese
The Maltese has silky, flowing hair that resembles human hair more than typical dog fur. They shed very little but require frequent brushing to keep tangles away.
Why they shed less:
- They have a single coat that grows continuously.
Grooming needs:
- Daily brushing if the coat is kept long.
- Regular trims if you prefer a puppy cut.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies may be tiny, but their beautiful coat can grow to floor length while shedding very little.
Why they shed less:
- Hair grows continuously.
- They don’t have a thick undercoat that sheds seasonally.
Grooming needs:
- Daily brushing for long coats.
- Routine professional grooming.
4. Shih Tzu
Despite their full, luxurious coat, Shih Tzus are considered low shedders.
Why they shed less:
- Hair falls out slowly and often remains trapped until brushed.
Grooming needs:
- Daily brushing for long coats.
- Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks.
5. Havanese
The Havanese has a soft, silky coat that sheds minimally while giving them their signature fluffy appearance.
Why they shed less:
- Minimal seasonal shedding.
- Single coat without a heavy undercoat.
Grooming needs:
- Brush several times each week.
- Schedule regular grooming appointments.
6. Afghan Hound
Known for its stunning flowing coat, the Afghan Hound surprises many people by being a relatively low-shedding breed.
Why they shed less:
- Hair grows continuously rather than shedding heavily.
Grooming needs:
- Frequent brushing.
- Regular bathing and coat maintenance.
7. Lhasa Apso
Originally bred in Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso has a beautiful coat that sheds much less than many people expect.
Why they shed less:
- Hair grows steadily with minimal seasonal shedding.
Grooming needs:
- Daily brushing if the coat is long.
- Routine professional grooming.
8. Portuguese Water Dog
This athletic breed has a curly or wavy coat that sheds very little.
Why they shed less:
- Tight curls help trap loose hairs before they end up around your home.
Grooming needs:
- Weekly brushing.
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
9. Bichon Frise
Although their coat looks incredibly fluffy, Bichons are among the best breeds for people who want less hair around the house.
Why they shed less:
- Loose hairs stay trapped within the curly coat.
Grooming needs:
- Frequent brushing.
- Professional grooming every month or two.
10. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Unlike many other terriers, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a silky coat that sheds minimally.
Why they shed less:
- Single coat with limited seasonal shedding.
Grooming needs:
- Brush several times each week.
- Regular trimming to keep the coat healthy.
Low Shedding Doesn’t Mean Low Maintenance
One of the biggest misconceptions about low-shedding dogs is that they’re easier to care for. In reality, many of these breeds require more grooming than heavy shedders.
Because loose hairs stay trapped in the coat, regular brushing helps prevent painful mats, reduces tangles, and keeps the skin healthy. Routine visits to a professional groomer also help maintain the coat and keep your dog comfortable.
Another thing many new owners don’t realize is that less shedding often means higher grooming costs. Dogs with continuously growing coats need regular haircuts, baths, nail trims, ear cleaning, and professional brushing to keep their coats healthy. Skipping appointments can quickly lead to severe matting, which is uncomfortable for your dog and can make grooming more time-consuming—and more expensive.
If you’re choosing a low-shedding breed, it’s important to budget for professional grooming every 4–8 weeks, depending on the breed and the style you prefer. Think of it this way: you’re spending less time vacuuming dog hair from your floors, but more time investing in coat care.
Want to know why professional grooming costs what it does? Read my guide here: Why Does My Dog’s Haircut Cost So Much?
The Cost of Grooming My Dog (By Region)
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