Lisa O
Love big dogs but hate sweeping up fur? While no breed is truly hypoallergenic, these large breeds are known for minimal shedding and cleaner homes. With regular grooming and care, they’re a great fit for families who want size without the mess.
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles are one of the most popular big dogs for people who want less shedding. Their tight curls hold onto loose hair, keeping it from falling around your home. While they don’t shed much, they do require regular grooming and brushing to prevent mats. They’re also incredibly intelligent, easy to train, and great with families.
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer has a coarse, wiry coat that sheds very little, especially when maintained with regular brushing. Their coat needs occasional professional grooming, but you’ll avoid daily fur cleanup. They’re strong, alert, and very loyal, too. With the right structure and stimulation, they’re obedient and affectionate.
Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs have dense, curly coats that hold onto hair rather than dropping it. This means less shedding, but consistent grooming is needed to keep their fur healthy. They’re fun-loving, adventurous, and love to be in active homes. Originally bred for work on fishing boats, they’re natural swimmers and love water.
Irish Water Spaniel
With its tight, curly coat, the Irish Water Spaniel doesn’t shed much compared to other large breeds. The coat repels water and traps loose hair, but it needs regular grooming to avoid mats. These dogs are playful, witty, and always ready to explore. They’re not as common as other breeds, but their mix of intelligence, humor, and low-shedding appeal makes them a hidden gem for dog lovers.
Komondor
The Komondor’s corded coat is one of a kind. It doesn’t shed in the traditional sense, but the cords require dedication to maintain. Once formed, the coat is surprisingly low-maintenance—just clean and dry it thoroughly. These dogs were bred to guard livestock and still carry strong protective instincts.
Bouvier des Flandres
This powerful herding breed has a dense double coat that doesn’t shed heavily when brushed weekly. Bouviers are affectionate with family but can be cautious with strangers. With consistent grooming, their coat stays under control, and you won’t be sweeping up fur constantly. They’re a great match for owners who want grit without the mess.
Black Russian Terrier
Black Russian Terriers have thick, weather-resistant coats that shed very little if groomed regularly. These dogs are confident, brave, and deeply loyal to their family, making them excellent watchdogs. They’re best with experienced owners who can provide firm training and structure. Though grooming is necessary, it’s worth it for a large, powerful dog that won’t leave your home covered in hair.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds have a glamorous, silky coat that surprisingly doesn’t shed much. Instead of frequent fur fallout, the hair grows continuously, similar to human hair. That means more grooming but less sweeping. They’re independent, graceful, and love quiet, peaceful homes. While they’re not overly affectionate, they form deep bonds with their people.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco’s unique coat is made of natural mats called flocks, which don’t shed much once fully formed. These mats protect the dog and trap loose hair. Grooming is minimal once the cords develop, though the coat needs help maturing properly. Calm, loyal, and great with children, Bergamascos are ideal for families seeking a large dog that’s both low-maintenance and low-shedding once past the puppy stage.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier has a wiry, dense coat that sheds very little and is easy to maintain with regular brushing and the occasional hand-stripping. These bold and curious dogs are full of energy and love being involved in family life. Airedales are protective, playful, and intelligent, making them excellent pets. Their coat might look rough, but it’s surprisingly clean.