Dog Breeds That Shed the Most Hair
Excessive shedding can greatly increase housework and be challenging for households with allergies. For those looking to minimize dog hair, some breeds drop notably more fur than others.
Heaviest shedding often occurs in breeds with dense, long, double coats built to withstand weather. Smaller dogs can shed just as much relative to their size. Understanding the biggest shedding culprits helps match prospective owners to more compatible breeds.
Common Traits of Dogs That Shed the Most
Breeds notorious as heavy shedders frequently share qualities like:
- Thick undercoats and long guard hairs
- Frequent blowing of seasonal growth coats
- Increased shedding when stressed or exposed to temperature shifts
- Large or giant breed sizes
- High grooming needs
These innate traits trigger above-average hair volume ending up around your home.
Biggest Shedding Dog Breeds
Especially profuse shedders include:
Akita
This large Japanese breed has a dense double-coat that requires daily brushing to control loose hair. Their shedding is constant and they blow coats twice yearly.
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes have long, thick coats built to withstand Alaskan winters. Their soft undercoat sheds heavily year-round. Seasonal blowing results in drifting piles of fluff.
Bernese Mountain Dog
This striking mountain breed has a thick tri-colored coat prone to matting and loosening fur clumps. Without rigorous brushing, shedding happens heavily indoors.
Chow Chow
The Chows incredibly dense coat resists dirt and sheds constantly. Weekly brushing containing loose hair is a must, along with extra grooming during seasonal blows.
German Shepherd
Intelligent, loyal German Shepherds also tend to be prolific shedders. Their double coat blows out a thick fuzzy undercoat when seasons change.
Other Lead Shedder Contenders
Beyond the top five, other notable heavy shedders include:
- Collies
- Corgis
- Great Danes
- Huskies
- Labrador Retrievers
- Newfoundlands
- Old English Sheepdogs
- Samoyeds
- Saint Bernards
Shedding Triggers to Understand
While shedding varies by breed, several factors influence cycles and volume including:
Blowing Coat Seasonally
Most heavy shedders blow their undercoats as seasons change, leaving huge fur tufts behind. This adaption regulates body temperature against weather shifts.
Temperature Fluctuations
Ambient heat spikes or dips often increase shedding as dogs cool down. Keeping environments climate controlled reduces this reaction.
Sunlight Exposure
UV light signals the fur growth cycle in dogs. Shedding may increase after contact through walks or yard time. Managing exposure helps curb excess hair loss.
Stress or Anxiety
Emotional disturbances boost shedding rates in dogs prone to it. Minimizing stressors likes loud noises, unfamiliar guests, or changes in routine keeps fur growth on track.
Poor Nutrition
Diets deficient in fatty acids and nutrients lead to dull, loose hair that sheds easily in clumps. Quality foods improve coat health.
Health Issues
Thyroid disorders, Cushing's disease, infections, and other health problems can accelerate dog shedding. Regular veterinary checks help rule out underlying causes.
Grooming Tips for Heavy Shedding Breeds
Managing prolific shedders takes diligence including:
- Daily brushing with an undercoat rake
- Bathing once every 3 months using appropriate dog shampoo
- Frequently washing bedding to limit scattered fur
- Using deshedding tools and vacuum cleaners for upholstery
- Administering fatty acid supplements
- Providing a nutritious, breed-appropriate diet
While no breed is 100% non-shedding, strategies control hair volume for households bothered by dog fur.
Choosing Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
For those seeking dogs that dont shed much, consider:
- Affenpinschers
- Australian Terriers
- Basenjis
- Bichon Frises
- Chinese Cresteds
- Italian Greyhounds
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Poodles
- Shih Tzus
- Yorkshire Terriers
These single coated breeds tend to lose less hair than heavy shedders, producing less dander.
Preparing For Shedding Dog Breeds
Shedding remains manageable with realistic expectations. Invest in cleaning tools, brush regularly, control environmental triggers, and furnish homes minimally. Finding low-maintenance short haired or non-shedding breeds also reduces fibers dispersed indoors.
By understanding and preparing for breed-specific shedding, dog lovers can better enjoy their compatible furry companion at home.
FAQs
Why do some dogs shed more than others?
Frequent shedders tend to have double coats with thick undercoats that blow out seasonally. Breeds like Huskies and Malamutes developed heavy shedding to adapt to temperature extremes in their native regions.
What breed of dog sheds the least?
Top low shedding dogs include the Affenpinscher, Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Greyhound, Poodle, Shih Tzu, and Yorkshire Terrier. Their single layer coats trap less dander and fur.
Should I get a short haired or long haired dog if I don’t want shedding?
Coat length matters less than density. Many short haired dogs like Boxers shed moderately while some longhaired breeds like Poodles are light shedders. Prioritize non-allergenic single coats.
How can I manage a frequently shedding dog at home?
Strategies include daily brushing, bathing every 3 months, washing bedding regularly, using deshedding tools/vacuums, administering supplements, and providing high quality nutrition.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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