For those who adore canine companionship but are plagued by sneezes and itchy eyes, finding the perfect pet might seem like a daunting endeavor. Fortunately, a selection of mixed dog breeds is emerging as a haven for allergy sufferers. These breeds blend the best of hypoallergenic traits with diverse characteristics, offering not only a reduction in shedding but also unique temperaments and appearances. Explore the wonderful world of mixed breeds that promise minimal shedding, ensuring a harmonious and sneeze-free coexistence for both you and your four-legged friend.
Finding a dog that fits into your home and lifestyle can be a challenge, especially if you or a family member has allergies or prefers a low-maintenance grooming routine. While all dogs shed to some extent, certain mixed breeds inherit hypoallergenic or low-shedding traits from their parent breeds, making them an ideal choice for many families.
These mixed breeds combine the best qualities of two breeds, including their coat type, personality, and adaptability.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at several popular mixed-breed dogs that don’t shed much. From the intelligent Bernedoodle to the playful Cavachon, these dogs offer companionship without the hassle of constantly cleaning up fur.
Mixed Dog Breeds that Don’t Shed
1. Bernedoodle
The Bernedoodle, a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, is not only adorable but also has a coat that’s typically low-shedding or hypoallergenic. Thanks to the influence of the Poodle parent, these dogs often inherit a curly or wavy coat that traps dander and reduces shedding. They come in various sizes, ranging from tiny to standard, depending on the size of the Poodle used in the mix.
These dogs are known for their affectionate and intelligent nature. Bernedoodles are excellent family pets because of their friendly disposition and adaptability to various lifestyles. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large home, a Bernedoodle can adjust as long as they get daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their gentle temperament makes them particularly great with children and other pets.
However, while they don’t shed much, Bernedoodles require regular grooming to keep their coats from matting. Weekly brushing and professional grooming every six to eight weeks are recommended to maintain their luxurious coat. Their intelligence and trainability make them a joy to work with, and they often excel in obedience training and interactive play.
2. Cavapoo
The Cavapoo, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, is a small mixed breed that’s beloved for its hypoallergenic coat and affectionate personality. Like other Poodle mixes, Cavapoos inherit a coat that is typically curly or wavy, which reduces shedding and makes them a great choice for allergic owners.
They are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction. They’re incredibly loving and often form strong bonds with their owners. This makes them an excellent choice for singles, families, or seniors seeking a loyal companion. These small dogs are also adaptable to a variety of living spaces, including apartments, as long as they get regular walks and playtime.
While their low-shedding coats are a big plus, they do require some grooming upkeep. Their coats need to be brushed regularly to prevent tangles and matting, and professional grooming every few months will keep them looking neat. Cavapoos are also known for their intelligence, making them relatively easy to train and a delight to have as part of the family.
3. Chiweenie
A mix between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund, the Chiweenie is an energetic, spunky little dog that’s great for those looking for a low-shedding breed. While not all of these dogs have hypoallergenic coats, those with smoother, shorter fur shed minimally compared to other breeds. Their coat type depends on the genetic traits they inherit from their parents.
Chiweenies are known for their bold and lively personalities, as per Purina. Despite their small size, they have big-dog confidence and love being the center of attention. They’re loyal to their families and make excellent watchdogs, though they can sometimes be wary of strangers. Their small stature and minimal grooming needs make them well-suited for urban living or smaller homes.
Though they don’t shed much, they benefit from occasional brushing to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny. They’re relatively low-maintenance compared to breeds with thicker coats. Chiweenies are also known for their playful energy, so regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
4. Poochon
The Poochon, a mix of a Bichon Frise and a Poodle, is another low-shedding hypoallergenic dog that’s perfect for pet parents prone to allergies. With their soft, curly coats, they are highly sought after for their hypoallergenic qualities. The Poodle genes contribute to their low-shedding nature, while the Bichon Frise brings a cheerful and loving personality.
They are small in size, usually weighing between 10 and 18 pounds, making them easy to manage and great for apartment dwellers. They’re friendly and sociable dogs that get along well with children and other pets. Poochons love to be around people and are known for their playful, affectionate demeanor.
However, their beautiful coat requires regular care. Brushing two to three times a week is essential to prevent tangles and mats, and professional grooming every six to eight weeks helps maintain their coat’s health. Despite the grooming needs, their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat makes them a popular choice for families.
5. Cockapoo
A mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, the Cockapoo is one of the most popular Poodle hybrids. Their coat can range from wavy to curly, and they are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic qualities. Cockapoos are also incredibly versatile in size, depending on whether they’re bred with a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle.
They are affectionate, intelligent, and social dogs that thrive on companionship. Hills Pet says they have moderate energy levels. They’re great with families, children, and other pets, making them an excellent choice for a multi-pet household. They’re highly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks, which keeps them mentally stimulated and well-behaved.
While they don’t shed much, Cockapoos do need regular grooming. Brushing their coat several times a week prevents mats and keeps their fur healthy. Their playful and energetic nature also means they need regular exercise, making them a fun and engaging companion for active families.
6. Cavachon
The Cavachon, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, is a small and friendly dog known for its low-shedding coat. Their soft, wavy dog hair is not only beautiful but also relatively easy to maintain. Cavachons are a great option for those who want a cuddly companion without the hassle of constant shedding.
Cavachons are incredibly affectionate and love spending time with their owners. Unlike many other dogs, they’re adaptable and do well in both apartments and larger homes. Their friendly nature makes them great with kids and other pets, making them a wonderful choice for families.
Grooming-wise, Cavachons benefit from regular brushing to keep their coat looking neat and prevent tangles. They don’t shed much, but occasional grooming is needed to keep their fur soft and manageable. Their sweet, calm temperament and minimal shedding make them an ideal companion for many households.
7. Morkie
The Morkie, a mix between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, is a tiny and adorable breed with a low-shedding coat. Their fur is silky and soft, often resembling the fine hair of their Maltese parent. Morkies are perfect for those who want a small, low-maintenance dog with a big personality.
Like most other mixed-breed dogs, they are also affectionate and thrive on human interaction. They form strong bonds with their families and love to be the center of attention. Their small size and minimal shedding make them an excellent choice for apartment living, though they enjoy short walks and playtime.
Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and prevents tangling, though they don’t shed much. Morkies are also intelligent and relatively easy to train, making them great companions for individuals or families looking for a lively, low-shedding dog.
Conclusion
Mixed dog breeds that don’t shed combine the best qualities of their parent breeds, offering hypoallergenic coats, minimal shedding, and unique personalities. While the Golden Retriever, Shih Tzu, and Labrador Retriever are known for their shedding coat, mixed breeds like the Bernedoodle and Cavapoo offer hypoallergenic qualities and low-shedding coats that make them a perfect choice for allergy sufferers. Shih Tzus are often bred with other hypoallergenic dogs to create designer dog breeds, such as the Shih Poo (Shih Tzu + Poodle), which offers the best of both worlds—a lovable personality and a low-shedding, allergy-friendly coat. Their grooming needs vary and their reduced shedding makes them an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their home fur-free.
Each breed brings its own charm and character, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every lifestyle and family. Whether you prefer a tiny Morkie or an energetic Cockapoo, these dogs prove that good things come in small, low-shedding packages. Adding one of these mixed breeds to your family could bring you years of love, companionship, and allergy-free cuddles!
In summary, mixed dog breeds that don’t shed significantly are a blessing for allergy sufferers seeking a canine companion. These breeds typically include Poodle mixes, such as the Labradoodle and Schnoodle, which combine non-shedding traits with diverse genetic backgrounds. Their hypoallergenic qualities minimize allergic reactions, allowing for a harmonious coexistence with sensitive owners. Choosing a mixed breed that suits both lifestyle and allergy needs ensures a loving, loyal pet without the hassle of excessive hair. With proper care and grooming, these dogs can bring joy and companionship to those previously hindered by allergies, creating fulfilling bonds with their families.