When it comes to hunting, it is essential to have a dog as your trusty companion. However, for some hunters, dealing with shedding can be a hassle. That is where hunting dogs that don’t shed come into play.
There is a diverse range of non-shedding breeds that are well-suited for hunting tasks. In this post, we will provide a detailed insight into 19 hunting dog breeds that don’t shed.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Are There Hypoallergenic Dogs?
To be fair, no dog’s totally hypoallergenic, some folks with dog allergies might not react to certain breeds. Breeds like Poodles, Yorkies, and Maltese, etc are often termed as hypoallergenic,” but they are just less likely to cause allergic reactions.
So, in short, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, yet certain breeds are less likely to cause allergic reactions because they shed less dander.
What Hunting Dog Breeds Don’t Shed?
If you’re an avid hunter who also values a clean home, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several hunting dog breeds that don’t shed much.
Following is a list of hunting dog breeds that produce minimal dander, making them suitable for allergy sufferers or those who simply prefer less fur around the house.
Let’s take a look:
- Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
- Standard Poodle
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Vizsla
- Pudelpointer
- American Water Spaniel
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Border Terrier
- Curly Coated Retriever
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Afghan Hound
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Cirneco dell’Etna
- German Wirehaired Pointer
- Black Russian Terrier
- Dogo Argentino
- Glen of Imaal Terrier
- Airedale Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Dogs shed their fur for several reasons:
Type of Coat:
The type of coat a dog has plays a crucial role in shedding. Breeds with double coats such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers have a thicker undercoat that they shed seasonally to regulate body temperature.
Breeds with single coats, like Poodles or Bichon Frises, shed less because they don’t have that thick undercoat.
Shedding Season:
Dogs often shed more during specific seasons, typically in spring and fall. This shedding is influenced by changes in daylight and temperature.
During these times, dogs shed their winter or summer coats to adapt to the new weather conditions.
Nutrition:
A dog’s diet can also affect shedding. A lack of essential nutrients particularly omega-3 fatty acids and protein, can lead to dry, brittle fur and increased shedding.
Providing a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help maintain a healthy coat and reduce excessive shedding.
The 19 Hypoallergenic Hunting Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed:
Following is the list of the best Hypoallergenic Hunting Dog Breeds that don’t shed.
1. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a medium-sized, outgoing breed renowned for its hunting skills and affectionate nature.
With their shaggy coat and minimal shedding, they’re ideal for those with allergies or a preference for low-maintenance grooming.
These friendly dogs stand about 24 inches tall and make excellent companions both in the field and at home, combining playfulness with loyalty in a package that’s hard to resist.
2. Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles are known for their versatility and intelligence. They come in various sizes and colors each with its unique personality, ranging from calm and dignified to lively and spirited.
Famous for their hypoallergenic qualities, Poodles produce minimal dander, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Whether you opt for the large Standard Poodle or the smaller varieties, you’re guaranteed a loyal and intelligent companion.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are strong and loyal dogs with a unique ridge of hair along their back, giving them their distinctive appearance.
They’re known for their calm and dignified demeanor, making them excellent companions for active families. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have a natural instinct for tracking and hunting prey.
Despite their muscular build, they have a gentle and affectionate nature towards their families. While they do shed, it’s relatively minimal, making them easier to groom compared to some other breeds.
4. Visla Dog
Vizsla dogs are known for their sleek, golden coats and their boundless energy.
These medium-sized dogs are both affectionate and athletic, making them excellent companions for active individuals or families. Originally bred as hunting dogs in Hungary, Vizslas have a strong prey drive and excel in various canine sports and activities.
They are highly trainable and thrive on positive reinforcement and mental stimulation. While Vizslas do shed, their short coats require minimal grooming, making them relatively low-maintenance in terms of coat care.
5. Pudelpointer Dog
The Pudelpointer dog is a mix of the Pointer and Poodle breeds. They’re super smart and have a coat that’s good for people with allergies.
These dogs are great hunters because they’re fast, agile, and love the water.
6. American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a breed that doesn’t shed much, but they have thick double coats. It’s a good idea to brush them a few times a week to keep their coats healthy and remove any loose hair.
These dogs have long, floppy ears that add to their charming appearance, and their curly hair gives them a unique and stylish look.
They’re great companions for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, especially near water, as they’re excellent swimmers.
7. Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels are a breed that doesn’t shed much, making them suitable for most people with allergies. T
They require regular brushing, typically once a week, to keep their coats healthy and tidy. While their faces and tails naturally stay smooth, they might need a little grooming now and then to keep them looking neat. 8. Border Terrier
9. Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is known for its unique curly coat, which sheds very little. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies.
Their coat requires minimal grooming, with just occasional brushing to keep it looking neat.
Despite their curly hair, their ears and tail typically stay smooth and may only need occasional tidying up.
10. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a breed known for its curly and dense coat, which sheds very little. This makes them a great choice for those with allergies.
Their coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting, but they don’t shed much, so it’s not too much work. These dogs are smart and energetic, originally bred as truffle hunters in Italy.
11. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is famous for its long, silky coat that sheds minimally.
While they have luxurious fur, they don’t leave much hair around the house.
Despite their elegant appearance, Afghan Hounds are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A weekly brushing keeps their coat looking beautiful and prevents tangling.
12. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is renowned for its curly, waterproof coat, which sheds very little.
This breed is often recommended for people with allergies because of their low-shedding nature. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, but their minimal shedding means less hair around the house.
Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, energetic, and love being in the water, as their name suggests.
13. Cirneco dell’ Etna
The Cirneco dell’Etna is a breed known for its sleek and short coat, which sheds very little.
This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or those who prefer less grooming. While they may not require much brushing, they still benefit from regular care to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Cirneco dell’Etnas are agile, independent, and have a keen hunting instinct.
14. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed known for its wiry coat that sheds minimally. This makes them a good option for people with allergies or those who prefer less cleaning up after their pets.
Their coat requires occasional brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting, but overall grooming needs are relatively low.
15. Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is a breed known for its dense and wiry coat, which sheds very little. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or those who prefer less cleaning up around the house.
While their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its health, their minimal shedding means less hair to manage.
16. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a breed known for its short coat, which sheds moderately. While they may not shed as much as dogs with longer coats, they still require regular grooming to manage shedding.
Bathing and brushing your Dogo Argentino regularly can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Dogo Argentinos are loyal, protective, and energetic dogs, originally bred for hunting and guarding purposes.
17. Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a breed known for its rugged appearance and minimal shedding.
While they have a double coat, they don’t shed much compared to other breeds. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and reduces shedding even further.
Glen of Imaal Terriers are spirited, affectionate, and courageous dogs, originally bred for hunting and vermin control.
18. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier, also known as the “King of Terriers,” is a breed known for its wiry coat that sheds minimally.
While they do have a coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance and health, their shedding is relatively low compared to some other breeds.
Airedale Terriers are intelligent, confident, and energetic dogs, originally bred for hunting and working purposes.
19. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a breed known for its unique appearance and minimal shedding.
Their curly, woolly coat sheds very little, making them a great choice for people with allergies or those who prefer less grooming.
While their coat requires regular care to prevent matting and maintain its texture, their shedding is relatively low compared to other breeds.
Ways to Stop Your Dog Shedding Excessively
Dogs are great hunting companions, but let’s face it, the constant battle against dog hair can be overwhelming.
While shedding is a natural process, it can be excessive at times.
Here are some tips to manage your dog’s shedding and keep your home fur-free.
Regular Baths:
Regular baths not only keep your pup clean but also help remove loose and dead hair before it infiltrates your furniture and clothes.
Consider using a de-shedding shampoo formulated to loosen the undercoat and promote a healthier coat.
Minimize Dander:
Excessive shedding often leads to an increase in dander, tiny flakes of skin that can trigger allergies.
Frequent baths and brushing can help manage dander levels.
HEPA Air Cleaners:
Invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters. These filters effectively trap allergens, including pet dander, dust, and pollen, improving indoor air quality for everyone.
Clean Pet Accessories:
Don’t forget to clean your dog’s bed, blankets, and toys regularly.
This removes accumulated fur and dander, preventing them from spreading around the house.
Best Products for De-Shedding, Grooming, and Cleaning Up Dog Hair
There are several excellent products available for de-shedding, grooming, and cleaning up dog hair.
Here are some top recommendations:
FURminator deShedding Tool:
This grooming tool is designed to remove loose fur from your dog’s coat, helping to reduce shedding.
It comes in various sizes and works well on dogs with different coat types.
Slicker Brush:
A slicker brush is ideal for removing tangles and mats from your dog’s coat while also helping to remove loose hair.
Look for one with fine wire bristles for optimal results.
Rubber Grooming Glove:
A rubber grooming glove is a versatile tool for grooming and cleaning up dog hair.
Simply wear the glove and run your hand over your dog’s coat to remove loose fur.
Lint Roller:
A lint roller is a handy tool for quickly removing dog hair from clothing, furniture, and other surfaces.
Keep one handy for easy cleanup.
Pet Hair Vacuum:
A vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet hair removal can make cleanup easier and more effective.
Look for one with specialized attachments for removing hair from upholstery and carpet.
Pet Hair Remover Sponge:
These reusable sponges are designed to quickly and easily remove pet hair from clothing, upholstery, and car interiors.
Microfiber Cleaning Cloths:
Microfiber cloths are excellent for picking up pet hair from surfaces like furniture and floors.
They attract and trap hair, making cleanup a breeze.
Best Supplements for Dog Shedding
Here are three top supplements known for reducing dog shedding:
Meaningful Tree Super Pet Total Health:
This supplement powder promotes a healthy coat and nourishes skin with its simple, natural formula.
It contains extra virgin olive oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat, and acacia fiber, which supports digestive health.
This supplement also benefits gut, joint, and heart health, contributing to overall well-being and reducing excessive shedding.
Penelope’s Bloom Pet CBD Oil:
Customers report that this CBD oil has helped soothe their dogs’ itchiness and soften their coats.
It contains chamomile, known for its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, which may alleviate itching.
Full-spectrum CBD oil, combined with chamomile, can help reduce inflammation and stress, addressing underlying causes of excessive scratching.
This liquid supplement is available in different strengths and is third-party lab-tested for potency and safety.
Reggie Evening Skin + Coat:
These soft chews hydrate your dog’s skin, create a shiny coat, and relieve itching and hot spots.
Made with omega fatty acids from fish oil and vitamin E, they support skin health and reduce shedding. Vet-approved and shaped like hearts with a chicken flavor, these chews are appealing to dogs.
They can be given at any time of day and are available in different serving sizes based on your dog’s weight.
Best Dog Foods for Shedding
Here are some of the best dog foods known for reducing shedding:
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach:
This high-protein recipe features salmon and salmon meal, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and quality protein to promote a healthy coat and skin.
With gut-friendly probiotics and natural, low allergen ingredients, it’s ideal for dogs with stomach sensitivities and helps reduce shedding.
Bluebird Provisions Beef Bone Broth for Dogs:
Rich in collagen and glycine from pasture-raised beef bones, this bone broth promotes healthy skin and reduces shedding.
Free from common allergens and artificial ingredients, it’s a tasty and nutritious meal topper that dogs love.
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Wet Food (Lamb and Sweet Potato):
Made with lamb as the main ingredient, this wet food provides essential protein for healthy hair and reduced shedding.
Corn-free and limited in ingredients, it’s safe and trustworthy, perfect for dogs with sensitivity issues or excessive shedding.
Wellness Complete Health Whitefish Formula:
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and whitefish, this formula promotes healthy skin and reduces shedding. With protein-rich whitefish and sweet potatoes for digestion, it supports overall coat health and maintenance.