20 Dog Breeds That Shed Like Crazy: Prepare for a Hairy Situation
Dogs are beloved companions, but some breeds shed more than others. For many potential pet owners, shedding is an important factor to consider when choosing a canine friend.
Certain dog breeds are known for their excessive shedding, which can affect home cleanliness and allergy sufferers.
This article examines 20 dog breeds that shed significantly, providing insights for those considering adopting a new furry family member.
Understanding these high-shedding breeds can help prospective dog owners make informed decisions about the right pet for their lifestyle and home environment.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their abundant shedding. These popular family dogs have a thick, water-repellent double coat that sheds heavily year-round.
The shedding intensifies during spring and fall when they blow their coats. During these seasons, Golden Retrievers can leave noticeable amounts of fur around the house.
Regular brushing is essential to manage their shedding. Daily brushing is recommended during heavy shedding periods, while 2-3 times a week may suffice during other times.
Golden Retrievers’ coats require consistent grooming to prevent matting and reduce loose fur. Bathing every 6-8 weeks can also help control shedding by removing loose hair.
Despite their high-shedding nature, Golden Retrievers remain a beloved breed due to their friendly temperament and intelligence. Prospective owners should be prepared for the grooming commitment these dogs require.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are renowned for their friendly nature and intelligence. These popular dogs also have a reputation for shedding extensively throughout the year.
Labs have a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a water-resistant outer layer. This combination leads to significant hair loss, especially during seasonal changes.
Labradors shed their undercoat twice a year, typically in spring and fall. During these periods, owners can expect an increase in loose fur around their homes.
Regular brushing is essential for managing a Lab’s shedding. Daily grooming sessions help remove loose hair and distribute natural oils through the coat.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Labrador Retrievers remain one of the most beloved dog breeds worldwide. Their gentle temperament and loyalty often outweigh the extra cleaning required to maintain a tidy home.
3. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence and loyalty, but they also have a reputation for shedding. These dogs have a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat.
German Shepherds shed year-round, with heavier shedding occurring twice a year during seasonal changes. Their thick undercoat helps regulate body temperature but also contributes to significant hair loss.
Regular brushing is essential for German Shepherd owners to manage shedding. Daily brushing during heavy shedding periods and weekly brushing at other times can help control loose fur.
Despite their shedding tendencies, German Shepherds remain popular as family pets and working dogs. Their versatility and trainability make them highly sought after for various roles, from police work to service animals.
4. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are renowned for their thick, double coats that shed profusely. These beautiful dogs were bred to withstand harsh Arctic conditions, resulting in a dense undercoat and longer guard hairs.
Huskies typically “blow” their coats twice a year, shedding heavily during these periods. During shedding seasons, owners can expect a significant increase in loose fur around their homes.
Regular brushing is essential for Siberian Huskies to manage their shedding. Daily brushing is recommended during peak shedding times, while brushing a few times a week suffices during non-shedding periods.
Proper nutrition and grooming practices can help maintain a healthy coat and minimize excessive shedding. Despite their high-shedding nature, Siberian Huskies remain popular due to their striking appearance and friendly personalities.
5. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small but fluffy dogs known for their excessive shedding. Their thick double coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarse outer coat.
These tiny pups shed year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal changes. Pomeranians typically “blow” their coats twice a year, releasing large amounts of fur in a short period.
Regular brushing is essential to manage a Pomeranian’s shedding. Daily grooming helps remove loose fur and prevent matting. Despite their small size, Pomeranians can produce a surprising amount of hair around the home.
Proper nutrition and occasional bathing can also help minimize shedding in Pomeranians. Owners should be prepared for constant vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep their living spaces fur-free.
6. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are known for their thick, double coats that shed profusely. These large, powerful dogs were bred to withstand harsh Arctic climates, resulting in a dense undercoat and long guard hairs.
Malamutes typically shed heavily twice a year during seasonal changes. During these periods, they “blow” their coats, releasing large amounts of fur in a short time.
Regular grooming is essential for Alaskan Malamutes. Brushing several times a week helps manage shedding and prevents matting. Daily brushing may be necessary during peak shedding seasons.
These dogs are not ideal for allergy sufferers due to their high shedding volume. Potential owners should be prepared for substantial fur cleanup and maintenance throughout the year.
7. American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs are known for their fluffy white coats that shed abundantly. These charming dogs come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard.
Their double coat consists of a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat. This combination provides excellent insulation but results in significant shedding throughout the year.
American Eskimo Dogs experience heavy shedding during seasonal changes, typically in spring and fall. During these periods, they shed even more than usual as they transition between their winter and summer coats.
Regular brushing is essential for managing an American Eskimo Dog’s shedding. Owners should brush their pets at least two to three times a week, increasing frequency during shedding seasons.
These dogs require consistent grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Routine bathing and occasional professional grooming can help control shedding and keep their fur in top condition.
8. Akita
Akitas are large, powerful dogs known for their thick double coats. These majestic canines shed moderately throughout the year but experience heavy shedding seasons twice annually.
During these periods, Akitas release their dense undercoat in large quantities. This process, often called “blowing coat,” can last for several weeks.
Regular brushing is essential to manage an Akita’s shedding. Owners should use a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose fur effectively.
Akitas also benefit from occasional baths to help control shedding. However, bathing too frequently can strip their coat of natural oils.
These dogs are not suitable for allergy sufferers due to their significant shedding. Potential owners should be prepared for regular grooming and cleaning to manage loose fur in their homes.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their thick, luxurious coats that shed heavily. These large, sturdy dogs have a double coat consisting of a longer outer layer and a dense undercoat.
Berners shed year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal changes. Their fur can be found on furniture, clothing, and floors, requiring frequent cleaning.
Regular brushing is essential to manage their shedding. Daily brushing during heavy shedding periods and weekly brushing during other times can help control loose fur.
These dogs are not suitable for those with allergies or those who prefer a low-maintenance pet. Their shedding requires consistent grooming and housekeeping efforts to keep the home clean.
Despite their shedding, Bernese Mountain Dogs are beloved for their gentle temperament and striking appearance. Their fluffy coats contribute to their charm but demand dedicated care from their owners.
10. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their distinctive lion-like appearance and profuse double coat. This breed sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes in spring and fall.
Their thick undercoat requires regular grooming to manage shedding. Chow Chows benefit from daily brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks can help maintain their coat and reduce shedding around the home. Regular bathing also aids in controlling loose fur.
Chow Chows are not hypoallergenic due to their high shedding levels. Potential owners should be prepared for frequent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage fur accumulation.
Proper nutrition and health care contribute to coat health and can help minimize excessive shedding in Chow Chows.
11. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their luxurious white coats that shed extensively. These large, majestic canines have thick double coats designed to protect them from harsh mountain climates.
Their undercoats shed heavily twice a year during seasonal changes. Throughout the rest of the year, Great Pyrenees continue to shed moderately, requiring regular grooming to manage loose fur.
Daily brushing is essential to control shedding and prevent matting. Their long outer coat can tangle easily if not maintained properly. Owners should be prepared for frequent vacuuming and lint rolling to keep their homes fur-free.
Despite their high-maintenance coats, Great Pyrenees make loving and loyal companions. Their gentle nature and protective instincts have made them popular family dogs, but potential owners must be ready to tackle their significant shedding.
12. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large, gentle giants known for their thick, double coats that shed heavily throughout the year. Their outer coat is long and coarse, while the undercoat is soft and dense.
These dogs experience significant shedding during spring and fall when they blow their coats. During these seasons, Newfoundlands can leave clumps of fur around the house.
Regular brushing is essential to manage a Newfoundland’s shedding. Owners should brush their dogs at least two to three times a week, increasing to daily during peak shedding periods.
Newfoundlands also drool considerably, which can make their shedding appear even more noticeable. The combination of loose fur and drool can create wet clumps that stick to surfaces.
Despite their high-maintenance coats, Newfoundlands remain popular family pets due to their loving nature and loyalty.
13. Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and high energy levels. They also have a reputation for shedding considerably throughout the year.
These dogs have a double coat consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. This combination leads to significant shedding, especially during seasonal changes.
Border Collies typically shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding periods occurring twice a year. During these times, they “blow” their undercoat, resulting in more loose fur around the home.
Regular brushing is essential for Border Collies to manage their shedding. Owners should expect to groom their Border Collie at least two to three times a week, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Border Collies remain popular pets due to their loyalty, trainability, and work ethic. Proper grooming and care can help keep their shedding under control.
14. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their thick, fluffy coats that shed extensively throughout the year. These large dogs have a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat.
Saint Bernards typically experience two major shedding seasons annually, during spring and fall. During these periods, they shed their undercoat in large quantities, leading to significant hair loss.
Regular grooming is essential for Saint Bernard owners to manage shedding. Daily brushing helps remove loose fur and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. This breed also benefits from occasional baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Saint Bernards remain popular family pets due to their loving nature and impressive size. Potential owners should be prepared for the grooming commitment required to maintain these majestic dogs’ coats.
15. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, powerful breed known for its impressive coat and shedding habits. These dogs have a thick double coat that protects them from harsh weather conditions.
Tibetan Mastiffs shed heavily twice a year during seasonal changes. During these periods, they lose their undercoat in large clumps, requiring frequent brushing to manage the shedding.
Even outside of shedding seasons, Tibetan Mastiffs require regular grooming to maintain their coat. Their long, dense fur can easily become matted without proper care.
Owners should be prepared for significant hair cleanup around the home. Regular vacuuming and lint rolling are necessary to keep living spaces tidy.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Tibetan Mastiffs are not hypoallergenic. Their thick coats can trap allergens, making them unsuitable for allergy sufferers.
16. Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their fluffy white coats that shed significantly. These beautiful dogs have a thick double coat that helps them withstand cold temperatures.
Samoyeds typically shed year-round, but experience heavy shedding seasons twice a year. During these periods, they lose large amounts of their undercoat.
Regular brushing is essential for Samoyed owners to manage shedding. Daily brushing is recommended during heavy shedding seasons, while 2-3 times a week may suffice during other times.
Their fur can easily accumulate around the house, covering furniture, clothes, and floors. Samoyed owners often find themselves vacuuming frequently to keep up with the loose fur.
Despite their high-shedding nature, Samoyeds are popular pets due to their friendly personalities and striking appearance. Potential owners should be prepared for the grooming commitment these dogs require.
17. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are known for their abundant double coats. These small herding dogs have a thick, fluffy undercoat paired with a long, straight outer coat.
Shelties shed consistently throughout the year, with heavier shedding periods occurring twice annually. During these times, they lose significant amounts of fur, requiring increased grooming attention.
Regular brushing is essential for Shetland Sheepdogs to manage their shedding. Owners should aim to brush their Shelties at least 2-3 times per week, increasing to daily during peak shedding seasons.
Despite their heavy shedding, Shelties are popular family pets due to their intelligence, loyalty, and compact size. Potential owners should be prepared for the grooming demands that come with this breed’s beautiful but high-maintenance coat.
18. Corgi
Corgis are beloved for their short legs and adorable faces, but they also have a reputation for shedding. These small herding dogs possess a double coat that sheds year-round.
Corgis have a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat. They typically shed heavily twice a year during seasonal changes. During these periods, their coat “blows out” in large clumps.
Regular brushing is essential for Corgi owners to manage shedding. Daily brushing during heavy shedding seasons can help remove loose fur before it ends up on furniture and clothes.
Corgis come in two distinct breeds: Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis. Both varieties shed similarly, requiring consistent grooming to keep their coats healthy and minimize shedding.
19. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are known for their fox-like appearance and independent nature. These Japanese dogs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year during seasonal changes.
During shedding seasons, Shiba Inus can leave fur all over furniture, clothing, and floors. Regular brushing is essential to manage their shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Shiba Inus require daily brushing during peak shedding periods. Outside of these times, weekly brushing is usually sufficient to control loose fur and maintain coat quality.
Their undercoat is particularly prone to matting, so thorough grooming is necessary. Owners should be prepared for frequent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep their homes fur-free.
Despite their shedding tendencies, Shiba Inus are generally clean dogs. They often groom themselves like cats, which can help reduce loose fur to some extent.
20. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are known for their distinctive lion-like appearance and luxurious double coats. These small but regal canines shed consistently throughout the year, with increased shedding during seasonal changes.
Their coats consist of a dense undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. This combination leads to significant hair loss, requiring regular grooming to manage shedding.
Pekingese typically need brushing several times a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting. During heavy shedding periods, daily brushing may be necessary to keep their coats in good condition.
Despite their small size, Pekingese can produce a surprising amount of loose hair. Owners should be prepared for frequent vacuuming and lint rolling to keep their homes free of pet hair.
Understanding Dog Shedding
Dog shedding is a natural process that helps maintain healthy skin and coat. It varies widely between breeds and individual dogs.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Dogs shed to remove old, damaged, or excess fur. This process allows new, healthy hair to grow in its place. Shedding also helps regulate body temperature, keeping dogs cool in summer and warm in winter.
Most dogs shed year-round, with increased shedding during spring and fall. These seasonal changes are triggered by daylight hours and temperature fluctuations.
Some breeds, like Poodles and Bichon Frises, shed less due to their hair-like coats. Others, such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, are known for heavy shedding.
Factors Influencing Shedding
Several factors affect the amount and frequency of dog shedding:
- Breed: Some breeds naturally shed more than others.
- Climate: Warmer temperatures often increase shedding.
- Diet: Proper nutrition supports healthy coat growth and maintenance.
- Health: Certain medical conditions can cause excessive shedding.
- Stress: Anxiety or changes in routine may lead to increased fur loss.
Regular grooming can help manage shedding. Brushing removes loose fur and distributes natural oils throughout the coat. This practice also allows owners to check for skin issues or parasites.
Indoor lighting and temperature control can affect shedding patterns in house dogs. These factors may lead to more consistent year-round shedding rather than pronounced seasonal changes.
Managing Heavy Shedding
Proper grooming, nutrition, and environmental controls are essential for managing dogs that shed excessively. These strategies can significantly reduce loose fur and keep homes cleaner.
Grooming Tips for Shedding Dogs
Regular brushing is crucial for heavy shedders. Use appropriate tools like slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, or deshedding tools depending on the dog’s coat type. Aim to brush daily during peak shedding seasons.
Bathing with deshedding shampoos can help loosen and remove dead fur. However, avoid over-bathing, as it can dry out the skin and increase shedding. Once every 4-6 weeks is typically sufficient for most breeds.
Professional grooming services can be beneficial, especially for dogs with thick double coats. Groomers have specialized tools and techniques to remove loose undercoat effectively.
Nutritional Considerations
A balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids promotes healthy skin and coat. Look for dog foods containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, often found in fish oil or flaxseed.
Adequate protein is vital for hair growth and maintenance. Choose high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb as the main ingredients in your dog’s food.
Supplements such as biotin or vitamin E can support coat health. Consult with a veterinarian before adding any supplements to ensure they’re appropriate for your dog’s needs.
Environmental Controls
Regular vacuuming and sweeping are essential to manage shed fur in the home. Invest in a high-quality vacuum designed for pet hair removal.
Use washable slipcovers on furniture to make cleaning easier. Choose fabrics that repel pet hair, such as leather or tightly woven materials.
Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help remove airborne fur and dander, improving indoor air quality. Place them in areas where your dog spends the most time.
Consider designating specific areas in your home as dog-free zones to minimize the spread of shed fur throughout the house.
