So you'd like to adopt or purchase a new dog, but you can't stand the shedding? Though no dog is completely free of shedding, there are a number of dog breeds out there that are less likely to have the hair and dander shedding issues that cause problems for many dog owners.
Don't like the mess that comes with a shedding house pet? You might consider a breed that typically sheds very little, such as the Affenpinscher, Havanese, Italian Greyhound, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Poodle, or Schnauzer.
Most types of Terriers also fit this category, including Airedale, Australian, Bedlington, Black Russian, Border, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Irish, Kerry Blue, Lakeland, Manchester, Norfolk, Norwitch, Scottish, Sealyham, Silky, Tibetan, Welsh, and Yorkshire Terriers.
If dander-related allergies are a major problem for you, though, the Bichon Frise might be your dog. Though they sport a thick coat of wavy hair, they have no undercoat. Or how about a Chinese Crested or Mexican Hairless? Both have virtually no hair and very little dander—though they might be a little funny-looking, they can still make great pets.
Got severe allergies? The American Hairless Terrier has absolutely no body hair and sheds almost no dander. Most people who can't tolerate other dogs will do fine with one of these, though no dog breed can guarantee a 100% allergy-free experience. If allergies or asthma are possible issues, it's best to try out a pet before you decide to adopt or buy to make sure they won't cause sneezing or wheezing.