When it comes to shedding, it's important to understand that it's a natural process that helps dogs get rid of old hair and make way for new growth. However, excessive shedding can be a pain, as it can lead to allergies, messes, and extra cleaning.

If you're looking for a dog that sheds less, it's important to do your research and choose a breed that is known for having a low-shedding coat. In this article, we will explore the top 15 worst shedding dog breeds to own.

Let's dive in!

Understanding Shedding in Dogs

Shedding is a natural process that occurs in all dogs. It is the process by which dogs lose their old or damaged hair and replace it with new hair. Shedding can be influenced by various factors such as breed, age, health, and season. Some dogs shed more than others, and this can be a concern for pet owners who want to keep their homes clean.

There are two types of dog coats: single coats and double coats. Single-coated dogs have only one layer of hair, while double-coated dogs have two layers of hair. The topcoat is the longer, coarser hair that protects the dog from the elements, while the undercoat is the soft, fluffy hair that provides insulation.

Dogs shed their undercoat twice a year, during the spring and fall. This is known as "blowing coat." During this time, dogs shed heavily, and it can be challenging to keep up with the amount of hair they are shedding. It is essential to brush your dog regularly during this time to remove the loose hair and prevent mats from forming.

Certain breeds are known for shedding more than others. Breeds with double coats, such as German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Golden Retrievers, shed heavily. Breeds with long hair, such as Afghan Hounds and Shih Tzus, also shed a lot. However, some breeds shed less than others, such as Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Portuguese Water Dogs.

Regular grooming can help reduce shedding in dogs. Brushing your dog's coat regularly can help remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming. Bathing your dog can also help reduce shedding by removing loose hair and dirt from their coat. However, it is important not to over-bathe your dog, as this can strip their coat of natural oils and cause dry skin.

Worst Shedding Dog Breeds

1. Corgi

Corgis are a beloved breed among dog owners, but they are also notorious for shedding. This breed has a thick, double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, during the spring and fall. During these periods, Corgis can shed so much that it can seem like they are losing their entire coat.

To manage shedding in Corgis, regular grooming and brushing are essential. Brushing their coat once or twice a week can help remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. Additionally, a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help keep the skin and coat healthy, reducing shedding.

It is also important to note that Corgis shed year-round, although not as heavily as during the shedding seasons. Regular vacuuming and cleaning of the home can help manage the shedding and keep the environment clean.

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world. They are intelligent, loyal, and make excellent guard dogs. However, they are also known for their heavy shedding, which can be a major issue for some owners.

German Shepherds have a thick, double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During shedding season, they can lose large clumps of fur, which can be difficult to clean up. In addition, their fur can get matted and tangled, which can be uncomfortable for the dog.

To minimize shedding, regular grooming is necessary. German Shepherds should be brushed at least once a week, and more frequently during shedding season. A high-quality dog food that contains healthy fats and oils can also help keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding.

3. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are known for their thick, fluffy coats that come in a variety of colors. They have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, during the spring and fall. During these periods, they require daily brushing and grooming to remove the loose fur.

Chow Chows have a unique blue-black tongue and a lion-like appearance, which makes them stand out among other dog breeds. They are also known for their independent and aloof personality, which can make training a challenge.

Here are some key characteristics of Chow Chows:

• Size: Medium to large, weighing between 40 to 70 pounds
• Coat: Thick, double coat that sheds heavily twice a year
• Grooming: Daily brushing and grooming is required during shedding periods
• Personality: Independent, aloof, and can be stubborn

While Chow Chows can make great pets for experienced dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to groom and train them, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners or those who don't have the time to devote to their grooming needs.

4. Akita

The Akita is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in Japan. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, making them one of the worst shedding dog breeds to own. The shedding occurs during the spring and fall seasons, and during this time, they require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

Akitas have a dense undercoat and a harsh outer coat that is water-resistant. This coat helps them to stay warm in cold weather, but it also means that they shed more than other breeds. They are not hypoallergenic and can trigger allergies in some people.

Regular grooming is essential for Akitas to maintain their coat and prevent excessive shedding. Brushing their coat at least once a week can help to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Akitas also benefit from occasional baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.

In addition to their heavy shedding, Akitas are also known for their strong-willed and independent nature. They require early socialization and training to become well-behaved pets. They are loyal and protective of their family, but they can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals if not properly socialized.

5. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in Alaska. They are known for their thick, double-coated fur that sheds heavily twice a year. These dogs were originally bred for hauling heavy loads over long distances in harsh arctic conditions, so they have a lot of energy and require a lot of exercise.

Malamutes are not recommended for people who live in warm climates because their thick fur makes them prone to overheating. They are also not recommended for people who live in small apartments or homes because they require a lot of space to run around and play.

If you are considering getting an Alaskan Malamute, it is important to be prepared for the amount of shedding that comes with this breed. Regular grooming and brushing can help to minimize shedding, but it will still be a significant amount. It is also important to note that Malamutes are not hypoallergenic, so they may not be the best choice for people with allergies.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed that is known for its thick and fluffy coat. Unfortunately, they are also one of the worst shedding dog breeds to own. They have a shedding rating of 5 out of 5, which makes them the most prodigious shedders among dog breeds.

Their double coat consists of a long, silky outer coat and a woolly undercoat. This coat keeps them warm in cold weather, but it also means that they shed a lot. Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular grooming, which includes brushing their coat at least once a week to prevent matting and to remove loose hair.

If you are considering a Bernese Mountain Dog as a pet, be prepared for a lot of shedding and grooming. They are a loving and loyal breed that makes a great family pet, but they require a lot of attention and care.

7. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are a popular breed that is known for their friendly and loyal nature. They are great family dogs, but they also shed a lot. This breed has a thick, double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During shedding season, owners can expect to find clumps of hair all over their furniture, floors, and clothing.

While Golden Retrievers are great dogs, they may not be the best choice for those who are sensitive to pet dander or have allergies. Their shedding can cause allergic reactions in some people, so it's important to consider this before bringing one into your home.

8. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, intelligence, and trainability. However, they are also known for their shedding, which can be a problem for some owners.

Labrador Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent double coat that sheds throughout the year. They have a shedding rating of 4 out of 5, which means they shed a lot. During the transition into warmer and cooler seasons, they shed even more, so it's important to brush them regularly to keep their shedding under control.

Labrador Retrievers are also prone to skin allergies, which can exacerbate their shedding. Owners should keep an eye out for any signs of skin irritation, such as redness or itching, and take their dog to the vet if necessary.

9. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are large dogs that are known for their sweet and gentle nature. They are also known for their thick, water-resistant double coat, which sheds quite heavily.

Newfoundlands were originally bred to work in water and are excellent swimmers. Their coat is designed to keep them warm and dry in cold water, but it also means that they shed a lot. They have a thick undercoat that sheds heavily twice a year, in the spring and fall. During these times, they will need to be brushed daily to keep shedding under control.

Newfoundlands also drool quite a bit, so they will need regular grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy. They are not a good choice for people with allergies or for those who don't want to deal with a lot of shedding and drooling.

10. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs that are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are also notorious for their excessive shedding, which can be a challenge for pet owners who want to keep their homes clean and tidy.

Pomeranians have a thick, double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During shedding season, which typically occurs in the spring and fall, Pomeranians will lose a significant amount of hair, leaving behind clumps of fur on furniture, clothing, and floors.

In addition to regular grooming, providing Pomeranians with a healthy diet that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce shedding. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat, which can help prevent excessive shedding.

11. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are large dogs with a thick and dense coat. They are known for their calm and relaxed temperament, making them good family pets. However, their coat sheds heavily, especially during the shedding season.

Saint Bernards have a double coat, which consists of a thick, woolly undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. They shed their undercoat twice a year, during the spring and fall seasons. During this time, their shedding can be quite heavy, and it is recommended to brush them daily to manage it.

12. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are known for their thick, double-layered coat, which makes them one of the heaviest shedding dog breeds. They have a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat that sheds heavily twice a year. During shedding season, which typically occurs in the spring and fall, their fur comes out in clumps, requiring frequent brushing and grooming.

Despite their shedding, Siberian Huskies are a popular breed due to their friendly and outgoing nature. They are highly energetic and require daily exercise, making them a great choice for active families. However, their high energy levels can also make them destructive if they are not given enough attention and exercise.

Siberian Huskies are also known for their strong prey drive, which can make them difficult to train and control around small animals. They are independent thinkers and can be stubborn, so early and consistent training is essential.

13. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are a small herding breed that originated in Scotland. They are known for their beautiful, thick coats that come in a variety of colors. Unfortunately, this coat also means that they are prone to shedding.

Shelties have a double coat that consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. This means that they shed year-round, with heavier shedding occurring twice a year during shedding seasons. During these shedding periods, Shelties will shed large amounts of fur, which can be frustrating for owners who are trying to keep their homes clean.

14. Samoyed

Samoyeds are a medium-sized breed that originated in Siberia. They have a thick, fluffy coat that keeps them warm in cold weather. However, this also means that they shed quite a bit, especially during the spring and fall months.

Despite their shedding, Samoyeds are still a popular breed due to their friendly and loyal nature. They are great with children and make excellent family pets. However, potential owners should be prepared to spend time grooming their Samoyed regularly to keep their coat looking its best and to minimize shedding.

15. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a large dog breed that is known for its thick, fluffy coat. While this coat may be beautiful, it also sheds a lot. Great Pyrenees have a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a long, coarse outer coat. This means that they shed heavily twice a year, during the spring and fall shedding seasons.

In addition to seasonal shedding, Great Pyrenees also shed year-round. This is because their coat is designed to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer, so they are constantly shedding to maintain this balance. This shedding can be especially problematic for those with allergies or those who want to keep their home clean.

Normal Process

It is important to note that shedding is a natural process for dogs, and there is no way to completely eliminate it.

However, there are steps that owners can take to manage shedding and keep their homes clean. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help to reduce shedding. Additionally, choosing a dog with a shorter coat may be a good option for those who are particularly sensitive to shedding.

The Bottom Line

So there you have it, Owning a dog can be a joyous experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges that dog owners face is shedding. Some dogs shed more than others, and it can be frustrating to deal with. In this article, we have discussed the top 15 worst shedding dog breeds to own.

With proper care and attention, any dog can make a great companion.

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