Dog Breeds That Shed the Most

Dog Breeds That Shed the Most: A Comprehensive Guide

Dog breeds that shed the most often possess a dense double coat designed for insulation, like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Siberian Huskies, and Alaskan Malamutes. These breeds shed heavily year-round, with even more intense periods, known as “blowing coat,” typically twice a year. Regular grooming is essential to manage the significant hair loss.

Finding dog hair on your clothes, furniture, and every corner of your home is a common experience for many dog owners. It can be frustrating, especially if you’re not prepared for the sheer volume of fur some breeds can produce. You might wonder why some dogs seem to shed constantly while others leave barely a trace. This natural process is a significant consideration for potential pet parents and a daily challenge for current ones. You’re in the right place to understand which breeds are the biggest culprits when it comes to shedding and, more importantly, how to manage it effectively. Let’s explore the world of high-shedding dogs and uncover practical solutions.

Dog Breeds That Shed the Most: What You Need to Know

Understanding Why Dogs Shed

Shedding is a completely natural and healthy process for most dogs. It’s how they get rid of old, damaged, or dead hair and make way for new growth. Think of it as their body’s way of maintaining a healthy coat and regulating body temperature. The amount and frequency of shedding depend on several factors, primarily breed, but also season, health, and nutrition.

Hair Growth Cycles: Just like humans, dog hair grows in cycles: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), telogen (resting), and exogen (shedding). The length of these cycles varies greatly among breeds. Dogs with continuous growth cycles (like Poodles) shed minimally, while those with long resting phases and dense undercoats shed significantly.
Double Coats: Many high-shedding breeds possess a “double coat.” This consists of a soft, dense undercoat that provides insulation and a coarser, longer outer coat (guard hairs) that protects against elements like rain and snow. It’s primarily the undercoat that “blows” or sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
Seasonal Shedding: Most dogs shed more intensely during spring and fall. In spring, they shed their thick winter coat to prepare for warmer weather. In fall, they shed their lighter summer coat to grow a denser winter one. Dogs living indoors with artificial lighting and climate control might shed more consistently year-round, as their bodies don’t get clear seasonal signals.
Health and Nutrition: A dog’s health can significantly impact shedding. Poor nutrition, allergies, parasites, stress, or underlying medical conditions can lead to excessive or abnormal hair loss. A healthy, balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids often contributes to a healthier coat and can sometimes help manage normal shedding.

Top Dog Breeds Known for Heavy Shedding

If you’re looking for a dog that won’t leave a trail of fur, these breeds are generally not for you. However, if you’re prepared for the commitment to grooming, many of these dogs make wonderful, loyal companions.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are iconic, intelligent, and highly trainable dogs, but they are also prodigious shedder. Their thick double coat consists of a dense, close-lying undercoat and a straight, harsh outer coat. They shed moderately year-round and heavily twice a year, during their “blowing coat” seasons in spring and fall. During these periods, you’ll find tumbleweeds of fur around your home. Regular brushing, often daily during peak shedding, is essential to manage their coat and prevent matting.

Golden Retriever

Beloved for their friendly nature and beautiful coats, Golden Retrievers are another breed known for significant shedding. They have a dense, water-repellent double coat that sheds moderately year-round and profusely during seasonal changes. Their longer hair, especially on their tails, legs, and ruff, can easily get tangled if not brushed regularly. Daily brushing with a slicker brush and an undercoat rake is recommended to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.

Labrador Retriever

Labradors, like Goldens, are extremely popular family dogs, and their short, dense double coat might deceive you into thinking they don’t shed much. However, Labs are notorious for their constant, heavy shedding. Their coarse outer coat and soft, insulating undercoat shed profusely, especially during seasonal changes. The short, stiff hairs tend to weave into carpets and upholstery, making them particularly challenging to clean up. Regular deshedding tools are a must for Lab owners.

Siberian Husky

Bred for cold climates, Siberian Huskies possess an incredibly dense double coat designed to keep them warm. This coat is a major source of shedding. Huskies shed moderately throughout the year but “blow their coat” intensely twice a year, typically in spring and fall. During these periods, they shed large clumps of undercoat, which can be overwhelming. Daily brushing with a slicker brush and undercoat rake is crucial, and some owners even use a forced-air dryer to help remove loose fur.

Alaskan Malamute

Similar to Huskies but even larger and with a thicker coat, Alaskan Malamutes are also heavy, seasonal shedder. Their thick, coarse outer coat and dense, woolly undercoat provide excellent insulation. They shed year-round, but like Huskies, they experience two major “blowouts” annually, during which they lose vast amounts of undercoat. Regular and thorough brushing is necessary to manage their shedding and prevent matting, especially during seasonal changes.

Bernese Mountain Dog

The majestic Bernese Mountain Dog has a thick, silky double coat that sheds quite a bit, especially during seasonal transitions. Their long hair can create a noticeable amount of loose fur around the home. While not as intense as a Husky’s blowout, their shedding is consistent and requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to keep their coat healthy and minimize shedding in the house. An undercoat rake is particularly useful for removing loose undercoat.

Great Pyrenees

Known for their impressive white coats and calm demeanor, Great Pyrenees are heavy shedder. Their thick, weather-resistant double coat sheds consistently year-round, with more significant shedding during seasonal changes. Their long, dense fur can easily mat if not brushed regularly, at least 2-3 times a week. Like other double-coated breeds, they benefit from an undercoat rake to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy and free of tangles.

Chow Chow

The Chow Chow’s distinctive lion-like mane and dense double coat make them incredibly fluffy, but also incredibly high-shedding. They shed moderately year-round and experience heavy seasonal shedding. Their thick undercoat can easily mat if not properly maintained. Daily brushing, especially during shedding season, is essential to keep their coat in good condition and manage the fur. A sturdy slicker brush and a long-toothed comb are indispensable tools for Chow Chow owners.

Newfoundland

These gentle giants have a thick, oily double coat that is water-resistant, making them excellent swimmers. However, this dense coat also means they are significant shedder. Newfoundlands shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding periods seasonally. Their long, thick fur requires regular brushing (several times a week) to prevent mats and remove loose hair. Their coat can hold a lot of dander and loose fur, making thorough grooming a necessity.

Samoyed

The beautiful, fluffy white coat of the Samoyed is one of its most striking features, but it comes with a price: very heavy shedding. Samoyeds have an incredibly dense double coat that sheds profusely, especially during seasonal changes. Their shedding is often described as “blowing their coat,” where large amounts of undercoat are released. Daily brushing with a slicker brush and undercoat rake is vital to manage their fur and prevent matting, which can be painful for the dog.

Akita

Akitas possess a thick, double coat that sheds heavily, particularly during seasonal changes. Their dense undercoat sheds in large clumps, similar to other Northern breeds. While their outer coat is relatively short, the sheer volume of their undercoat makes them high-shedding dogs. Regular brushing, at least a few times a week and daily during shedding season, is necessary to keep their coat healthy and minimize loose fur around the home.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Despite their short legs and seemingly compact size, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are surprisingly heavy shedder. They have a thick double coat that sheds consistently year-round, with two major shedding seasons. Their short, stiff hairs can be particularly difficult to remove from fabrics. Regular brushing, 2-3 times a week, is essential to manage their shedding and keep their coat healthy. An undercoat rake is very effective for removing loose undercoat.

Beagle

Beagles have a short, dense, and water-resistant coat that might not look like it sheds much, but they are actually consistent, moderate-to-heavy shedder. Their short hairs can be surprisingly stubborn and embed themselves into carpets and furniture. While they don’t have seasonal “blowouts” like double-coated breeds, their constant shedding means regular brushing (1-2 times a week) is necessary to keep loose hair under control.

Dachshund (Smooth & Long-haired)

Both smooth and long-haired Dachshunds shed, though the long-haired variety will have more noticeable shedding. Smooth Dachshunds shed fine, short hairs year-round that can be surprisingly pervasive. Long-haired Dachshunds shed more visibly and require more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and remove loose fur. While not in the same league as a German Shepherd, their shedding is consistent and requires attention.

Pug

Pugs are another breed with a short coat that surprises many owners with how much they shed. Pugs have a fine, short, double coat that sheds consistently and heavily year-round. Their short, stiff hairs can be challenging to remove from upholstery and clothing. Regular brushing, often daily, is needed to manage their shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds have a medium-length double coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal changes. Their beautiful, flowing coats can easily tangle and mat if not brushed regularly. At least 2-3 times a week, and daily during shedding season, brushing with a slicker brush and an undercoat rake is necessary to manage their shedding and maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

Shetland Sheepdog

Often mistaken for miniature Collies, Shelties have a long, dense double coat that sheds a fair amount. They shed moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. Their soft undercoat and longer outer coat require regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent mats and remove loose fur. An undercoat rake is particularly useful for managing their dense undercoat.

Border Collie

Border Collies come in both rough (medium-length) and smooth (short) coats, both of which are double coats that shed. The rough-coated variety sheds more noticeably due to the length of their fur. Both types shed moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. Regular brushing, at least a few times a week, is necessary to manage their shedding and keep their coats healthy and free of mats.

Saint Bernard

These gentle giants have a thick double coat that can be either short-haired (smooth) or long-haired. Both varieties shed considerably, with the long-haired version being more noticeable. Saint Bernards shed year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal transitions. Their sheer size means there’s a lot of fur to lose, requiring regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent mats.

Old English Sheepdog

With their iconic shaggy coats, Old English Sheepdogs are undoubtedly high-shedding dogs. Their long, dense double coat requires significant grooming to prevent matting and manage shedding. They shed moderately year-round, with heavier periods seasonally. Daily brushing and professional grooming are often necessary to keep their voluminous coat healthy and free of tangles, which also helps control the amount of loose hair.

Basset Hound

Basset Hounds have a short, dense, and hard coat that sheds consistently throughout the year. While their hairs are short, they are quite coarse and can easily embed themselves into fabrics, making them difficult to remove. They are moderate shedder, but their constant shedding means regular brushing (1-2 times a week) is needed to keep loose hair under control and maintain coat health.

Boxer

Boxers have a short, smooth, and close-lying coat. Despite its appearance, they are surprisingly heavy shedder. Their short, stiff hairs shed consistently year-round and can be quite prickly when embedded in upholstery. While they don’t have the same volume as double-coated breeds, their shedding is constant and noticeable. Regular brushing with a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt helps to remove loose hair.

Dalmatian

Dalmatians possess a short, dense, and smooth coat. Like Boxers, their short hairs shed consistently and heavily throughout the year. The white hairs can be particularly visible on dark clothing and furniture. Regular brushing with a rubber curry brush or grooming glove is effective in removing loose hair and keeping their coat shiny and healthy.

Table 1: High-Shedding Breeds at a Glance

Breed	Coat Type	Shedding Level	Grooming Frequency (for shedding)
German Shepherd	Double Coat (medium-long)	Very High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Golden Retriever	Double Coat (medium-long)	Very High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Labrador Retriever	Double Coat (short)	High (consistent)	3-4x/week
Siberian Husky	Double Coat (medium)	Extremely High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Alaskan Malamute	Double Coat (thick, medium)	Extremely High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Bernese Mountain Dog	Double Coat (long)	High (seasonal blowouts)	3-4x/week
Great Pyrenees	Double Coat (long)	High (consistent & seasonal)	3-4x/week
Chow Chow	Double Coat (dense, long)	Very High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Newfoundland	Double Coat (thick, long)	High (consistent & seasonal)	3-4x/week
Samoyed	Double Coat (very dense, long)	Extremely High (seasonal blowouts)	Daily during peak, 3-4x/week otherwise
Pembroke Welsh Corgi	Double Coat (short-medium)	High (consistent & seasonal)	3-4x/week
Pug	Double Coat (short, fine)	High (consistent)	Daily
Beagle	Single Coat (short, dense)	Moderate-High (consistent)	2-3x/week
Australian Shepherd	Double Coat (medium)	High (consistent & seasonal)	3-4x/week
Boxer	Single Coat (short, smooth)	Moderate-High (consistent)	2-3x/week

Managing Dog Shedding: Practical Tips for a Cleaner Home

While you can’t stop a dog from shedding, you can certainly manage it effectively. A proactive approach to grooming and home care can significantly reduce the amount of fur floating around your living space.

1. Regular and Proper Brushing

This is by far the most effective way to control shedding. The goal is to remove loose and dead hair *before* it ends up on your furniture. The type of brush you use is crucial and depends on your dog’s coat type.

Deshedding Tools: For double-coated breeds, tools like the FURminator Deshedding Tool are highly effective. They are designed to reach through the topcoat and gently remove loose undercoat without cutting the guard hairs. Use these sparingly (e.g., once a week or every two weeks) as overuse can damage the coat or irritate the skin.
Slicker Brushes: Great for removing mats and tangles, and for general brushing of medium to long-haired breeds.
Undercoat Rakes: Essential for breeds with dense undercoats (like Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds). These rakes have long teeth that penetrate the topcoat to pull out loose undercoat.
Bristle Brushes: Good for short-haired breeds to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils, leaving the coat shiny.
Rubber Curry Brushes/Grooming Mitts: Excellent for short-haired breeds like Labradors, Pugs, and Boxers. They massage the skin, stimulate circulation, and effectively pull out loose hair.

Frequency: High-shedding breeds may need daily brushing during peak shedding seasons and 2-3 times a week during the rest of the year. Even short-haired heavy shedder benefit from frequent brushing.

2. Regular Bathing

Bathing helps loosen dead hair, making it easier to brush out. Use a deshedding shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for dogs. These products often contain ingredients that help release the undercoat. Be careful not to over-bathe, as this can strip natural oils and dry out your dog’s skin, potentially leading to more shedding. For most high-shedding breeds, bathing every 4-6 weeks is sufficient, unless they get particularly dirty.

Proper Drying: After bathing, thoroughly dry your dog. A high-velocity pet dryer can be incredibly effective at blowing out loose undercoat, especially for double-coated breeds.

3. Quality Nutrition

A healthy diet plays a significant role in coat health. Look for high-quality dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient and contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (like fish oil, flaxseed oil). These fatty acids nourish the skin and hair follicles, leading to a stronger, healthier coat and potentially reduced shedding. Consult your vet about adding supplements if you’re concerned about your dog’s coat health.

4. Adequate Hydration

Just like humans, dogs need plenty of fresh water. Dehydration can lead to dry skin and a brittle coat, which can exacerbate shedding. Always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water.

5. Professional Grooming

For some breeds, or during peak shedding seasons, professional grooming can be a lifesaver. Professional groomers have specialized tools, high-velocity dryers, and expertise to effectively remove large amounts of loose hair. A professional deshedding treatment can significantly reduce the amount of fur in your home for weeks.

6. Home Cleaning Strategies

Even with diligent grooming, some fur will inevitably end up in your home. Having the right cleaning tools can make a big difference.

Powerful Vacuum Cleaner: Invest in a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair, often featuring strong suction and specialized attachments.
Lint Rollers: Keep these handy for quick clean-ups on clothes and furniture.
Rubber Gloves/Squeegees: For removing embedded hair from carpets and upholstery, a damp rubber glove or a window squeegee can work wonders by creating static cling.
Washable Covers: Use washable covers for furniture and car seats to easily remove accumulated fur.

Table 2: Grooming Tools for Shedding Dogs

Tool	Best For	How It Helps
Undercoat Rake	Double-coated breeds (German Shepherds, Huskies, Goldens, Malamutes, Samoyeds, Corgis, Akitas)	Reaches deep into the undercoat to pull out loose, dead fur without damaging the topcoat. Essential for “blowing coat” seasons.
Slicker Brush	Medium to long-haired breeds (Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Shelties)	Removes loose hair, tangles, and small mats from the topcoat and outer layers of the undercoat.
Deshedding Tool (e.g., FURminator)	All shedding breeds, especially double-coated ones (use sparingly)	Designed to remove loose undercoat hair efficiently with minimal damage to the topcoat.
Rubber Curry Brush / Grooming Mitt	Short-haired breeds (Labradors, Pugs, Beagles, Boxers, Dalmatians, Smooth Dachshunds)	Massages the skin, stimulates circulation, and effectively removes loose, short hairs. Good for bathing too.
Pin Brush	Long-haired breeds (Newfoundlands, Old English Sheepdogs, Goldens)	Good for general brushing, detangling, and preventing mats in longer coats.
High-Velocity Dryer	All breeds, especially double-coated ones (after bathing or for dry deshedding)	Blows out loose undercoat and dander, significantly reducing shedding and drying time.

When to Worry About Shedding

While shedding is normal, sometimes it can be a sign of an underlying health issue. It’s important to recognize the difference between normal shedding and excessive or abnormal hair loss.

Signs of abnormal shedding include:

Bald Spots or Thinning Patches: If your dog is losing hair in specific areas, creating noticeable bald spots, this is not normal shedding.
Skin Irritation: Redness, rashes, bumps, scabs, or inflammation on the skin accompanying hair loss.
Excessive Scratching, Licking, or Chewing: If your dog is constantly itching, this could be a sign of allergies, parasites, or skin infections, leading to hair loss.
Dull, Brittle Coat: A healthy coat should be shiny and soft. A dull, dry, or brittle coat can indicate nutritional deficiencies or health problems.
Shedding accompanied by other symptoms: Lethargy, changes in appetite or thirst, weight loss/gain, or behavioral changes alongside shedding warrant a vet visit.

Common health issues linked to abnormal shedding:

Parasites: Fleas, ticks, mites (mange) can cause intense itching and subsequent hair loss.
Allergies: Environmental allergens (pollen, dust mites), food allergies, or flea allergies can lead to itchy skin and excessive scratching, resulting in hair loss.
Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or Cushing’s disease (overproduction of cortisol) can cause symmetrical hair loss and a poor coat.
Skin Infections: Fungal (ringworm) or bacterial infections can cause localized hair loss and skin irritation.
Stress or Anxiety: While less common, severe stress can sometimes manifest as excessive shedding or compulsive licking that leads to hair loss.
Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet lacking essential vitamins, minerals, or fatty acids can lead to a poor coat and increased shedding.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which could range from dietary changes to medication or parasite control.

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Lifestyle

Understanding shedding levels is a vital part of responsible pet ownership. If you or a family member has allergies, or if you simply prefer a cleaner home with less pet hair, choosing a low-shedding or non-shedding breed might be a better fit. Breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises, Maltese, and Portuguese Water Dogs are often considered hypoallergenic because they shed minimally. However, remember that “hypoallergenic” means less dander and shedding, not necessarily none at all, and these breeds still require regular grooming to prevent matting.

Consider your lifestyle, tolerance for dog hair, and willingness to commit to regular grooming before bringing a high-shedding breed into your home. A dog is a lifelong commitment, and understanding their needs, including grooming, is key to a happy life together.

For families considering different breeds, you might find our guide on 15 Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families helpful in your decision-making process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do all dogs shed?

Almost all dogs shed to some extent. Even so-called “non-shedding” breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises still lose hair, but it gets caught in their curly coats rather than falling out. This is why these breeds require regular professional grooming to prevent matting.

Q2: What causes excessive shedding?

Excessive shedding can be caused by various factors, including seasonal changes (especially in double-coated breeds), poor nutrition, stress, allergies, parasites (like fleas or mites), skin infections, or underlying medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid issues). If shedding seems abnormal or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a vet.

Q3: Can diet reduce shedding?

A high-quality diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (found in fish oil, flaxseed, etc.) can significantly improve coat health and reduce *normal* shedding. A healthy coat is less prone to breakage and excessive loss. However, diet alone won’t stop shedding in heavy-shedding breeds or resolve shedding caused by health issues.

Q4: How often should I brush a high-shedding dog?

For most high-shedding breeds, daily brushing is recommended during peak shedding seasons (spring and fall). During other times of the year, brushing 2-3 times a week is often sufficient to manage loose hair and prevent matting. Short-haired heavy shedder may also benefit from daily brushing with a rubber curry brush.

Q5: Are there any dogs that don’t shed at all?

No dog is 100% non-shedding. However, some breeds shed minimally, making them popular choices for people with allergies or those who prefer less cleanup. These include breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Portuguese Water Dog, Schnauzer, and many “doodle” mixes. They typically have hair that grows continuously, similar to human hair, and needs regular trimming and brushing to prevent matting.

Q6: Does shaving a dog reduce shedding?

Shaving a double-coated dog is generally not recommended to reduce shedding. While it might temporarily seem to lessen visible hair, it can damage the dog’s coat, affecting its ability to regulate temperature (keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer) and protect their skin from sunburn. It can also lead to improper regrowth, where the undercoat grows back thicker and coarser than the outer coat, potentially causing more matting and shedding issues in the long run. Regular brushing and deshedding are much better approaches.

Q7: What is “blowing coat”?

“Blowing coat” refers to the intense shedding period that many double-coated dog breeds experience, typically twice a year (in spring and fall). During this time, they shed large amounts of their soft, dense undercoat to adapt to seasonal temperature changes. This period can last for several weeks and requires significantly increased grooming to manage the volume of loose fur.

Conclusion

Understanding which dog breeds shed the most is the first step in preparing for life with a furry companion. While the allure of a fluffy German Shepherd or a majestic Golden Retriever is strong, their significant shedding is a reality that prospective owners must consider. The good news is that with the right grooming tools, consistent effort, and a proactive approach to home care, managing even the heaviest shedder is entirely possible. Remember, a healthy coat reflects a healthy dog, so pay attention to their diet, hydration, and overall well-being. By embracing regular grooming and understanding your dog’s unique needs, you can enjoy a happy, healthy relationship with your beloved pet, even if it means a little extra vacuuming!