Are There Dogs That Don’t Smell or Shed? | Hypoallergenic Dogs
Do you love dogs but dislike the way they smell or shed? For some people, this can be enough to make them decide to continue living pet-free. These factors can be especially challenging to individuals with allergies and those who live in small spaces that they want to keep smelling fresh.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hypoallergenic dog breeds that are non-odorous and non-shedding. This article will delve deeper into the topic so you can determine which dogs are right for you.
Are There Non-Shedding Dogs?
All dogs lose a little bit of hair, but some don’t shed as heavily as others. These dogs are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Many people say they are allergic to pet hair. But this isn’t exactly true. They are allergic to dander that pet hair collects. When dogs shed, the dander can get into the air and all over the home making allergies worse.
If a dog doesn’t shed as much, the dander stays in one place, on the dog’s body. This minimizes allergic reactions.
Are There Dogs that Don’t Smell?
Any dog can produce an odor. But there are certain dog features that contribute to odors more than others. These include the following:
- Floppy Ears: Dogs with floppy ears are more likely to develop ear infections that can produce a strong odor.
- Skin Folds: Moisture and heat can build up in skin folds causing bacteria and yeast to grow. In the summer months, it can be so severe that it can cause a foul smell and weeping at the affected areas.
- Sebaceous Glands: Sebaceous glands are found on the entire surface of a dog’s body. They produce oil to make your dog’s coat shiny. But if an excess is secreted, it can produce an odor. Dogs with heavier sebaceous gland secretion will be more likely to smell.
- Thick Coats: Canines with thick coats are more likely to get bacterial or skin infections that can be foul smelling.
- Skin Conditions: Allergies, fungus, parasites, skin inflammation and hormonal imbalances can lead to an excess of yeast or bacteria that can cause odors.
What Types of Dog Breeds Don’t Smell or Shed – Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?
If a non-odorous, hypoallergenic dog breed sounds good to you, here are just some of the kinds you can choose from.
Bichon Frise
A Bichon Frise has white curly hair that makes them look like little puffballs. While you might think this would lead to excessive shedding, the opposite is true. They are both non-shedding and non-smelling dogs.
However, they do need some care. You will have to brush them 2-3 times a week to keep their fur from matting. You will also need to take them to a groomer for a bath and manicure.
Maltese
Maltese are another breed of small white dogs. They are slightly taller than Bichon Frise and their hair is straight. They are playful and friendly making them the perfect pet for families with small children.
While Maltese do not smell or shed excessively, you will have to care for their lovely hair. Brush them regularly to keep their hair from matting. Follow up with a spa treatment that includes shampoo and conditioner.
Poodle
A poodle may have an impressive head of hair, but believe it or not, this breed does not shed or smell. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes so you can get one that’s short, tall, black, white, gray or even apricot. They are intelligent and easily trained making them great show dogs.
Brush their coats regularly and take them to a groomer to ensure they always look their best.
Goldendoodle or Labradoodle
Is it a retriever? Is it a poodle? No, it’s a goldendoodle or labradoodle
Goldendoodles and labradoodles have all the best characteristics of retrievers (Labrador Retrievers or Golder Retrievers) and poodles. And when it comes to odor and shedding, they take after their poodle ancestors. They have the elegance and grace of the poodle and the loving, friendly attitude of the retriever. You will need to brush your doodle often to ensure their fur does not get matted.
Schnauzers
Schnauzers are known for their boxy faces, thick eyebrows, shaggy beards and gray and white hair. They are friendly and lovable and come in all sizes. They do not smell or shed. Shedding will be even more minimal if they are brushed regularly.
The dog will require regular spa visits to ensure their coats stay well-groomed and healthy.
Conclusion
It’s great if you can find a dog that doesn’t smell or shed, but a well-behaved dog is always a good dog. K9U Chicago can provides training that ensures your dog is obedient as well as grooming tips that keep shedding and odors to a minimum.
We offer a variety of services including our Dog Daycare Program and our Dog Boarding School.
Bring your dog to our dog daycare to give him the stimulation he needs. He will get to socialize with other dogs so he’ll be less likely to get depressed and engage in destructive behavior. He will have access to thousands of feet of play area, and we can even provide dog transportation (pick-up or drop-off) services to daycare or boarding.
Our K9U Chicago Boarding is the place to bring your dog when you go out of town. She will stay in a safe, comfortable area and have plenty of time for play and socialization. He will be taken care of by a well-trained and caring staff.
We all love our dogs no matter what characteristics they might have. K9U will ensure they stay happy, healthy and well trained. Contact us to be the best doggie parents you can be.
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