What Types of Dogs Don’t Shed?

Adorable Bichon Frise dogs with stylish haircuts posing outdoors in a forest

If you’re a dog person, there are a number of reasons why you smile whenever you see a four-legged new friend. Maybe it’s the way their tails wag when they hear the treat bag open. Or how dogs manage to find the most creative ways to make a mess. Maybe it’s how a dog is always happy to see you come home (even if you just popped out to get the mail). One thing that probably doesn’t make the list? Shedding. 

While having a furry friend comes with many perks, their fur coat may not be one of them. Dog hair can take over everything, from your hardwood floor to your favorite pair of black pants. 

Luckily, some breeds of dogs shed much less than others. If you’re looking to adopt a non-shedding dog, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ll discuss five types of non-shedding dog breeds. 

What Types of Dog Shed the Least? 5 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds

Almost all dogs shed to some degree. However, some breeds of dogs shed significantly less than others. If you have a dog allergy or simply want to streamline your cleaning routine, adopting non-shedding dogs may be the right choice for you. 1

So, which dog breeds boast the least shedding? Here are five types of dogs that shed the least:

#1 Bichon Frise

If you’re looking for a loyal sidekick with charm, beauty, and intelligence, a bichon frise may be the perfect pup for you. This cute dog breed is known for their curly, white coats and happy-go-lucky personalities. 

Bichon frises’ soft, fluffy fur is hypoallergenic. That means it causes fewer allergic reactions than other dog’s fur coat. It doesn’t shed very much either. However, you’ll still need to treat your pooch to regular grooming sessions to prevent its fur from matting. 

In addition to being a hypoallergenic dog breed, bichon frise puppies are one of the friendliest dog breeds along with playful, and easy to care for, even if you’re a first-time dog owner. They also get along well with other dogs and children, making them an ideal family pet. 

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#2 Maltese

No matter how old they get, tiny Maltese dogs will always look like puppies. Despite their small dog stature, these pooches tend to have big personalities. 

Some Maltese can be a little stubborn, but they’ll always seek out your loving companionship. They’re very affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle, play, and show off their smarts. 

Maltese also feature luscious, floor-length coats that you can groom to your desired style. While these pretty pups are furry, they rarely shed. All you need to do to keep this small dog breed in tip-top shape is brush their silky coats every once in a while and make regular trips to the groomers. 

#3 Poodle

Poodles are a playful breed of pup that come in three different sizes:

  • Toy
  • Miniature
  • Standard

No matter what size of poodle you prefer, you can rest assured that your furry friend will be smart and loving. Poodles are known to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds and have playful personalities. 

Poodles are a go-to choice for people seeking a hypoallergenic dog, since they don’t shed very much. You can groom their soft, curly dog hair in a variety of styles. Brushing them weekly can also mitigate any minimal shedding that may occur.

#4 Goldendoodle

A close relative of the poodle is the Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles are a crossbreed between a poodle and golden retriever. 

These crossbred canines are smart, obedient, and incredibly loving. They typically get along well with other types of dogs and children, making them a perfect mixed breed for families. 

Goldendoodles inherited the low-shedding dog’s gene from their poodle descendants. In turn, their soft, curly fur won’t get all over the place. You can reduce any shedding even further by brushing your Goldendoodle at least once a week. 

#5 Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington terriers are known for their distinctive, sheep-like appearance. While they look like sheep, their fur is as soft and luscious as a lamb. Meanwhile, their temperament resembles that of other terriers. 

A Bedlington terrier is playful, sweet, protective, and loving. They enjoy being the center of attention. For this reason, they may prefer being the only furry friend in your household.

Bedlington terriers are also a hypoallergenic dog breed. If you adopt one, you’ll be happy to know that they don’t require extensive grooming. A quick trim every once in a while should suffice. You should also brush them on occasion to keep them from developing mats. 

Find More Answers at AskVet

If you want to enjoy dog ownership without the excessive shedding and dander, you just need to select the right hypoallergenic breed. Many non-shedding dog breeds can shower you in love while keeping your home relatively fur-free.

If you have any regular grooming questions for your furry friend, reach out to us at AskVet. Our AskVet veterinarians can assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just visit our vet app. There, we can answer any of your canine-related questions quickly—no appointment required! 

 

Sources:

  1. American Kennel Club. Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-breeds-that-dont-shed/

Top 5 Smartest Dog Breeds

portrait of a black and white border collie dog in front of a blue background

Many dog owners believe their precious pups have Einstein IQs. From dogs’ emotional attunement to their knack for learning new tricks, these loving animals certainly possess impressive intelligence. However, some canines shine above the rest when it comes to canine intelligence. 

If you want to learn about dog intelligence, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ll discuss which dog breeds boast the greatest intelligence. We’ll also review a few helpful dog training tips that can turn any breed of dog into an astute, straight-A student. 

What Makes a Dog Smart?

Just like human intelligence, dog intelligence can describe many different things. It may refer to a dog’s instinctive skillset, its ability to work in various settings, or its adaptability in new environments. However, the crux of canine intelligence is being able to understand commands and obey them quickly. 

Dog intelligence researcher, Stanley Coren, studied various breeds of dogs to determine which ones were best at:1

  • Learning a new command in less than five tries
  • Obeying the new command at least 95% of the time

Thanks to these characteristics, brighter breeds of dogs are often easier to train. However, all types of dogs can excel in their obedience with the right training. 

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What is the Most Intelligent Dog Breed? The 5 Smartest Breeds

So, which dog breeds are the smartest of the bunch? 

Here’s a list of the five most intelligent dog breeds:

#1 Border Collies

Border collies are the true valedictorians of the canine class. According to Coren, border collies were the best at learning new commands quickly and following them consistently. 

For many centuries, these intelligent pups sharpened their sheep-herding skills in Scotland and Wales. Today, these dogs are still outstandingly observant and agile. In turn, they make for fantastic search and rescue dogs.

This sheep-herding dog possesses extraordinary intelligence and exceptional work ethic. When you say “sit,” they’ll never fail to make you proud. 

#2 Poodle

At first glance, poodles may seem like they possess more beauty than brains. However, these pooches bring both qualities to the table in droves. 

Poodles can hunt, swim, and retrieve, all while showing off their smarts and obedience. Some breeds of poodles can even hunt for truffles.

Poodle mixes, like Goldendoodles and cockapoos, also have superior smarts compared to many other breeds. As an added bonus, these curly-coated pups are hypoallergenic, meaning these types of dogs don’t shed. 

#3 German Shepherd

In many societies, securing a high-powered job indicates intelligence. This sentiment reigns true for dogs, too. When it comes to the working dog, German shepherds lead the pack. These clever canines often hold positions as a:

  • Police dog
  • Military dog
  • Guard dog
  • Seeing-eye dog
  • Therapy dog
  • Medical assistance dog

German shepherds are chosen for these roles because they display high intelligence. They’re obedient and eager to please. They can also pick up new skills at impressive speeds and perform them consistently. 

In addition to being bright, German shepherds are athletic, protective, and deeply loyal. A well-trained German shepherd is a wonderful companion.

#4 Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers have a natural knack for hunting and retrieving. They’re also one of the friendliest dog breeds and happen to be incredibly cute. Due to their advanced intelligence, golden retrievers are often used as a guide dog during search and rescue scenarios. Many goldens also act as a service dog or therapy dog. 

With their adorable demeanors and superior smarts, golden retrievers are also a wonderful choice for a family pet. 

#5 Doberman Pinscher

The last quick-witted pup on this list is the Doberman Pinscher. These sweet dogs exhibit stamina, speed, and smarts all in one. It’s no wonder that they have a long history of serving as war dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs. 

Doberman Pinscher’ physical strength, coupled with their high intelligence, make them a wonderful protection dog. With proper training, these shrewd pooches should have no problem picking up new commands and tricks quickly.

Dog Training Tips

Whether your furry friend is a super smart dog or adorably clueless, you can use similar training techniques to bring him or her up to speed on your house rules. 

Here are a few basic dog behavior training tips for beginners:2

  • Enroll your dog in obedience training right away
  • Use positive reinforcement, rather than aggressive training techniques
  • Offer dog food, toys, and loving pets as rewards
  • Give them treats immediately after the desired behavior
  • Don’t give out extra treats during training sessions, as this may confuse them
  • Train in short sessions of five to fifteen minutes
  • Only say command words once
  • Train before meals so your dog is eager for a tasty treat
  • Limit distractions during training
  • Give generous “good boy” compliments when your pup has nailed a command

Score an A+ in Dog Ownership with AskVet

If you need more help training your dog, AskVet has you covered. Our AskVet veterinarians can assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from our convenient vet app. Whether you need training tips or dog owner advice, you can get the answers you need without even making an appointment. 

 

Sources:

  1. American Psychological Association. Smarter Than You Think: Renowned Canine Researcher Puts Dogs’ Intelligence on Par with 2-year-old Human. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2009/08/dogs-think
  2. American Kennel Club. Teach Your Puppy These 5 Basic Cues. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-your-puppy-these-5-basic-commands/

 

What Are the Friendliest Dog Breeds?

Young woman with her cute Jack Russell Terrier at home

Are you and your family looking to bring a new pup into your home? With so many breeds out there, choosing the best dog for your family calls for a moment of reflection. There are a lot of factors to consider when bringing an animal into your life, and knowing the temperament of your future family pet is helpful before taking the plunge. 

Each dog breed is unique, and some are more easy-going and sociable than others. For instance, if you have kids, your breed of choice might differ from someone who lives independently. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of some of the world’s friendliest dog breeds to make your decision an easy one. 

The Top 10 Friendliest Breeds

Domesticated thousands of years ago, there’s a reason why dogs were coined “Man’s Best Friend.” Consider what it is that you are looking for out of your dog. Are you looking for a hiking partner? A dog that will help “nanny” your kids? A dog that can accompany you to any outing or party happily? Depending on what it is that you want out of this companionship, there is likely a breed that fits the bill.

Read on to learn more about ten of our favorite breeds, each well-known for their friendly nature. 

1. Golden Retriever 

Quite possibly known as one of the friendliest dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are fantastic dogs. Happy-go-lucky and great with children, this popular dog breed aims to please and will give you and your loved ones unconditional love all day long. It’s no wonder these dogs are so popular — they’re even able to socialize with other household pets. 

The Golden Retriever is a fun-loving dog that will bring a smile to your face daily. They love to play fetch, go on long walks, and watch their human siblings play soccer from the sidelines. They will always accept pets and cuddles. This breed is a working dog in nature — they are frequently seen working as guide dogs, water rescue team members, and hunting dogs.

This family-oriented breed will make it easy to fall in love with them. As long as you go over animal etiquette, they will gladly spend their days playing dress-up with your little ones! 

2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

There’s a reason the Queen of England collects Corgis like she collects monochrome outfits. Tiny with larger-than-life personalities, Corgis are a dwarf breed with shortened legs. They are a family-friendly dog breed that needs lots of attention and love from people. One plus to this breed is that they tend to not bark very much, so you won’t have to worry about complaints from your neighbors. 

Now, it’s important to be prepared for their big personalities. As friendly as they are, they are stubborn little dogs who have a knack for defiance. Without guidance, your pooch may start calling the shots; after all, they were originally bred to be high-energy herding dogs.

If you dedicate your time to training, they can make excellent companions for your family… just don’t be surprised when they decide to stop walking midway across the crosswalk and you’re left carrying them home.

3. Pug 

Known for their frog-like faces and curly pig-like tails, Pugs are a popular dog for families with young children. Pugs are an endless source of entertainment, so get ready to laugh. Couch potatoes by nature; they make excellent lap dogs and are able to hang out all day.

This companion dog is known for their personability, with a goofy little smile plastered on their faces most of the time. The pug is a large dog in a small body type of situation.The only downside to this breed is their health problems. Because of their flat noses, Pugs have a hard time breathing. But if you prefer Netflix marathons to actual marathons, a Pug might be the perfect small dog for you and your family.

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4. Labrador Retriever 

Loyal as they come, Labs are the ultimate go-to for any new dog parent. Always positive and down for whatever, your Labrador Retriever will be your new best friend. Bred to be companions, Labs are well-known for their loving personalities and gentle demeanor. This friendly breed is super athletic and is always ready to hit the trails or join you on your camping adventures. 

You can recognize a Lab by their intense wiggle as they run to greet you, their need to lick every surface of your body, and the big smile that they seem to never get rid of. These dogs might give the happiest greetings of all breeds. If you go to the bathroom and come out, it’s like you are a new person to them, and you deserve the best “hello.” 

Labrador Retrievers are extremely excited and happy dogs, so make sure that you work on calming down and finding their zen — otherwise, you’ll find yourself pulling them off of unsuspecting guests as your lab tries to jump up and give them a big ol’ kiss. When they get a lot of exercise during the day, they are more than happy to snuggle up and chill.

5. Boxer

Although typically thought of as aloof and distant because of their stature, Boxers are considered one of the sweetest breeds. They are eager to meet new people and show them some love.

These big-eyed, droopy-lipped dogs just want to be your friend. However, Boxers can get too overexcited and jump on new friends, pushing them to the ground. For this reason, it’s a good idea to start training your Boxer from an early age. 

Boxers have a lot of energy. It’s vital that they get enough exercise so that when it’s time to relax, they are more than willing.

Playing fetch and working on learning new commands is one way to focus their energy, but they love to be the center of attention. Come playtime, and the whole family can watch this natural clown in their true element.

6. Collie 

Collies aren’t just famous in the movies — they also make an amazing family dog. They are a beautiful and intelligent dog breed with soft long coats. Lassie made this breed a favorite in the United States. Collies were originally bred as herding dogs and are known to stick by their owners with fierce loyalty. They do tend to have a lot of energy, so make sure you and your family are prepared for a lot of outdoor time before bringing this breed home. 

These dogs thrive when they have a task to complete. This is one way to involve them with your family. You can bring them to the park, on hikes, to the playground, or camping, and they will keep an eye on the kids. They are great at alerting you when they feel necessary, giving you a sense of ease when out and about with the family.

7. Poodle 

Do you want a dog but suffer from allergies? A poodle might be the best dog breed for you. A favorite among people with dander sensitivity, poodles come in a range of three sizes and are one of the friendlier breeds out there. Another positive factor of owning a standard poodle is that these types of dogs don’t shed, so you won’t have to constantly worry about vacuuming. 

Poodles are very intelligent and love to impress their owners. This means they will want to spend hours by your side, learning new tricks and showing off for treats. You will find a best friend in a poodle, no matter what size!

8. Boston Terrier 

Bite-sized and packed with energy, Boston Terriers have a ton of personality and are a favorite among people of all ages. This breed is extremely playful and will make you laugh with their goofy antics. Keep in mind that Boston Terriers can become so attached to their owners that they develop separation anxiety. For this reason, it’s essential to establish boundaries with your new Boston Terrier puppy. 

If you are someone looking to add a sidekick to your family, this small dog breed is a perfect option. They are easily adaptable and can do well in a variety of settings. They don’t need a large yard, but they still love a good game of tug-of-war. They might give you some crazy eyes before doing zoomies around your living room, and they will keep you entertained.

9. Border Collie 

The original sheepdog, Border Collies, are famous all over the world. They are one of the easiest dogs to train and are very energetic. These dogs are also agile and fiercely loyal to their owners.

The one downside to this breed is their boundless energy and constant need to exercise. Because of this, they don’t make fantastic dogs for people without backyards or space for them to run around.

These dogs focus their energy into the things they love but might be a tad wary about strangers and new experiences. They will shower their families with love and loyalty but might be a bit more reserved around people they don’t know.

First-time Border Collie parents should be aware this breed requires constant mental stimulation and engagement. Dog sports and training competitions are where this doggy genius shines.

Once they warm up to strangers, they will be just as affectionate as they are with you. If you want a dog that is dedicated to you and a bit more watchful, the Border Collie is a great option.

10. Great Dane 

Due to their size, Great Danes come off as intimidating, but that couldn’t be further from the truth — they’re gentle giants. As loving as dog breeds come, this breed will capture your heart. Great Danes are protective and loyal to their families and are particularly tender with young children. 

Great Danes will surprise you with their gentle nature, but you’ll become accustomed to how wonderful of a pet they can be. These dogs also don’t require too much exercise because they are much happier lying on the couch or in the sun. You might need to buy an entirely new couch to accommodate this large and chill pet!

What’s the Deal With Pitbulls?

The term “Pitbull” is often used as an umbrella term in the United States to describe a certain breed of dog that comes from the Terrier line: the American Pitbull Terrier, American Bully, American BullDog, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Pitbulls have gotten a bad reputation over the years due to their perceived aggression. Because of this stereotype, people tend to avoid this breed of dog. 

There are differing opinions on whether Pitbulls are unfriendly by nature or are raised to be aggressive guard dogs. Like with all breed types, how you raise and treat an animal will impact their personality.

Pitbulls are known to be friendly dogs when they are cared for properly. They are loyal to their families and seriously love a good cuddle. In fact, in the early 1900s, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was called a “nanny dog” and loved by many (including notables like Helen Keller and Theodore Roosevelt).

Due to the controversy, many people shy away from pits, although, in recent years, they have become a more popular dog choice. These dogs aren’t for everyone — they are strong and energetic dogs, but if you have the time and commitment towards breaking down stereotypes and giving your Pitbull a beautiful life, you’ll be amazed at how much love they have to give. 

AskVet: We’re Here for You

Regardless of which fluffy family member you choose to bring home, we at AskVet are here for you. Whether you want to consult a veterinarian or looking for dog behavior training tips, our digital platform is chock-full of resources. We offer a safe online space where you can get expert advice and create a customized pet plan for your new best friend. 

Join the AskVet community and reap the benefits of 24/7 support. Having someone there to ask questions and formulate a training plan makes it easier to give your pet the life they deserve. All dogs thrive off of structure, and with AskVet, you can rest easy knowing that AskVet is here to help.

Sources:

Pug Dog Breed Information | AKC

Dog Allergen Levels In Homes With Hypoallergenic Compared With Nonhypoallergenic Dogs | NCBI

Separation Anxiety | ASPCA

Everything You Need to Know About The Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Veternarians.org

What are the Easiest Dogs to Train?

German Shepherd Dog is running close up

Your pup already scores high marks for cuteness, wags, and heart-melting. But how does he fare when it comes to sit and stay? Don’t worry, you’ve got this. Training your dog as a puppy will help you create a bond and minimize unwanted behavior. Potty training and sitting on command may seem not quite as fun as tricks like shake and roll over. However, these skills make all the difference later on—especially at the dog park. 

That being said, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of the easiest dogs to train.1  From big to small dogs, check out our comprehensive guide to learn more about the easiest dog breeds to train for you. 

Easiest Big Dogs to Train

Though it may seem more challenging to train larger dogs, there are plenty of breeds that take to obedience dog training like they were born for it. Here are four breeds that can make dog training a walk in the park. 

#1 German Shepard

German shepherds are the go-to dog breed as a service dog and guard dog. Due to their intelligence and obedient nature, this working dog breed is popular worldwide. They’re also incredibly loving and can be giant goofballs when presented with their favorite chew toy. 

The one catch with a German Shepherd dog is that because of their tendency to be overprotective, it’s important to train them as puppies. That way, they can channel their incredible energy into this intelligent dog breed’s best qualities. 

#2 Labrador Retriever 

Ask a dog trainer what words come to mind when they think of a labrador retriever. Chances are they’ll say “loving,” “easygoing,” and “so cute.” These traits make labrador retrievers an incredibly popular family pet worldwide and one of the easiest dogs to train. 

When it comes to training, they’re also stars. Labrador retrievers respond well to direction and learn tricks easily. Why? This breed is extremely food motivated. Sit? Stay? Shake? Yup, there’s almost nothing a lab won’t do for a yummy treat, so make sure to have a stash nearby when training dogs. Just keep the lid on tight, labs are notorious gluttons and mischief-makers. 

#3 Border Collie 

One of the smartest dog breeds out there, border collies were literally bred to obey commands. Just ask generations of Scottish shepherds who have relied on this herding breed to herd sheep. Intelligent beyond belief, border collies excel when it comes to following hand gestures and sounds such as whistling. These dogs are extremely quick learners, so it’s best to start their training early as puppies. 

#4 Doberman Pinscher 

Dobermans make excellent watchdogs and are surprisingly loving and affectionate—unless they feel threatened. Extremely protective of their dog owner, these dogs will go to the ends of the earth to keep their family and home safe. This is why it’s essential to start their training early to make sure they learn proper obedience. 

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Easiest Small Dogs to Train

Smarties sometimes come in small (adorable) packages—this is especially the case for the small dog breeds. These four breeds respond well to direction and love learning new tricks. Just make sure to always keep some treats on hand—positive reinforcement is perfect for your canine friend. 

#1 Miniature Schnauzer 

These wiry-haired dogs are spunky and playful by nature. When trained well, they can become stalwart watch dogs. Miniature schnauzers are known to be stubborn and suspicious of strangers, so make sure to properly train your schnauzer as a puppy. Proper discipline is essential starting early on and will make your relationship with your puppy so much better. 

#2 Poodle

Though on the list of small dog breeds, poodles come in all shapes and sizes. Poodles are a strong choice for anyone who wants an easygoing and lovable animal that’s straightforward to train. Sharp as a whip, poodles need plenty of mental stimulation. Challenging games are a favorite of this intelligent dog breed—you’ll be amazed by their ability to pick up new tricks. And to top it all off, these types of dogs don’t shed. 

#3 Papillon

Named for their butterfly-like ears, it’s easy to see why papillons are a favorite among dog-owners worldwide. A prime example of a toy dog, the papillon is highly energetic and playful. Misleadingly delicate, these doggies are very athletic. They aim to please and do well with agility tricks, such as obstacle courses and hurdles. You’ll be surprised by your papillon’s ability to keep up with bigger dogs. 

#4 Border Terrier

Border terriers are one of the most low-key dogs around. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them one of the easiest dogs to train. A favorite among people everywhere, border terriers thrive in obedience training and love to work. They also do extremely well with obstacle courses and mazes.

What Are the Most Difficult Dogs To Train?

You’re probably wondering what dogs are the most difficult to train. The truth of the matter is, any breed is difficult if not trained correctly or if the training is started after bad habits have already been developed. So really, it depends on the dog. 

In general, dogs with stubborn personalities and a lack of listening skills are a lot more difficult to train. Make sure to research various breeds before picking out your new pet, it’ll make a world of difference down the road for every dog owner. 

Here are a few breeds that are known to be a little bit more challenging to train:

  • Alaskan malamute
  • Basset hound
  • Shar pei
  • Beagles
  • Chow Chow
  • Mastiff
  • Greyhound

Trust Your Pup with AskVet

It can be tough training dogs, and you’ll undoubtedly have a lot of questions and concerns when you bring your new dog home for the first time. That’s where we come in. 

At AskVet, we are here to help you make the transition into training your new puppy an easy one. Our community of fellow dog owners and certified veterinarians is here to support you on your dog behavior training journey. Whether you need tips on how to make your puppy come on command or stop running after squirrels, help is just a click away. 

 

Sources: 

  1. American Kennel Club. 13 of the Most Trainable Dogs.  https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/13-of-the-most-trainable-breeds/