Want a dog but can’t bear a messy house? FEMAIL reveals the 10 breeds you need to know about
- Do you get tired of finding dog hair everywhere and on everything?
- There are 10 breeds you should look into if you want a low maintenance pooch
- READ MORE: I’m a dog behaviourist and these are the 9 least affectionate breeds – so, is YOURS on the list?
We all love our four-legged friends, but does dog hair really have to become a condiment, fashion accessory, or edible extra?
Although we wouldn’t dream of being without our pooches, let’s be honest: there’s very little that’s appealing about finding fur all over the house or having a muddy dog to clean up every time you walk through the door.
For some, the need to have a ‘cleaner’ dog might be down to allergies, if they don’t want to miss out on the joys of dog ownership, or a desperation to avoid any extra cleaning.
What you may not have known is that so-called ‘hypoallergenic’ dog breeds have become popular not only for their allergy-friendly characteristics but also their cleanliness.
Breeds such as spaniel, labrador and German shepherd are all household favourites.
Vet’s stark warning about in-breeding of pedigree dogs
A British vet has spoken out about the dog breeds which are most affected by inbreeding – and why this is an issue.
Taking to TikTok, the creator known as @ben.the.vet, said he wants to ‘make people more aware of how inbred purebred dogs are’.
Ben explained: ‘I think if people truly understood the situation, they would be quite shocked.’
He went on to explain that dog breeds are ‘a product of selective breeding which has been used to produce dogs that are adapted to a particular job and have a particular appearance’.
However, many people find it difficult to give these animals the care and attention they need when it comes to grooming.
There are many things you can do to reduce your dog’s mess.
Examples include regular brushing and coats they can wear outside.
But if you are ultra concerned about your allergies and home, here are 10 breeds you need to learn about.
The selection includes the increasing popular poodles, who don’t moult.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), while there is no truly ‘hypoallergenic’ – meaning unlikely to cause a reaction – dog breed, some are less likely to cause symptoms than others.
It added that poodles – who according to a 2012 study had some of the highest allergen levels in their coat samples – are often associated with being good for those who get the sniffles around dogs because they tend to shed less.
Another breed that doesn’t moult, and is hence popular for those with allergies, is the bichon frise.
These adorable white-coated breeds are thought to be easy to maintain, and fun to be around.
Also on the list are the famously clean basenjis, the Mexican hairless dog, and the Italian greyhound.
POODLES
Poodles are a great option for those with a concern about dog hairs. The fact that they don’t moult and this is a huge factor behind their ongoing popularity. Stock image used
Poodles don’t moult and this is a huge factor behind their continuing popularity.
However, this does come with a trade-off; regular visits to the groomers or a collection of hair care products to rival a supermodel may be required, which isn’t particularly easy on your bank balance.
Either way, poodles are a great option for those with a concern about dog hairs.
Their temperament is fairly gentle, meaning they are a good option for dog owners who have children or other dogs.
Their high intelligence means they are also fairly easy to train.
COCKAPOOS
You may get one with more cocker and less poodle, which means you could end up with a moulting cockapoo. Stock image used
A combination of a poodle and cocker spaniel, these purpose-bred crosses are incredibly popular – but be warned.
You may get one with more cocker and less poodle, which means you could end up with a moulting cockapoo.
If you are concerned about mess or dog hair, this is something you’ll need to pay close attention to.
However, if you’re willing to take the risk, these dogs can make excellent companions, known to be very loving and loyal to their owners.
While they need quite a lot of exercise, cockapoos are very easy to train.
LABRADOODLES
Much like the cockapoo, there is no guarantee that you’ll get one that doesn’t moult, but it’s much more likely and they’re hypoallergenic. Stock image used
This originally designer crossbreed, created in Australia by Guide Dogs to help blind people with dog hair allergies, has soared in popularity over the last decade.
Much like the cockapoo, there is no guarantee that you’ll get one that doesn’t moult, but it’s much more likely and they’re as ‘hypoallergenic’ as a dog breed can be.
In terms of personality, the labradoodle is gentle and thought to be highly intelligent, which is part of its appeal for families looking to bring a dog into the home.
Generally, their intelligence level means they tend to be much easier to train and as a result, also tend to be more obedient.
MINI SCHNAUZER
Coming in three sizes, mini, standard, and giant, the schnauzer is an all-rounder. Stock image used
Mini schnauzers are a popular choice because of their smaller size and non-moulting coat.
Coming in three sizes, mini, standard, and giant, the schnauzer is an all-rounder.
They definitely will need stimulation for their brains though, or they could get into mischief and mayhem!
Typically, they do need a fair bit of space to roam, however they can also live a perfectly content life in an apartment, provided you give them enough exercise.
They are a loyal breed and very family-orientated, so they also make excellent watchdogs.
BICHON FRISE
Often mistaken for a poodle or cockapoo, they primarily come in white or cream, so a little maintenance will be required to help retain their glamorous appearance. Stock image used
Another breed that doesn’t moult, so will require regular grooming, the bichon is a breed that’s full of character.
Often mistaken for a poodle or cockapoo, they primarily come in white or cream, so a little maintenance will be required to help retain their glamorous appearance.
If you have a family, this breed could be the perfect choice of pet for you. Not only will you have a little less mess to clear up, but the bichon frise is also known for being great with children.
Typically the breed gets along with everyone – other dogs, visitors and different pets. So if you’re looking for a laid-back breed that won’t shed all over the house, this could be the one for you.
MEXICAN HAIRLESS DOG
Literally bald, the Mexican hairless dog or Xoloitzcuintle (try saying that one!) doesn’t have a strand of hair on its body. Stock image used
You definitely won’t have dog hair on your clothes with this breed, as they don’t have any hair.
Literally bald, the Mexican hairless dog or Xoloitzcuintle (try saying that one!) doesn’t have a strand of hair on its body.
These dogs are smooth to the touch and will need skin care when going out in the sun to protect their skin. For the chilly months, you will also need to make sure they have a coat for protection while getting their exercise.
Surprisingly, and much to the relief of people hoping to save on their heating bills, the Mexican hairless dog gives off more body heat than most dog breeds and can serve as a perfect (and much cuter) hot water bottle alternative.
BASENJIS
They might be a breed that loves an active lifestyle, but for this reason there’s minimal risk of them muddying your favourite Persian rug. Stock image used
Basenjis are known for their cleanliness.
They have a sleek coat which means they won’t attract dirt or mud in the same way other breeds would.
They might be a breed that loves an active lifestyle, but due to their coat, there’s minimal risk of them muddying your favourite Persian rug.
One thing to note if you are considering a basenji – while they don’t make a mess, they can be known to be escape artists.
Vets recommend securing your garden if you have a basenji in the house, because they are intrepid explorers and will go above and beyond to get out of the confines of their home to see what else is out there.
If you are taking your basenji out for a walk, some recommend keeping them on the lead, as they are not always totally responsive to their owners’ commands.
GREYHOUNDS
They are born to run, but a little-known fact is that they are real couch potatoes and love to laze around. Stock image used
Greyhounds are the ultimate speed machines.
They are born to run, but a little-known fact is that they are real couch potatoes and love to laze around.
They are also a single-coated breed, so don’t require excessive grooming.
Contrary to their appearance, some dog charities claim they greyhounds don’t actually need that much exercise and can sometimes even be ‘couch potatoes’.
Of course, they still need to be taken out every day for walks, but they tend to be fairly low-maintenance and are happy curling up on the sofa for cuddles with their family.
WHIPPETS
Elegant and graceful in appearance, the whippet is often over-looked, but they make for a great (and clean) companion. Stock image used
Similar in appearance to the greyhound but smaller, the whippet has the same appeals for those who are concerned about mess.
Elegant and graceful in appearance, the whippet is often over-looked, but they make for a great (and clean) companion.
As for their personalities, whippets are gentle and loving. Of course, much like a greyhound, they need plenty of exercise to be prepared to take them out several times a day and know that you might need to find a good patch of space for them to roam around.
While they are affectionate towards their family, whippets are known for being shy and somewhat timid around new people, which is something to bear in mind before making your decision.
ITALIAN GREYHOUNDS
The Italian greyhound is a sight hound, just like the whippet and greyhound, but somewhat smaller. Stock image used
Think greyhound, but miniature.
The Italian greyhound is a sight hound, just like the whippet and greyhound, but somewhat smaller.
They’re perfect for anyone who’s worried about mess, and they have a kind heart, too.
The main characteristics of the Italian greyhound are affectionate, alert, and keen to play. They tend to be great companions and can also get along well with children and other dogs if the environment is right.
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