Before getting to the top 10 shedding dogs of all time, let us first understand what shedding is and why it occurs. Most pet parents have experienced a random bunch of fur and hair lying around on the floor and furniture. Shedding is basically the process of a dog losing its loose and damaged hair or fur to make room for ne, healthy fur to grow. It is possible that you have a dog and are not aware of this as not all dogs shed a lot. And among the ones that do shed, there are some that a lot and others that shed a little. Some shed all year long while others shed during particular periods or seasons.
We, as humans also shed millions of skin cells every day and make room for new ones. The question is, how does dog shedding affect us as the owners of it? Pets tend to attract unhealthy bacteria which can enter your (human) body when you breathe in your pet’s fur. Parasites are also another threat that you can ingest in some way because of all that fur in the air. Some consequences can include rashes, itching, pain, etc. Another risk is allergies. Many humans are allergic to pet hair and when they inhale or ingest it in any way, it can be a nightmare for them. Sinus pressure, runny nose, coughing, watery eyes are some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Allergies in humans are caused by the protein found in the saliva and urine of the dog. When a dog sheds, the protein is spread to the skin and coat and thus leaving it open for allergic humans to come in contact with it.
Regular grooming and adequate healthcare can help to minimize risk of any disease that can occur through pet hair or fur. Keeping your home clean is one of the best ways to help prevent pet-fur problems. Now that we have covered the understanding of shedding in dogs, let’s look at the top 10 shedding dogs –
1. Alaskan Malamute
Average Weight: 70 to 90 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 24 to 28 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Origin – Alaska
The breed of the icy lands, Alaskan Malamute is a large one. It has a thick double coat which helps it stay warm in icy cold temperatures. When the dog is this fluffy, it is quite obvious that it will shed a lot. You may also be interested in Malamute.
2. Chow Chow
Average Weight: 50 to 60 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 12 to 15 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Origin – China
A powerful, compact breed from China, the Chow Chow is like a sturdy fluff ball. These guard dogs will shed a lot daily. They will, however, impress you with their looks for sure. You may want to cuddle all day, but there is a high chance that they will not like it and run away because of their independent personalities.
3. German Shepherd
Average Weight: 70 to 100 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 22 to 30 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 9 to 12 years
Origin: Germany
One of the most popular dog breeds, especially in the police, rescue, and search departments around the world, the German Shepherd is actually a shedding dog breed. It shouldn’t come as a shock given its huge size and plenty of furs. They have a shedding season twice a year but even on a daily basis, you will see fur lying around in the house.
4. Labrador Retriever
Average Weight: 60 to 80 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 20 to 26 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Origin – Newfoundland
The Labrador Retriever is possibly America’s favorite dog, which is another shedding dog breed. The difference here is that they have a short coat but despite that, you will see some shedding happening on regular basis. Their friendly, affectionate, and loving nature should offset this minor con.
5. Siberian Husky
Average Weight: 50 to 70 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 23 to 25 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Origin – Siberia
Unarguably one of the most good-looking dog breeds out there, the Siberian Husky is a shedding one. Being sled dogs from the icy regions of Siberia, these dogs have a thick double coat that helps protect them from the cold, a climate that they love. This double coat is a heavy shedding one.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Average Weight: 80 to 100 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 25 to 28 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 6 to 8 years
Origin – Switzerland
The descendants of the Roman Mastiffs, Bernese Mountain dogs are powerfully built for hard work in the farmlands of Switzerland, Bern, and the Alps. Their tricolor coat will probably be found on all the pieces of furniture in your house but the good part is that it will be dark colored and easy to spot.
7. Saint Bernard
Average Weight: 110 to 130 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 28 to 36 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 8 to 10 years
Origin: Switzerland
Another Swiss breed that was meant for hard work in the Alps is the Saint Bernard. They are credited for rescuing people from the Alps that were trapped in the snow. This would require them to have thick coats which can sustain cold temperatures. These coats come with regular shedding. But with all the cuddling sessions that you will get with them, it would all be worth it.
8. Great Pyrenees
Average Weight: 85 to 120 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 25 to 30 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Origin: Spain, France
Great Pyrenees or the Pyrenean Mountain dog was bred for guarding and herding livestock in the mountains. And mountain weather, as we know, can get very harsh. To help protect them from that, these dogs have a thick-double coat. This coat which sheds regularly will also become your everyday cuddle toy. And with their friendly nature, you won’t mind the shedding.
9. Akita
Average Weight: 65 to 85 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 25 to 28 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Origin: Japan
‘Autumn Ricefield’, the name translates to, Akita or Akita Inu is a powerful, independent, and loyal dog breed that was used to guard the nobility of Japan. Their coat is not very long but has a quality of shedding. But their contribution towards the police departments, rescue and search operations, and family companionship makes the shedding worth it. Explore the financial considerations of owning an Akita here.
10. Golden Retriever
Average Weight: 65 to 80 pounds (male and female)
Average Height: 22 to 25 inches (male and female)
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Origin – United Kingdom
Not just one of them but the most popular dog in the world, the Golden Retriever is also one of the most shedding dog breeds out there. They have luxurious, thick, and long coats which gives them an adorable look. They are one of the most friendly and happy dogs as well. The amount of happiness and love this dog brings to the family makes the shedding element look very small.
Conclusion
It is recommended that people who are allergic to dog fur and hair stay away from such dogs as it can be very harmful to them. There are plenty of hypoallergenic breeds, which are the breeds that shed the least and possess the least risk of allergies to humans which can be opted for as a pet. But if you’re not allergic, these dogs have wonderful personalities, so do not let the shedding make you not take them home. You would be missing out on all the love and affection they can bring to the family.
Happy Health and Mood to your dog and Lots of Love and Licks to you!
Mostly a tech person, always a pet person. I am dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their humans with technology. Off-duty, I enjoy writing about the misbehaving of computer programs and my two Aussiedoodles, Calvin and Hobbes.