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The Truth About Non-Shedding DogsYou may have heard of non-shedding dogs and wonder how that can be? How is it possible that an animal has hair that never sheds? Wouldn't it be lovely to never have to run the lint brush over your business suit or favorite sweater? Well, don't jump on the non-shedding bandwagon just yet. Technically there is no such thing as a non-shedding dog. Regardless of how long, short, thick or thin, dog hair is till hair, and it will shed.
"Oh, I'll just get a hairless dog." Well, it's not that easy. Even without hair, these dogs still shed. I know, I know,
it doesn't seem fair. How can a dog with no hair, shed?! Well, these dogs don't shed hair exactly; their skin flakes off as new skin grows in. Sounds a little gross, but this is what happens to all dogs. In fact, these skin cells can carry allergens, so all that sneezing may not be the cat.
The term "non-shedding" came about because some dogs are very "light shedders." A light shedder will not cause the allergy problems a normal-shedding dog does. They also leave less of a trademark on the couch. Light-shedding dogs can be the obvious hairless variety or a single coated dog.
Looking for a non-shedding dog? The following are a few breeds known to help keep allergies, and extra hair, at bay.
The Basenji
This is a single coated dog that is about the same size as a fox terrier. They are about 16 to 17 inches tall and have very smooth and shiny coats. Popular coat colors include black, red, tan and copper.
The Hairless Khala
Obviously a hairless dog is not going to leave a tremendous amount of hair in its path. Their skin still sheds a bit, but they are considered a non-shedding dog. Even though they are hairless, they can have coloring that resembles pottery, or Medio. The other breed variation is the Grande or sighthound.
Miniature Poodle: The Miniature Poodle is but a popular breed of light shedders or non-shedding dogs. It is single coated, with relatively short and soft hairs lying close to its body. It sheds only a little to no hair and is highly preferred for its sensitivity, intelligence and sweetness.
The Minature Poodle
Not only are these dogs cute, but considered a non-shedding breed! Known for their curly, water resistant coats, Minature Poodles are easy to spot. They are single coated with short soft hair. They come in a variety of colors, some being white, cream, black, red, brown and party or black and white. Along with being minimal shedders, they also have the attractive traits of intelligence, sensitivity and friendliness.
These are just a few of the non-shedding breeds available. Again, no dog can technically be considered "non-shedding," but they shed considerably less and it will make a difference on your couch. |
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