Hunting Dogs That Don't Shed

Dogs have long helped humans in the hunt. A dog's nose is keen and can help flush out game, as well as retrieve it. Typical hunting dogs, such as hounds, spaniels, pointers, labs and retrievers, are instinctively good helpers and have short-haired coats that shed. There are some dog breeds, however, that are considered good hunters, but have coats that don't shed.

  1. Airedale Terriers

    • Airedale terriers, the largest of the terrier breeds (about 65 to 70 lbs.), are intelligent, loyal and eager to please. Originally, they were bred to hunt fur and feather, so even if you don't take them hunting, the squirrels in your yard may be in trouble. They need daily exercise, tend to be agile and have great endurance. Airedales might outsmart you, and they are unforgiving. Airedales have wiry outercoats and soft undercoats, and are considered to be non-allergenic and non-shed dogs.

    Portuguese Water Dogs

    • Portuguese Water Dogs (Porties) are lively, muscular dogs, who got their name because of the breed's love for water. Originally bred to help fisherman in Portugal, the Portie's feet are webbed, which helps in swimming. Happy and amusing dogs, when mature they are 50 to 60 lbs. big. They love to be around a family, but are also considered good hunting companions for their great sense of smell, their love of the water and their ability to retrieve. They have great stamina and are considered to be good jogging companions. Considered to be hypo-allergenic and non-shedding, Porties have a single-layered coat that is thick and curly or wavy and does not require overly frequent clipping. President Barack Obama and his family acquired a Portuguese Water Dog after moving in to the White House in 2009.

    Welsh Terriers

    • Welsh terriers are similar in looks to Airedale terriers, but are smaller (average adult weight is about 20 lbs.) and have less endurance. They are cheerful and playful dogs, requiring daily, vigorous exercise. They like to swim, dig, play with balls and chase after anything that catches their eye. In Wales, their native land, they were originally known to love chasing otter, fox and badgers. They have non-shed coats with a wiry outer layer and a soft undercoat, which tends to repel water. Dead hair should be plucked or brushed out frequently.

    Greyhounds

    • Greyhounds are part of the American Kennel Club's hound group and are instinctive hunters. They have short, sleek coats and shed little, if at all. Lean and tall, adult greyhounds are typically 65 to 70 lbs. In England, they have been used to hunt fox, deer and rabbits. Intelligent and brave, greyhounds are sensitive and make loving companions.