Do Mixed Breed Dogs Shed Less? Here’s the Truth.
If you’re hoping your mixed breed dog will shed less than a purebred, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions dog owners ask—especially those dealing with allergies or who just want to keep the couch from looking like a fur coat.
The short answer? Some mixed breeds shed less, some shed more—and a lot depends on their coat type and the breeds in their background. Just being a “mutt” doesn’t automatically mean your dog will be low-shedding.
Let’s break down the facts so you know what to expect and how to manage shedding in your mixed breed dog.
What Causes Shedding in Dogs?
Shedding is totally normal—it’s how dogs get rid of old or damaged hair. Most dogs shed at least a little year-round, but the amount can vary based on their breed, coat type, and even the time of year. Dogs with double coats, for example, often go through big seasonal shedding cycles in the spring and fall. Others may just drop a few hairs here and there every day.
There’s also a difference between normal shedding and excessive shedding. If your dog is suddenly losing a lot more hair than usual, it could be a sign of allergies, stress, poor diet, or a skin condition—definitely something to bring up with your vet.
Are Mixed Breed Dogs Less Likely to Shed?
It’s a common belief that mutts shed less, but that’s not automatically true. Shedding isn’t about how “mixed” a dog is—it’s about what traits they inherit.
A mixed breed can pick up a high-shedding coat from one parent and a low-shedding coat from another. Sometimes the result is a happy medium. Other times, the dog ends up with all the shedding and none of the “hypoallergenic” qualities someone might be hoping for.
The key is looking at the coat type, which gives you the best clue for what kind of shedding to expect.
Shedding by Coat Type
Mixed breed dogs come in every coat variety you can imagine. Here’s what you can expect based on coat type.
Short, Smooth Coats
Think: Pit Bull, Beagle, or Boxer mixes
These dogs usually shed a little all the time. The hair is short and stiff, which means it often sticks to clothes and furniture even though it doesn’t look like much. They’re easy to groom, but if you don’t brush regularly, you might find yourself covered in fine little hairs.
Double Coats
Think: German Shepherd, Husky, Lab mixes
These dogs blow their coats seasonally—big time. Expect heavy shedding in spring and fall, with a steady trickle in between. Daily brushing during shedding season can help a lot. A good undercoat rake or de-shedding tool is your best friend with this type of coat.
Long or Wavy Coats
Think: Collie, Golden Retriever, or Spaniel mixes
These coats may not shed as dramatically, but the fur can get tangled or trapped, leading to mats if not brushed out. You’ll still see shed fur, especially around the house, but it’s often softer and easier to manage with routine grooming.
Curly or Poodle-Type Coats
Think: Poodle mixes like Doodles, Schnoodles, or Terripoos
Dogs with curly coats tend to shed very little, which is why they’re often described as “low-shedding.” But there’s a tradeoff—curly coats need regular brushing and trimming to prevent mats and tangles. The hair may stay on the dog, but you’ll spend more time maintaining it.
How to Manage Shedding in Any Mixed Breed
No matter what kind of coat your dog has, you can keep shedding under control with a little routine care.
- Brush regularly based on coat type. Short-haired dogs might need once a week; long or double-coated dogs may need daily brushing.
- Bathe occasionally to loosen dead hair—just don’t overdo it, or you’ll dry out their skin.
- Feed a quality diet with enough omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Try grooming tools like rubber curry brushes for smooth coats, slicker brushes for long coats, or de-shedding tools for double-coated breeds.
- Watch for changes—if shedding suddenly increases, a vet check might be in order.
Examples from Real Owners
Here’s what some mixed breed dog owners have to say about shedding:
“Our Aussie mix sheds like crazy in the spring—we call it ‘fur snow.’ A daily brush and a rubber curry comb save our sanity.”
— Morgan, dog owner in Wisconsin
“My terrier/poodle mix doesn’t shed much at all, but we have a standing grooming appointment every 6 weeks to keep his coat in shape.”
— Jamie, dog parent in Texas
Even within the same litter, you can have one dog that sheds a ton and another that barely drops a hair. It all comes down to genetics.
Common Myths About Shedding and Mixed Breeds
Myth: All mutts shed less
Not true. Shedding depends on coat type, not how many breeds are in the mix.
Myth: Low-shedding = low-maintenance
In many cases, it’s the opposite. Poodle mixes might not shed much, but they need regular trims and detangling.
Myth: You can tell by looking at a puppy how much they’ll shed
Sometimes, but not always. Some dogs change coat texture completely between puppyhood and adulthood—especially those with wire or curly coats.
Conclusion: Mixed Breed, Mixed Results
So, do mixed breed dogs shed less? The truth is: sometimes, but not always. Shedding isn’t about being a mutt—it’s about coat type, grooming, and genetics.
If you’re hoping for a lower-shedding dog, focus on the traits of the parent breeds or get to know the individual dog’s coat before you commit. And remember, regular grooming goes a long way in keeping your home (and clothes) fur-free—no matter what kind of pup you have.
FAQ
Are mixed breed dogs hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Some mixed breeds shed less, which can help allergy sufferers, but it’s not a guarantee.
Can you predict how much a mixed breed puppy will shed?
It’s not always predictable. Some puppies change coat type as they grow, especially during their first year.
What’s the best brush for a shedding dog?
It depends on the coat. Slicker brushes work well for long or curly coats, curry brushes are great for short-haired dogs, and undercoat rakes help with heavy seasonal shedders.
