Are you a dog lover who struggles with allergies? Hypoallergenic dogs can offer a solution, as they produce fewer allergens. While no dog is entirely free of allergens, certain breeds shed less and may be more suitable for people prone to allergic reactions.
Here’s everything you need to know about hypoallergenic dogs and a list of 30 breeds that are best for allergy sufferers.
What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
All dogs produce allergens through their hair, skin, saliva, and urine. However, hypoallergenic dogs are known to produce fewer allergens, making them more tolerable for individuals with dog allergies. It’s essential to remember that no dog is completely allergen-free, but some breeds are much easier for allergy-prone people to manage.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Let’s explore some of the top hypoallergenic dog breeds that shed minimally and are ideal for homes with allergy sufferers.
1. Poodle
Poodles, available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, are famous for their hypoallergenic qualities. They shed very little and have a reputation for intelligence, making them great pets for those who want a dog with minimal shedding. Their curly coat requires consistent grooming to prevent tangles.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small dog with a spunky personality and minimal shedding. They adapt well to apartment living and enjoy being around their owners, making them a perfect hypoallergenic companion.
3. Shih Tzu
Known for their luxurious coat and affectionate nature, Shih Tzus are another great hypoallergenic choice. While they don’t shed much, their thick fur requires regular grooming to maintain cleanliness and prevent matting.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are a small breed known for their intelligence and loyalty. Their wiry coat sheds minimally, making them a popular hypoallergenic option. They are also energetic and require regular exercise.
5. Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a larger version of the Miniature Schnauzer. With similar low-shedding coats and active personalities, they make great companions for families with space for a medium-sized dog.
6. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the Schnauzer family. Despite their size, they are hypoallergenic and need ample exercise to stay happy. These intelligent and protective dogs make them great pets for active households.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, playful breed with a curly, hypoallergenic coat. They are known for their friendly demeanor and trainability, making them excellent pets for families and allergy sufferers alike.
8. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both are hypoallergenic, though the hairless variety is more popular among those seeking a low-shedding pet. These dogs are affectionate and adapt well to different living environments.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred for helping fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is an active, intelligent breed with a low-shedding coat. Their high energy levels make them suitable for families who can provide regular physical activity.
10. Labradoodle
Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, specifically bred to be hypoallergenic. They are friendly, gentle, and perfect for families, especially if they are properly exercised and socialized from an early age.
11. Goldendoodle
Similar to the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. These dogs don’t shed much and are highly affectionate, making them great companions for people with allergies.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
This lesser-known breed has a woolly, water-resistant coat that sheds minimally. Lagotto Romagnolos are excellent family dogs, known for their intelligence and playful nature.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers have a wiry coat that produces fewer allergens, making them a good hypoallergenic option. They have a charming appearance and lively personality but need regular grooming to maintain their coat.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
This breed is known for its curly, liver-colored coat that sheds very little. Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent, and friendly, and require regular grooming to prevent matting.
15. Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, Aussiedoodles are known for their intelligence and energy. Their hypoallergenic coat requires regular care to maintain its low-shedding qualities.
16. Bolognese
Bolognese dogs are small, hypoallergenic, and have a fluffy white coat that requires regular grooming. They are easygoing and friendly, making them excellent pets for families.
17. Maltese
Maltese dogs are famous for their silky white coat. While they shed minimally, regular grooming is required. These small, affectionate dogs are ideal for people seeking a loving, hypoallergenic pet.
18. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
This Irish breed has a soft, silky coat that doesn’t shed much. Wheaten Terriers are active dogs that need regular exercise and grooming to maintain their hypoallergenic coat.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, this small breed is known for its long, fluffy coat. They are hypoallergenic and thrive in family environments with proper grooming and care.
20. Schnoodle
A Schnoodle, a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, inherits its hypoallergenic coat from both breeds. These intelligent, low-shedding dogs make great family pets.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers have a unique, curly coat that resembles sheep’s wool. Their hypoallergenic coat sheds minimally, making them a good fit for allergy sufferers.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the oldest hypoallergenic breeds. Available in three sizes, they are a great option for people seeking a low-maintenance, hairless dog.
23. Whoodle
A mix between a Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, Whoodles are affectionate, low-shedding dogs that make great companions for families with allergies.
24. Bernedoodle
This crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat and a gentle, affectionate nature. They are ideal for families with children and other pets.
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie, a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, is a small, hypoallergenic dog known for its friendly and playful personality. Like many hypoallergenic breeds, they require regular grooming.
26. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are known for their long, flowing coats that shed very little. These elegant dogs are loyal to their family but require consistent grooming to prevent matting.
27. Barbet
This large hypoallergenic breed has a shaggy coat and a love for swimming. Barbets are active, friendly dogs that make great family pets.
28. Shih-Poo
A cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, the Shih-Poo is a small, low-shedding dog that can adapt to various living situations, provided they get regular exercise.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare, nearly hairless breed known for its hypoallergenic qualities. They come in three sizes and are the national dog of Peru.
30. Malshi
The Malshi is a mix between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. They are affectionate, hypoallergenic dogs that thrive on companionship and are perfect for allergy sufferers.
Tips for Living with a Hypoallergenic Dog
Owning a hypoallergenic dog comes with special considerations. Here are some essential tips to minimize allergens in your home:
- Regular Grooming: Keep your dog clean and groomed to reduce allergens. Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks and brush them regularly.
- Clean Your Home: Vacuum frequently, wash bedding often, and use air purifiers to reduce pet dander.
- Consult a Doctor: If you have allergies, speak to your healthcare provider about managing symptoms, especially if you’re considering adopting a dog.
Hypoallergenic dogs provide a way for allergy sufferers to enjoy the companionship of a pet without constant allergic reactions. With regular care and attention, they can be a perfect fit for your home.
