The Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

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What you might not know is that pet allergies are common; in fact, around 10% to 20% of people around the world are allergic to cats and dogs. The good thing is that even people with allergies can own a furry friend — while there’s no such thing as an entirely allergy-friendly breed, some dogs can be easier on allergy symptoms. In this article, we share all you need to know about the best hypoallergenic dog breeds.  

What are Hypoallergenic Dogs? 

There are many misconceptions about what this means, so we need to clear things up; there’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. However, there are a few breeds that create fewer allergens compared to others, which makes them better suited for allergy sufferers. These canines will generally come with low-shedding coats, which produce less dander and will often have wiry or curly coats that trap allergens. 

Below are a few factors that contribute to what makes a canine hypoallergenic. 

1. Sheds Less

Dogs that don’t shed as much will often be better for people who suffer from allergies. Shedding can spread dander and fur around the house which can then trigger allergic reactions. Fortunately, hypoallergenic breeds will typically come with coats that don’t shed much, which means you’ll have less dander in your environment. 

2. Fewer Dander

While all dogs will produce dander, hypoallergenic breeds won’t make as much. Dander is made up of small skin particles which is a common allergen. Dogs with wiry or curly coats will often trap dander instead of being released around the home. 

3. Coat Type

The kind of coat your dog has will play a big role in how hypoallergenic it is. A dog with wiry, curly, or wool-like fur will usually trap allergens which stops them from becoming airborne. 

4. Dog Size 

In general, small dogs create fewer allergens simply because they come with less fur and skin. At the same time, there are also large hypoallergenic dogs that make fewer allergens as a result of their lower shedding coats. 

5. Regular Grooming

Giving your dog regular grooming, including bathing and brushing can help to reduce how much allergens and dander it produces. Hypoallergenic breeds will need maintenance for their coat through frequent grooming which is critical in minimizing allergens. 

6. Saliva and Urine

Unfortunately, it’s not just dander and fur that can lead to allergies; dog urine and saliva also have proteins that lead to allergic reactions in humans. Some hypoallergenic dogs will create fewer of these proteins, which makes them a better fit for allergy sufferers. 

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Apart from small and toy dogs, hypoallergenic breeds can come in all shapes and sizes, including medium-sized dogs and large-sized dogs. All of the breeds below come with low-shedding coats that need minimal grooming, but some big dogs will need professional trimming or clipping to keep their coats in good condition. 

Portuguese Water Dog

This large, hypoallergenic breed weighs around 35 to 60 pounds and is known to be highly intelligent and very loyal to its owners. As such, they can be wonderful pets and will fit in with all kinds of families. Just keep in mind that they will need lots of exercise daily and love playing in water, so make sure to give these dogs different outlets for fun and physical activity.  

Giant Schnauzer

These large dog breeds will often come with a wiry coat that comes in two layers, much like the miniature version. Because of this, they can be a great companion for those with allergies but want a big, sturdy, and robust dog. Just try not to ignore their daily grooming needs since this is essential to reduce dander and keep their coat in good condition. 

Irish Water Spaniel

Reaching weights of around 45 to 65 pounds, the Irish Water Spaniel comes with a curly coat that sheds minimally, making them a great choice for people with allergies. They are known for their playfulness and alertness, but can also be stubborn sometimes. These dogs will need regular exercise and will thrive inside homes with owners who can give them the socialization and training they need. 

Afghan Hound

This is a large dog with a long and silky coat that needs daily grooming — despite their size, they will only need moderate exercise so they can be great companions inside apartments. The Afghan Hound can sometimes have an independent streak so they may not always obey commands, but they will always be affectionate and loyal to their owners. When given proper training and care, these dogs can be a good addition to the family if you’re after a graceful and beautiful dog. 

Standard Poodle

Among the most popular dogs in the U.S. is the poodle; similar to toy and miniature poodles, standard poodles are commonly used to create various mixed breeds. This includes the Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle) and the Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and Poodle). Because of their potential to be great family pets and their hypoallergenic curly hair, they are a priority option for many people who suffer from allergies.  

Airedale Terrier 

The Airedale Terrier is a medium-sized breed considered to be a hypoallergenic breed and while they only shed lightly, they come with wiry coats that come with pet dander, which causes pet-related allergies. However, giving them daily brushing and monthly grooming can help to minimize these allergens. Also known as the “King of Terriers”, these dogs are beloved for their friendly nature and ability to excel in all kinds of dog sports. 

Bichon Frisé

Known for its pure white and curly coat, the bichon frisé produces little dander and will shed minimally, making them a good choice for people with dog allergies. Their fluffy coats will need regular brushing to prevent matting but can also help to keep dander at bay. These pups are playful, friendly, and gorgeous, which makes them terrific lap dogs. 

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Known for its lively and smart disposition, the Peruvian Inca Orchid comes in two types; the smooth-coated and hairless variety. They also come in 3 different sizes, but all will produce close to no dander, making them an excellent choice for anyone with pet allergies. 

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small dog that doesn’t shed much which is why they’re often referred to as “hypoallergenic” and can be a good companion for those with allergies. These cute dogs are charmers and are known to be very affectionate with kids. They will do well inside homes and can be great pets even without a big place for them to move around such as a small apartment. 

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers come with a double coat that goes through low levels of shedding; they consist of a soft undercoat and a wiry top coat. Like many dogs on this list, they need regular professional grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Even if they shed less, you may still experience allergic reactions through contact with their skin and saliva.    

American Hairless Terrier

These hairless dogs can be wonderful options for anyone with allergies since they come with very few allergens; they come in both smooth-coated and hairless variations. This curious dog can do well with kids, and as their name suggests, they produce very little dander. However, being hairless can present challenges such as sunburn and cold weather that will need special precautions. 

Bedlington Terrier

If you’re looking for an alert yet gentle breed, you’ll love the Bedlington Terrier; these dogs will love cuddling with their families but can also serve as good watchdogs. Their curly, and hypoallergenic coat will need lots of grooming since it can grow fast, while the white color makes them look like lamb. Moreover, they’re also affectionate and will serve as faithful companions. 

Kerry Blue Terrier 

This dog has a unique blue coat and a furry muzzle; the Kerry blue terrier’s coat won’t shed much but they will need plenty of grooming and brushing like other wavy and curly-haired breeds. These dogs are very smart and love being around people. While they have a history of serving as working dogs, today they are wonderful companion animals. 

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

These soft-coated dogs are hypoallergenic and will weigh between 30 to 45 pounds; they come with silky and soft coats with minimal shedding. They are known to be intelligent and good-natured dogs perfect for anyone looking to get a loyal and family-friendly dog. The Wheaten Terrier is also a good match for people with an active lifestyle and those with dog allergies. 

Coton de Tulear

Known for its cotton ball-like appearance, the Coton de Tulear comes with soft white fur that minimally sheds and will get along well with kids and other dogs. Thanks to their pleasant personalities, they can be great apartment dogs while their long, fluffy coats are considered to be more like hair than fur. This non-shedding breed produces very low dander so they will have a low chance of setting off allergies. 

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish water dog thrives when given an active and playful lifestyle — many of them come with a natural herding instinct due to their background as livestock herders. However, they also come with many other skills such as retrieving game; these dogs love spending time in the water so be sure to give them water-based activities. Because they have hair rather than fur, these dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic and can be a good choice for allergy sufferers.  

Chinese Crested Dog 

These small dogs can have a full coat of silky hair or they can be partially hairless — these dogs love to be pampered and can be a great choice for those after a hypoallergenic dog. Ranging from 7 to 12 pounds in weight, they’re a good fit for small homes and apartments; they won’t need much exercise so they’ll fit in with people looking for moderate-energy pups. Additionally, they are affectionate, easy to train, and loyal, so what more could you ask for?

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is known for its long and flowing coat which comes with minimal shedding. This makes them a viable option for people with allergies while their small bodies and cute faces are the perfect addition to families looking for smaller dogs. Just keep in mind that Yorkies, while affectionate, can be spunky and they can also be expensive breeds to raise.  

Bergamasco Shepherd

The Bergamasco Shepherd is considered to be among the most hypoallergenic breeds around.  However, you should know that these dogs won’t reach physical maturity until they reach 2 years of age, which is slower than most dogs. While they will work hard to please their owners, they will do so in their own way, so if you’re looking for a low-maintenance and friendly dog, then look no further. 

Cairn Terriers

These hypoallergenic dogs will need grooming using a brush every week; during molting season, their coats should be groomed professionally. They are quick to bark so they can be great watchdogs — at the same time, they can be friendly with family but reserved with strangers. When given enough exercise, these dogs can be suitable for apartment living. 

Conclusion

While no dog is actually 100% hypoallergenic since all dogs will shed pet dander and hair, some will shed less than others, and hairless breeds can be a great choice. Whether you’re looking for small, medium, or big hypoallergenic dogs, you can be sure to find one that’s suitable for your home. But no matter which dog you choose, the breeds above can be loyal companions that won’t trigger your allergies. 

Sources 

• money.com
• pethonesty.com
• tailsofbarkley.com

Joe Hughes

196 Posts

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