At A Glance
Dog allergies are quite common. In fact, studies suggest nearly 15% to 30% of the American population suffers from pet-related allergies. But should this stop you from having a pet dog? Absolutely not.
There are many breeds that are hypoallergenic. But remember, no breed is 100% hypoallergenic.
Last Updated on: August 8, 2023
Poodle (Standard)
Bichon Frisé
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Bolonka
Portuguese Water Dog
Chinese Crested Dog
Maltese
Terriers
Tibetan Terrier
Shih Tzu
Afghan Hound
Italian Greyhound
Coton de Tulear
Irish Water Spaniel
Affenpinscher
Havanese
Schnauzer
Basenji
Lagotto Romagnolo
Mexican Hairless Dog
Peruvian Inca Orchid
Bolognese
Lhasa Apso
Brussels Griffon
Puli
Lowchen
Barbet
Bouvier des Flandres
Samoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, nearly 15% to 30% of Americans suffer from pet-related allergies. Allergic reactions occur because allergens like dander, pollen, and dust often get stuck on our furry friends. When pets shed their fur, these contaminants are released into the air, triggering mild to severe allergic reactions.
Fortunately, you can still get a pooch and not fall prey to a bout of sneezes and sniffles, as there are plenty of hypoallergenic dog breeds that don’t shed too much.
But, there is a caveat. There is no absolute guarantee that a hypoallergenic dog breed is entirely safe for people with allergies. Hypoallergenic just means that these breeds are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction or an asthma attack. The dander that causes such allergies is present in varying degrees on the dog’s fur, so there’s no saying.
If you or someone in your family is prone to allergies, it is worth researching different hypoallergenic dog breeds before choosing one that best suits your lifestyle.
A much sought-after breed, the Poodle is available in three sizes and sports the iconically curly, low-allergen coat. The Standard Poodle doesn’t have an undercoat that sheds as much, and because they have a curly coat, any dander stuck doesn’t spread.
All of these factors, in addition to them being highly intelligent, make the Poodle a perfect family companion.
Toy Poodles, although smaller in size, are just like Standard Poodles. It, too, has a magnificently soft, curly coat that does not shed significantly. This and their playful, loyal, and intelligent temperaments make them suitable for families and singles.
They can also be quite talkative, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
Just like the Standard and Toy Poodle, the Miniature Poodle’s coat sheds minimally, making it one of the world’s most popular miniature hypoallergenic dog breeds. These Poodles are highly trainable, loyal, and intelligent.
However, they need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation, so be prepared.
If you’re in the mood for some cuddles with an adorable teddy bear-like pup, then the Bichon Frisé is for you. Despite their double coat, this small, hypoallergenic dog breed doesn’t shed. In fact, it is highly recommended for people with allergies. Additionally, they make excellent pets, are extremely friendly, and get along well with other dogs and children.
However, it can also have severe separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. So, if you’re interested in this breed, ensure that your lifestyle will also cater to its needs for companionship.
Despite its shaggy coat, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a low-shedding dog breed. It thrives on exercise and hard work, is exceptionally clever, confident, and makes for some of the most loyal and protective fur friends.
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, simply known as the Bolanka, is a Bichon-esque dog. Initially bred in Moscow and Saint Petersburg as the ultimate household companion, the Bolanka is an ideal hypoallergenic furry friend.
Its typical medium-length wavy coat barely sheds, and its curious, playful, sweet, and loving nature makes it an easy companion.
The Portuguese Water Dog, or PWD, was initially bred as an all-round fisherman’s helper. As a result, it is adept at swimming and retrieving fish. Its dense, profuse coat is hypoallergenic because it doesn’t shed much. In fact, most of the fur that sheds curls up in its wavy coat.
PWDs are eager, energetic, intelligent, and highly trainable. They have a natural love for work and are thus more suited to owners who have active lifestyles.
Although initially bred to be a herder and waterfowl retriever, today, this dog breed serves as a delightful family pet. This working-class canine’s coat is short and curly, low maintenance, and does not shed, making it an excellent option for owners who are prone to allergies caused by fur or dander.
The Spanish Water Dog’s pedigree for work and inherent watchfulness makes it an ideal, attentive watchdog.
This breed is a hypoallergenic dog with two variants: hairless and coated. The coated Chinese Crested Dogs have a non-shedding double coat that requires regular grooming.
These dogs are known for their hallmark hair-dos, fine-bone elegance, and grace. They make for loyal housemates, are incredibly watchful, and are extremely loving towards their owners.
Playful, charming, and highly adaptable, the Maltese is known for its floor-length, straight, and pristine white coat that is non-shedding.
One of the most popular hypoallergenic toy dog breeds, Maltese are ideal companions. They also ace competitive agility courses and are friendly among children and other dogs. They can sometimes be a tad bit stubborn, but positive reinforcement should do the trick.
Most terriers are typically short-haired and shed less than other dog groups. The wiry, coarse-haired Terriers, in particular, shed minimally and are suitable for owners with allergies.
More fondly known as Yorkies, the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the oldest breeds in the canine world. Its magnificent, floor-length coat is silky and non-shedding.
Centuries ago, Yorkies were used as ratters in mines and mills but eventually took on a more relaxed leisure lifestyle as lapdogs of Victorian-era ladies. In the modern world, these little pups have found their way to the very top of the most popular dog breeds.
Named after the English mining shire where it was initially bred, the Bedlington Terrier has a crisp, curly, hypoallergenic coat. Its arched back, tasseled ears, and pear-shaped head are hallmark features of this breed.
It walks with a springy step and is a highly agile, versatile athlete. As a family pet, it is known to be attention-seeking and protective of its owners. If you are looking for a house companion who loves to cuddle yet cherishes physical activity, look no further.
Originating from Louisiana, the American Hairless Terrier is full of grit, incredibly smart, curious, and playful. They come in two varieties: hairless and fully coated. The fully coated variety barely sheds, making the breed an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
American Hairless Terriers move with the typical jaunty pep of a terrier. They make for loving companions and astute watchdogs.
Independent, confident, and full of character, the Scottish Terrier is a top favorite hypoallergenic dog breed. Its harsh and wiry dual coat protects its dense, soft undercoat. It rarely sheds, making it an excellent choice for owners with allergies.
Hunters, by nature, Scottish Terriers are always on the lookout for prey. Despite its playful nature, it can also be cantankerous toward other dogs.
Popularly known as the Westie, the West Highlight White Terrier originates from Scotland and has been around for almost 300 years. Beneath its playful exterior is a work-oriented dog. It was bred to hunt rats and rodents and has a muscular build.
Westies are known for their distinct harsh white coat that is non-shedding. They make for ideal house pets for owners who love the great outdoors.
This Irish pure-bred Terrier’s soft characteristics make it genuinely hypoallergenic. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has just one layer of fur that is remarkably silkier and wavier than other Terrier variants.
One of the largest American Kennel Club Terriers, the Kerry Blue Terrier is known for its show-stopping blue coat. It is considered hypoallergenic because it barely sheds fur or releases dander.
Back in the day, it was bred to assist its owners on the farm. Today, it serves as a vigilant, adaptable, and loyal companion. That said, Kerry Blue is a high-maintenance breed that requires regular grooming.
Cairn Terriers were originally bred to hunt foxes and other small furry prey in the rocky countryside of Scotland. They have rough and wiry coats of the Terrier that is hypoallergenic.
In families, Cairn Terriers make for excellent pets in households that know to strike a balance between exercise and lap snuggles. This breed does especially well in close-knit families and requires a fair bit of attention.
The King of Terriers, the Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terrier group and is known for its strength and spirited approach to life. Also known as Bingley Terrier, it originated from the River Aire in the West Riding of Yorkshire, England. It produces less dander and sheds minimally, making it an allergy-friendly dog breed.
Airedale Terriers have established themselves as distinguished hunters, athletes, and loyal companions. They are docile among loved ones yet fierce when trouble arises.
The short coat of the Border Terrier makes it a truly hypoallergenic pet. Its wiry coat is easy to maintain and doesn’t shed as much. The breed is also sweet-tempered and loves the outdoors.
Border Terriers are also gentle around children and other dogs, making them perfect for families.
Initially a mainstay of traditional British fox hunts, the Wire Fox Terrier makes for a good-looking, attentive family pet. Its predominantly white cost is rough and wiry and barely sheds. Additionally, these canines are upbeat, friendly, and confident.
Silkies are native to Sydney, Australia, and as their name suggests, they have a distinctive silky-smooth coat. They don’t have an undercoat, which makes them easy to groom.
Hailing from Wales, the Welsh Terrier was bred to hunt foxes, rodents, and badgers. However, in modern times, it is bred as a show dog. To this day, it retains its hallmark Terrier strength and hypoallergenic coat that require regular grooming.
This medium-sized dog originates from Tibet. However, contrary to its name, it does not belong to the Terrier dog group. The breed got its name from European travelers who assumed it was a Terrier due to its appearance.
And although it has a furry coat, the Tibetan Terrier is a hypoallergenic dog that neither sheds nor produces dander.
Shih Tzus were initially bred to spend their lives in the luxuries of royal palaces. These days, they are perfect for laid-back owners, as they cherish time spent on your lap while watching TV.
Despite its long coat, this elegant breed is hypoallergenic, as it barely sheds.
Among hypoallergenic dog breeds is the eye-catching Afghan Hound. It may surprise many that despite its long, silky, luscious coat, it does not shed as much. In fact, it is one of the most popular large hypoallergenic dog breeds.
As a pet, it is fiercely loyal and will never fail to make you laugh.
The Italian Greyhound is perfect for people with severe sensitivities. Its short, fine coat doesn’t shed much, and it does not release any odor or dander. It is also small, making it an ideal companion for families that live in apartments.
Its cotton ball-like look gives the Coton de Tulear look like a teddy bear. It has a medium-to-long fluffy coat that is non-shedding.
However, as it grows, it may shed its puppy coat, which a professional groomer can take off. Even then, its coat has an insignificant allergic impact.
The tallest of the AKC’s Spaniel group, the Irish Water Spaniel is known for its non-allergic coat. However, it does have high grooming needs. It is among the best swimming dogs in the world. And since Irish Water Spaniels are work-oriented, they are playful and alert, making them a great family addition.
Also known as the Monkey Terrier because of its looks, the famously funny Affenpinscher does shed but has low allergic effects. Regular grooming is said to reduce severe allergic reactions.
As a family pet, it is famous for its distinctive appearance and funny personality and is one of the most sought-after dog breeds in the world.
Initially bred in Havana, Cuba, the Havanese is one of the sturdier toy breeds. Its long coat is hypoallergenic because it does not shed. However, the dog does require regular grooming.
It’s a great family pet due to its warm, cheerful, and affectionate disposition.
Schnauzers, an incredibly warm, friendly, and highly trainable breed, make the list of non-allergy-triggering dog breeds due to their signature short coats. It is a top pick among families, as it has relatively fewer health issues and is exceptionally gentle among children.
Descendents of the Standard Schnauzer, the Miniature Schnauzer was developed to hunt vermin on farmlands. It is a working dog and is highly diligent.
These dogs have a dense, non-shedding coat that makes them an excellent choice for families with active lifestyles. However, it does require regular grooming.
These dogs have a dense, weather-resistant hypoallergenic double coat that does not shed as much. Like most in its group, it is known for its penchant for work, which makes it a great, loyal companion. It does, however, require regular grooming.
It is rumored that the Basenji was often given as gifts to Pharaohs in ancient times, leading experts to believe that it is one of the oldest breeds. The Basenji is a well-built hunting dog with an extremely short coat that does not shed, making it perfect for households with specific health needs. However, it does require regular grooming.
It is also known as the barkless dog, as it makes a specific yodeling sound when excited. Although an affectionate, alert, and intelligent breed, the Basenji can be aloof to strangers.
The Lagotto Romagnolo set the blueprint for most modern-day water dogs. However, due to its astute nature and impeccable tracking abilities, it was famously used to hunt for truffles.
As a pet, it is easy-going, undemanding, and eager to please, and despite its wooly, curly coat, it does not shed.
The Mexican Hairless Dog, or Xoloitzcuintle, is part of a dog group of hairless mutts. It comes in a non-shedding coated and hairless variation.
The Xolo is available in toy, intermediate, and standard sizes. It is an extremely calm and loyal breed, which makes it an ideal house pet.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid, or naked dog, is known to have the least amount of hair on its body. However, they also do come with coats. The coated variant is non-shedding.
This breed is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a lively and alert pooch with excellent hunting instincts and does well in lure coursing, rally, and agility courses.
Originating from Italy, the Bolognese belongs to the Bichon type and is an excellent companion. Its all-white soft and fluffy coat makes it look like a stuffed toy. Its fluffy fur is low-shedding and is known for its minimal allergy effects.
This Tibetan dog has beautiful long hair and a thick double coat that is non-shedding. Additionally, its dense, silky mane does not release dander.
The Lhasa Apso was originally used as an interior sentinel, but in modern times, it serves as a comforting lapdog.
Brussels Griffons have two types of coats: smooth and rough. If you are prone to allergies, you will probably be better off with the rough-coated ones, as it does not shed. However, it does require regular grooming.
These canines have a playful and energetic disposition and are prone to separation anxiety. They thrive in a family setting, as they need love and attention.
The Puli is a small-to-medium Hungarian breed that is known for its signature long, corded coat that looks like dreadlocks. By the time it reaches five years of age, its hair can grow quite long. Since it does not stretch, it does not shed or release odor and dander.
As a family pet, it is incredibly loyal and laidback and loves to be with its owners indoors.
Also known as Little Lion Dog, Lowchens belong to the dog toy group. At one point, they were among the rarest dog breeds in the world, with only 65 registered pooches. It has an iconic long, luscious coat that does not shed.
This medium-sized water dog hails from France. Barbets have a long, dense fur coat that covers their curly undercoat and sports a distinctive beard that does not trigger allergies.
The breed is an agile athlete famous for its ability to retrieve birds. As a companion, it is loyal, sweet-natured, and social.
Considered one of the largest allergy-friendly breeds, the Bouvier des Flandres doesn’t shed much, even with its dense coat. It doesn’t drool or release odor and dander, making it an excellent choice for guardians prone to respiratory issues.
It is a top-of-the-line working class of dogs that can easily complete many tasks. Bouviers des Flandres are excellent watchdogs, top performers in dog sports, and excellent companions in herding trials. However, it can be stubborn, so an assertive owner who is equally active would be ideal.
Most notable for its iconic snow-white thick coats, the Samoyed does shed but minimally. It does not release dander or scents, making it an acceptable hypoallergenic option.
It is a working dog exceptional at herding, hunting, protecting its owners, and sled-pulling. Since it was bred specifically for work, it is extremely strong, persistent, tireless, agile, and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Yes, Bichon Frisé is known to be an acceptable pet for people with allergies because it does not shed as much, even though it has a double coat.
The Maltese, Poodle, Affenpinscher, Basenji, and Wire Fox Terrier are excellent for novice families. These dogs are known for their hearty, mild temperaments and easy trainability.
Poodles (Standard), Portuguese Water Dogs, Irish Water Spaniels, Bedlington Terriers, and Airedale Terriers are some of the best medium-sized hypoallergenic dogs.
Bichon Frises, Poodles (Standard), Chinese Cresteds, and Yorkshire Terriers are some affordable hypoallergenic dog breeds. However, the prices could vary depending on your location and breeder.
Shih Tzu, Bolognese, Toy Poodle, Affenpinscher, and Miniature Schnauzer are great hypoallergenic options for families that live in apartments. In general, small breed dogs that require little to moderate physical activity are considered ideal for city life.
Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
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