Dogs are beloved companions in countless households, but for many, canine allergies can be a significant barrier to pet ownership. The good news is that certain breeds, often referred to as “hypoallergenic,” are known to shed minimally, making them a more suitable choice for individuals sensitive to pet dander. While it’s crucial to understand that no dog is entirely allergen-free, as allergens are also present in skin, saliva, and urine, these specific breeds produce fewer allergens in their hair, significantly reducing the chances of an allergic reaction. This guide provides a detailed look at a list of dogs that don’t shed, offering insights into their characteristics and care requirements to help you find your perfect furry friend.
Understanding Hypoallergenic Dogs and Shedding
The term “hypoallergenic dog” can be misleading, as all dogs produce allergens. However, these breeds are specifically known to produce less dander and shed significantly less hair compared to other dogs. It’s the dander (dead skin cells) and not just the hair itself that is often the primary trigger for allergic reactions such as coughing, itching, or wheezing. Therefore, breeds with minimal shedding tend to spread fewer allergens around the home. Opting for a dog from this list of dogs that don’t shed hair can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with allergies, allowing them to enjoy the companionship of a pet without constant discomfort.
Top Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
If you’re looking for a canine companion but worry about shedding and allergies, explore this extensive list of breeds known for their low-shedding coats. From playful small pups to energetic large breeds, there’s a hypoallergenic dog for almost every lifestyle.
1. Poodle
Poodles are perhaps the most famous hypoallergenic dogs, known for their elegant appearance and exceptional intelligence. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, these dogs shed very little, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their curly coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, so be prepared for consistent brushing and professional trims. Originally bred for hunting, Standard Poodles are robust and active, while Miniature and Toy Poodles maintain the same smart and spirited nature in a smaller package.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
A blue and tan Yorkie lounging on an armchair, looking alert.
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are small dogs with big personalities. These affectionate and spunky companions are hypoallergenic and adapt well to various living situations, from spacious homes to cozy apartments, provided they receive ample attention. Their fine, silky hair, similar to human hair, sheds minimally but requires daily brushing to keep it free of tangles and mats. Despite their small stature, Yorkies are confident and playful, making them wonderful pets for those seeking a low-shedding companion.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed recognized for its friendly temperament and luxurious, flowing coat. As a small hypoallergenic dog, the Shih Tzu sheds very little, but its thick coat demands regular grooming to stay pristine. While generally robust, their characteristic flat faces can lead to certain health concerns, including susceptibility to overheating and breathing issues. Regular cleaning of their facial folds and eyes can help prevent tear stains and maintain their comfort.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, standing no more than 14 inches tall. These smart and adaptable dogs fit well into many living environments and are known for their wiry, low-shedding coats. Despite their size, Miniature Schnauzers are energetic and require at least an hour of exercise daily to stay happy and healthy. Their distinctive eyebrows and beard give them a charming, expressive face, and their robust nature makes them excellent family pets.
5. Standard Schnauzer
A gray Standard Schnauzer standing alert in a field, looking towards the distance.
Sharing many qualities with their miniature counterparts, Standard Schnauzers offer a slightly larger, yet equally popular, low-shedding option. Weighing up to 45 pounds, these dogs thrive on activity, enjoying long walks, games of fetch, and engaging with dog puzzle toys. Their intelligent and spirited nature makes them highly trainable and loyal companions, provided they receive consistent mental and physical stimulation. Like all Schnauzers, their wiry coat requires regular grooming to maintain its condition.
6. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are among the largest hypoallergenic breeds, capable of reaching over 27 inches in height and weighing up to 85 pounds. These imposing yet gentle dogs require significant exercise to remain content and well-behaved, including vigorous activities like long walks, runs, hikes, and active games of fetch. Their powerful build and intelligent minds mean they excel in various dog sports and need consistent training and socialization from an early age.
7. Bichon Frise
With their playful demeanor and affectionate nature, the Bichon Frise is a delightful small dog with a curly, hypoallergenic coat. These intelligent and highly trainable pups quickly master basic commands and enjoy learning new tricks. Their cheerful disposition makes them excellent companions for families. The Bichon’s soft, powder-puff coat sheds minimally but needs regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it looking its best.
8. Chinese Crested
A black hairless Chinese Crested dog looking at the camera with an inquisitive expression.
The Chinese Crested is a small breed renowned for its unique appearance, offering both hairless and “powderpuff” varieties, both of which are considered hypoallergenic. The hairless type has smooth skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws, while the powderpuff is covered in a long, silky coat. Both varieties are playful, affectionate, and make wonderful, devoted companions. Their distinct look and charming personalities ensure they stand out in any crowd.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed with a thick, curly, low-shedding coat. These intelligent, highly trainable, and friendly dogs are high-energy pups that thrive on regular exercise, especially activities involving water like swimming. Their love for water makes them ideal companions for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, and they can be easily tired out with interactive water toys.
10. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle, a crossbreed of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, was initially developed as a hypoallergenic service dog. These intelligent, friendly, and gentle dogs make excellent family pets, particularly when well-exercised and socialized from a young age. Their coats vary but are typically low-shedding, inheriting the Poodle’s hypoallergenic qualities. Labradoodles are highly trainable and eager to please, making them a popular choice for families seeking a low-shedding dog with a great temperament.
11. Goldendoodle
A Goldendoodle lying comfortably on a couch with a person blurred in the background, creating a cozy scene.
Another popular “doodle” breed, Goldendoodles are a mix of Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Like Labradoodles, they are known for their friendly nature, high intelligence, and low-shedding coats. While often recognized for their golden hues, Goldendoodles come in a diverse range of colors and coat textures. Frequent grooming with a slicker brush is essential to prevent matting and maintain their beautiful coats. They are affectionate and adaptable, fitting well into active families.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolo dogs were originally bred as water retrievers, with their curly, woolly coats providing protection in chilly waters. Although less common than some other hypoallergenic breeds, Lagotti Romagnoli (the plural form) are known for being good with children and other pets, making them suitable family dogs. Their charming personalities and moderate energy levels require regular engagement and exercise to keep them happy and mentally stimulated.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small hypoallergenic dogs characterized by their distinctive monkey-like appearance. Their dense, wiry coats produce fewer allergens but require dedicated care, including at-home brushing and occasional hand-stripping to maintain their texture and health. These fearless and curious little dogs are known for their amusing antics and make devoted companions for those who appreciate their unique charm.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are another water dog breed bred for retrieving game. Their thick, curly coats, always liver-colored, require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. With high energy levels, these dogs need substantial daily exercise to remain happy and healthy. Their robust build and enthusiastic nature make them excellent partners for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
15. Aussiedoodle
A Standard Aussiedoodle dog standing on a sandy beach, looking towards the water.
An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle. This hypoallergenic dog is exceptionally smart and energetic, inheriting traits from both active parent breeds. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation through enrichment toys like treat dispensers, they can become bored and potentially destructive. Therefore, an Aussiedoodle thrives in a home where they receive plenty of physical activity and engaging challenges.
16. Bolognese
Bolognese dogs are charming small hypoallergenic pups with long, fluffy white coats that require consistent grooming despite their characteristically messy appearance. Originating in Italy, these playful and easygoing dogs are known for getting along well with children and other pets, making them adaptable to various living situations. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions who thrive on close human interaction.
17. Maltese
Another small hypoallergenic breed, the Maltese is celebrated for its luxurious white coat. These affectionate and playful companions thrive with pet parents who are committed to their grooming needs, especially if they wish to keep their dog’s long, flowing hair. For easier maintenance, many Maltese owners opt for a shorter “puppy” cut, which can be achieved with dog hair grooming clippers. Their devoted nature makes them excellent lap dogs and cherished family members.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed known for its incredibly soft, silky coat that sheds minimally. As terriers, Wheatens maintain a high energy level throughout their lives, necessitating ample exercise and mental stimulation to ensure they are well-behaved and content. Their joyful and friendly disposition makes them popular family pets, eager to participate in activities and spend time with their loved ones.
19. Coton de Tulear
A white Coton de Tulear sitting in lush green grass with its hair gently blowing in the wind.
Originating in Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, easygoing hypoallergenic breed. Their good-natured temperament makes them a suitable fit for homes with other pets and children, especially when proper introductions are facilitated. Cotons are known for their soft, cotton-like coats, which require regular grooming to keep them free of tangles. They are devoted and charming companions who enjoy being part of family life.
20. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a unique “doodle” breed that combines two hypoallergenic dog breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their coat can be curly or wavy, depending on their genetic inheritance, but it is consistently low-shedding. Schnoodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate dogs that bring joy to their families with their lively personalities.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often described as “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed recognized for its distinctive topknot hairdo and pom-pom ear tufts. These dogs are deeply attached to their human companions and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Monitoring their activity with a dog camera can help pet parents track and address any signs of anxiety, ensuring their Bedlington remains a happy and secure member of the family.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as Mexican Hairless Dogs, Xoloitzcuintli are one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds. They come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or have a short coat. Both varieties are hypoallergenic, making them a fascinating option for those with allergies. Xolos are known for their calm, alert, and loyal nature, forming strong bonds with their families.
23. Whoodle
A Whoodle is the result of crossing a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier with a Poodle, creating a friendly dog that sheds very little. These dogs inherit intelligence and an affectionate nature from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and loving companions. Whoodles are energetic and playful, thriving in active households where they receive plenty of exercise and interaction.
24. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, resulting in large hypoallergenic dogs known for their friendly, affectionate, and gentle demeanor. They are a popular choice for families with children and other pets. Bernedoodles require ample exercise to stay active and content, making them suitable for owners who can provide them with regular outdoor adventures.
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a mixed breed created from two hypoallergenic dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. These small, playful, and friendly dogs combine the best traits of both breeds. Like most low-shedding dogs on this list, Shorkies require a commitment to a regular grooming routine to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. They are adaptable and thrive on close companionship.
26. Afghan Hound
A gray and tan Afghan Hound with long, flowing hair looking intently at the camera.
Afghan Hounds are striking dogs, known for their long, flowing coats and slender, aristocratic builds. These pups are natural athletes, built for speed, and are among the fastest dog breeds in the world. While loving and devoted to their families, Afghan Hounds can be aloof with strangers, highlighting the importance of early and consistent socialization for this breed. Their magnificent coats require extensive grooming to prevent mats and keep them in prime condition.
27. Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful dog with a shaggy, woolly coat. The name derives from the French word barbe, meaning beard, referencing the dog’s characteristically hairy chin. These big hypoallergenic dogs love to swim, a trait facilitated by their protective curly coats. To maintain their coat in good condition, especially after swimming, regular brushing with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week is essential.
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo is a mixed breed resulting from a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (most commonly a Toy Poodle). This small pup is highly adaptable and can thrive in almost any living situation, provided they receive about 30 minutes of exercise and a good brushing session daily. Shih-Poos are affectionate, playful, and generally good-natured, making them wonderful companions for individuals and families alike.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Peruvian Inca Orchids are rare dogs, notable for their nearly hairless bodies, which make them hypoallergenic. This ancient breed comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—and holds the distinction of being the national dog of Peru. They are elegant, agile, and protective, forming strong bonds with their families while being wary of strangers. Their unique appearance and loyal temperament make them truly special companions.
30. Malshi
As a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small hypoallergenic dog. They thrive on close companionship and are most content when their favorite humans are near. Malshis are known for their affectionate nature and playful spirit, making them delightful lap dogs and family members. Like their parent breeds, they require regular grooming to maintain their soft, fluffy coats.
Living Happily with a Low-Shedding Dog
Bringing home a low-shedding dog is a great step towards managing allergies, but there are additional steps you can take to ensure a harmonious and sneeze-free environment.
Regular Grooming is Key
Even low-shedding dogs require consistent care to minimize allergens. Regular grooming and bathing are crucial for keeping their coats clean and reducing dander in your home. Ideally, dogs should be brushed every week and bathed every four to six weeks. Using specialized shampoos, such as Allerpet® Dog Dander Remover, can further help in reducing pet dander for those sensitive to dog allergens.
Many hypoallergenic breeds also necessitate professional trimming, hand-stripping, or other specific grooming upkeep. Factor the cost of regular professional grooming into your budget, or commit to learning how to groom your pup at home to maintain their coat health and allergen control.
Maintain a Clean Home Environment
Minimizing allergens extends beyond just your dog’s grooming. Regularly vacuuming, dusting, and washing bedding are essential practices to reduce the accumulation of pet dander in your living space. Utilizing air purifiers and ensuring good ventilation throughout your home can also significantly reduce airborne allergens, creating a more comfortable environment for allergy sufferers.
Consult Your Doctor
For individuals managing dog allergies, open communication with a healthcare provider is paramount. There are various effective treatments for allergies, including medications, nasal sprays, and injections, which can help alleviate symptoms. It’s also important to be mindful of avoiding direct contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also trigger allergic reactions. A doctor can provide personalized advice and strategies to best manage your specific allergy needs.
Bringing a low-shedding dog into your home can genuinely enhance the quality of life for individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the profound joy and companionship of pet parenthood without the constant worry of allergic reactions.
