For many people, the joy of owning a dog is tempered by the sniffles, sneezes, and itchy eyes that come with pet allergies. While no dog is truly 100% allergen-free, there are many incredible breeds specifically known as “hypoallergenic dogs” because they produce fewer allergens and are less prone to shedding. These wonderful companions offer a fantastic solution for individuals and families seeking a furry friend without the constant battle against allergic reactions. Understanding what makes a dog hypoallergenic and which breeds fit this description can significantly improve the quality of life for allergy sufferers, allowing them to experience the unconditional love and companionship that only a dog can provide. If you’re looking for types of dogs that don’t shed much, you’re in the right place.
The key to a “hypoallergenic” dog isn’t an absence of allergens, but rather a reduced production of dander – the tiny flakes of skin that often carry pet allergens. Many of these breeds also have coats that shed minimally, trapping dander within their fur rather than releasing it into the environment. This distinction is crucial, as allergens are also found in a dog’s saliva and urine. Therefore, even with a low-shedding breed, regular grooming and household cleaning remain vital steps in managing allergies.
What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?
The term “hypoallergenic” refers to a dog breed that is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people. All dogs produce allergens, primarily proteins found in their skin (dander), saliva, and urine. Hypoallergenic dogs are generally those that shed very little hair and dander. While they still produce these proteins, the reduced shedding means fewer allergens are dispersed into the home environment. This makes them a more suitable choice for individuals sensitive to common dog allergens. It’s important to remember, however, that no dog is completely allergen-free, and individual reactions can vary significantly.
Top Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
If you’re seeking a canine companion that’s gentle on allergies and won’t leave a trail of fur, these are some of the best hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed. From playful small breeds to active larger ones, there’s a low-shedding dog to fit almost any lifestyle. These breeds are often chosen for their unique coats that trap dander, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
1. Poodle
Poodles are perhaps the most famous of all hypoallergenic dogs, renowned for their intelligence and distinctive curly coats that shed minimally. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, there’s a Poodle for every household. Originally bred as water retrievers, they are highly active and require regular mental and physical stimulation. Their dense, curly hair needs consistent grooming, including daily brushing and professional clipping every 4-6 weeks, to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy and allergen-free. Despite their elegant appearance, Poodles are playful and highly trainable, making them excellent family pets.
White Poodle walking through green grass
Poodles are not only known for their low-shedding qualities but also for their sharp minds and engaging personalities. Whether it’s a playful Toy Poodle, a spirited Miniature, or a majestic Standard, these dogs thrive on interaction and training. Their energetic nature means they benefit from activities like obedience training, agility, and plenty of walks, ensuring they remain well-behaved and happy companions. Regular grooming is non-negotiable for Poodles, but the reward is a beautiful, dander-controlled coat.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Small in stature but big in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier is a popular choice among those seeking hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed. Their fine, silky hair is more akin to human hair than typical dog fur, and it sheds very little. Yorkies are known for their spirited, affectionate, and sometimes feisty demeanor, making them wonderful companions. They adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive plenty of attention and exercise.
Daily brushing is essential for a Yorkie’s long coat to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make grooming more manageable. These intelligent little dogs are eager to please and can be easily trained with positive reinforcement. Their loyalty and portability make them excellent travel companions.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, an ancient companion breed, is a charming small dog with a long, flowing double coat that is considered hypoallergenic due to its low shedding. Known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, Shih Tzus are content to be lap dogs but also enjoy short walks and playtime. Their luxurious coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, along with regular professional grooming.
Brown and white Shih Tzu lying on a living room floor
While their flat faces contribute to their adorable appearance, it also means Shih Tzus can be prone to certain health issues, such as overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather. Regular eye cleaning is also important to prevent tear stains. Despite these considerations, their affectionate nature and low-shedding coat make them a beloved choice for families and individuals with allergies.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are robust, intelligent, and highly adaptable dogs that are excellent for allergy sufferers. They possess a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat, which sheds minimally. These alert and lively dogs are known for their distinctive bearded snout and bushy eyebrows. They thrive on human companionship and are typically good with children and other pets, making them fantastic family dogs.
Miniature Schnauzers need regular exercise, about an hour a day, to keep them happy and mentally stimulated. Their coat requires regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and professional stripping or clipping every few months, to maintain its texture and minimize shedding. Their compact size and loyal nature make them popular best small dog breeds for first time owners.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Larger than their miniature counterparts, Standard Schnauzers share the same low-shedding, wiry coat that makes them suitable for allergy sufferers. These medium-sized dogs are known for their intelligence, protective nature, and boundless energy. Originally farm dogs, they require significant daily exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Standard Schnauzers are devoted to their families and make excellent watchdogs. Their grooming needs are similar to the Miniature Schnauzer, requiring regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain their coat and keep it free of loose hair. They are sturdy, athletic dogs that enjoy long walks, playtime, and engaging in activities like agility or obedience training.
6. Giant Schnauzer
As the largest of the Schnauzer breeds, the Giant Schnauzer is an imposing yet magnificent hypoallergenic dog. With their dense, wiry coat and commanding presence, they are confident, intelligent, and require experienced owners who can provide consistent training and ample exercise. Despite their size, they are low-shedding, making them a viable option for those with allergies looking for a larger companion.
Giant Schnauzers need extensive daily exercise, including long walks, runs, or engaging play sessions. They are highly intelligent and excel in various dog sports. Their coat demands regular brushing and professional grooming (stripping or clipping) to prevent matting and manage their unique texture. Properly socialized and trained, Giant Schnauzers are loyal, protective, and affectionate family members.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, playful, and affectionate small dog with a soft, curly double coat that resembles a powder puff. This breed sheds minimally, with loose hairs typically caught within their dense undercoat, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Bichons are known for their joyful demeanor and thrive on being the center of attention.
White Bichon Frise dog looking up in the grass
Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, easily mastering basic commands and fun tricks. However, their coat requires consistent grooming, including daily brushing to prevent mats and regular professional clipping every 4-6 weeks. Bichon Frise dogs are adaptable and generally get along well with children and other pets, making them delightful additions to many homes.
8. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a distinctive and unique hypoallergenic breed, known for its two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The Hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair only on its head, tail, and paws, while the Powderpuff has a full, long, silky coat. Both varieties shed minimally and are suitable for allergy sufferers.
Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, playful, and make wonderful companion dogs. The Hairless variety requires skin care to protect from sunburn and dryness, while the Powderpuff’s coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Despite their unique appearance, they are charming and devoted pets that thrive on human interaction and can adapt to various living situations.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog is a robust, intelligent, and highly energetic medium-sized breed with a dense, curly coat that is considered hypoallergenic. Their non-shedding coat makes them an excellent choice for active individuals or families with allergies. These dogs are known for their love of water and require ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly trainable and excel in dog sports such as agility and obedience. Their coat needs regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and professional clipping every 6-8 weeks, to prevent matting. With their friendly temperament and adventurous spirit, they make loyal and engaging companions for those who can meet their activity needs. They are fantastic medium sized dogs that don’t shed and are calm.
10. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed, a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, originally bred to be a hypoallergenic service dog. They are intelligent, friendly, and possess a low-shedding coat that varies from wavy to curly. Labradoodles combine the best traits of both parent breeds, making them excellent family pets that are often gentle with children and other animals.
Labradoodles are highly trainable and thrive on companionship and activity. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their coat needs frequent brushing to prevent matting, especially the curlier varieties, and periodic professional grooming. Their affectionate nature and adaptability have contributed to their widespread popularity as a family dog.
11. Goldendoodle
Similar to the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, valued for its friendly nature and low-shedding coat. These intelligent and affectionate dogs are known for their charming personalities and make wonderful family companions. Their coats can range from wavy to curly, and their shedding is typically minimal, thanks to their Poodle lineage.
Goldendoodles need regular exercise and mental engagement to stay happy and well-behaved. Their beautiful coats require frequent grooming with a slicker brush to prevent mats and keep them looking their best. They are highly trainable and generally good with children and other pets, embodying the desirable traits of both parent breeds.
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian breed, originally water retrievers, known for their dense, woolly, curly coats that are considered hypoallergenic. While less common, these charming dogs are gaining popularity due to their low-shedding qualities and agreeable temperament. They are intelligent, affectionate, and typically good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.
Lagotti Romagnoli require regular exercise and mental stimulation, as they are working dogs with a keen sense of smell. Their unique coat needs specific grooming, including periodic clipping and hand-stripping, to maintain its texture and prevent matting. They are known for being enthusiastic and eager to please, thriving on companionship and having a job to do.
13. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a small, spirited hypoallergenic dog known for its monkey-like expression and wiry, dense coat. This breed sheds minimally, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. Affenpinschers are charming, playful, and inquisitive dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They are confident and can be quite entertaining with their antics.
Their wiry coat requires regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and periodic hand-stripping to maintain its texture. Despite their small size, they have a sturdy build and enjoy daily walks and playtime. Affenpinschers are generally good with older, respectful children and can adapt well to apartment living.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive and athletic breed with a thick, curly, waterproof coat that sheds minimally, qualifying it as a hypoallergenic dog. Always liver-colored, their coat has a unique texture. These intelligent, friendly, and highly trainable dogs were originally bred for retrieving game from water, and they retain a strong love for swimming and outdoor activities.
Irish Water Spaniels have a high energy level and require significant daily exercise and mental challenges to stay content. Their coat needs regular grooming, including brushing and occasional clipping, to prevent mats. With their jovial nature and eagerness to please, they make wonderful companions for active individuals or families who can provide them with consistent training and plenty of outdoor adventures.
15. Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a highly intelligent and energetic hypoallergenic dog. They inherit a low-shedding coat from their Poodle parent, which can vary in texture from wavy to curly. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly demeanor, trainability, and devotion to their families.
Both parent breeds are intelligent and active, so Aussiedoodles require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Daily walks, playtime, and puzzle toys are essential. Their coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats, along with periodic professional grooming. Aussiedoodles are great for active families who can provide consistent training and engagement.
16. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a charming small hypoallergenic dog originating from Italy, known for its long, fluffy white coat that sheds minimally. These affectionate and easygoing pups are renowned for their playful nature and their ability to get along well with children and other pets. They thrive on companionship and are content to be close to their human family.
Despite its characteristic “messy” appearance, the Bolognese coat requires dedicated grooming, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. They adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they receive moderate daily exercise and plenty of attention. Their gentle and devoted nature makes them a delightful lap dog and companion.
17. Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient toy breed famous for its luxurious, long, silky white coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic. These elegant small dogs are affectionate, playful, and make devoted companions. They thrive on human interaction and are often described as spirited yet gentle.
Woman holding a white Maltese dog on a bed
Despite their pristine appearance, Maltese dogs have significant grooming needs. Their long coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance easier. With proper care and socialization, Maltese are charming and beloved members of the family, perfect for those with allergies who desire a pampered companion.
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed known for its soft, silky, wavy coat that feels like wheat and sheds minimally. This makes them an excellent hypoallergenic choice. Wheatens are joyful, playful, and affectionate dogs with a distinct “Wheaten Greetin'” where they jump up to welcome their loved ones.
As terriers, they maintain a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample exercise and mental stimulation to stay well-behaved. Their coat needs regular brushing several times a week to prevent matting and keep it soft. Wheatens are generally good with children and make enthusiastic, loving family members for active homes.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a small, charming hypoallergenic breed with a soft, cotton-like coat that sheds very little. These easygoing pups are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions. They adapt well to various living environments and are typically good with children and other pets, especially with proper introductions.
The Coton’s unique coat requires regular grooming, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and occasional professional trimming. They enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks and indoor play. Their devoted and happy disposition makes them a delightful addition to any family seeking a low-shedding, cheerful companion.
20. Schnoodle
The Schnoodle is a delightful crossbreed combining two hypoallergenic breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This makes them a double-hypoallergenic choice, with a coat that can be wavy or curly, depending on parental inheritance, but always low-shedding. Schnoodles are known for their intelligence, playful nature, and affectionate personalities.
Schnoodles vary in size depending on the parent Poodle and Schnauzer, but all are generally adaptable and eager to please. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their coats need consistent brushing to prevent matting and periodic professional grooming. Schnoodles are wonderful family pets, combining the best traits of both their intelligent and low-shedding ancestors.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often described as a “lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, distinctive hypoallergenic breed known for its curly, linty coat and unique appearance, including a prominent topknot. Their coat sheds very little, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Bedlingtons are affectionate, playful, and make devoted companions.
White Bedlington Terrier running through snow
These terriers are energetic and require daily exercise to keep them happy. Their distinctive coat needs regular professional grooming, including stripping or clipping, to maintain its appearance and texture. Bedlingtons thrive on human companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They are loving and charming pets for attentive owners.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient and rare breed known for its distinctive appearance and hypoallergenic qualities. They come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and can be hairless or coated (with a very short, sparse coat). Both varieties are considered hypoallergenic. Xolos are calm, loyal, and intelligent dogs that form strong bonds with their families.
The hairless variety requires special skin care, including moisturizing and sun protection, while the coated variety needs minimal grooming. Xolos need moderate exercise and mental stimulation. Their quiet and attentive nature makes them excellent companions, though they can be aloof with strangers. They are a unique and fascinating choice for those seeking a low-allergen pet.
23. Whoodle
The Whoodle is a playful and affectionate crossbreed resulting from a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle. This combination creates a delightful hypoallergenic dog with a soft, wavy to curly coat that sheds minimally. Whoodles inherit intelligence and a friendly demeanor from both parent breeds, making them highly trainable and wonderful family companions.
Whoodles are energetic and require regular exercise and mental engagement to stay happy and well-behaved. Their coats need consistent brushing to prevent tangles and mats, along with periodic professional grooming. They are generally good with children and other pets, offering a spirited yet loving presence in the home.
24. Bernedoodle
A cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, the Bernedoodle offers a large, friendly, and affectionate hypoallergenic option. Their coats are typically wavy or curly and shed very little, making them suitable for families with allergies who desire a big, gentle companion. Bernedoodles combine the calm nature of the Bernese with the intelligence of the Poodle.
Bernedoodles require ample exercise and mental stimulation due to their size and intelligence. They are highly trainable and generally good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. Their coats need regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting. They are known for their gentle demeanor and playful spirit, thriving on companionship. These are some of the best companion dogs that don’t shed for larger households.
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a delightful small crossbreed, combining the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier – both of which are hypoallergenic breeds. This results in a tiny, playful, and friendly dog with a low-shedding coat. Shorkies inherit the best traits of both parent breeds, making them affectionate lap dogs with spirited personalities.
Shorkies thrive on human companionship and are well-suited for apartment living. Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and periodic professional trimming. They are generally good with children and other pets, offering a charming and loving presence in the home.
26. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound, with its distinctive long, flowing, silky coat, is a unique and elegant hypoallergenic dog. Despite their abundant hair, they are low-shedding, with most loose hairs captured within their coat. These sighthounds are known for their regal appearance, independent nature, and incredible speed.
Afghan Hounds are loving and devoted to their families but can be aloof with strangers, making early and consistent socialization important. Their magnificent coat requires extensive grooming, including daily brushing and bathing, to keep it free of tangles and mats. They are active dogs that need plenty of exercise, including regular opportunities to run in a securely fenced area.
27. Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful French water dog with a shaggy, woolly, curly coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic. Named after the French word for “beard,” these dogs are known for their distinctive facial hair and love for water. Barbets are intelligent, friendly, and make wonderful family companions.
Close-up of a curly red Barbet dog face
Their protective curly coat needs regular grooming, including brushing two to three times a week and periodic clipping, to prevent matting, especially after swimming. Barbets are energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive on human interaction and are generally good with children and other pets, making them active and loving additions to the family.
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo is a charming crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle (usually a Toy Poodle), resulting in a small, low-shedding hypoallergenic dog. These affectionate and playful pups are known for their friendly personalities and adaptability, making them suitable for almost any living situation.
Shih-Poos typically have a soft, wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles. They need about 30 minutes of daily exercise and thrive on companionship. Their intelligence makes them eager to please and relatively easy to train. Shih-Poos are wonderful lap dogs that bring joy and laughter to their families.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare, ancient breed known for its hairless body, which makes it hypoallergenic. Similar to the Xoloitzcuintli, they come in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and can occasionally have a short, fine coat. As the national dog of Peru, they are cherished for their elegance and loyal nature.
Peruvian Inca Orchids are generally calm and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers. The hairless variety requires special skin care to protect from the sun and cold. They need moderate exercise and mental stimulation. Their unique appearance and devoted personalities make them a fascinating and low-allergen companion.
30. Malshi
The Malshi is a delightful small crossbreed, a mix of the Maltese and Shih Tzu, resulting in a happy, affectionate, and low-shedding hypoallergenic dog. They are known for their friendly demeanor and thrive on close companionship with their favorite humans. Malshis are playful and adapt well to various home environments.
Their soft, flowing coat requires regular grooming, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Malshis need moderate daily exercise, such as short walks and indoor play. Their gentle nature and desire for attention make them excellent lap dogs and loving companions for individuals or families seeking a low-allergen pet.
Tips for Living With Hypoallergenic Dogs
Bringing home a low-shedding, hypoallergenic dog is a fantastic step towards reducing allergy symptoms, but it’s not the only one. Effective allergy management requires a holistic approach, combining the right breed choice with dedicated care and a clean living environment. These practices ensure both you and your furry friend can enjoy a happy, healthy life together.
Keep Up With Grooming
Even with low-shedding breeds, consistent grooming is crucial for minimizing allergens. Regular bathing helps to wash away dander, saliva, and other allergens that accumulate on your dog’s coat. Ideally, your hypoallergenic dog should be brushed daily or several times a week, and bathed every four to six weeks using a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo. For breeds with specific coat needs, like Poodles or Schnauzers, regular professional grooming or home trimming is essential to prevent matting and keep their coats healthy. Some specialized products, like dander removers, can also be helpful between baths.
Maintain a Clean Home
Maintaining a clean living environment is paramount for allergy sufferers. Even the most hypoallergenic dog will still shed some dander and saliva. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum, dusting surfaces, and washing bedding (both yours and your dog’s) frequently will help significantly reduce the presence of allergens in your home. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters can also help remove airborne allergens. Consider designating certain areas of the house as “dog-free zones,” especially bedrooms, to provide an allergen-reduced sanctuary.
Consult Your Doctor
While hypoallergenic dogs can greatly reduce allergic reactions, it’s always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or an allergist. They can offer personalized advice, discuss potential allergy treatments such as medications, nasal sprays, or immunotherapy (allergy shots), and help you create a comprehensive plan for managing your allergies. Discussing your decision to get a hypoallergenic dog with your doctor ensures you’re taking all necessary precautions for your health and well-being. Avoiding close contact with a dog’s saliva or urine, which also contain allergens, is also an important consideration.
Bringing a hypoallergenic dog into your home can truly transform the lives of individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the profound joy and companionship that comes with pet ownership without constant allergic reactions. By choosing one of the best hypoallergenic dogs that don’t shed and diligently following grooming and cleaning routines, you can create a harmonious and sniffle-free environment for everyone.
