Dogs are beloved companions in many households, yet for individuals with allergies, the joy of pet ownership can be overshadowed by uncomfortable symptoms. This is precisely why dog breeds that don’t shed and are hypoallergenic are becoming increasingly appealing to many. But what truly defines a “hypoallergenic” dog, and which breeds are considered the best for allergy sufferers?
This comprehensive guide will delve into what makes a dog allergy-friendly and introduce you to some of the top breeds that produce fewer allergens, making them a better fit for sensitive individuals.
What Is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
While all dogs produce allergens, hypoallergenic dogs are specifically recognized for producing fewer allergens, primarily in their hair and dander. This characteristic can make them a more suitable choice for some people who experience allergic reactions around canines. It’s crucial to understand, however, that no dog is 100% allergen-free. Even breeds known for their low dander still contain allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine, which are common triggers for symptoms like coughing, itching, or wheezing. Therefore, the term “hypoallergenic” signifies a reduced likelihood of triggering allergies, rather than a complete absence of allergens.
Dog Breeds That Are Hypoallergenic and Don’t Shed
Though no dog is entirely allergen-free, several breeds are known to shed minimally and produce less dander, making them excellent choices for individuals with allergies. These breeds often possess specific coat types that trap dander and loose hair, preventing its widespread distribution in the environment. Here are some of the best dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and don’t shed, offering a wonderful companionship experience for those with sensitivities.
1. Poodle
Poodles are renowned for being one of the most iconic hypoallergenic breeds. There are three distinct types: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, all sharing a reputation for being allergy-friendly. These intelligent dogs shed very little, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. The Standard Poodle, originally bred for hunting, is the largest, while the Miniature and Toy Poodles were developed as smaller versions. Regardless of size, a Poodle’s curly coat requires consistent grooming to prevent tangles and matting.
A white poodle walks gracefully through a lush green field
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Little Yorkies are charming, spunky, and affectionate dogs known for their hypoallergenic qualities. Their fine, silky hair, similar to human hair, sheds minimally. These tiny companions adapt well to various living situations, from spacious homes to cozy apartments, provided they receive ample attention and love from their families. Their compact size and adaptable nature make them a popular choice among small dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and don’t shed.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is another small, ancient companion breed admired for its thick, flowing coat and friendly temperament. Despite their luxurious double coat, Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding nature. However, their distinctive flat faces can predispose them to certain health concerns, including overheating, breathing difficulties, and tear stains. Regular eye cleaning can help manage tear stains and keep them comfortable.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Among the three Schnauzer breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest, typically standing no more than 14 inches tall and weighing between 10–20 pounds. These intelligent and robust dogs integrate well into diverse living environments. Their wiry, low-shedding coat contributes to their hypoallergenic status. They require at least an hour of exercise daily to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
A salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer wearing a pink harness sits attentively in a vibrant park
5. Standard Schnauzer
The larger Standard Schnauzer shares many appealing traits with its miniature counterpart, simply in a more substantial package. These dogs can weigh up to 45 pounds and possess a similar low-shedding, wiry coat. They thrive on activity and love engaging in long walks, games of fetch, and mentally stimulating puzzle toys. Their energetic nature makes them a rewarding companion for active families.
6. Giant Schnauzer
As one of the largest hypoallergenic dog breeds, Giant Schnauzers can reach heights over 27 inches and weigh up to 85 pounds. They require extensive exercise to stay happy and healthy, including brisk walks, runs, hikes, and active games of fetch. Their formidable size combined with their low-shedding coat makes them unique among allergy-friendly dogs.
7. Bichon Frise
Small, playful, and incredibly affectionate, the Bichon Frise is a delightful petit pup with a characteristic curly, hypoallergenic coat. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, quickly mastering basic commands with positive reinforcement and often learning impressive tricks to entertain their families. Their cheerful disposition and minimal shedding make them a fantastic choice for many homes.
8. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a distinctive small dog breed known for its unique appearance. There are two varieties: the hairless, featuring smooth skin with tufts of hair on its head, tail, and paws, and the powderpuff, covered in a long, silky coat. Both varieties are considered hypoallergenic. These dogs are playful, affectionate, and make excellent companions, proving that low-shedding qualities can come in many forms.
A black hairless Chinese Crested dog gazes curiously at the camera
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal, this medium-sized breed boasts a thick, curly coat that sheds very little, making Portuguese Water Dogs a popular hypoallergenic choice. They are intelligent, highly trainable, and possess a friendly demeanor. These high-energy pups require regular exercise, such as swimming, to remain happy and healthy. Their love for water makes aquatic activities an excellent way to keep them active and engaged.
10. Labradoodle
A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Labradoodle was initially bred as a hypoallergenic service dog. They are known for their intelligence, friendly nature, and gentle disposition, making them exceptional family pets. Labradoodles are highly trainable and benefit greatly from early socialization and consistent exercise to ensure they are well-behaved and happy companions.
11. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are another popular “doodle” breed that has emerged over recent decades. Like the Labradoodle, these charming dogs shed minimally, possess a friendly nature, and exhibit high intelligence. While often recognized for their golden coats inherited from their Golden Retriever parent, Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors and coat textures. Regular grooming with a slicker brush is essential to prevent their coats from matting.
A beautiful Goldendoodle relaxes on a couch with a person in the background
12. Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally bred as water retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolo dogs possess a curly, woolly coat that provided 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 excellent family dogs. Their charming personalities and unique heritage add to their appeal.
13. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small, spirited hypoallergenic dogs known for their distinctive monkey-like appearance. Their dense, wiry coat produces fewer allergens compared to many other breeds. However, this coat requires diligent care, including regular at-home brushing and a specialized grooming process called “stripping,” where hair is removed from the root rather than trimmed, to maintain its texture and minimize allergens.
14. Irish Water Spaniel
Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, Irish Water Spaniels are another water dog breed originally developed for retrieving game. Their thick, curly coat, always a liver (brown) color, requires regular grooming but sheds very little. With high energy levels, these dogs require substantial exercise to remain happy and healthy.
15. Aussiedoodle
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 parent breeds. To prevent boredom and destructive behaviors, Aussiedoodles require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation through enrichment toys like treat dispensers. Their boundless energy makes them a great match for active households.
16. Bolognese
Hailing from Italy, Bolognese are endearing hypoallergenic dogs with long, fluffy white coats. Despite their typically messy appearance, their coats require frequent grooming to prevent matting and maintain cleanliness. These playful and easygoing pups are known for getting along well with children and other pets and can thrive in various living situations, offering gentle companionship.
17. Maltese
Another small hypoallergenic dog, the Maltese, is celebrated for its luxurious white coat. Maltese make affectionate and playful companions for pet parents who are committed to their extensive grooming needs, especially if a long, flowing coat is desired. For easier maintenance, a short “puppy” cut can be given with dog hair grooming clippers, making them one of the charming breeds of dogs that don’t shed and stay small.
A woman lovingly holds a fluffy white Maltese dog on a bed
18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish breed aptly named for its silky, incredibly soft coat that sheds minimally. True to their terrier heritage, Wheatens possess a high energy level throughout their lives and require ample exercise and mental stimulation to ensure they are well-behaved and content. Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful family pets.
19. Coton de Tulear
Originating from Madagascar, Cotons de Tulear are small, easygoing hypoallergenic pups. Their pleasant disposition makes them an excellent fit for families with children and other pets, particularly when proper introductions are facilitated. Their cotton-like coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles.
20. Schnoodle
Unlike many “doodle” breeds that mix a Poodle with an allergenic dog, the Schnoodle thoughtfully combines two hypoallergenic breeds: the Schnauzer and the Poodle. Their coat can range from curly to wavy, depending on their genetic inheritance, but it consistently exhibits low-shedding qualities, making them a safe bet for allergy sufferers.
21. Bedlington Terrier
Often described as “a lamb in dog’s clothing,” the Bedlington Terrier is a small, curly-haired breed distinguished by its unique topknot hairdo and pom-pom ear tufts. These affectionate dogs thrive on human companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Monitoring their activity with a dog camera can help manage and address any signs of anxiety.
22. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as Mexican Hairless Dogs, Xoloitzcuintli are among the oldest and rarest dog breeds. This breed comes in three sizes—toy, miniature, and standard—and can be either hairless or possess a short, fine coat. Both variations are considered hypoallergenic. These ancient dogs are known for their calm and watchful nature.
23. Whoodle
A Whoodle is the delightful result of crossing a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier with a Poodle. These friendly dogs inherit intelligence and an affectionate nature from both parent breeds and are known for their minimal shedding. Whoodles combine the best traits of their lineage, offering a charming and low-allergen companion.
24. Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are a crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Their friendly, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor make these large hypoallergenic dogs a popular choice for families with children and other pets. However, they require significant exercise to stay active and happy, benefiting from regular outdoor activities.
A large Bernedoodle dog rests in the grass with its tongue playfully out
25. Shorkie
The Shorkie is a mixed breed created from two hypoallergenic dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. They embody the best qualities of both breeds: small, playful, and friendly. Like most dogs on this list, Shorkies require a commitment to a regular grooming routine to maintain their coat and minimize any potential allergens.
26. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are recognized for their long, flowing coats and slender, elegant builds. These pups are built for speed and are among the fastest dog breeds globally. While loving towards their immediate family, Afghan Hounds can be reserved with strangers, emphasizing the importance of early and consistent socialization for this majestic breed. Despite their abundant hair, they are considered low-shedding.
27. Barbet
The Barbet, pronounced “bar-bay,” is a cheerful pup with a shaggy, woolly coat. The name itself comes from the French word barbe, meaning beard, referencing the dog’s characteristically hairy chin. This large hypoallergenic dog has a protective curly coat and a strong love for swimming. To keep their coat in optimal condition, especially after aquatic adventures, brushing them with a slicker or pin brush two to three times a week is recommended.
28. Shih-Poo
The Shih-Poo mixed breed results from crossing a Shih Tzu with a Poodle, most commonly a Toy Poodle. This small pup can thrive in almost any living situation, provided they receive about 30 minutes of exercise and a thorough brushing session daily. Their compact size and adaptable nature make them a versatile and charming hypoallergenic companion.
29. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Peruvian Inca Orchids are a rare and ancient dog breed, notable for their nearly hairless bodies, which makes them hypoallergenic. They come in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and hold the distinction of being Peru’s national dog. Their unique appearance and low-allergen qualities make them truly special.
30. Malshi
As a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu, the Malshi is a happy, small hypoallergenic dog. They flourish when they have close companionship with their favorite humans and require significant interaction to be content. Their affectionate nature combined with their low-shedding coats makes them ideal for individuals seeking a loving, allergy-friendly pet. For those interested in easy-to-train companions, many of these breeds are also among the dogs that don’t shed and are easy to train.
Tips for Living With a Hypoallergenic Dog
Bringing home a hypoallergenic dog can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with allergies, allowing them to experience the joy and companionship of a pet without constant allergic reactions. However, certain practices are essential to ensure a clean, allergen-minimized environment for everyone.
Keep Up With Grooming
Even hypoallergenic dogs require consistent care and maintenance to minimize allergens. Regular grooming and bathing are crucial for keeping your dog’s coat clean and reducing dander in your home. Ideally, dogs should be groomed weekly and bathed every four to six weeks. Utilizing a specialized shampoo, such as Allerpet® Dog Dander Remover, can further aid in reducing pet dander for those sensitive to dog allergens.
Many low-shedding breeds also necessitate regular trimming, hand-stripping, or other professional grooming techniques. It’s important to budget for regular visits to a professional groomer or commit to learning how to groom your pup at home to maintain their coat health and hypoallergenic qualities.
Maintain a Clean House
Minimizing allergens extends beyond your pet’s grooming to the cleanliness of your home. Regularly vacuuming, dusting, and washing your bedding are essential practices to reduce the accumulation of pet dander. Additionally, utilizing air purifiers and ensuring your house is well-ventilated can help to reduce airborne allergens, creating a more comfortable living space for allergy sufferers.
Talk to Your Doctor
Managing allergies and preventing allergic reactions is paramount when living with a dog, even a hypoallergenic one. The most effective approach to allergy management is to consult with your healthcare provider. Various treatment options are available, including medications, nasal sprays, and allergy injections. It’s also vital to avoid close contact with your dog’s saliva or urine, as these can also trigger allergic reactions.
Bringing a hypoallergenic dog into your home can be a fulfilling experience for individuals with allergies, offering the warmth and affection of a canine companion without the constant worry of severe allergic responses. By understanding their unique needs and implementing proactive care strategies, you can enjoy a harmonious life with your allergy-friendly pup.
