13 Hypoallergenic Dogs Ideal for Allergy Sufferers

If you love dogs but hate the mess and allergies that come with their shedding, then hypoallergenic dog breeds might be the perfect choice. Hypoallergenic dogs tend to produce fewer allergens due to their non-shedding coats.

However, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, but some shed so little that they may be suitable for allergy sufferers. Here’s a list of top dog breeds known for minimal shedding, making life a little easier for those sensitive to pet dander.

1. Poodle

Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are known for their intelligence and minimal shedding. Their curly, dense coats trap dander and hair that typically spread around the home.

Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat in good condition and to minimize allergic reactions. Poodles are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility sports, making them ideal pets for active families.

2. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small breed famous for its white, puffy coat and playful disposition. This breed sheds very little and is known for being a great lap dog. They require regular grooming to keep their fur soft and free of mats.

Particularly suited for families with children due to their gentle and affectionate nature. Additionally, their cheerful attitude and resilience make them excellent companions for both young and old.

3. Portuguese Water Dog

Originally bred to assist fishermen along the coast of Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog has a waterproof coat that is either curly or wavy. This breed is an excellent choice for those looking to avoid dog hair in their homes, as it sheds very minimally.

They are energetic, loving dogs that need regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Their intelligence and obedient nature make them a pleasure to train.

4. Maltese

The Maltese is a charming toy breed known for its long, flowing white coat and gentle temperament. Despite its appearance, this breed sheds very little, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies.

Regular brushing and grooming are essential to prevent tangles and maintain the health of their coat. Malteses are affectionate and often very attached to their owners, making them excellent companion animals, especially for those who spend much time at home.

5. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus were initially bred to be indoor palace pets in ancient China, which is evident in their affectionate and friendly nature. Their long, beautiful coat requires daily grooming to prevent knots.

Their hair grows continuously and sheds very little, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Shih Tzus are known for their outgoing nature and interact well with people and other pets.

6. Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are distinguished by their unique appearance and bold, confident personality. They have a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat, which sheds very little. Regular grooming is required to keep their coat in good shape and to minimize shedding.

Scotties are particularly independent and sometimes aloof, but they are loyal and protective of their families.

7. Basenji

The Basenji is known as the “barkless dog” because it makes a unique sound more like a yodel due to its unusually shaped larynx. This breed is ideal for allergy sufferers as it sheds very little and grooms itself like a cat.

Basenjis are alert, affectionate, and energetic. They require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

8. Schnauzer

Schnauzers come in three sizes—miniature, standard, and giant—all of which share a similar characteristic of having a wiry topcoat and soft undercoat. They shed very little but require regular grooming, including brushing and professional trimming, to maintain their coat’s distinctive appearance and health.

They are known for their alertness and spirited personality, making them excellent watchdogs and family companions. They are also intelligent and highly trainable, which suits active owners.

9. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are the smallest of the sighthounds and are known for their elegant appearance and fine, short coats that shed minimally. This breed is particularly sensitive to cold, so they are often seen sporting stylish sweaters in cooler weather.

They are affectionate and gentle and typically bond closely with one person in the household, although they are still friendly with all family members. Due to their sensitive nature, they do best in quiet environments.

10. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless has hair on the head, tail, and feet, while the powderpuff is covered with a soft, fine coat. Both types shed very little, if at all, making them excellent choices for allergy sufferers.

These dogs are known for their playful and affectionate demeanor and make excellent companions for families or single owners. However, They require sunscreen and clothing to protect their skin due to their lack of fur.

11. Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier has a soft, wavy coat that resembles the Poodle and does not shed much. Regular grooming is essential to prevent tangles and keep their coat neat. Kerry Blues are energetic, intelligent dogs that thrive on physical and mental stimulation.

They are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them effective watchdogs and beloved family members.

12. Labradoodle

Originally bred to be hypoallergenic service dogs, Labradoodles are a cross between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Their coats vary, ranging from curly to wavy, and they typically shed less than Labradors. The amount of shedding depends largely on how much they inherit the Poodle’s traits.

They require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s condition. Labradoodles are friendly, energetic, and highly trainable, making them excellent pets for active households.

13. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a unique single coat that sheds minimally. Their soft, silky hair continues to grow and requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Wheatens are known for their friendly and deeply devoted personality.

They are energetic and playful, often greeting their owners with a characteristic “Wheaten greetin’,” a burst of happiness and jumping.

Health Benefits of Opting for Hypoallergenic Dogs

Choosing a hypoallergenic dog can be a game-changer, especially for those with allergies or asthma. These special breeds shed minimally, significantly reducing hair and dander in the home—the main culprits behind pet allergies. This means fewer sneezes, less itchy eyes, and more comfortable breathing for allergy sufferers.

Although no dog is completely allergen-free, hypoallergenic dogs drastically lower the likelihood of allergic reactions, making the joys of pet ownership more attainable for those previously held back by their conditions.

Beyond allergy relief, these dogs also contribute to cleaner indoor air, enhancing respiratory health and reducing allergic reactions. This cleaner environment is a boon for anyone, but especially those with respiratory conditions.

Additionally, the companionship of a hypoallergenic dog offers the same emotional benefits as other breeds, such as reduced stress and anxiety, without the added worry of managing allergy symptoms. Opting for one of these dogs not only opens up the world of pet ownership to those with allergies but also enhances the quality of life for the entire family.