Are you itching to be a dog owner but are worried because you or one of your family members have canine allergies? Although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic because of allergens in their urine, saliva and skin, many breeds are better suited for allergy sufferers. These pups are considered non-shedding because they shed less hair and dander, the number one culprit for allergic reactions. Twenty breeds fall within the hypoallergenic category, and these 10 are the most “pupular” for people with allergies.
10 Dog Breeds for People With Allergies
Posted by Erin Ballinger
Bichon Frise
These fluffy white dogs are hypoallergenic and have a cheerful temperament. The Bichon Frise’s white, tightly curled coif doesn’t shed. This is great because it prevents the spread of dander, but you’ll need to schedule regular grooming sessions to keep your pooch’s hair cut. They weigh 11 pounds on average, are easily trained, require moderate exercise and periodic grooming, and enjoy nothing more than being with their owners. Bichons also make great travel companions.
Chinese Crested
These diminutive dogs know how to stand out. From the signature “crested” hairstyle, spotted skin, and feathery socks and tail, the Chinese Crested is as stylish as it is allergy-friendly. The toy breed is hypoallergenic due to its lack of hair and dander. These canines are playful and make great household pets for anyone, whether they have allergies or not!
Irish Water Spaniel
This breed’s signature crisply curled coat has no undercoat, which means less shedding and fewer allergic reactions. Irish Water Spaniels are well-suited for allergy sufferers if they are kept well-groomed. This inquisitive breed is athletic, an excellent swimmer, and an affectionate companion.
Lagotto Romagnolo
This Italian truffle-hunting dog’s tight curls make it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. With regular grooming and brushing, the low-shedding Lagotto Romagnolo is as hypoallergenic as it is cute and cuddly. Besides not shedding much, the Lagotto Romagnolo rarely drools, so its saliva won’t cause unwanted allergic reactions, either. This intelligent breed is known for its great sense of smell, heartiness and sweet demeanor.
Maltese
The Maltese is a small breed with an average weight of less than seven pounds. These gentle pups make excellent companions and lapdogs. Their shiny white coat requires regular grooming, but is low-shedding, which makes the Maltese an ideal pet for potential owners with allergies. Sometimes stubborn, Maltese pups respond well to rewards-based training and are always happy to make new friends of all ages.
Poodle
The Poodle is one of the smartest breeds around and comes in a variety of sizes. You can choose from the Standard, Miniature or Toy Poodle, which range from 5 to 70 pounds. In addition to being intelligent, Poodles are confident dogs with big personalities. Their hypoallergenic coats make them a preferred breed for people with allergies. They are happy with daily walks and lots of attention from their owners.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an athletic breed and a good choice for people with mild pet allergies. The breed’s medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. Because the Portie doesn’t have an undercoat of hair, it sheds less than most breeds. To prevent allergy symptoms, Portuguese Water Dogs should be groomed regularly. These friendly and intelligent dogs are an excellent addition to active households.
Schnauzer
Schnauzers are low-shedding dogs, which makes them suitable companions for people with allergies. Available in Giant, Standard, and Miniature varieties, all three sizes share the hallmarks of the breed. The wiry coat, square frame, and expressive arched eyebrows are trademarks of their appearance. Schnauzers of all sizes are protective and loyal pets who make alert watchdogs but also love to play.
Shih Tzu
These playful, allergy-friendly pups love to be lap dogs. Prepare to make frequent trips to the groomer and have regular brushing sessions at home to keep a Shih Tzu’s coat at its most effective, low-shedding level. The only sound close to a sneeze coming from an owner with allergies is when they say the breed name, Shih Tzu! Gesundheit!
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are toy-sized hypoallergenic pups with a glossy coat more similar to human hair than dog fur. These pups have a reputation for being yappy, but they’re also easy to train. Because they are intelligent, eager to please, and motivated by treats, they are quick to learn. The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent watchdog and is full of personality. They make excellent lifelong friends for allergy sufferers.