10 Dog Breeds for People With Allergies

Posted by Erin Ballinger

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 found in their urine, saliva and skin, there are many breeds that are better suited for allergy sufferers. All of these pups are considered non-shedding because they shed less hair and dander, which is the number one culprit for allergic reactions. There are 20 breeds that fall somewhere within the hypoallergenic category, and these 10 are the most “pupular” for people with allergies.

Bichon Frise

Bichons make friendly “furst” mates. Photo by BringFido

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 on average 11 pounds, are easily trained, require moderate exercise and periodic grooming, and enjoy nothing more than being with their owners.

Chinese Crested

Lookin' good! Photo by BringFido/Alaina

These tiny 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

"I 'rish' all hypoallergenic dogs looked this dapper!" Photo by @bffgroomer

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 and an excellent swimmer, in addition to being an affectionate companion.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Meet the truffle dogs of Blackberry Farm. Photo by Kreis Beall and Heather Anne Thomas

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 as mischievous as it is cute. Photo by BringFido/Laura

The Maltese is a diminutive breed with an average weight of less than 7 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 (Standard, Miniature)

“Where to next?” Photo by Torstein Finnbakk on Unsplash

The Poodle is one of the smartest breeds around, and it also has the most variety size-wise. 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

Portuguese Water Dogs love to play. Photo by @zizotheportie

This athletic breed is a good choice for people who have mild allergies to pets because its 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 (Giant, Standard, Miniature)

Beautiful! The view’s not bad either. Photo by @izzythegiantschnauzer

Schnauzers are low-shedding dogs, which make them suitable pets 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 companions who make alert watchdogs but also love to play.

Shih Tzu

This Shih Tzu is proud to be an American. Photo by @Wpepperleshihtzu

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 thing close to sneezing coming from owners with allergies is when they say the breed name, Shih Tzu! Gesundheit!

Yorkshire Terrier

What do you call Yorkshire Terrier puppies? New Yorkies! Photo by @the.little.skittle

Yorkies are toy-sized hypoallergenic pups with a glossy coat that is more like human hair than dog fur. These dogs 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 learners. The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent watchdog and is full of personality. They make excellent lifelong friends for the allergy sufferer.

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Banner photo by BringFido/Stacy.