Do you love dogs but suffer from pet allergies? Maybe you’re just tired of hauling out the vacuum and are looking for dogs that don’t shed. Thanks to hypoallergenic dogs, you may still be able to have a pup at home without misery from allergy symptoms or tumbleweeds of fur blowing in the wind.
What are hypoallergenic dogs?
Hypoallergenic dogs cause fewer allergy symptoms in people allergic to dogs than other breeds or individual dogs do. Keep in mind that “hypo” in “hypoallergenic” indicates “low” rather than “absent.” Similar to “hypothermia” and “hypoglycemic,” the “hypo” prefix signifies “low” in these contexts. In this case, hypoallergenic suggests hypoallergenic breeds shed less hair and dander than other dogs, meaning less of the allergens get into the surrounding environment to bother people with dog allergies.
There is no dog that is completely non-allergenic, as all dogs produce some allergens through saliva, urine, and skin cells. However, some individual dogs produce fewer allergens than others.
What dogs are hypoallergenic?
Certain breeds are commonly considered best for people prone to dog allergies. They tend to release less dander and saliva allergens into their surroundings. Here are some top contenders:
Poodles and Poodle mixes
Poodles have a tight, curly coat that hardly sheds. Their hair also holds dander and allergens near the skin rather than releasing it. Just be sure to regularly clip their coat. In particular, Miniature and Toy Poodles suit allergy sufferers seeking small dogs.
When we mention Poodles, this also includes the many designer Poodle mixes and hybrid breeds with a Poodle parent. The Poodle, due to their gold standard as hypoallergenic dogs, were chosen specifically to breed with other dogs to pass on these genes. Because genetics can be complicated, some Poodle mixes may be less allergy-friendly than others. Still, they are typically a smart choice. A few of those “Doodle” breeds are:
Portuguese Water Dog
These energetic, loyal dogs have a single-layered coat that doesn’t shed much. The Portuguese Water Dog‘s tight curls also minimize dander flying about. Portuguese water dogs make excellent swimmers, too!
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
With a non-shedding silky coat, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers produce little dander. What’s more, their cheerful and friendly temperament makes them a popular choice as hypoallergenic dogs. That said, regular grooming is a must for their shaggy fur.
Italian Greyhound
This petite, short-haired breed rarely sheds and is light on dander production. Italian Greyhounds love being with their people but also snooze plenty indoors. Their smaller size suits them well for apartment life.
Hypoallergenic small dog breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies have long, silky hair that sheds very little. They are lively, confident, hypoallergenic dogs and great for people with allergies.
Maltese
Adorable and gentle, the Maltese is a small, fluffy white dog with a long, silky white coat that rarely sheds. They require regular grooming to prevent mats.
Shih Tzu
Originally bred to be lap dogs, Shih Tzus make affectionate companions. Their beautiful long coats shed infrequently, making them a smart choice for people suffering from exposure to pet dander.
Havanese
An outgoing and sweet-natured breed, the Havanese hardly sheds. Despite that, their wavy coats need consistent grooming.
Coton de Tulear
Fluffy pups from Madagascar, the Coton de Tuleear is a small dog breed with a cotton-like coat that produces little dander. Even better, they love to be around people.
Brussels Griffon
With almost human-like expressions, Brussells Griffons are amusing toy dogs who shed minimally. Their coats are wiry and textured.
Hypoallergenic medium dog breeds
Schnauzers
These square-jawed dogs come in three sizes, but even the largest of which — the Giant Schnauzer — is medium in stature. The Miniature and Standard Schnauzers are considerably smaller. Schnauzers have minimally-shedding wiry coats that also hold dander near the skin. Regular hair clipping is required.
Lagotto Romagnolo
This Italian water retriever breed has a dense, curly coat that produces little dander or flying hair. The Lagotto Romagnolo is family-friendly with a talent for hunting truffles! Regular brushing is needed.
Irish Water Spaniel
Thanks to their tight, ringleted coats, Irish Water Spaniels shed little hair and dander. They love swimming and retrieving, should you need an energetic sporting dog. Expect regular professional grooming.
Hypoallergenic large dog breeds
Samoyed
This breed may come as a surprise, especially considering this breed is known for their fluffy coat. Despite that, this large Siberian sled dog breed sheds minimally thanks to their straight, dense double coat. Their long fur does require quite a bit of grooming, however. Samoyeds also tend to drool less than other large dogs.
Standard Poodle
While demanding when it comes to clipping and trimming, Standard Poodles are stalwarts on hypoallergenic breed lists. They are intelligent, energetic large dogs who produce little dander or flying fur.
Irish Wolfhound
One of the tallest breeds, Irish Wolfhounds, has a wiry single coat that hardly sheds seasonally, unlike double-coated dogs. Their towering size and moderate activity make them best suited for roomy homes.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are elegant, fashionable dogs with long, silky coats requiring significant grooming. However, their minimal shedding helps avoid airborne allergens. More interestingly, perhaps, their aloof personality makes them selective with human bonding.
Finding the right dogs that don’t shed
Whether desiring a small, medium, or large dog companion, there are hypoallergenic breeds out there suitable for dog lovers struggling with allergies. With an informed search, you can find the right pup for your home and lifestyle needs.
While you may be inclined to seek out a breeder to find the right hypoallergenic dog for you, remember that many of these breeds and mixes can be found available for adoption in a local shelter.
