A hypoallergenic dog may be just the thing for you if you have an allergy to pet dander but still want to cuddle up with a cute furry friend.
What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Hypoallergenic breeds are those that are less likely to cause allergic reactions to people allergic to dogs. These dogs are more suitable for allergy sufferers because they have certain characteristics. Hypoallergenic dogs have certain characteristics.
Reduced Shedding
Hypoallergenic dogs shed less than most other breeds; this means that they release fewer allergens into the air.
Low Dander Production
The dogs are less likely to produce dander, which is a dead skin cell that can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Coat Characteristics
Hypoallergenic dogs have coats that are more like human hair and contain less protein-rich fur, which can cause allergies.
Saliva Composition
Some hypoallergenic breeds have saliva that contains lower levels of proteins, which are common allergens.
All dogs produce allergens, but these breeds, however, are considered to be more suitable for those with allergies because they produce fewer allergens, and for safety reasons, people with severe allergies should still spend some test time with the dog they are considering adopting before making a decision.
There is no such thing as a pure, hypoallergenic dog, but there is a threshold above which allergy sufferers will react to dander or saliva (which are dead skin cells), and this can cause them to be itchy, sneezy, or short of breath. Dogs that shed less hair can also help reduce the amount of stubborn hair that accumulates around your home.
The experts of the American Kennel Club identified a range of dogs that are easy to love and have less fur to collect. You’ll find your best friend in these hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs. From smaller dogs like Bichons or Yorkies to mid-sized dogs such as Poodles or Portuguese Water Dogs to bigger pups (like the Giant Schnauzer), they’re all great choices.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are small and cute, but they have a lot of attitude. The fine, soft hair is similar to the manes of humans and will not make you sneeze.
Yorkies require regular maintenance and brushing in order to keep the hair silky and tangle-free.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are descendants of the Tang Dynasty. You’ll see why this breed was once favored by royalty for its regal appearance (but with low shedding), looks, and charming, friendly personality.
They require some maintenance because their hair grows naturally long, so start early and get to know a reputable groomer to help your dog love brushing.
Bichon Frise
The American Kennel Club has bred bichons to be hypoallergenic; they are a great choice for allergy sufferers.
The name “bichon” is French for fluffy white dog, and this cute little cotton ball fits the description perfectly. They are also a great fit for small living areas.
Miniature Schnauzer
These Schnauzers are the most popular breed of Schnauzer on the market; they make a great pocket dog for Schnauzer lovers.
The smaller Schnauzers have the same serious expression as their larger counterparts but in a much more compact package. They shed little and enjoy lots of playtime. So get ready for lots of fetch.
Coton de Tulear
This charming companion will follow you all around the house as if it were a little shadow.
The “royal dogs of Madagascar” are said to be descendants of dogs that survived an ancient shipwreck in Madagascar. They look like bichons with their white, soft hair.
Maltese
The ancient Greek breed is a tiny seven pounds and defines “lap dog” in its simplest form; their all-white coats won’t make you sneeze, even during marathon cuddle sessions.
You can either trim their soft fur to a sporty look or let it grow longer, depending on your maintenance level.
Portuguese Water Dog
These medium-sized furballs may be familiar to you after “First Dogs,” Sunny and Bo Obama, helped bring the curly-haired Portuguese Water Dogs into the spotlight; they are a great addition to any family, no matter how presidential it is.
Even those living in apartments will find that they adapt to the small space but still require regular walks to stay fit.
Poodle
You can select your dog adventure from the many poodles available, whether they are standard, miniature, or toy.
The most popular dog in the U.S. is the super-smart, easy-to-train poodle. The “poodle cut” is a traditional style that protects the dogs’ vital organs and joints while they swim.
Scottish Terrier
Scotties are a great breed of dog; they have a lot of personality and can be very independent.
Their weather-resistant, wiry coats allow them to survive in many climates; their dignified body is likely to spend the majority of their time on your couch.
West Highland Terrier
Westies are terriers just like any other breed, and they have a lively, curious attitude; they also shed very little.
They have a playful attitude that makes you laugh; they are popular because of their friendly disposition and portable size.
Cairn Terrier
Many coarse-haired breeds of terriers shed much less than others, which makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Cairns are loved by owners for their fearless personality.
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlingtons have distinctive poofs on the top of their heads, which gives them a lamblike appearance; these cuddly, gentle terriers are great companions for downtime and as watchdogs.
To achieve the perfect curls and wooly coats, professionals spend hours styling them for shows. You can choose a shorter clip if you want a pet that is more cuddly.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Wheaten terriers are adorable and don’t need much introduction. The name says it all: these sweet-faced terriers have soft coats that are the color of wheat.
The “Wheaten Greeting” is their signature greeting, in which they jump to greet their owners; they have unique coats that don’t shed much but are kept well-groomed to prevent matting.
Giant Schnauzer
The shaggy eyebrows of giant Schnauzers are iconic, but that doesn’t make them sneeze-inducing.
The dogs do need a little grooming so invest in a good dog brush. They can reach 75 pounds, and their intelligent, task-focused personality lends itself to training.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are easily recognized by their feathery feet and tails; these hairless dogs are great for those who have allergies to pet hair.
They won’t make you sneeze because they only have hair on their tail, feet, and heads. You’ll fall in love with their faces.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small breed that was originally bred to guard monasteries and royal palaces high in the Himalayas.
This small breed enjoys brisk walking and clowning about, so many Lhasa owners trim their pets to the “puppy” cut to reduce grooming.
Havanese
Havanese are happy and curious dogs with long, silky hair in many colors. If you let them grow their long, low-shedding hair and carry them like the kings or queens that they believe they are, they can look royal.
Most owners choose to clip their coats short for ease of maintenance.
Basenji
The Basenji is an African hunting dog, but it doesn’t howl or yap as other hounds do.
The short, fine fur sheds very little, so they are almost invisible. Basenjis have a cat-like personality and will groom themselves.
Read More: The Top Smartest Dog Breeds
Afghan Hound
The long hair of these sweet hounds requires some attention.
They have long, glossy hair because they were bred to live in the mountains of Afghanistan; this can cause tangles if not maintained regularly.
Irish Water Spaniel
Don’t limit your search to toy and terrier dogs if you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed. Irish Water Spaniels are part of the sporting group, and (surprise!) they love the water.
They are natural-born swimmers; their coats repel water, so they will not only keep your allergies away, but they can jump in and out all day.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The fancy name is not to be taken seriously; these small to medium-sized, wooly pups aren’t at all pretentious. These dogs are everything that dog lovers want: low-shedding and active but not hyperactive, easygoing, or affectionate. Lagotti has an even more hidden talent; they are particularly good at hunting truffles.
They may spend more time in your backyard hunting for toys when they are under your care.
