Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: List of Allergy-Friendly Pets

Hypoallergenic dog breeds are becoming increasingly popular among people who suffer from allergies. These breeds are known for producing less dander, hair, and saliva, which can reduce the impact of dog allergies on those who are sensitive to them. However, it’s important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, and even those labeled as such can still cause allergic reactions in some people.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, up to 10% of the population in the United States is allergic to dogs. This can make it difficult for people who love dogs to own them, as the allergens produced by dogs can cause a range of symptoms, from sneezing and itching to more severe reactions. Hypoallergenic dog breeds offer a potential solution to this problem, as they produce fewer allergens than other breeds.

It’s important to note, however, that hypoallergenic dog breeds are not a cure-all for allergies. While they may produce fewer allergens than other breeds, they can still cause allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, there is no standardized definition of what constitutes a hypoallergenic dog breed, and different breeds may affect people in different ways. As such, it’s important for people with allergies to spend time around different breeds and determine which ones work best for them before committing to owning a dog.

What are Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?

Hypoallergenic dog breeds are breeds that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people with dog allergies. This is because they shed less dander, hair, and saliva, which are the main triggers for dog allergies. However, it’s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, and some people may still have an allergic reaction to them.

There are several dog breeds that are commonly considered hypoallergenic. These include:

• Poodle: Poodles are a popular hypoallergenic breed that comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. They have a curly, non-shedding coat and are highly intelligent and trainable.
• Bichon Frise: Bichon Frises are a small, fluffy breed with a non-shedding coat. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature.
• Maltese: Maltese are a small breed with a silky, non-shedding coat. They are known for their playful and loving personalities.
• Shih Tzu: Shih Tzus are a small breed with a long, silky coat. They shed very little and are known for their loyal and affectionate nature.
• Yorkshire Terrier: Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed with a hypoallergenic coat that sheds very little. They are known for their spunky and playful personalities.

It’s important to note that while these breeds are often considered hypoallergenic, they still require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.

If you’re considering getting a hypoallergenic dog breed, it’s important to spend time with the breed before making a decision. This will help you determine if you have an allergic reaction to the dog and if the breed’s personality and energy level are a good fit for your lifestyle.

Most Popular Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

When it comes to hypoallergenic dog breeds, some are more popular than others. Here are some of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds that people with allergies may consider:

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed that is known for its curly, fluffy coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is more like human hair than dog fur. This breed is also known for being friendly, playful, and affectionate.

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for its unique appearance. They have a lamb-like appearance, with curly, soft hair that is hypoallergenic. This breed is also known for being intelligent, energetic, and loyal.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a small dog breed that is known for its hairless or powderpuff coat. The hairless variety of this breed is considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and they have very little dander. This breed is also known for being affectionate, playful, and lively.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small dog breed that is known for its soft, cotton-like coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being friendly, intelligent, and loyal.

Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for its curly, waterproof coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being intelligent, active, and loyal.

Poodle

The Poodle is a popular dog breed that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their curly hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being intelligent, loyal, and trainable.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small dog breed that is known for its fluffy, white coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being affectionate, playful, and lively.

Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for its curly, waterproof coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being intelligent, loyal, and energetic.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for its soft, silky coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and their hair is less likely to cause allergies. This breed is also known for being friendly, energetic, and playful.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is a unique dog breed that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much, and they have very little dander. This breed is also known for being loyal, affectionate, and intelligent.

Overall, while no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, these popular breeds are a great option for people with allergies who still want to experience the joy of owning a dog.

Other Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed that is both low-shedding and allergen-free, there are several options to consider. Here are some of the other hypoallergenic dog breeds that you may want to check out:

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a long-haired breed that is often mistaken for being high-shedding. However, they actually have a single-layered coat that sheds very little. They are also known for being very loyal and affectionate companions.

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a small, furry breed that is known for being hypoallergenic. They have a wiry coat that sheds very little and are great for people with pet allergies who want a small companion dog.

American Hairless Terrier

As the name suggests, the American Hairless Terrier is a hairless breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and loyal.

Barbet

The Barbet is a curly-coated breed that sheds very little. They are also known for being great family dogs and are very loyal and affectionate.

Basenji

The Basenji is a short-haired breed that sheds very little, making them a great choice for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and independent.

Bolognese

The Bolognese is a small, fluffy breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They have a hypoallergenic coat that sheds very little and are great for people who want a small companion dog.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is a large, low-shedding breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and protective of their family.

Havanese

The Havanese is a small, fluffy breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They have a hypoallergenic coat that sheds very little and are great for people who want a small companion dog.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a hypoallergenic breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They have a curly coat that sheds very little and are great for people who want an active, intelligent companion dog.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a curly-coated breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and loyal.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, low-shedding breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and protective of their family.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a hairless breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and independent.

Puli

The Puli is a curly-coated breed that sheds very little. They are also known for being very intelligent and loyal.

Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a hypoallergenic breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They have a wiry coat that sheds very little and are great for people who want an active, intelligent companion dog.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a curly-coated breed that sheds very little. They are also known for being very intelligent and loyal.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a low-shedding breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and protective of their family.

Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier is a hypoallergenic breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They have a wiry coat that sheds very little and are great for people who want an active, intelligent companion dog.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, low-shedding breed that is perfect for people with pet allergies. They are also known for being very intelligent and protective of their family.

Everything You Need to Know About Hypoallergenic Dogs

Overall, there are many hypoallergenic dog breeds to choose from, and finding the right one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It is important to do your research and consult with an allergist if you have pet allergies to ensure that you choose a breed that will not trigger your symptoms. Additionally, regular grooming, vacuuming, and using air filters can help to reduce allergens in the home and make living with a furry companion more comfortable.