Many people have an allergic reaction to their dog’s dander or saliva. But, if you want to have a furry friend at home, there’s a way. Unfortunately, no dog breeds are 100% allergy-free, but hypoallergenic dogs can cause fewer allergic reactions. So, let’s look at some of the best hypoallergenic dogs.
What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
The term hypoallergenic means it’s friendly to allergy sufferers. When it comes to dogs, these breeds often shed less fur or have shorter fur, so their dander doesn’t get everywhere in the house.
However, most people are allergic to dogs because of the protein produced within the dog’s dead skin (the dander), urine, and saliva. So, even though some hypoallergenic dogs don’t shed much, they still have saliva and will lick themselves, you, and other places in the house.
Hypoallergenic dogs don’t guarantee an allergy-free life, but they typically cause fewer reactions.
If you have allergies but still want to get a furry companion, then let’s look at some of the best dogs for allergies and asthma.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds (Purebred)
Now that we know what hypoallergenic dogs are let’s go over some breeds you can consider adopting into your family. These are purebred dogs that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as hypoallergenic.
Afghan Hound
This doggo is an excellent choice as a hypoallergenic dog breed. While they don’t look like it due to their long, silky coat, they don’t shed much. However, they need regular grooming to keep their coat shiny and healthy. This breed is independent but sweet with its family.
American Hairless Terrier
There will never be a dull moment with this doggo around. They’re hypoallergenic due to their lack of hair and fur. They don’t need much grooming, but they’ll need special care for their skin. This breed is energetic, alert, and curious. They’re a great addition to any household.
Barbado da Terceira
This loyal and intelligent pup is fun to be around. Also, they’re affectionate with their family members. Thanks to their medium, wiry coat, they don’t require too much grooming and shed very little.
Bedlington Terrier
This doggo is loyal and charming. While relatively independent, they’ll have plenty of affection for their family. Bedlington Terriers have a medium curly coat that doesn’t shed much, but it will require regular grooming maintenance.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is playful and curious. There will never be a dull moment with them around. They’ll follow you around and enjoy being a lapdog. Luckily, they don’t shed much at all, making them hypoallergenic. However, they have a long, curly double coat that requires a lot of grooming.
Bolognese
Due to their wavy, silky long coat, the Bolognese doesn’t look hypoallergenic, but they are. This doggo doesn’t shed much at all. However, they do need regular grooming to keep their coat looking healthy and clean. Overall, this breed is playful and devoted to its family.
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is another Terrier on this list that’s smart, alert, and social. They have a medium wavy coat that doesn’t shed much but needs regular grooming. Also, this breed does somewhat drool, which can cause some allergies.
Lagotto Romagnolo
This affectionate pup loves to be around its family and other dogs. However, they aren’t too fond of young children. They have a medium, curly double coat that doesn’t shed much and doesn’t need too much upkeep when it comes to grooming. So, they’re a relatively low-maintenance doggo.
Lowchen
Lowchen dogs are affectionate and outgoing. There won’t be many dull moments when they are around. Their long, wavy coat sheds a little, but not nearly as much as some other dogs. So, they are considered hypoallergenic for you and your home.
Maltese
At first glance, with their long, silky coat, the Maltese don’t look like they would be considered hypoallergenic. However, they are. They rarely shed and need regular maintenance for grooming, which can also keep their fur under control.
Miniature Schnauzer And Standard Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer and the Standard Schnauzer shed a moderate amount and drool a little bit. So, how can they be considered hypoallergenic? Sure, they have a medium double coat, but it’s also wiry in texture. So, there’s a lot of upkeep to the grooming, which can help keep the allergies at bay.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
This affectionate and loyal pup is another hairless dog breed. Therefore, they’re considered hypoallergenic since they don’t shed due to their lack of fur. However, they need some grooming maintenance to keep their skin clean and healthy.
Poodle (All Sizes)
Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. No matter which size you get, all of them are considered hypoallergenic. Their long, curly coats require much grooming maintenance, but they rarely shed.
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic, playful, and charming family dog, this breed might be the one for you. They have medium, wavy hair that does shed a little bit, but they also require regular grooming, which will help keep it under control.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are happy and friendly with most people and other dogs. Their coat is wavy, silky, and medium in length. While they need a lot of grooming maintenance to look nice, they don’t shed much at all, which considers them hypoallergenic.
Xoloitzcuintli
This doggo is loyal and calm. They’re affectionate with their family members but might be wary of other dogs and children first. This breed is hairless, so shedding and grooming are minimal. Thus, they’re considered hypoallergenic.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers have a long, silky coat. They don’t shed much at all, but their coat takes a lot of upkeep to keep clean and healthy. For example, they’ll need to visit the groomers at least once a month. Otherwise, they’re hypoallergenic and excellent family dogs.
Best Hypoallergenic Mixed Dog Breeds
Genetics will always do its own thing. So, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a hypoallergenic dog if you cross a hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic breed together.
However, if you cross two hypoallergenic breeds together, you’ll have a better chance. So, let’s take a look at this list of hypoallergenic dogs that are hybrids.
Shorkie
This dog breed is a cross of the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Yorkie. Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic, so there’s no guarantee this crossbreed might be allergy-friendly. However, they’re affectionate and love to be around their family.
Cavachon
The Cavachon is a mixed breed of the Bichon Frise (considered hypoallergenic) and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (not regarded as hypoallergenic). They’re playful, energetic, and will never give you a dull moment.
Morkie
Morkies are a hybrid of two hypoallergenic dog breeds: the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. So, this hybrid has a good chance of being considered hypoallergenic. This small doggo will enjoy being a lapdog and will most likely follow you all day.
Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are a popular mixed breed. They’re a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Poodles are hypoallergenic, while Golden Retrievers are not. So, while this doggo is a delight to have as a family dog, they might shed more than you think.
Schnoodle
This doggo is a great hypoallergenic mixed breed. They are part Poodle and Schnauzer. So, you can have a Miniature Schnoodle or Standard Schnoodle.
A Quick Look At The Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
For a brief look, you can check out the chart below to see the 23 best hypoallergenic doggos that will suit you and your family well.
| List of the Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Afghan Hound | American Hairless Terrier | Barbado da Terceira |
| Bedlington Terrier | Bichon Frise | Bolognese |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | Lagotto Romagnolo | Lowchen |
| Maltese | Miniature Schnauzer and Standard Schnauzer | Peruvian Inca Orchid |
| Poodle (All Sizes) | Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka | Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |
| Xoloitzcuintli | Yorkshire Terrier | Shorkie |
| Cavachon | Morkie | Goldendoodle |
| Schnoodle |
How To Choose The Best Hypoallergenic Dog For You
The best way to choose a hypoallergenic for you and your family is to do so as you would any other dog breed. For example, you’ll need to research the different dog breeds to ensure they fit in well with your lifestyle.
For instance, you don’t want to get a large, energetic dog if you live in an apartment. In addition, some hypoallergenic dogs prefer a family of adults without other dogs or young children.
If you have young children or plan on starting a family soon, you’ll want to get a dog breed that’s kid-friendly and calm.
Also, you’ll want to consider the severity of your allergies and the allergies of others within your home.
For example, if you have severe allergies, you’ll need to find a breed that rarely sheds and doesn’t drool much. On the other hand, if your allergies are slight, you might get away with having a dog breed that sheds a little bit and that might also drool a little.
Question Corner: FAQs About The Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Do any of those dog breeds tickle your fancy? Then, narrow down your search by looking at the frequently asked questions below.
What Are The Best Hypoallergenic Dogs For Kids And Families?
Some of the best hypoallergenic dogs that are also great for families are the Afghan Hound, American Hairless Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, and the Bolognese. These pups are loyal and affectionate with their family members.
Which Dogs Are Hypoallergenic That Are The Best Guard Dogs?
If you’re looking for a guard dog or a pup to protect you and your home, then you can look at some hypoallergenic breeds that will do just that. For instance, the Afghan Hound, American Hairless Terrier, Barbado da Terceira, Kerry Blue Terrier, and Lagotto Romagnolo are good options.
Which Hypoallergenic Dogs Are The Best For Apartments Or Small Homes?
Smaller dogs or breeds with a relatively calm temperament are the best for apartments or smaller houses. For example, these hypoallergenic breeds may include the Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Lowchen, or Maltese.
Which Dog Breeds Are Hairless?
Three purebreds are hairless, which means they’re non-shedding dogs. For instance, they are the American Hairless Terrier, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and the Xoloitzcuintli. Fortunately, all three of these dog breeds are also considered to be hypoallergenic.
Can Hypoallergenic Dogs Be Different Sizes?
The short answer is yes. There can be big hypoallergenic dogs, hypoallergenic small dogs, medium, giant, or toy breeds. As long as they are low-shedding and don’t drool much, they’re most likely considered the best dogs for allergies.
Which Hypoallergenic Dog Will You Choose?
Remember, hypoallergenic dogs aren’t always a guarantee that your allergies will disappear. It should help your allergies, but it’ll depend on your dog’s breed, coat type, and the severity of your allergies. Otherwise, these hypoallergenic dogs are a great addition to any household.
Rachel Poli is a content writer and author, but her real job is being a stay-at-home pet mom. Her zoo currently consists of a dog, a cat, two turtles, and two fish tanks. She’s also an avid pet sitter for a few local families, caring for various animals.
After realizing how little information there is for pet sitters on the internet, Rachel decided to start her own animal website. She strives to educate pet parents and pet sitters about the overall care of our furry friends.