Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Hypoallergenic dogs are breeds that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to dogs. This doesn't mean the dogs are completely non-allergenic, but they shed less dander and hair which makes them more suitable for allergy sufferers.

Why Are Some Dogs Hypoallergenic?

All dogs produce allergens like dander, saliva, and urine. However, the amount they produce varies by breed. Hypoallergenic dogs typically have these characteristics:

• They shed very little or no hair
• They produce less dander
• They produce less allergy-causing proteins in their saliva and urine

Having hair instead of fur is also a factor as hair sheds less than fur. The size of the dog can also make a difference since larger dogs simply have more surface area to spread allergens around.

Best Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

No dog is 100% non-allergenic, but some come very close. Here are the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for people with allergies.

Small Hypoallergenic Dogs

Maltese

This ancient breed originated from the Mediterranean island of Malta. They have long, silky, white hair that sheds very little. They also produce less dander than other dogs.

Miniature Schnauzer

Mini Schnauzers have a double coat, but are non-shedding and produce less allergy-causing proteins. Their small size also means less surface area for allergens to stick to.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies have a long silky coat that continues growing like human hair instead of shedding seasonally. The hairs only shed when brushed or broken. Yorkies also tend to carry less dander.

Shih Tzu

This Tibetan breed has a long, dense double coat that doesn't shed much. They produce less dander than other dogs due to having hair instead of fur.

Havanese

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, and is extremely friendly and energetic. These pups have curly coats that shed little with regular brushing and bathing.

Coton de Tulear

These fluffy white dogs originating from Madagascar don't shed much and have hair that keeps growing instead of fur. They need regular grooming to prevent mats.

Bichon Frise

The hypoallergenic Bichon is a bundled ball of curly white hair. They are playful and energetic despite their small size, and love being the center of attention.

Brussels Griffon

This breed sports a rough or smooth coat, neither of which shed much. Their outgoing temperament and small size also makes them ideal apartment dogs.

Chinese Crested

An unusual hypoallergenic breed, Chinese Cresteds can be mostly hairless or have a thick double coat. Their minimal shedding and dander makes them ideal for allergy sufferers.

Medium & Large Hypoallergenic Dogs

Poodle

Poodles have tightly curled coats that continuously grow instead of shedding fur. They are energetic, smart, and eager to please, making them very trainable. Their intelligence often requires activities to stimulate their mind.

Portuguese Water Dog

Originally from the Algarve region of Portugal, these dogs have thick curly coats well-suited for water retrieval. Their single-layered coat means little shedding and dander for allergy sufferers.

Airedale Terrier

As the largest British terrier breed, Airedales have wiry coats that produce little dander. Interestingly, Airedales have webbed feet from their origin as water retrievers.

Irish Water Spaniel

Like the name suggests, this breed loves water. Their tight ringleted coats shed little but require regular brushing and trimming. Their intelligence also makes training easy.

Standard Poodle

Standard poodles are smart, energetic companions perfect for active households. Their hypoallergenic coats makes them ideal for families with allergies who need a larger dog.

Spanish Water Dog

Aworking breed from Spain, these athletic dogs are intelligent and loyal. They have single-layer, wooly coats that produce little dander or shedding.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Named for Italy's Romagna region, Lagottos have dense curly coats needing lots of grooming. Beneath their shaggy exterior lies an affectionate dog eager to bond with their family.

Irish Terrier

One of Ireland's many terrier breeds, the Irish terrier has a wiry red coat needing brushing twice weekly. While not frequent shedders, they still produce some dander requiring vacuuming.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Originally bred to hunt small game in Ireland's County Kerry, Kerry Blues have soft, curly blue-grey coats requiring weekly brushing. Their coat texture produces less dander than other terriers.

Other Tips for Living With Dogs If You Have Allergies

While hypoallergenic dogs can make great companions for allergy sufferers, people with severe allergies may still experience issues. Here are some additional things you can do to manage allergies when living with dogs:

• Brush and bathe your dog frequently
• Vacuum often using a HEPA filter
• Keep your dog out of your bedroom
• Use air purifiers throughout your home
• Wash your hands after petting your dog

Finding the right hypoallergenic dog takes time and research to ensure you pick a breed suitable for your lifestyle and allergy triggers. But for dog lovers with allergies, having one of these breeds makes building that special bond possible.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.