10 of the Most Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

hypoallergenic dog breeds - dog-shaped tissue holder on tableHow many times have you passed an adorable pup for sale, and then remembered with dread that you or someone in your family is allergic to dogs? No dog breed is completely hypoallergenic.

However, there are many breeds that do not shed much. If your allergy is to the fur, low or non-shedding dogs can be a hypoallergenic option for you. With this in mind, here are some hypoallergenic dogs breeds to help you narrow down some options:

What are the Most Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?

Are there really hypoallergenic dog breeds? Yes, but that really depends on your type of allergy and how intense it is. If it’s dander or saliva and it’s intense, you may be out of luck. If it’s fur or not as intense, here are some of the most hypoallergenic dog breeds to get your search started:

1. American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is quite young as dog breeds go – this breed was only recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016. American Hairless Terriers are classified as small-to-medium and shed infrequently as they have little to no hair.

Members of this breed are lively and intelligent, and only have a moderate need for exercise. This being the case, they could be good for apartment living. They do, however, still need regular walks.

2. Maltese

Appearances can be deceiving! This tiny toy breed has a long, luscious coat, but since the Maltese sheds infrequently, it’s a good breed for allergy sufferers. Maltese dogs have silky, floor-length coats and are gentle and affectionate.

One of the facts about the Maltese is that they are one of the oldest toy breeds. They go back thousands of years and are generally healthy.

3. Poodle

Although Poodles shed infrequently, they will need daily grooming. Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Poodles are very smart and athletic and can live up to 18 years. Poodles are characterized as being proud and eager to please.

4. Xoloitzcuintli

Like poodles, the Xoloitzcuintli comes in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. Members of this breed are very laid-back, although they do like to get out and play. With their short hair and infrequent shedding, they make good companions for allergy sufferers

The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo or Mexican Hairless Dog, has a fascinating history. The ancestors of modern-day Xolos are found to have migrated across the Bering Straits about 12,000 years ago! Xolos are regarded as healers in native culture.

5. Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound, like the Maltese, has a beautiful long coat and doesn’t shed often. Anything but lap dogs, members of this elegant breed are athletic and active.

They do well when they can run free and have brisk walks. They must be groomed on a weekly basis, and are characterized as independent, silly, and sweet.

6. Bichon Frise

These charming little balls of energy are a great hypoallergenic pick. With their mostly pure-white coats, Bichon Frise shed very infrequently.

And, most of what they shed is caught in their undercoat. Daily brushings will help manage this hair, but overall, this breed is a great pick for allergy sufferers.

7. Giant Schnauzer

If you or whoever you live with has milder dog allergies, a Giant Schnauzer might be a good fit. While these dogs do shed a bit, it’s manageable with routine brushing. This breed is very loyal and easy to train.

8. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are smart and loving water dogs. They respond well to training which makes them a good pick for novice owners.

Although their coat itself is hypoallergenic, this breed does shed. Brushing will help minimize allergies and also keep your dog comfortable!

9. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a low-shedding breed. Brushing will help keep their soft coat under control. This breed is high-energy but incredibly devoted and friendly. Extra training is necessary, but once trained, they will be a wonderful companion!

10. Basenji

Known as a barkless dog, the Basenji has a short, low-shedding coat. They require little grooming and brushing. They also don’t have the typical “dog smell”, which makes them a great pick if you’re sensitive to smells. Basenjis are independent, smart, and easily recognizable because of their curly tails.

It Can be Possible to Live With a Dog and Manage Allergies

If you or someone you live with has a pet allergy, it’s especially important to do your research before getting a dog. In addition to identifying the type of allergy and looking into hypoallergenic dog breeds, there are also many things you can do to reduce the effects of living with a dog you’re allergic to.

For instance, you can make your bedroom off-limits to your pup and purchase a HEPA filter to get rid of airborne particles that irritate you. Plus, vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting frequently clear the environment of allergens. It also helps to wash your dog often, though the benefits of this may last only a couple of days. You can also try medication or allergy shots, if necessary.

There may be allergies that are the wrong type or too intense to be helped by hypoallergenic dogs and some low-level maintenance. But, if the dog fur is your allergy and it’s not a strong allergy, these are some things you can do to make it possible and manageable to add a dog to your family even if you are allergic.