Do you or a family member suffer from dog allergies, but you can’t imagine life without a four-legged friend?
Unfortunately, you are not alone. In fact, about 10% of all people in the US have some sort of pet allergy.
This shouldn’t stop you from living normally with a dog at home. Certain dog breeds are deemed more suitable for people with such allergies – the increasingly popular hypoallergenic dogs.
Although no dog can be 100% hypoallergenic, some types of dogs shed very little, and thus less hair and dander is released on the furniture and in the air of your home. This reduces the irritation and the symptoms of pet allergies and makes life easier for allergic dog lovers and their families.
So, let’s take a look at the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds.
Tibetan terriers
When you see a Tibetan terrier, the last thing you may think is that this is a hypoallergenic breed, because it is very fluffy and hairy. But in reality, these dogs shed very little hair if their double coats are groomed properly and regularly.
The ancient breed first originated in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and has become quite popular companion dogs around the world ever since.
These medium-sized pups have snowshoe-shaped flat feet, which add to their charm. They are known to be very intelligent, affectionate, and sensitive dogs and are very loyal pets and excellent watchdogs.
Maltese Terriers
The Maltese are one of the cutest dogs around. They may be fluffy and cuddle, but they shed very little, so there will be hardly any dog hairs on your furniture, carpets, and clothes if you add a Maltese Terrier to your family.
These white puffy little dogs are perfect companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. They can live well with people who enjoy walks and spending time outdoors, as well as with those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle.
These gentle little dogs are very loving and affectionate animals and will be the perfect addition to your household if you or another family member suffers from a dog allergy.
Shih Tzu’s
The Shih-Tzu is another small, hypoallergenic dog breed that is absolutely irresistible. These loyal and friendly little pups shed little hair even though they are very fluffy and are referred to as “lion dogs” because of their soft coats.
This ancient Chinese breed is very popular today and is one of the top preferred lap dog breeds worldwide.
Shih Tzu are loving, gentle, kind, and extremely friendly animals that get along with all family members. These dogs are perfect, dedicated pets and companions for just about anybody, even for those of you with dog allergies.
Brussels Griffons
Small, incredibly cute, and expressive, Brussel Griffons are often portrayed in different movies and series. This is due to their almost human-like facial expressions and overall charming personalities.
The Brussels Griffon is another non-shedding dog breed with a great disposition towards adults and kids but usually chooses a favorite person at home.
Still, with those expressive eyes and cute little faces, Brussels Griffons make the perfect pets even in homes where there are people suffering from dog allergies.
Portuguese Water Dogs
Remember the adorable Bo – President Obama’s dog? It is a Portuguese Water Dog. Although this breed is relatively rare in the US, it has been gaining popularity not only because a member of the breed was the “First Dog” for quite a long time but also because it is considered a hypoallergenic breed.
The dogs from this breed are pretty energetic on the ground and in the water as they are excellent swimmers and were bred to gather and bring fishnets to the boats. Hence, they are perfect family pets and companions for people who love outdoor adventures and activities and live active lifestyles.
Poodles
The Poodle is one of the most popular and recognizable dog breeds in the world. It is among the most common hypoallergenic breeds and is known not only for shedding very little hair but also for being almost completely odor-free.
There are toy, miniature, and regular Poodles; all have harsh curly coats and a regal-like gait and demeanor. They require regular grooming and clipping, but with the proper care of their coats, you should have no problems with dog hairs in your home, car, clothes, and air.
Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and are very easy and fun to train and teach tricks. They are sociable and friendly and love humans, especially children.
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West Highland White Terriers
Westies are one of the most recognizable dog breeds, along with their cousins – the Scotties. These energetic and cute dogs with short legs, compact bodies, and sparkling eyes are absolutely gorgeous.
Even though they do shed some, they are primarily considered to be a hypoallergenic breed.
These curious and happy little pups are friendly, loveable, and truly affectionate to all of the people in their family.
Keep in mind that Westies can have problems adapting to life with smaller pets, so if you have other animals at home, you may need to take precautions.
Otherwise, these white fluffy happy dogs are definitely one of the best fur babies to choose from if you suffer from dog allergies.
Bichon Frise
These puffy, fluffy white tiny dogs are perfect hypoallergenic companions to have. The Bichon Frise has a double coat – one soft and dense underneath and a coarse and curly outer one. The dogs from this breed leave hardly any hairs or pet dander on the furniture, carpets or clothes, making them the ultimate hypoallergenic toy or lapdogs if you suffer from dog allergies.
They are agile and happy little animals, which love to play and are easy to train, making the perfect family dog.
Havanese
If you love dogs and want one which will stay by your side no matter what and still won’t trigger your pet allergies, you may want to add a Havanese to your family.
Originally bred in Havana, Cuba, these hypoallergenic dogs are unbelievably cute, short-legged, and social animals. Although they have double coats, they shed very little.
You can easily recognize a Havanese by its lively and fun-filled gait.
They are quiet and gentle and yet do enjoy some playtime. Havanese are highly intelligent and attentive dogs that will always be at your side. They will warn you and remain alert as soon as they sense that a stranger is approaching.
Chinese Crested dogs
When you see a dog from this breed, you can never mistake it for any other breed. The Chinese Crested comes in hairless and powderpuff variants, but both types are absolutely unique looking.
They are perfect companions for people with allergies and can live even in the smallest spaces, as they don’t require too much exercise.
They are friendly pups who can get along with all family members – young and old- and with other pets, including cats.
These are very sensitive and gentle dogs that require love and attention and are willing to give you all the love back and please their humans at all times.
They are excellent lap dogs that will get along with the family and strangers alike and socialize with other dogs and pets without any problems.
Most of all, they will hardly shed any hair, so they are one of the best indoor pets for homes with allergic people.
Scottish Terriers
Scotties are charming little dogs with a distinctive silhouette, short legs, and strong-boned bodies. They are powerful compact terriers with hairy beards and eyebrows and keen expressions.
They have low shedding double coats, which make them one of the top preferred dogs for people with pet allergies.
Even though these agile little dogs are territorial and independent, they are still very loyal companions and make excellent pets.
Always ready to spring into action, these fun-filled canines develop strong affection and devotion for their families despite their natural stubbornness.
Scotties require little grooming and shed very little, so they are suitable for people with dog allergies.
Cairn Terriers
The Cairn-Terriers also originate from Scotland. They are happy and sturdy small dogs with recognizable wire coats. Their hair is water repellant, can change colors several times per year, and is also considered hypoallergenic.
These short-legged terriers are very active and have specific foxlike faces, which makes them one of the cutest dogs among all terriers.
Like most other terriers, the Cairn terriers are bold and can be a tad stubborn, but they can still be superb devoted pets, as long as you give them the attention and provide them with the daily exercise they need.
They have the instinct to chase vermin, so it is a good idea to keep them safely away from smaller pets and animals.
These furry little dogs are perfect play companions for children. They will become beloved and loyal members of any family – even if there are people with dog allergies in the household.
Labradoodles
If you are allergic and love Labrador retrievers, you can get the perfect hypoallergenic alternative – the Labradoodle. The crossbreed between Labrador retrievers and Poodles is considered one of the best options for people with dog allergies.
The Labradoodles are friendly and very cute dogs that make excellent pets.
To ensure that your Labradoodle is hypoallergenic, ask the owners whether the parents of your future pup are non-shedding, and go for a second-generation Labradoodle whose both parents are crossbred just to stay on the safe side.
As you introduce your Labradoodle to your household, you can be certain that life at home will become much more fun and that there will be many more games and affection with a pet like this.
Schnauzers
Both standard and mini Schnauzers are low sheddings, hypoallergenic dogs, and as such, are a perfect match for people with dog allergies.
Schnauzers are intelligent and energetic dogs that are endlessly loyal to their humans.
They are sturdy pups with square-shaped bodies. Originally bred as rat chasers, they can run very fast at very long distances.
Their outer coats are wiry and become longer in their foot area, muzzles, and eyebrows. They are superb pets for families with children and other pets, as they will get along with all members of the household – humans, and animals alike.
Basenjis
Basenjis are strange little dogs that easily win over their owners’ hearts. They have two very un-canine-like traits – they don’t bark, and they spend hours grooming themselves like felines.
They shed very little and take care of their grooming themselves. This makes them excellent pets for people with dog allergies and for those who don’t want to deal with cleaning dog hair from everywhere.
They are small-sized and very elegant hounds bred for hunting. Basenjis are intelligent and quite active. They are small charmers who will quickly win everyone’s attention with their shiny short coats, wrinkled foreheads, and sparkly and expressive eyes.
If you don’t mind that your dog will groom itself like a cat all day long, and that it will make a strange howling sound instead of barking- the Basenji is the perfect hypoallergenic pet for you!
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Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkies are possibly one of the most common lap dogs. They are not only adorable companions for young and old but also perfect pets for people suffering from dog allergies.
These toy-sized terriers have gorgeous steel blue and tan coats which cover their entire body – from the nose muzzle to the tip of their tails. They shed very little hair but do require regular grooming.
Yorkies are very loyal and devoted pets, but they can flaunt bold characters and often perceive themselves are large-sized dogs, so they do require supervision with young children and with other dogs.
They are compact dogs that enjoy short brisk dogs and some playtime, but they prefer living in warmer climates and feel best at home on their favorite person’s lap.
Australian Silky Terriers
This breed is commonly mistaken for a Yorkshire Terrier. They look similar and are both hypoallergenic and low-shedding terrier breeds. Yet, they are separate breeds with specific differences.
The Aussie is a mini terrier with a bold character. It has a long body and is a pretty strong dog despite its petite size.
Unlike the coat of the Yorkies, the coat of the Australian Silky Terrier is straight and soft like silk, and it follows the lines of the body of the dog, rather than fall straight to the ground.
These dogs are not the calmest lapdogs there are. In fact, they are playful, ready for action, and curious about everything.
They can be aggressive to other dogs and pets if not socialized properly, but otherwise, they are mischievous little dogs that will keep you entertained and your allergy contained!
Airedale Terriers
Not all hypoallergenic dog breeds are small-sized. There are suitable large-sized dogs for allergic people as well. The Airedale Terrier is the largest of all terriers.
The Airedale is widely considered one of the most versatile breeds. It is an exceptional hunter, athlete, and companion.
These dogs will reach up to 23 inches of height at the shoulders and have a recognizable dense, wiry tan-colored coat. They shed very little but do need grooming and clipping periodically.
These dogs are one of the most intelligent breeds. They are reliable watchdogs and are very patient with children. They are large-sized and energetic, so you should ensure that they go on long walks or join you when you go hiking or other outdoor sports and activities.
Samoyeds
Well, you may have never thought that incredibly fluffy white Sammy’s can be hypoallergenic, but the truth is that the Samoyed does most of its grooming itself, and it doesn’t spread as much pet dander or hair as other dog breeds.
The typical feature of these sparkling white dogs is the permanent smile on their face. The fact is, the corners of their mouths are curved upwards as a result of the fact that they were initially bred in Siberia, where it is freezing cold, and this was a defense mechanism to keep their mouths and muzzles free from icicles forming.
When Sammy is a puppy, you can easily mistake it for a polar bear. They are amazing companions, but are energetic and do prefer living in cool climates.
They can thrive indoors, but you will need to provide them with a lot of time outdoors – walking, playing and enjoying the outdoors – especially if it is snowing.
They are affectionate pups but can be quite mischievous, so make sure you are ready to do quite a bit of training and to be able to establish yourself as the alpha dog and the person who is in charge if you want your pet Samoyed to stay out of trouble.
Overall, you will have loads of fun if you choose to add a Samoyed to your household, but make sure you have time for its training and daily physical exercise.
Italian Greyhounds
If you are unsure what an Italian greyhound looks like, imagine a mini greyhound that is more of a lapdog than a true hound.
These dogs shed minimally, so they are great companions for people with pet allergies. They also do not require too much outdoor time and prefer staying indoors where it is nice and warm, making them perfect for people who are not fans of too much physical or outdoor activities.
Italian greyhounds are very elegant and slender dogs with beautiful shiny eyes and coats and will become your best companions as soon as you bring one or more of them home.
Afghan Hounds
Well, Afghan Hounds are definitely one of the most recognizable of all of our picks for the most popular hypoallergenic breeds.
They have a regal-like stature and yet can look like clowns at the same time.
These exquisite, large dogs have thick silky coats that shed very little. The Afghan Hound can reach a shoulder height of 27 inches. Since they were originally bred to hunt in the difficult and rocky Afghan territory, they have large paw pads which act as shock absorbers.
This is one of the most eye-catching dog breeds. It is aristocratic, but as regal as its appearance can be, the Afghan Hound can also be quite a comedian.
Afghan hounds are very loyal, elegant dogs that have silky, thick floating coats. Thankfully to people with allergies, they shed very little, and thus as one of the preferred hypoallergenic dog breeds.
Being large and energetic hunting hounds, Afghan hounds require long walks and prefer spending hours outdoors. So, if you are an outdoors person or at least have a large yard where your dog can spend time enjoying itself, the Afghan hound is the perfect option for a large-sized hypoallergenic pet.
In conclusion
As mentioned earlier on, there are no dogs that are completely hypoallergenic. Some breeds shed less and release less pet dander, but the truth is, if you have a serious dog allergy, you should first try sitting in the same room with the dog you are planning to bring home, before making the actual step. This will save you and the dog a lot of anxiety and possibly pain.
Suppose you want to happily share a home with your dog despite your pet allergy. In that case, you can follow some simple rules, such as regular bathing of the dog, regular deep cleaning of the floors and furniture, removal of the carpeting, vacuuming frequently and using a HEPA filter when doing so, and choosing a safe room which is off-limits for the dog, where you can go rest in case the allergy symptoms start appearing.
Overall, as allergic dog-lovers will assure you – living with a dog is possible even if you have a serious allergy. You just need to make sure that you take all necessary precautions to limit the allergy triggers.
One of the first steps you can make is to choose a dog from one of these low-shedding hypoallergenic breeds!