Do you have allergies but are still looking for a canine companion? Don’t worry, there are plenty of hypoallergenic dog breeds that can provide the companionship you desire without triggering your allergies. Hypoallergenic dogs produce less dander than other breeds, making them easier to live with if you have pet allergies. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds that make great pets for people with allergies. Whether you’re looking for a small lapdog or an outdoor buddy, this list has something for everyone!
“Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.”
The first breed on the list is the Bichon Frise. This breed is known for its fluffy white coat and outgoing nature. They make excellent family pets and are usually quite friendly with strangers. The Bichon Frise also has low shedding tendencies, making them an ideal choice for allergy sufferers.
Another option and 5th on the list is the Maltese. This toy breed is one of the oldest recorded breeds of dogs, with evidence tracing back over two thousand years! Like the Bichon Frise, they have a long, silky white coat that does not shed much dander into the air. They are also known for their loving personalities and adaptability to apartments or other small living situations.
For people who want a more robust option, the Schnauzer is an excellent choice. They typically come in three sizes -- miniature, standard and giant -- and have a coat that does not shed much. This breed is often known for being fiercely loyal and protective of their owners, making them great guard dogs as well.
Finally, there are poodle hybrids such as Labradoodles or Goldendoodles which can be hypoallergenic choices as well. Poodles are already known for having low-shedding coats and so by combining them with other breeds that also tend to shed less dander, you get a hybrid dog that has inherited the best of both worlds!
The Labradoodle is one of the most popular designer dogs today, known for its intelligence and friendly nature. Similarly, the Goldendoodle is often described as a happy-go-lucky breed that can be just as loyal and protective of its owners as a Golden Retriever!
Overall, hypoallergenic dogs are becoming increasingly popular due to their low dander content which makes them ideal companions for people who suffer from allergies. Whether you’re looking for a small lap dog or an energetic sporting breed, there are plenty of options out there that won't trigger your allergies. With the right research and preparation, you can find the perfect four-legged companion to fit your needs and lifestyle!
No, dogs are not truly hypoallergenic. While some breeds may produce fewer allergens than others, no breed is completely free of allergens. Allergies to pets occur when a person's immune system reacts to proteins found in an animal's dander, saliva, and urine. This response can cause symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose
For those with pet allergies, certain breeds of dog are known to be better than others at reducing the symptoms of allergies. These so-called hypoallergenic breeds have coats that produce less dander—the dead skin cells that commonly trigger allergies. Even though these breeds may be better for people with allergies, it does not mean they will be 100% allergen-free; any pet can still cause an allergic reaction in someone with a pet allergy.
Other factors may influence how much a particular pet affects you. For example, a large dog that sheds more might have more allergens than a smaller one that only sheds occasionally. Additionally, pets kept indoors often carry greater levels of allergens than those living outdoors because their dander can accumulate in carpets and furniture over time.
I myself am an allergy sufferer. When I had my German Shepherd for whatever reason the dander didn't bother me as much but the Pug that I had years later really affected me because of the excessive shedding. For this reason we decided to go to a Purebred dog and a reputable breeder. We now have a purebred Mini Poodle which is supposed to be one of the best for allergies, but I still get watery and itchy eyes on occasion. We try our best to keep him groomed and his pet beds washed regularly which helps. He doesn't shed much that we can see but we also do a thorough cleaning of the house quite frequently as well. Allergies can be rough but as anything you have to work at it to get the results you desire.
#1: Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful little dog, often referred to as the “powder puff” due to their soft and fluffy white fur. This breed originates from the Mediterranean, where it was once owned by sailors and traders. They're small in size but have a big heart!
This cheerful pup is intelligent, trainable, and easy-going with people of all ages, making them an ideal companion for family households. The Bichon Frise also has very little body odor compared to other breeds, making them more hypoallergenic. Their low dander count makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Bichon Frises are known for their adaptability and can easily adjust to small apartments or larger homes. Like most breeds of dogs, regular exercise is important to keep this breed healthy and happy. Bichon Frise's require brushing two or three times per week in order to maintain their beautiful coat. They also need occasional baths and professional grooming every few months in order to look their best!
#2: Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is another great breed for people with allergies and asthma. Unlike many other breeds, they require very little grooming and their low-shedding coat also keeps dander and other allergens away from the air. This lack of traditional fur helps to minimize dander and other allergens that can trigger flare-ups during allergy season. Although it may appear small, this breed has a lot of energy and loves to play - making them the perfect companion for active owners.
Originally bred to rid homes of vermin, they have a strong hunting instinct, so it's important to provide plenty of mental stimulation and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Additionally, these dogs are known for being loyal, affectionate, and even clownish at times. They make incredible companions for people of all ages!
#3: Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a large, slender breed that is known for its regal appearance and luxurious coat. It has a long, noble history that dates back centuries and it was originally bred in the Middle East to guard livestock and hunt game.
Despite its thick, silky coat, the Afghan Hound produces minimal dander which makes it an ideal companion for people with allergies.
This breed also produces less saliva than other dog breeds which means there will be fewer triggers floating around the home. It is also known to be relatively low maintenance as far as shedding goes - making it a great choice for households with allergy sufferers who still want a beautiful pet. Several hours of brushing a week are required however to keep the coat free from tangles and mats.
Furthermore, the Afghan Hound has a laid-back personality and loves nothing more than being around its family - making them an excellent companion for those suffering from allergens or other respiratory issues.
#4: American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively new breed of dog with a unique claim to fame, as it was the first hairless breed of terrier! Despite its lack of fur, this breed produces minimal dander and is totally hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for those suffering from allergies.
From a behavioral standpoint, these dogs are known for being lively, energetic and alert. They are also very loyal and devoted to their owners and make great family pets.
When it comes to physical characteristics, the American Hairless Terrier can range in height from 12 to 16 inches at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 7 to 16 pounds. They have long legs and an overall slim build, giving them a graceful appearance that is further complemented by their wide-set eyes and expressive faces. They come in several colors including pinkish tan, blue-gray and black.
Aside from having hypoallergenic benefits, this breed requires minimal grooming which makes them perfect for busy owners. They require regular brushing only once or twice per week to keep their skin healthy, but aside from that they don't need any trimming or frequent baths like other breeds do.
#5: Maltese
The Maltese is a small, hypoallergenic breed that is well-known for its gentle and loving nature.
This breed has a long history, dating back to the times of Ancient Greece where they were popular among women of the nobility due to their luxurious white fur and compact size.
They have since evolved into a family favorite pet due to their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners.
Unlike most other dog breeds, the Maltese produces very little dander - making it an ideal choice for those with allergies or asthma.
They do need to be groomed frequently with the long hair to prevent mats and should also have regular baths to help keep their coats looking great.
They are also known for being low-shedding pets, meaning that their fur does not accumulate in furniture or carpets around the home - another plus for people with allergies!
#6: Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a unique-looking breed of dog that’s known for its soft, curly coat, which appears almost lambs-wool like. It has been a popular choice with many allergy sufferers due to its low shedding and minimal dander production. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a loyal and loving family pet without the risk of allergies.
Originally developed in Northumberland, England in the 1800s, the Bedlington Terrier was bred as a sporting dog and used for hunting rabbits and badgers. They are now often seen taking part in agility trials and other competitive events such as obedience competitions. The breed is highly intelligent, easy to train and enjoys being around people.
The Bedlington Terrier is also known for its curious nature, as they have an affinity for exploring new places and meeting new people. While they may be small in size, they can be quite brave when confronted with perceived threats. Despite this feisty side, the Bedlington Terrier tends to get along well with other pets when properly socialized from an early age.
#7: irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a medium-sized breed of dog that is believed to have originated in Ireland during the 15th century. The breed was bred for hunting, and they are still used today to retrieve game from water, such as ducks and geese. They are easily identifiable due to their curly coat, which can range in color from dark brown to nearly white.
Irish Water Spaniels are energetic and lively, making them the perfect companion for active people or families. This breed loves being around people and can be quite friendly and outgoing when properly socialized. They thrive on physical activities like swimming or jogging, as well as mental stimulation such as playtime with toys or interactive games.
This breed is generally considered hypoallergenic due to its wiry coat that sheds less dander than other breeds. Their intelligence makes them easy to train and obedient when it comes to commands, making them ideal for first-time pet owners.
As far as grooming goes, this breed's thick coat requires regular brushing at least once a week to prevent matting. Additionally, due to their love of water they may need more frequent baths than other breeds. Fortunately, Irish Water Spaniels produce little dander so they're typically safe for people with allergies to be around them.
#8: Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant)
The Schnauzer is a group of three related breeds—Miniature, Standard, and Giant—originally bred in Germany in the 15th century as guard dogs. Although they make excellent watchdogs, these loyal and intelligent dogs are generally friendly with people. They love to learn new tricks and enjoy interactive playtime with their owners.
Schnauzers come in a variety of colors and have wiry coats that require frequent grooming. However, due to their low-shedding coats, all three sizes of Schnauzers tend to be good for people with allergies since they produce little dander. Regular brushing and bathing can help minimize any potential dander production from these breeds further.
Miniature Schnauzers are small but mighty when it comes to personality, often referred to as “big dogs in a small package” because of their courageous yet affectionate nature. This breed is lively and energetic, but still gentle enough to make great family pets. Standard Schnauzers range from medium to large size, with an average height between 18-21 inches tall. They tend to be more independent than Miniature Schnauzers but still make wonderful companions due to their spirited and devoted personalities. Finally, Giant Schnauzers are the largest variety of the breed and are known for being strong-willed yet loyal animals that enjoy being part of a family dynamic. They can often measure up to 28 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 50-90 lbs!
#9: Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a loving and loyal companion, making them an excellent choice for those with allergies. With their signature wheaten-colored coat, this breed is an eye-catching addition to any household. The coat is also low shedding and non-greasy, which helps to reduce the release of allergenic proteins into the air.
Furthermore, the Wheaten Terrier does not have any undercoat, so there's less fur for dander and allergens to cling onto.
This breed is also highly intelligent and learns quickly; they have an outgoing attitude that makes them great companions for people of all ages. The Wheaten Terrier has a healthy appetite but doesn't require much exercise or grooming— meaning less time spent cleaning up after them. They are typically friendly with other pets and are even said to be good watchdogs due to their sharp hearing capabilities.
Overall, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier can make a great addition to any family— regardless if someone suffers from allergies or not. Their sweet disposition and low maintenance needs make them perfect for those who don't want to spend too much time taking care of their dog while still getting all the love they deserve.
#10: Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small breed of dog that is incredibly popular among those with allergies. Not only are they hypoallergenic and produce minimal dander, but their coats require little to no maintenance thanks to the natural oils in their fur. If they have a long coat then it needs to be brushed daily and bathed every other week.
They are known for being loyal and affectionate companions, as well as having an energetic and playful spirit that makes them excellent family pets. While they can be quite vocal at times, these dogs are also very intelligent and respond well to obedience training.
Additionally, Yorkies thrive on human interaction and will even cuddle up with you for warmth during colder months. All in all, this breed makes a great addition to any home – especially if you’re looking for a dog that won't provoke your allergies!
#11: Basenji
The Basenji is a breed of dog originating in Central Africa, and is known for its intelligence, playful spirit, and vocalization that resembles yodeling.
They are also considered hypoallergenic due to their short coat and low dander production. This makes grooming easier but brushing will distribute the skin oils more evenly to keep it healthy looking.
Basenjis are relatively low maintenance dogs as they only require occasional brushing and bathing—which helps reduce allergens. They are loyal companions and can form strong bonds with their owners, making them great family pets.
In addition, they have a high energy level which needs to be kept in check to avoid destructive behavior. They require lots of physical activity to keep them occupied and from becoming bored.
They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, as well as plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.They do best with short training sessions because they lose interest easily.
#12: Poodle (Toy, Mini, Standard )
Poodles are renowned as one of the best breeds for people with allergies, due to their low-shedding coats and minimal dander production. The Poodle comes in three distinct sizes – Toy, Miniature, and Standard – with each size having its own unique characteristics. Toy Poodles usually weigh between four to six pounds and are considered the most hypoallergenic of all poodle sizes. They require daily grooming to keep their coat in top condition, We take our Mini Poodle every 5 - 6 weeks to get groomed to prevent mats. Miniature Poodles weigh between eight to ten pounds and can be surprisingly energetic dogs that need daily physical activity. Standard Poodles are known to be highly intelligent, active dogs that may require more extensive training than the smaller varieties.
All three varieties have a rich history as loyal companions and have served in many roles throughout the years including circus performers, hunters, water retrievers and more. Despite their unique features, all sizes of poodle share the same low-shedding coat and limited dander production which make them an ideal choice for people with allergies.
In addition to being good companions, Poodles are also known for their intelligence and obedience. With proper training, they are capable of learning commands quickly and responding well during competitions such as agility trials or even trick competitions. As long as they’re given enough mental stimulation throughout the day, poodles can be incredibly well behaved around others.
Overall, the Poodle makes an ideal pet for anyone looking for a Hypoallergenic pet that is both affectionate and easy to train.
#13: Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a great choice for people with allergies, as they are considered a hypoallergenic breed. This loyal and intelligent breed does not shed much, reducing the amount of dander in the air.
They have low oil production levels so their coat remains clean and free from dirt or debris. They are active and require regular exercise and grooming to keep their coats healthy and maintain their signature look.
Additionally, they need companionship and love to be around people, making them an excellent addition to any home. Portuguese Water Dogs are also highly trainable, so they can be taught commands quickly and easily. With proper training, these gentle dogs can become wonderful lifelong companions who will bring joy to any household.
#14: Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu's are a small breed of dog that is great for people with allergies. Originally bred in Tibet, the Shih Tzu has a long and rich history as an affectionate companion to their owners. They have a soft, silky coat which rarely sheds, making them hypoallergenic and perfect for those with allergies who want to share their home with a pet. The outer layer consists of long, silky hair and the inner layer is a soft, downy undercoat. Because this type of coat does not shed much, it produces very little dander - the main allergen for many people. As with any long hair dog daily brushing keeps the coat clean and avoids mats.
As such, the Shih Tzu is considered one of the best breeds for those with allergies or asthma. They also rarely bark, making them an ideal choice for people living in apartments or other close quarters.
Shih Tzu's are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that make excellent family pets. With proper training, these little dogs quickly learn basic commands like sit and stay, and respond well to positive reinforcement. They are also very social animals who love spending time with their owners, so they should receive plenty of attention and exercise every day.
Overall, the Shih Tzu is an incredibly versatile breed that makes an excellent addition to any home. Because of their low shedding fur and friendly nature, they are ideal for households with allergies, children, or other pets. These little dogs provide unconditional love, laughter and companionship for many years to come
#15: Coton Du Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a rare breed of small companion dog that is believed to have originated from the island of Madagascar. These charming dogs can easily be recognized by their unique cotton-wool coats. They are believed to have been brought to Europe in the mid-17th century and are still relatively rare today.
Considered a “Royal Dog” due to its fluffy coat, this breed was even kept in palaces at one time. Generally a very calm yet alert breed, they make excellent watchdogs – always on alert for any possible intruders. But what makes them truly stand out is their intelligence, loyalty and devotion to their owners.
Cotons de Tulear are known for being gentle, loyal and loving companions. Loving attention, cuddling and playtime with their families is important for this breed - as well as regular exercise of course! They also need daily brushing with certain breeds needing more intensive grooming than others due to their long hair.
Apart from being non-shedding, hypoallergenic, and possessing a playful nature, the Coton de Tulear is also known for its distinctive bark which has been said to sound like laughter or singing!
#16: Havanese
The Havanese is a small, yet sturdy breed of dog hailing from Cuba. This lively companion is a member of the Bichon family and is known for its thick, long and soft coats that come in all colors - making it a great choice for those with allergies!
The Havanese are known to be highly intelligent, having been bred as early as the 1500s to serve as companion dogs.
This breed's personality is quite unique; they enjoy being around their owners and can be quite independent when it comes to problem solving. As they are known to have high energy levels (especially when young), they require daily exercise and mental stimulation in order to stay healthy and happy. For this reason, they make great additions to active families who will take them on walks or play fetch with them.
The Havanese may be considered hypoallergenic due to their short-haired coats that don't shed heavily. However, their thick fur does still produce dander which can cause an allergic reaction in people with sensitivities. Despite this, regular grooming and brushing can help manage these allergies by removing excess fur and dander before it spreads throughout
#17: Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and Poodle that was developed in Australia during the 1980s. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature, making them excellent family pets.
Not only that, but they have a unique hypoallergenic coat which produces minimal dander.
This breed has a low-shedding and non-greasy coat which makes them great for people with allergies. Weekly brushing can help reduce any dander produced, as well as keep their fur healthy and free of tangles or matting. Though some Labradoodles may be more prone to shedding than others, regular grooming can help manage this as well.
In terms of exercise needs, Labradoodles need lots of activity every day to stay happy and healthy. This includes walks, runs, swimming or playing fetch; all activities they love to do with their owners! The Labradoodles trainability also makes them popular among families who want an obedient furry companion around the house.
#18: Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle is a popular crossbreed created by combining the Golden Retriever and Poodle. They are often referred to as designer dogs due to their unique heritage.
Goldendoodles make excellent family companions thanks to their loyal and gentle disposition, as well as their high intelligence.
Goldendoodles are also hypoallergenic, making them an ideal choice for people with allergies or asthma. They produce low levels of dander, meaning they may not trigger allergies like some other breeds can.
Goldendoodles have a thick, curly coat that can come in many different colors, making them all the more endearing!
These pups require moderate exercise throughout the day, such as long walks or fetch sessions, along with plenty of mental stimulation through playtime. This helps keep them happy and healthy so they can live long lives – up to 15 years in many cases!
Furthermore, their intelligence allows them to easily pick up commands and tricks which makes training a breeze.
#19: Puli
The Puli is an ancient breed from Hungary and the traditional herding dog of the Magyar shepherds. This medium-sized pup has a unique, corded coat that features rope-like fur made up of woolly and curly locks – quite the fashionable look!
The Puli's protective double coat also helps them withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain and snow.
These dogs are just as intelligent as they are stylish, making them great companions for people with allergies. The Puli is a hypoallergenic breed, meaning they will produce fewer allergens than other breeds due to their low dander levels.
Not only that, but this breed is known for its loyalty and devotion towards their family – always ready to please with its natural obedience!
Pulis require moderate exercise daily - long walks, jogs or hikes - though they can handle more than most breeds of their size due to their agility and athleticism. They also need plenty of mental stimulation through playtime or training sessions because of their intelligence; this helps keep them mentally healthy in addition to physically fit! With proper care and maintenance, these loyal pups can lead long lives – up to 14 years in many cases.
#20: Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, pronounced show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee, referred to as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is a breed of dog that originates from Mexico.
Not only are these dogs considered to be hypoallergenic and ideal for those with allergies, but their history dates back over 3,000 years and they were even thought to possess magical powers by the Aztecs!
This small-to-medium sized breed can reach heights of 13-18 inches and weigh anywhere between 10-20 pounds. They are low maintenance when it comes to grooming due to their lack of fur, although regular baths may be necessary. They also shed very little dander compared to other breeds, making them an excellent choice for those with asthma or allergies.
This rare breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty, and are companions who love being in the company of their owners. They may be wary around strangers, but early socialization and ongoing training can help build confidence. With proper care and nutrition, they can live up to 15 years – making them a great long-term companion!
Overall, Xoloitzcuintlis make fantastic pets for those looking for an intelligent and loyal companion that requires little grooming or maintenance. So if you suffer from allergies but still want to own a pet dog, this may be just the breed you’ve been searching for!
Finally, the bond between a person and their pet is unique; if you find yourself drawn to a certain breed despite its allergen potential, then you should take steps to reduce your exposure to allergens as I mentioned above.
This could include establishing strict cleaning routines or ensuring your four-legged friends pet beds are washed often. There is a wonderful site I found called Hypoallergenic Dog and it can be found at: https://hypoallergenicdog.net. Other great sources are the Wiki page under Hypoallergenic dogs as well as the AKC site that has a bunch of info as well. I Know for myself, my buddy Teddy has got me through some tough times, unconditional love...
I hope this blog helped figure out some options if you are an allergy sufferer like me, here are a few coffee mugs of some of the stars of our blog today
0 comments
