10 Best Dog Breeds for Allergies: Hypoallergenic Companions

Patrick MacFarland Patrick MacFarland · Updated May 1, 2025
A woman in a blue shirt stands outdoors, holding a leash attached to a small toy poodle perched on a wooden bench.

Living with dog allergies doesn’t mean you have to give up on having a pet. Many people manage their symptoms by choosing breeds that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions.

You can find breeds that are considered “hypoallergenic,” meaning they tend to shed less dander and hair, making them easier for allergy sufferers to live with. Knowing your options helps you pick a dog that fits your lifestyle and health needs.

1. Bichon Frise

If you want a dog that sheds very little, the Bichon Frise is a strong choice. This breed has a double coat with soft, curly fur that holds loose hair instead of letting it fall out everywhere. Because of this, you may notice less dander on your furniture.

Bichon Frises are often called hypoallergenic since their coat produces fewer allergens than most other breeds. Their hair grows continuously, so you will need to trim and groom them regularly to keep it looking neat and reduce allergy triggers. Many people with allergies find it easier to live with a Bichon Frise.

A small bichon frise sits on the grass, holding a blade of grass in its mouth, surrounded by lush greenery and plants in the background.

2. Poodle

If you want a dog that is less likely to trigger allergies, the Poodle is a strong choice. Poodles have a curly, low-shedding coat. This means they release less dander into your home compared to other breeds. Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. No matter the size, their coat is known for being hypoallergenic. You can choose the size that fits your space and lifestyle.

Many experts, including the AKC and PetMD, recognize Poodles as one of the best breeds for allergy sufferers. Their unique coat and adaptable size make them a popular pick for many families.

A miniature brown poodle, exuding elegance in its navy blue harness, stands on a polished marble floor next to a decorative water bowl.

3. Shih Tzu

If you want a small dog with a friendly nature, a Shih Tzu might be a good fit. These dogs have long, thick hair instead of fur. They shed much less than many other breeds, which can mean fewer allergens in your home. Shih Tzus are often called hypoallergenic dogs, but they are not completely allergen-free. All dogs produce some amount of dander and saliva, which are the main sources of pet allergies. You may still have some reactions, but many people with dog allergies find Shih Tzus easier to live with.

A woman smiling and holding a small, fluffy shih tzus while sitting at a desk in an office environment.

4. Maltese

The Maltese is a small dog breed known for its long, white, silky hair. Unlike many other dogs, Maltese have hair instead of fur. This makes them a popular choice for people who are sensitive to pet dander. Because of their coat type, Maltese are often considered one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds. They shed very little, so there is less loose hair and dander around your home. It is important to note that no dog is completely allergen-free, but the Maltese can be easier for allergy sufferers to live with.

A Maltese, small and white, dons a blue harness as it stands on a curb, gazing to the side. In the background, lush green grass adds a splash of nature to this charming scene.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are considered hypoallergenic. They have a wiry coat that sheds very little, which can help limit the spread of allergens in your home. This makes them a popular choice for people who are sensitive to pet dander. These dogs do not shed much, so keeping your house cleaner is more manageable. Their small size also means there is less fur to deal with compared to larger breeds. If you have asthma or allergies, a Miniature Schnauzer could be a good companion to consider.

Two miniature schnauzer dogs, one lying down and one sitting, are in a grassy backyard with a wooden fence in the background.

6. Portuguese Water Dog

If you want a dog but have allergies, the Portuguese Water Dog could be a good choice. This breed is known for its curly, waterproof coat that sheds very little. While no dog is completely allergy-free, many people with allergies handle this breed better than others.

Many people call this breed hypoallergenic because of its special coat. However, experts say there is no truly hypoallergenic dog. Each person’s allergies can be different, and even hypoallergenic breeds can cause reactions for some people. You can read more about why the Portuguese Water Dog is considered hypoallergenic.

A shaggy black dog sitting behind a table with a green checkered cloth, a yellow cloth, a tennis ball, and a metal bowl. The dog's tongue is out and its ears are floppy.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

If you want a small dog that is easier on allergies, the Yorkshire Terrier is a popular pick. Yorkies have a fine, silky coat that is more like human hair than fur. This helps lower the amount of dander they shed into your home. Many people with mild allergies find Yorkies to be a good match because their hair doesn’t shed much. To keep dander levels low, you should brush their coat often and keep up with grooming. Their small size also makes them easier to bathe regularly.

A small yorkshire terrier with long, brown and black fur stands on grass in a sunlit park with trees in the background.

8. Scottish Terrier

If you want a small dog with a lot of personality, the Scottish Terrier could be a good choice. This breed has a wiry, dense coat that doesn’t shed much. This makes it easier for some people with allergies to handle. You’ll need to brush your Scottish Terrier’s coat regularly. Regular grooming helps keep loose hair and dander under control. This can be important if you want to reduce allergy symptoms in your home.

A black Scottish Terrier with a collar stands alert on a grassy lawn, embodying the classic poise and charm of the Scottish terrier breed against a backdrop of trees.

9. Labradoodle

Labradoodles have coats that can range from wavy to curly. Poodles have a reputation for being low-shedding, so Labradoodles often shed less than many other breeds. This trait can help reduce the amount of dog hair in your home. However, Labradoodles may still cause allergies but are often seen as more allergy-friendly compared to other dogs. Shedding and allergen levels can be different from dog to dog.

The Labradoodle is also popular for its playful and gentle nature. They usually get along well with children and adults. If you are looking for a smart and active companion, this breed may be a good fit. Some Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles, are known as shedless and hypoallergenic. Still, you should spend time around a Labradoodle before deciding, to see if your allergies are affected.

A fluffy Labradoodle joyfully runs in a grassy yard, surrounded by colorful plastic blocks.

10. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

If you are looking for a dog with low shedding, the Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless, is an option to consider. This breed often has little or no hair, which means there is less fur and dander in your home. Many people with allergies report fewer problems when living with a Xoloitzcuintli compared to other breeds. This is because hair and dander are common allergy triggers, and this breed usually produces less of both.

A hairless dog with a blue collar lies on a grassy field, facing left.
Xoloitzcuintli dog lies sideways on the green grass. A pet in nature. The dog looks away. An animal on a green lawn. Spring, summer time. Mexican naked.

Understanding Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds produce fewer allergens, making them easier for many allergy sufferers to live with. It’s important to know what “hypoallergenic” actually means and why no dog is truly allergen-free.

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic

A hypoallergenic dog breed typically produces less dander, which is the tiny bits of skin that can trigger allergies. These breeds usually have hair that grows continuously and sheds less, making it harder for dander to spread around your home. Some common hypoallergenic breeds, like Poodles and Bichon Frises, have curly or wavy coats. These coats can trap dander, so it doesn’t become airborne as easily. This can make a big difference if you or someone in your home is sensitive to pet allergens.

Important facts about hypoallergenic breeds:

  • No breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but some cause fewer problems for people with allergies.
  • Regular grooming and cleaning can further reduce dander in your home.
  • Different breeds may affect people differently based on individual allergies.

To find out which dog breeds are known for causing fewer allergic reactions, visit this list of hypoallergenic dogs.

Common Allergens in Dogs

Dogs can trigger allergies mainly through dander, saliva, and urine. Even though fur can carry these particles, the real irritants are proteins found in the skin and other secretions, not just the hair itself. Dander is the most common allergen and easily sticks to clothing, furniture, and bedding. Saliva is another source, especially when dogs lick themselves and then shed hair or dander coated in saliva. Some people may also react to proteins found in a dog’s urine.

Main dog allergens:

  • Dander: Microscopic skin flakes.
  • Saliva: Contains proteins that can cause reactions.
  • Urine: Proteins in urine can trigger symptoms for some people.

Cleaning regularly, washing your hands after contact, and limiting access to certain areas can help lower exposure to these allergens. Choosing a breed that sheds less and produces less dander can also help people with sensitivities.

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