The Best Dogs for Allergies: Top 15 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Do you suffer from allergies? Are you concerned about too much dog hair around the house? All of these are legitimate questions that potential dog owners ask themselves. If this sounds like you, then hypoallergenic dog breeds may be the right choice for you.

Let’s take a look at the top 15 hypoallergenic breeds — these are the best dogs if you suffer from allergies.

1. Poodle (Toy, Miniature and Standard)

• Traits: Intelligent and active
• Origin: Germany/France

Poodles come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. They are highly intelligent dogs known for their trainability and active nature. Poodles have a dense, curly coat that sheds very little, which helps to trap dander and reduce allergies in the environment. However, they require regular grooming to prevent matting. Their low-shedding coat makes them one of the top choices for allergy sufferers. Poodles are also known for their lively personalities and do well in various living environments, from apartments to large homes.

2. Bichon Frise

• Traits: Friendly and playful
• Origin: France/Belgium

The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog with a curly, fluffy coat. It doesn’t shed much, making it a great option for those who suffer from allergies. These dogs are known for their friendly and playful nature, which make them excellent companions for all types of owners. Bichons are social dogs that thrive on human interaction and love being the center of attention. Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its fluffy appearance and to keep dander at bay.

3. Maltese

• Traits: Affectionate and playful
• Origin: Malta

The Maltese is a small breed with a long, silky white coat that doesn’t shed much. This makes them ideal for people with allergies. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, Maltese dogs are great lap dogs and companions. They are also lively and enjoy playtime but are content to relax with their owners. Regular grooming is essential to prevent their coat from becoming tangled and to keep allergies under control.

4. Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard and Giant)

• Traits: Alert and energetic, and hypoallergenic
• Origin: Germany

Schnauzers are available in three sizes: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. All three sizes share a wiry, low-shedding coat that is less likely to trigger allergies. Schnauzers are known for their alert and energetic personalities, making them excellent watchdogs and companions. They are intelligent and trainable. Schnauzers require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting.

5. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

• Traits: Friendly and spirited
• Origin: Ireland

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a soft, silky coat that sheds very little. Known for their friendly and spirited nature, Wheaten Terriers are great family pets and are especially good with children. They are energetic and require regular exercise. Their coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and to reduce allergies.

6. Yorkshire Terrier

• Traits: Energetic and bold
• Origin: England

Yorkshire Terriers, or also known as Yorkies, are small dogs with a silky, non-shedding coat that makes them a great choice for allergy sufferers. Despite their small size, Yorkies have bold and energetic personalities. They are known for their loyalty to their owners and can be both affectionate lap dogs and lively playmates. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent their coat from tangling.

7. Portuguese Water Dog

• Traits: Energetic and intelligent
• Origin: Portugal

Portuguese Water Dogs have a curly, dense coat that doesn’t shed too much, making them a suitable breed for people with allergies. Originally bred to help fishermen, these dogs are known for their love of water and energetic nature. They are highly intelligent and thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Regular grooming is important to maintain their coat and reduce the spread of allergies.

8. Havanese

• Traits: Friendly and playful
• Origin: Cuba

The Havanese is a small, friendly dog with a silky, non-shedding coat. Known for their playful and affectionate nature, Havanese dogs make excellent family pets and are especially good with children. They are also known for their adaptability — doing well in both city and country living environments. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep it looking great.

9. Lagotto Romagnolo

• Traits: Loyal and affectionate
• Origin: Italy

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized breed with a dense, curly coat that doesn’t shed too much. Originally bred as a truffle-hunting dog, the Lagotto is highly intelligent and has a keen sense of smell. They are excellent family pets because they’re known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat and reduce allergies.

10. West Highland White Terrier

• Traits: Friendly and confident
• Origin: Scotland

West Highland White Terriers, also known as Westies, are small, energetic dogs with a wiry, double coat that doesn’t shed much. Known for their friendly and confident personalities, Westies make excellent companions for individuals and families. Regular grooming is needed to keep their coat clean and reduce allergies.

11. Basenji

• Traits: Independent and affectionate
• Origin: Central Africa

The Basenji is a small, muscular dog with a short coat that sheds very little, making these dogs a good option for allergy sufferers. Known as the “barkless” dog, Basenjis are quiet but can be vocal in other ways. They are independent and intelligent, with a strong hunting instinct. Their coat requires minimal grooming, which makes them low-maintenance in terms of care.

12. Shih Tzu

• Traits: Affectionate and loyal
• Origin: China

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog with a long, flowing coat that doesn’t shed too much. These dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful companions. Shih Tzus were originally bred as lap dogs for Chinese royalty. They still continue to enjoy being pampered and close to their owners. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best and to reduce allergies.

13. Irish Water Spaniel

• Traits: Active and intelligent
• Origin: Ireland

The Irish Water Spaniel is a large breed with a curly, dense coat that sheds very little. Known for their love of water and energetic nature, Irish Water Spaniels are excellent companions for active owners. They are intelligent and excel in various activities like hunting, agility, and obedience. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat.

14. Coton de Tulear

• Traits: Playful and affectionate
• Origin: Madagascar

The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog with a soft, cotton-like coat that sheds very little. Known for their playful and affectionate nature, Cotons make excellent family pets and are great with children. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets. Regular grooming is important to keep their coat looking its best and to keep allergies at bay.

15. Bolognese

• Traits: Calm and affectionate
• Origin: Italy

The Bolognese is a small, fluffy dog with a non-shedding coat. Known for their calm and affectionate nature, Bolognese dogs are excellent companions for individuals and families. These dogs have a small size and low exercise needs. Regular grooming is important to prevent their coat from matting and to keep allergies under control.

Why Consider Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?

There are several reasons why owning a hypoallergenic dog may be the best route for you. Let’s take a look at the reasons why.

• Reduced Allergens: Hypoallergenic dogs produce less dander, saliva and urine proteins, which are common triggers for allergies.
• Less Shedding: These breeds shed very little, which reduces the amount of fur and dander in the environment. This lessens allergy symptoms substantially.
• Health Benefits: Owning a dog has numerous health benefits, including stress reduction, increased physical activity and improved emotional well-being, which can be enjoyed even by those with allergies.
• Variety of Breeds: There are dozens of hypoallergenic breeds available, from small lap dogs to larger, active breeds. This allows allergy sufferers to find a dog that fits their lifestyle.
• Easier Home Maintenance: Homes with hypoallergenic dogs may require less cleaning to manage pet hair and dander. This makes it easier to maintain a clean living space.
• Companionship for Allergy Sufferers: Hypoallergenic dogs allow people with allergies to enjoy the companionship and emotional support of a dog without suffering from severe allergic reactions.

Wrapping Up

It’s important to note that hypoallergenic dogs are not completely free of allergens, but they can significantly reduce the chances of allergic reactions compared to other breeds. If you decide to get a hypoallergenic dog, it’s important that you regularly groom it, including brushing and bathing. 

All of this can help manage allergies and keep your home clean from annoying dog hair, too. If you’re an allergy sufferer looking to bring a dog into your home, one of these breeds may be the perfect fit for you. If you purchase a hypoallergenic dog from an out of state breeder, remember to use the CitizenShipper pet transportation marketplace to get your new family member delivered safely, comfortably and compassionately!