First and foremost, it’s important to establish that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic or allergen-free. Instead, as Dr. Lynn Buzhardt writes for VCA Healthcare facilities, the term hypoallergenic is used to describe “breeds that are less most likely to stimulate allergies in individuals.”

And, even better– there are a variety of hypoallergenic pet breeds out there that are well-suited for pet enthusiasts with existing allergic reactions. Your allergies don’t have to exclude you from pet ownership, in fact, much the opposite– a few of the most popular breeds are hypoallergenic, including different dogs of all sizes and shapes.

The phrase “hypoallergenic pet types” is thrown around a lot– but if you’re searching for a pet that’s the ideal fit for your restrictions, you’ll want to understand precisely what this implies.

Searching for a canine, however concerned about allergic reactions in your household? Do not fret, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as three in 10 people in the U.S. and similar numbers in the UK have allergic reactions to dogs and cats, so you’re not alone.

What Are Hypoallergenic Pet dogs?
If you or someone in your household is an allergy sufferer and you’re trying to find a canine companion, you might be questioning: just what is a hypoallergenic canine?

She continues on to state that not all pets produce the very same proteins, so some people are allergic to a particular pet dog and not a particular type. A person could react to one Maltese and live allergy-free with another. Eventually, things mainly depend upon the person and the dog.

Even if you have a hypoallergenic breed, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the dog won’t cause an allergic reaction for someone in your household who has allergies– it just means the dog is much more unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in comparison to other breeds.

Surprisingly enough, according to Dr. Buzhardt, what constitutes a “hypoallergenic pet dog type” is typically discussed in research studies and among specialists. She recommends that although some canine types are typically considered hypoallergenic due to specific qualities they have (which we’ll discuss shortly!), the truth might be that how hypoallergenic a pet dog is might depend on the individual canine and person.

Wondering where to begin? Read on and explore our list of the 22 best hypoallergenic canine types to discover the pet that’s right for you. Let’s dig in …

With this understanding in mind, if you’re trying to find a pet dog to reduce the capacity for an allergy, you’re going to wish to start with those that are considered hypoallergenic.

In general, hypoallergenic canine breeds are those that:

If you have a dog with a double-coat, thick fur, and sheds a lot, you’re more likely to have dander floating around, meaning greater chances for an allergic reaction.

Do not shed– to put it simply, they have a non-shedding coat that produces less dander
Don’t have hair– and for that reason, it’s less most likely that dander hold on to the pet dog
Have short, single-layered coats– suggesting that without an undercoat to shed, there is dander coming off the pet dog and staying in your house
Based on these attributes, you may discover a theme: dander. Although you may believe that allergic reactions are caused by a canine’s fur or hair itself, they actually are caused by the dander that’s discovered on a canine’s skin or coat.

Read on and explore our list of the 22 best hypoallergenic dog breeds to find the dog that’s right for you. Let’s dig in …

So, now that you have a much better understanding of what kinds of pets are thought about hypoallergenic, let’s talk about a few of the very best breeds for allergy patients. As you’ll see below, hypoallergenic canines are generally on the small-to-medium size, but variety in regards to temperament, history, and appearance.

This being said, we have actually listed these hypoallergenic pet dogs alphabetically.Each one falls into among the three classifications we listed above– they’re either dogs that don’t shed, hairless pet dogs, or canines with manageable coats that minimize dander.

22 Safe Choice Hypoallergenic Pets For Allergy Sufferers

1. Affenpinscher

Like much of the wiry-haired pets on this list, Affenpinschers are terrific for allergy patients because of their low-maintenance coats. Affenpinscher’s wiry coats do not grow quickly and they’re not big shedders.

These dogs are referred to as confident, funny, and great toy-sized buddy pets.

2. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are understood for their dignified and regal look. They’re likewise incredibly dedicated and faithful to individuals they call their own.

Afghan Hounds might not seem like the best hypoallergenic dogs at first glance, they’re silky coats actually shed very infrequently. As puppies, these dogs have short, fuzzy coats, and as they age, they have longer, silky coats that require regular grooming.

If you do not mind grooming, however, these pets can be a terrific option for those with allergic reactions.

3. American Hairless Terrier

As you may have thought based on their name, American Hairless Terriers are typically hairless– although there is also a coated variety. In any case, these are dogs that don’t shed, or at least, if they do, shed very little.

You’ll require to make sure to take care of their ears and safeguard them from sunburn, but these pets are an exceptional hypoallergenic type.

Plus, although they’re not as popular as some of the other pet dogs on our list, American Hairless Terriers are belonging to Louisiana and understood for their lively terrier attitude.

4. Basenji

Known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis are independent, smart, and easily recognizable by their curly tails.

Plus, the noise they make is frequently considered something in between a chortle and yodel, which is how they have actually made the label the barkless pet dog.

These are terrific hypoallergenic pets because of their short coat, minimal grooming requirements, and only occasional shedding. In addition, Basenjis do not have a common “pet dog” smell and just require to be bathed if they enter something dirty.

5. Bedlington Terrier

Although Bedlington Terriers don’t shed, their coats do grow rapidly and require routine clipping.

Another hypoallergenic dog with an identifiable appearance, the Bedlington Terrier’s coat is similar to a sheep. These canines are known for their vitality and desire to be the focal point.

Bedlington Terriers have crisp and curly coats that are a mix of soft and severe, but not wiry, unlike many other terrier types. These are dogs that do not shed, despite their distinct coat.

6. Bichon Frise

A pet dog filled with character and beauty, the Bichon Frise is quickly recognizable by his pure white coat. With their energy, Bichons are exceptional companion pet dogs, agreeing children, other dogs, and excelling in bigger cities– they’re also fantastic lap dogs.

As a hypoallergenic breed, bichons shed very occasionally, and according to the AKC, when they do shed, the shed hair is caught up in their undercoat. Bichons will require to be brushed and groomed, but usually, they’re an excellent canine for allergy patients.

7. Chinese Crested

Both types of Chinese Crested, however, will require grooming care– skincare for the regular and hairless brushing for the layered dogs. In general, though, these dogs are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog.

Comparable to the American Hairless Terrier, Chinese Cresteds come in both a hairless and layered range (called Powderpuffs). As you may anticipate, the hairless pets do not shed– and even the covered dogs shed really little.

Chinese Cresteds are fun, lively, and understood for their appearances in movies like Cats & Dogs, Marmaduke, and How to Lose a Person in 10 Days.

8. Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulears may not be as well known as some of the other hypoallergenic dogs on our list, you’ll know one when you see him. These dogs have soft, cotton-like white coats that can grow long unless they’re kept in a brief “young puppy clip.”

In spite of the streaming appearance of their coats, Coton de Tulears are only occasional shedders and require minimal grooming, especially if their coats are kept short.

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic breed that’s a true companion, the Coton de Tulear will definitely be the dog for you. These dogs are fun, happy, and perfectly content to follow you around the house all day.

9. Giant Schnauzer

One of the biggest breeds on our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs, Giant Schnauzers are just one of three types of Schnauzer. As their name suggests, these are big dogs who make great workers and companions.

In terms of allergies, these dogs shed, but not in large amounts at a time. For mild allergy sufferers, dander can be minimized by regular grooming and brushing.

Without a doubt, if you’re looking for a hardworking, active hypoallergenic dog, the Giant Schnauzer will be your best bet.

Giant Schnauzers are also intelligent, loyal, and very trainable.

10. Irish Water Spaniel

Like the Giant Schnauzer, the Irish Water Spaniel is one of the largest hypoallergenic dogs– standing tallest amongst all the AKC spaniels. Additionally, Irish Water Spaniels are very active, hardworking, and as their name suggests, lovers of water.

These dogs are recognizable by their curled coats and tapering “rat tail.” Irish Water Spaniels will shed seasonally, their coats themselves are relatively hypoallergenic– but will require regular brushing and trimming.

11. Kerry Blue Terrier

These are dogs that don’t shed, but they should receive regular brushing as well as scheduled trimming. Of all of the hypoallergenic dogs out there, Kerry Blues are also one of the larger breeds, making them greater watchdogs and workers.

With one of the most unique coat colors in the dog world, Kerry Blue Terriers are known as alert and adaptable family companions. Kerry Blues have coats that come in a shade of blue– ranging from deep slate to light-blue gray.

12. Lagotto Romagnolo

If you’re an allergy sufferer looking for an adorable dog with incredible endurance, the Lagotto Romagnolo might very well be the breed for you.

These dogs are hardworking and strong, with excellent noses.

Adorable, teddy-bear looking dogs, Lagotto Romagnolos have a fascinating history– as they’re traditionally bred to search for truffles– earning them the nickname “truffle dog.”

As a hypoallergenic breed, the Lagotto has thick, curled hair– with a double coat of hair as opposed to fur. Lagottos shed very minimally, but their coats do require regular trimming to avoid matting.

13. Maltese

One of the smaller hypoallergenic dogs, Maltese, like Bichons and Coton de Tulears, are known for their white coats. These dogs are low-shedding, but will require brushing and grooming if their coats are kept long.

Maltese are true companion dogs– they’re extremely affectionate, happy, and love to sit in the laps of their family members.

14. Miniature Schnauzer

Like the Giant Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzers shed very little– despite their double coat. Brushing and grooming will help keep the coat of the Miniature Schnauzer clean, but those with allergies will be unlikely to experience a reaction from these fearless dogs.

These dogs are energetic and outgoing and make great guard dogs.

The second schnauzer on our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs, the Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the schnauzers– but don’t let their size fool you.

15. Peruvian Inca Orchid

Perhaps one of the rarest hypoallergenic dogs on our list, the Peruvian Inca Orchid has a name that sounds like a flower– but this breed couldn’t be more different.

In addition to coming in three sizes, Peruvian Inca Orchids are available in hairless or coated varieties. In either case, allergy sufferers do not have to worry about large amounts of hair or fur with these dogs, though they will require skincare, especially when they’re out in the sun.

Originating in Peru, Peruvian Inca Orchids are sighthounds, similar to Greyhounds or Whippets. These dogs are very loyal and protective– making good watchdogs.

16. Poodle

In terms of their coats, poodles shed very little and many owners choose to keep their coats cut simply and short to make maintenance easier. If you let their coats grow, however, you’ll need to keep up with brushing in order to avoid mats.

Likely the most recognizable of all the hypoallergenic dogs, the Poodle continues to make the top 10 of the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds year after year. Poodles are available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties– but regardless of size, these dogs are incredibly smart, versatile, and excellent family dogs.

Without a doubt, poodles are one of the most common and popular hypoallergenic dogs.

17. Portuguese Water Dog

To make this process easier, many owners choose to keep the coat cut short and simple– but these dogs can be groomed in a variety of different ways.

Made famous by former White House dogs, Sunny and Bo, the Portuguese Water Dog is a smart, athletic, and water-loving companion.

These medium-sized dogs are also very easily trainable– with curly coats similar to some of the other breeds on our list.

Although the Portuguese Water Dog’s coat is hypoallergenic, it is thick and will shed seasonally. Therefore, in order to minimize allergic reactions, you’ll want to take care to regularly groom your Portuguese Water Dog.

18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Whereas most terriers are known for their firm, wiry coats, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a soft, silky coat. These dogs are low-shedding, but do need frequent brushing to avoid mats and to remove excess loose hair.

Soft Coated Wheatens are active, energetic, and friendly. These dogs definitely require exercise and training, as they do have the stubbornness of a terrier. That said, they are loyal and incredibly devoted companions.

19. Spanish Water Dog

With a history of herding and retrieving, the Spanish Water Dog is an active, playful companion as well as an industrious watchdog.

Most dog owners choose to keep the coat of the Spanish Water Dog short, as the longer, corded coat requires much more maintenance and expertise. That said, these dogs shed very minimally– making them great for allergy sufferers.

Of the best hypoallergenic dogs, Spanish Water Dogs have one of the most unique coats. These dogs have wooly and curly coats, which, when grown out, can form tight similar to a Komondor or Bergamasco AKA “Mop Dogs.”

20. Standard Schnauzer

In terms of personality, these dogs are active, willful, and very trainable. Standard Schnauzers are excellent companions and guard dogs– they’re great with kids and very protective of their family.

The last of the schnauzers on our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs, the Standard Schnauzer stands between the Miniature and the Giant Schnauzer in terms of size.

Like the other schnauzers, this dog has a double coat, but sheds very infrequently. The Standard Schnauzer’s coat is stripped instead of clipped, as clipping results in more dirt and shedding.

21. Wire Fox Terrier

The breed with the most historical wins at the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City, the Wire Fox Terrier is both hypoallergenic and a friendly family companion.

Wire Fox Terriers have rough, wiry coats– characteristic of many terriers. These coats do not shed very much and are very low maintenance, especially when kept short.

These dogs are smart, independent, and full of energy.

22. Xoloitzcuintli

The last dog on our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs has a name that’s difficult to pronounce, so they’re often called Xolo (” Show-low”) for short.

Originally from Mexico, these dogs resemble the American Hairless Terrier and the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Xolos, however, are known for their wrinkled foreheads and are both excellent watchdogs and loving companions.

Again, similar to the Peruvian Inca Orchid, xolos come in three sizes and two varieties, coated and hairless. The hairless dogs don’t shed and the coated dogs shed very little, requiring occasional brushing.Like the other hairless dog breeds, xolos require special skincare, especially when out in the sun.

Ultimately, whichever breed is right for you, learn how to help keep your pup healthy.

Interestingly enough, according to Dr. Buzhardt, what constitutes a “hypoallergenic dog breed” is often debated in research studies and amongst experts., the truth may be that how hypoallergenic a dog is may depend on the individual dog and person.

If you’re wondering where mixed breeds– like Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever + Poodle), Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever + Poodle), and others– fall in terms of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds, the answer is a little less clear.

What About Doodles?

Doodles are often touted as hypoallergenic because poodles are known as such, it’s much more difficult to determine what kind of coats these dogs will have and how their fur will affect allergy sufferers.

With Goldendoodles, for example, although half of their gene pool comes from the Poodle, the other half comes from a Golden Retriever– a breed known for its dense, double coat. As Golden Retrievers are frequent shedding dogs, it’s uncertain whether the puppies that result from this cross will have a hypoallergenic coat, a full, shedding coat, or somewhere in between.

She continues on to say that not all dogs produce the same proteins, so some people are allergic to a specific dog and not a specific breed.

Choosing The Right Hypoallergenic Dog For You

As you can see, there are a variety of different hypoallergenic dog breeds available out there. Whether you’re looking for a bigger dog that sheds occasionally or a dog with no hair at all to minimize the potential for an allergic reaction, there are many breeds you can consider.

At the end of the day, only you can determine which hypoallergenic breed is right for you. Your decision will depend on what kind of dog you’re looking for– not only in terms of coat and grooming, but also size, personality, and more.

Generally, it’s safe to assume that these mixed breeds will have coats that fall somewhere in the middle– but ultimately, it’s hard to tell for sure. As Dr. Buzhardt explained in our example above, although one doodle may not cause an allergic reaction for you or your family member, the same thing may not be true of another dog, even within the same litter.