Some dog lovers have the misfortune of being allergic to the animals they adore, and because of this, some people have developed hypoallergenic dog breeds. These breeds may not be 100% allergen-free, but they certainly make life easier for those living with allergies. With so many to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds.
#1 – Poodle
Whether you’re looking for a small dog or a larger companion, the Poodle is a great choice for someone with allergies. They come in both the large standard and small toy sizes, and both variations sport the minimally shedding coat that makes them ideal for allergy sufferers. They’re also very intelligent dogs that are easy to train and make excellent family pets.
#2 – Maltese
These small white dogs make great family companions and have a much more hair-like coat than fur. Maltese also shed very little and are therefore a great choice for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog. Their size and docile temperaments make them one of the most popular breeds chosen by allergy sufferers.
#3 – Bichon Frise
The soft, almost non-shedding coat of the Bichon Frise makes the breed an excellent choice for those looking to curb their allergies. They are small dogs with huge personalities, and they are an excellent choice for individuals or families with children. And best of all? They are super simple to train.
#4 – Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a created hypoallergenic breed made by crossing Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles. Although not all specimens of this breed are hypoallergenic, some of them do share the same qualities as their Poodle ancestors and are a great choice for those looking to avoid heavy shedding.
#5 – Havanese
Havanese are happy, silly dogs with silky coats. Their hair is light with minimal shedding, so their coats can grow out as much as you’d like. Most owners keep this breed’s hair short to limit the risk of allergies and make brushing sessions easier.
#6 – Portuguese Water Dog
This was the dog of choice for the current United States president, as he was looking for a hypoallergenic breed himself. The Portuguese Water Dog is a popular breed among allergy sufferers and makes a wonderful family companion.
#7 – Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Wheatens are named for their soft coats that resemble hair more than fur. They shed very little and are therefore considered to be a hypoallergenic breed. They are popular among allergy sufferers not only because of their hypoallergenic features, but because they make great family companions as well.
#8 – Chinese Crested
These dogs seem like an obvious choice for someone who needs a hypoallergenic breed because they hardly have any hair at all! Even the coated variety has hair that rarely sheds, making this unique breed fairly popular among those suffering from allergies.
#9 – Coton de Tulear
As the name implies, these dogs have white coats that are as soft as cotton. They have happy, loyal attitudes, so they’re likely to follow their favorite human everywhere they go. However, their coats are easily matted and require regular brushing.
#10 – Shih Tzu
In dog shows, Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that drag on the floor like a mop. Yet, most families keep their Shih Tzus’ coats short to reduce allergies and grooming needs. These little dogs are charming and get along with almost every human they meet.
#11 – Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is an excellent choice of dog for those looking for a large breed that is also easy on allergies. Their wiry coats shed minimally and are weather resistant. Giant Schnauzers are very active dogs and would do best with an adventurous person or family. Miniature Schnauzers also make great hypoallergenic pets!
#12 – Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are perfect lap dogs, with most of them weighing between 5 and 7 pounds. They have fine hair that resembles the texture of a human’s. To keep their hair silky, these playful pups need regular brushing.
#13 – West Highland Terrier
Westies are distinguished by their white, low-shedding coats. They have a playful, optimistic attitude, so they quickly bond with their humans. Their coats are a bit thicker than similar breeds, so you can expect a little extra shedding when seasons change.
#14 – Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a beautiful sighthound that has a long, flowing coat. Although at first glance they appear to be heavy shedders, they actually shed very little and are a great breed for someone suffering from allergies.
#15 – Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier has a coat similar to the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and makes an equally great family companion. They are minimal shedders and make a great choice for the person or family looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
#16 – Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers have coarse hair that’s perfect for humans suffering from allergies. Despite being so small, they’re fearless dogs that are always looking for adventure. Toto from The Wizard of Oz is likely the most famous Cairn Terrier.
#17 – Xoloitzcuintli
While there is a coated variety of this breed, these dogs are most commonly known for having no hair at all! Their skin is tough to provide an extra layer of protection, but they can easily get cold during the winter months. So, they can benefit from a cozy sweater to keep them warm.
P.S. If you are looking for tips with managing dog allergies, you can check out this article by Rover.
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