30 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (with Pictures)

The 30 Hypoallergenic Dogs

Being a dog lover with dog allergies is a bit ironic (don’t you think?) and a complete downer. If you’ve been feeling blue over not being able to have a dog without itchy eyes and sneezing, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of hypoallergenic dog breeds out there you can adopt.

When we say “hypoallergenic”, though, it doesn’t mean that a dog is completely free of allergens or that you 100% won’t have a reaction to them. The term “hypoallergenic” is instead used to describe those dogs who shed less or produce less dander and saliva than other breeds (thus, decreasing the risk of them causing an allergy attack). That said, it’s best to always spend some time with a pup before adopting them to see how you react.

If you suffer from allergies but have your heart set on getting a four-legged friend, this article is for you. Read on to find the 30 most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds you can choose from!

Hybrid Breeds

A hybrid is a pup that is a mix of dog breeds, and these dogs have grown in popularity recently. Those mixed with Poodles are usually considered hypoallergenic as Poodles are low-shedding. Here are the top three most popular hybrid hypoallergenic dogs.

1.  Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle, a mix between a Poodle and Golden Retriever, is a great hybrid dog for those with allergies because of its Poodle heritage. Their Poodle side means they tend to shed less than other dogs, which equals less hair and dander. However, some generations of Goldendoodles may be more likely to shed, so you should talk to your breeder before purchasing to find out what genes the dog has.

2. Havapoo

A cross between the Havanese and the Poodle, the Havapoo is another hybrid that makes a wonderful hypoallergenic pet. Also known as the Poovanese, Havadoodle, or Havanoodle, these dogs have a lower shedding coat that makes them easier on allergy sufferers. The Havapoo is an excellent choice for those with small children or other pets.

3. Maltipoo

The Maltipoo, a cross between the Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, is another low-shedder that can make for easier breathing (though it’s recommended you spend time with this breed before adopting to see how your allergies respond). They’re quite adaptable to different living situations and are relatively easy to care for, only needing monthly bathing and daily brushing. The Maltipoo is fairly energetic, though, so it will need plenty of exercise.

• See Also: Havapoo vs Maltipoo: What’s the Difference? (With Pictures)

Large Breeds

Looking for a large dog that’s considered hypoallergenic? Check out the breeds below!

4. Afghan Hound

It may not seem like it with their long, silky coats, but the Afghan Hound is indeed considered hypoallergenic as they produce less dander than other dog breeds! That coat, though, will require lots of upkeep, so be sure you’re up for that if you’re considering getting one. They make a wonderful family pet, but they are a bit difficult to train, so this breed might be better for those who have had dogs before.

5. Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel barely sheds, so there’s less dander about your home to make you sneeze. They will shed seasonally, but so long as they are brushed weekly to remove dirt, you should have little trouble with allergies. As indicated by the name, these dogs love playing in water (and are used to retrieve waterfowl and other birds). The breed is quite affectionate, meaning you can look forward to plenty of snuggles!

6. Schnauzer

Not only do Schnauzers shed less than other breeds, but they also drool less, so there’s less dander and saliva to deal with, making them an excellent fit for those dealing with allergies. The breed makes a fabulous pet for anyone—but especially families—as they are highly protective of their people but are also incredibly friendly and playful. They can be a bit willful sometimes, so expect a few minor disagreements here and there.

Medium Breeds

Sometimes the right fit dog is one that’s not too large and not too small, but rather just right. Medium-sized dogs fit that description quite well, and these are the most popular hypoallergenic ones.

7. Basenji

These cute dogs may be known as “barkless”, but it doesn’t mean they aren’t vocal. Instead, they make what sounds like a yodel. What they definitely are is hypoallergenic, as they have short coats that don’t shed often. Originating in the Congo, the Basenji was used to help hunters with small game and to control rodents.

8. Kerry Blue Terrier

One of the largest terriers, the Kerry Blue Terrier, is known for its blue coat that ranges from a light blue-gray to a dark slate color. This coat almost never sheds, though, which is why they are considered hypoallergenic (they should still be brushed regularly). These guys will stick to you like glue, so don’t expect to have a lot of privacy with them around. However, do expect a lot of fun with their silly natures.

9. Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid can come with either hair or no hair; the hairless version is the one that’s considered hypoallergenic (for obvious reasons). That hairlessness also means there’s little grooming to do! However, it does mean your pup will need to stay out of the sun or wear sunscreen when outside. This breed makes for excellent watchdogs and is extremely affectionate with their people.

10. Poodle

Ah, the Poodle — one of the most well-known hypoallergenic dogs around (hence why they are often used to create hybrid breeds). This breed comes in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, with all sizes being without an undercoat. That means less shedding and fewer allergies. However, the breed’s tightly curled coat requires plenty of grooming to prevent tangles and mats. And, though they have a bit of a reputation as being snobby, Poodles are actually great fun. They’re charming, energetic, and incredibly sweet.

11. Portuguese Water Dog

This breed resembles the Poodle with its tight, low-shedding curls, and that coat requires constant upkeep. It’s worth it, though, for the lack of hair and allergens the Portuguese Water Dog will produce! These dogs are incredibly intelligent and take to training well. They also love to play and go on adventures with their people.

• See Also: Is a Portuguese Water Dog Hypoallergenic? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQs

12. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

These beauties originated as Irish farm dogs some 200 or so years ago, so they are fabulous at herding and guarding farm animals. Though they have wavy locks, they don’t shed frequently, meaning fewer allergens hanging around your home. They will need a fair amount of brushing, though, and weekly baths to take care of those pretty locks. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can be a cuddle monster, so be prepared!

13. Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog has an interesting coat — one that can become corded and should never be brushed—but has little or no undercoat, which equals a lot less shedding. Another interesting fact is that the breed has webbed feet! Not surprising, considering they were initially used for retrieving waterfowl and farm herding. Because they are incredibly active, they do best with people that will spend plenty of time with them.

14. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced shoh-loh-eats-QUEENT-ly) is a dog breed from Mexico that has been around for nearly 3000 years. They can come with or without hair (the hairless version is the one allergy sufferers want). That lack of hair means they are more prone to skin issues, though, and will need to wear sunscreen when going outside. These dogs are very loyal to their families and relatively reserved but are a lot of fun to have around.

Small Breeds

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed on the smaller side, you’ll have no problems, as there are more of these than any other on our list.

15. Affenpinscher

Called the “mustached little devil” in France, this hypoallergenic toy breed is among the oldest breeds around (possibly since the 15th century, but definitely since the 17th century). However, it’s a rare one to find in the United States. If you can get your hands on one of these cute pups, you can look forward to a curious, mischievous, and comedic dog. One important thing to note is that due to their past as ratters, you don’t want to have pet rodents or hamsters in the home with one of these.

16. American Hairless Terrier

These Louisiana natives are about as hypoallergenic a dog as you can get. Though they’re called “hairless”, some do come with a very short coat. And, like other hairless dogs on our list, the lack of hair means they need a serious skincare and skin protection routine. However, with one of these pups, you’ll find yourself with a playful and courageous new family member.

17. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier, a native of Bedlington, England, has an interesting look and a coat that hardly ever sheds. That coat only needs the occasional bath and regular brushing, as well. You’ll find this breed will do well with active families who love to play and exercise and that they can be pretty protective of those considered theirs. The breed is also fearless, so keep an eye on them, so they don’t attack dogs bigger than themselves!

18. Bichon Frise

This cute pup is one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for families. With its coat that rarely sheds, adaptability, and fabulous personality, it’s no wonder the breed is so popular. The breed gets along great with kids and other dogs and just generally loves people. They should be brushed daily, which makes for a wonderful bonding time!

19. Bolognese

The Bolognese is a fairly laidback hypoallergenic breed. Though they have longer hair, their coats are non-shedding, making for fewer allergens. The breed’s chill nature means they get along well with other dogs and even strangers. They’re a bit less affectionate of a breed overall, but that doesn’t mean they don’t still enjoy some good snuggles every now and then!

20. Cairn Terrier

If the Cairn Terrier looks familiar, it’s because you’ve seen it before as Toto in “The Wizard of Oz”! Bred to be a working dog, these hypoallergenic pups can still make for excellent pets, provided they get enough mental and physical stimulation. They greatly enjoy playing with kids (they also don’t mind just a touch of roughhousing) and can be incredibly sensitive. Despite their double coats, they don’t shed often and only need to be brushed once a week or so.

21. Chinese Crested

Though the Chinese Crested can come with hair, you’re more likely familiar with the hairless one (that still has tufts of hair on its face and legs). This breed is eager to please, so they are highly trainable and friendly with all they meet. Due to their lack of hair, they require a proper skincare routine (such as sunscreen when outside), so don’t think that grooming is totally off the table!

22. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is one of the lesser-known hypoallergenic breeds available—though you wouldn’t think so, considering how floofy these pups are. Given their hair, it’s surprising they shed less than other dogs, but it’s true! Their coat does require a lot of upkeep, though, so consider that before getting one. If you get a Coton de Tulear, you’ll find that the breed is the perfect companion dog that’s lively and always up for a good time.

23. Havanese

The Havanese makes a wonderful hypoallergenic dog for families—it loves children and other dogs and is incredibly cheerful and playful. Not to be confused with the Maltese (there’s a definite resemblance there!), the breed has a long overcoat and double coat underneath. You’d think that would make them be on the list of dogs to avoid, but these pups don’t produce as much dander or shed as often as other breeds. You’ll have to do weekly grooming with this one because of all that fur, but it will be well worth the fun you’ll have!

24. Lagotto Romagnolo

This teddy bear-resembling breed has a dense, curly coat that doesn’t shed, meaning fewer allergies for you! Besides being adorable, the Lagotto Romagnolo loves to snuggle with its people and needs plenty of exercise and play. They’re also rather good at being guard dogs, so you can feel safer knowing you have one around. The breed does need proper socialization and training when young, though, so be sure you can commit to that before getting one.

25. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso breed hails from Tibet and is 1,000 years old. Originally meant to be watchdogs because of their fabulous hearing and enjoyment of keeping an eye on things, you’ll still find them to be protective. They certainly aren’t aggressive, though; instead, these dogs are friendly as can be, but with a wide independent streak! And despite those incredibly long coats, the breed rarely sheds, making them a better choice for those with allergies.

26. Maltese

These affectionate lap dogs are a favorite of dog lovers, and it’s easy to see why. The breed is loving and playful and can even be quite protective. And you can get a Maltese with long or short hair, depending on the amount of grooming you’re prepared to do. Either one will be less prone to shedding than other breeds, which should help immensely with allergies!

27. Shih Tzu

You’re probably familiar with these family-friendly dogs, but you might not have known they shed very little, making them a good fit for those with light allergies. This breed is good with children, highly affectionate, and loves running and playing. The Shih Tzu requires regular grooming; otherwise, its coat can easily get tangled and matted.

28. West Highland Terrier

The West Highland Terrier (or Westies) is another fluffy pup you wouldn’t expect to be better for one’s allergies. However, though they are medium shedders, their coats still collect less dander. The breed has an independent streak, so it will require some training, but they make excellent companions. Just be sure you can keep up with them energy-wise!

Related Read:

• How Much Does a Westie Cost?
• 5 Awesome Westie Haircuts & Styles (With Pictures)

29. Wire Fox Terrier

Because the Wire Fox Terrier has a short, wiry coat, it’s less prone to shedding, making it a good fit for those with dog allergies. They will need to be brushed 2–3 times a week to maintain their coat, but they only require bathing when necessary. This breed is excellent for kids, as they are highly energetic, playful, and extremely affectionate. They’re also the breed with the most historic wins in the Westminster Dog Show!

30. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are a blast to have around, as they are an extremely sweet breed that loves almost everyone (but not always other dogs). They are also highly protective of their people—this love and protection make them a great fit with kids. And despite the long coat, they don’t shed often, which equals fewer allergic reactions for you. They do require a bit of grooming to keep their coats looking nice, though.

Conclusion

As you can see, not all hope is lost if you’re a dog lover allergic to dogs. Though no dog will be completely free of allergens, several breeds are considered “hypoallergenic” due to their low shedding or dander production. These breeds come in all sizes and shapes, so you should be able to find one you love. Just keep in mind that even within these hypoallergenic breeds, you may respond differently to two dogs of the same breed. That means you should always spend a bit of time with a dog before adopting it to ensure you won’t have an allergic reaction.

• See also: Is There No Such Thing as a Truly Hypoallergenic Dog?

Featured Image Credit: Angel Sallade, Shutterstock