All kinds of plants and animals can cause allergies. If you’re someone who struggles with allergens in your environment it can be especially challenging to own a pet, specifically dogs. In the context of pets, hypoallergenic breeds are those that tend to produce fewer allergens, such as dander, saliva, and urine, which are some of the biggest triggers in sensitive individuals. While no dog breed is completely allergen-free, hypoallergenic breeds are often recommended for people with mild to moderate allergies because they shed less or have hair that is less likely to carry allergens. Here are 16 hypoallergenic breeds that can make the perfect furry companion:
1. Poodle
The curly nature of the poodle’s coat helps to trap any shed hair and dander, preventing it from becoming airborne and causing allergic reactions. Poodles are extremely intelligent making them easy to train and fun to interact with.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu’s unique name comes from Mandarin Chinese meaning “Lion Dog”. They’re bred to resemble these lion statues and were beloved companions of Chinese emperors, enjoying a pampered life in the imperial courts. You might think they’re long flowing mane would be a high allergy risk but fear not, they shed very little and their coats are more similar to human hair than dog.
3. Maltese dog
Who wouldn’t love these white fluff balls. Adorable Maltese are actually one of the oldest breeds of dogs in history tracing far back to ancient times. Their glossy flowing coats are silky smooth and easy to take care of.
4. Barbet
The jet black Barbet is very similar to a poodle but has a unique feature. This breed is the origin of the word “barb” (meaning “beard”) in French and is named after their characteristic bearded faces. Barbets are known as a water dog breed and are used for fowl hunting and retrieval.
5. Scottish Terrier
This classic breed is rather iconic being used frequently in marketing and branding through the years. The Scottish Terrier even has its own monopoly piece. This breed has a lush and thick coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance to keep them as a low allergen risk.
6. Shih-Poo
You might be noticing a trend of poodle cross breeds and the poodle is likely the most hypoallergenic of all dog breeds. The Shih-Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. These adorable fur balls are the perfect family pet and a excellent dog for smaller spaces. Because of their smaller, fluffy brown appearance, they’re often referred to as the teddy bear of dog breeds.
7. Schnoodle
Another iconic poodle cross breed, a Schnoodle is a mix between a Schnauzer and a Poodle. They combine the desirable traits of both parent breeds, such as the intelligence, hypoallergenic coat (from the Poodle), and loyalty of the Schnauzer. They typically have a curly/ wiry coat that requires regular grooming to maintain.
8. Border Terrier
Despite their small size, Border Terriers are robust and hardy in nature, which allows them to thrive in the rugged terrain and harsh climate. They are well loved for their friendly disposition, affectionate nature, and versatility as both family pets and skilled working dogs. Border Terriers have a weather-resistant double coat that provides protection in various conditions and shed minimally.
9. Komondor
The Komondor was bred for centuries as a livestock guardian dog. Their coat serves as protection against harsh weather and predators, making them well-suited for their traditional role of guarding livestock such as sheep and cattle. The same features that make their coat resilient to harsh conditions also make them quite hypoallergenic and easy for high risk individuals to live indoors with.
10. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons have a coat that requires minimal grooming and sheds very little, making them a good choice for individuals who may have allergies or prefer a low-maintenance coat. Their playful antics and quirky behaviors often provide entertainment and amusement to their owners, further endearing them to their families.
11. Lhasa Apso
A fun fact about Lhasa Apsos is that they were considered sacred dogs in Tibetan culture and were believed to bring good luck to their owners probably because of their low allergen risk! They were often kept as companions by Tibetan monks and nobility, and were also used as watchdogs in monasteries and temples. Legend has it that when their owners passed away, their souls would be reincarnated into Lhasa Apsos, further enhancing their revered status.
12. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier’s distinctive blue coat sets it apart from other terrier breeds. Puppies are born with a black coat that gradually changes to the desired blue-gray color by around 18 months of age. Kerry Blues have gained popularity as a loyal and spirited companion. Today they’re recognized as one of Ireland’s national treasures and continue to be cherished for its versatile abilities and affectionate nature.
13. Goldendoodle
All the energy of a golden retriever mixed with the intelligence of the poodle, the Goldendoodle can be quite the handful. This breed is a high energy powerhouse perfect for those with active lifestyles and large backyards. Their coppery cury coats are lush and fluffy making them the ultimate teddy bears to snuggle with.
14. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers were originally bred in Germany as versatile working dogs and are skilled at driving cattle and guarding livestock. Over time, their intelligence and agility made them valuable not only as farm dogs but also as capable police and military dogs. Today, with their glossy and sleek coats, they are best suited as loving pets to those who struggle with allergies.
15. Miniature Schnauzer
Not to be overshadowed by the Giant Schnauzer, the Miniature Schnauzers are high-energy breeds known for their distinctive appearance and warm personalities. Originally bred in Germany as small farm dogs, they excelled as ratters and watchdogs, roles that have shaped their confident and protective nature. They produce minimal dander and are easy to groom.
16. Irish Water Spaniel
To round out our list we’ve got another water dog breed. The Irish Water Spaniel is famous for its unique “rat tail,” which is described as being completely hairless except for a small tuft at the end. This breed’s combination of athleticism, intelligence, and distinctive appearance makes it a fascinating and beloved member of the spaniel family.
