Which Dog Breeds Are Hypoallergenic?

There are a number of factors to consider when you are looking for a new fur baby. What is your family like? Some dogs do well with kids while others thrive in a home with only adults. Where do you live? Some dog breeds can get all the exercise they need by running around the house while others need a lot of outside space for exercise. You also need to consider the personality, trainability, and care needs of the various dog breeds. All of the elements listed above are important but if you or someone in your family has allergies all of these considerations will come second. The first factor you need to consider is which dog breeds are hypoallergenic. This list of hypoallergenic dogs that will not exacerbate your allergies can help you make a decision about adopting a new fur baby.

Terrier

There are several different types of terriers – including the Bedlington, Kerry Blue, Soft Coated Wheaten, and Yorkshire – that have coats that shed little to none. The look and texture of the coats on the terriers vary significantly but they are all potential options for people who suffer with allergies. 

Poodle

Poodles are well-known for being a hypoallergenic breed of dog. They are smart, easy to train, and come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Poodles have a coat of curly hair that does not shed and is unlikely to cause problems for allergy sufferers. Poodles need to be brushed and groomed regularly so keep that in mind as you consider this breed of dog.

Bichon Frise

The coat of the Bichon Frise is soft, curly, and hypoallergenic. Most people with allergies can tolerate having this cute little dog around. The Bichon Frise is a small breed that is playful, gentle, and considered a good choice for first time pet owners and families. As with the poodle, regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat of the Bichon Frise in good condition. 

Schnauzer

The Schnauzer is a smart and trainable breed of dog that comes in three sizes: miniature, standard, and giant. The different sizes of this dog come with a unique set of qualities and personality traits. Schnauzers have a double coat that sheds little to none but does require regular maintenance in the form of brushing, clipping, and grooming.  

Maltese

The Maltese is a playful, gentle, and energetic breed of dog. This breed is small but can grow a long white coat. The Maltese has a hypoallergenic coat that will not shed but does require regular brushing to maintain. 

Mixed Breed Dogs

You can find a number of designer breed dogs that are promoted as hypoallergenic or non-shedding. The key factor to remember here is that a mixed breed dog can take on any of the traits of either parent. If one of the parents is a breed that is not hypoallergenic, there is a possibility that the offspring will take after that parent. There is no guarantee that you are getting a hypoallergenic dog if you choose a mixed, designer dog. If there is someone in your household who has allergies it may be safer to adopt a dog that is known to be hypoallergenic.   

There are a number of other dogs that are considered hypoallergenic – including a few hairless breeds. The dogs outlined above are breeds that are well-known and recognizable. As you continue to research on the topic of hypoallergenic dogs you will find that there are a number of less common breeds that fit the bill. Now that you have a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds, you can start learning about the personality and needs of each unique fur baby to find the one that is the best fit for your family.