Dogs are the most popular pets in the entire world, with an estimated 33% of the earth’s population owning at least one adorable pooch. Unfortunately, no matter how much you love dogs, there is one thing that can get in the way of you enjoying a canine of your own; allergies.
If you get the sniffles whenever you’re around a dog, but you desperately want to take home a puppy of your own, then this article is perfect for you. We have here a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds so that you can take home a breed that won’t have you sneezing all day!
What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
If you are allergic to dogs, that means you are reacting to certain molecules present in a dog’s fur, skin, and saliva. Hypoallergenic dog breeds are breeds that are less likely to affect a person’s allergies. While there is no dog breed in the world that is 100% allergen-free, certain traits can make people less allergic.
For example, dogs that shed less or whose skin produces less oil will be less likely to trigger a person’s allergies. So, let’s get right into a list of the top ten hypoallergenic dog breeds!
Irish Terrier
Irish Terriers are famous for their fiery red coats and their bold personalities. They are working dogs through and through, but they always find time to curl up and cuddle with their owners.
This terrier is great at all sorts of farm work, particularly when it comes to catching rats and other pests, and they also have the courage and temperament that makes up a good watchdog. This breed also sheds very lightly and has been proven to release less dander than most dog breeds.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
This is a sturdy Irish breed with a big heart and an even bigger hairdo! Their coats may be luxurious, but Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are also very muscular and well-suited to a hard day’s work. Despite their fluffy appearance, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is considered one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds on the planet. Not only do they shed infrequently, but they also drool less often.
Maltese
This tiny toy breed has been popular for centuries, and that glamorous coat just begs to be entered into a show! Under that long and flowing coat, however, is a sturdy body that is surprisingly adept at athletic skills, such as agility courses.
While they can be stubborn at times, the Maltese dog is lovable and charming with a big personality. They are also low-shedding, making them a good choice for anyone searching for a hypoallergenic breed.
Shih Tzu
This Chinese hypoallergenic dog was bred centuries ago as a lapdog for emperors and aristocrats. They’ve retained their elegant background, but Shih Tzus can still be mischievous and playful. If you have a small home or apartment, or you don’t get out much, Shih Tzus are a great low-energy companion who will curl up with you on the couch.
Havanese
This highly intelligent and charismatic dog is very popular for those who live in urban areas, as they are well suited to apartment life. This dog is easy to train and will readily learn all sorts of tricks to impress any onlookers. Surprisingly, they can also be trained as adept guard dogs. They love to be the center of attention! Their long and silky coat is low-shedding, as well.
Afghan Hound
Anyone searching for large hypoallergenic dog breeds is sure to fall in love with the Afghan Hound. This is a luxurious and elegant-looking breed. That gorgeous coat and those long, flowing ears speak volumes of the dog’s dignified and aristocratic heritage.
They make surprisingly good athletes, and a large backyard and frequent walks are a must for this dog. This ancient breed arose from the mountainous regions of the Middle East, and its long, silky coat served as protection from the harsh weather.
Bichon Frise
If you’re searching for small hypoallergenic dog breeds, the Bichon Frise should be at the top of your list. You won’t have to feel guilty touching that soft, velvety coat; because it barely sheds and contains very little dander, you won’t have to worry about aggravating your allergies. The Bichon Frise is a tiny breed with a playful and curious personality. They are easy to train and can adapt perfectly to life in the city.
Labradoodle
Hypoallergenic dog mixes can be difficult to find, but if you are searching for a mixed breed that won’t make you sneeze all day long, then the Labradoodle is a wonderful choice. Labradoodles are immensely popular. In fact, they were purposely bred to be hypoallergenic guide dogs.
They are easygoing, patient, and immensely easy to train. However, mixed breeds do take a long time until they can be bred consistently, so not every Labradoodle is hypoallergenic. As a result, you should do lots of research and confer heavily with any potential breeder.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso has a complex personality. They take a while to warm up to their owners, and they are aloof with strangers. However, once you win a Lhasa Apso’s heart, they will become first-class comedians and clowns whenever you’re around! This is a regal and confident breed that arose in the Himalayas a thousand years ago. Along with being hypoallergenic, they are also kid-friendly and extremely loyal.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is one of the best medium-sized hypoallergenic dog breeds out there. They were bred as fishermen’s helpers, and as a result, they are extremely athletic and love to swim. They were once used to carry messages between ships, as well as herd fish into nets.
Their coat is dense, tightly curled, and barely sheds. This breed is insanely smart and easy to train. They love to make their owners happy, and while they are extremely affectionate, they also crave action and adventure.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Serbian Dog Breeds
While the Republic of Serbia was part of Yugoslavia for most of the 20th century, today it is an independent state. And as such, it has three official Serbian dog breeds to call its very own. So here are the dog breeds from Serbia and what you’ll want to know about...
Long-Haired Dog Breeds
There's a certain elegance and beauty when it comes to dogs with long hair. While these breeds do require extra maintenance and patience, they're well worth it not just for their stunning coats but of course for the companionship they provide as well. So here are some...
Swiss Mountain Dog Breeds
The Swiss Sennenhunds or Swiss mountain dogs are a unique group of dogs with tricolor coats from the Swiss Alps. And while experts may disagree on their exact origins, one thing is for sure these canines are a special bunch. So here are the four types of Swiss...
Setter Dog Breeds
The setter breeds are known for their top-notch bird hunting abilities, intelligence, love for their family, and of course their long and attractive coats. While they may be similar, each of them is uniquely different. So here are all four of the setter dog breeds and...
Finnish Dog Breeds
Prague Ratter Facts And Information
The Prague Ratter is a rare dog from the Czech Republic. These small yet feisty dogs make wonderful companions and are also very popular for keeping away rats and other vermin. Keep reading to find out more amazing Prague Ratter facts and information! The Prague...
Brazilian Terrier Facts
True to its name, the Brazilian Terrier is a Brazilian dog breed that was initially bred for chasing down rats and other vermin. And there is a lot you’ll want to know about these amazing little dogs. So keep reading to find out more amazing Brazilian Terrier facts...
Alaskan Dog Breeds
Alaska is considered by many to be the “Last Frontier.” It’s a state that is well-known for its majestic natural beauty and at the same time for being a place that is wild and unforgiving. So it’s no surprise that the dog breeds from Alaska were developed not only to...
Rough Collie Facts And Information
The Rough Collie is a large, courageous dog breed that excels in hard work. These dogs are also highly affectionate and make great family pets. Read on to find out more Rough Collie facts and information! They Originated In Scotland And Wales Two Collie dogs...
Romanian Miortic Shepherd Dog Facts
True to its name, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a Romanian dog breed that specializes in protecting livestock. These gentle giants also make wonderful family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog facts and information! The...
Fila Brasileiro Facts
The Fila Brasileiro is a Brazilian breed known for its strength, tenacity, and occasional aggressiveness. These dogs are highly protective of their owners and are not at all suitable for novice owners. Read on to find out more amazing Fila Brasileiro facts and...
Old English Sheepdog Facts
The Old English Sheepdog is the most classic of the shaggy-looking dogs. These intelligent and athletic dogs are hard workers, but they also make loving family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Old English Sheepdog facts and information! The Old English...
Cesky Fousek Facts
The Cesky Fousek, also known as the Bohemian Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon, or the Bohemian Wirehaired Pointer, is a versatile hunting breed. These dogs make excellent hunting companions, but they are also a popular choice as guard dogs. Read on to find out more Cesky...
Cesky Terrier Facts
The Cesky Terrier, also known sometimes as the Bohemian Terrier or Czech Terrier, is a lively dog breed with a penchant for playfulness. These dogs can be wary with strangers, but are incredibly affectionate to their family members. Read on to find out more amazing...
Russian Spaniel Facts And Information
The Russian Spaniel is a versatile gundog, watchdog, and even a loving family companion. These small dogs are strong and athletic, as well as devoted to their owners. Read on to find out more amazing Russian Spaniel facts and information! The Russian Spaniel Is A New...
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Facts
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small dog with a big name and an even bigger heart. These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits, but also make energetic and loving companions. Read on to find out more amazing Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts and information! The...
Short-Legged Hounds
Hounds with short legs aren’t just adorable, but they have many advantages over their long-legged counterparts. While each specific breed is different typically shorter dogs can get into areas where bigger canines can’t and they’re also slower, which allows them to be...
Dogs With Yellow Eyes
There’s no doubt that dogs with yellow eyes make quite an impression. And there are quite a few special canines that have this unique and recessive trait. So here are some of the top dog breeds with yellow eyes and what you’ll want to know about each of them....
Sled Dog Breeds
Sled dogs have been used for centuries to carry important goods across frigid and difficult terrain. These hard-working dogs also make amazing pets! The following are the best sled dog breeds and what you'll want to know about each of them. What Makes a Great Sled...
Finnish Lapphund Facts
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog that was bred to herd reindeer in its native country, Finland. These intelligent and energetic dogs are extremely popular in the Nordic countries, but can be difficult to find in other places. Read on to find out more amazing...