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.
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