What Are Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds? <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"maltese](\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/20250403_Darla_01577-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFirst, you might wonder what it means for a dog to be hypoallergenic. The term became popular because allergy sufferers hoped to enjoy sharing their lives with a pet without the runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing fits of dog allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many breeds fulfill the hypoallergenic label\u2013meaning they\u2019re less likely to trigger allergic reactions. However, no dog is truly allergen-free.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\nAccording to the American Kennel Club<\/a> (AKC), \u201c…there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs…\u201d That\u2019s because all dogs shed dead skin (pet dander) and have saliva attached to their hair. People can be allergic to both of these. <\/p>\n\n\n\nInterestingly, dogs can have allergies<\/a>, too, though they don\u2019t always show up in the same way. They tend to have itchy skin and digestive issues. While you\u2019re allergy-proofing your life, keep an eye on your future pup\u2019s skin health. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHowever, most hypoallergenic breeds are low-shedding dogs, which results in less dog hair coating your couch cushions \u2013 and less pet dander. This may reduce your allergic reactions. Yet, that does vary from person to person, so it\u2019s important to meet your potential pet and spend time together before taking them home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
20 Popular Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"hairless](\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chinese-crested.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhile no dog breed is guaranteed to be completely allergy-free, these breeds are widely recommended for those with allergies. They shed little and have unique coats. However, every dog requires regular grooming, and a good groomer can help you keep the dander under control and your dog\u2019s coat gleaming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Poodle <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Poodles are the poster pups for hypoallergenic dogs. Their dense, curly coats trap a lot of pet dander, which prevents it from spreading. Poodles don\u2019t shed much either because their loose hairs get trapped in those curls. You do need to brush them often to loosen these loose hairs and the dead skin cells.
Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, which means you can choose the right size for you. The Standard Poodle is a showstopper on the street, while the Miniature and Toy Poodles are lap-sized and easier to groom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Afghan Hound <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These regal dogs are known for their gorgeous coat, tall, thin body, and aloof personalities. They\u2019re happy to sit quietly while you work or sip a flat white at a cafe. Known for non-shedding, they do require a good grooming routine to keep that coat looking glamorous. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Maltese <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This popular \u201cpurse dog\u201d has a long history of keeping the nobility company. Today, they rank on all the best hypoallergenic breeds lists due to their silky hair instead of fur. They have minimal dander but do require regular brushing to prevent knots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Bichon Frise <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fluffy with a dense, curly coat, Bichon Frises are a popular hypoallergenic family dog thanks to their minimal shedding and cheerful personality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Shih Tzu <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Beloved by ancient Chinese Emperors, Shih Tzus has a royal history. They\u2019re a small breed with hair instead of fur. They also have a double coat, which means they have two layers of hair and surprisingly little shedding. Regular brushing keeps their coat smooth and beautiful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Coton de Tulear <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This ridiculously cute ball of fluff has roots in Madagascar, where they were named after the port city of Tulear. Their white coat grows continuously and they don\u2019t shed much nor release much dander. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Havanese <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Continuing the small dog trend, the Havanese have a silky, low-shed coat that makes them popular with allergy sufferers. Their name comes from the Cuban capital, \u201cHavana,\u201d and they\u2019re the island\u2019s national dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. Yorkshire Terrier <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yorkies weren\u2019t always well-groomed lapdogs with bows in their hair; they were originally bred as rat catchers in England\u2019s textile mills. Thanks to their minimal shedding, they make the best hypoallergenic dog lists suitable for dog lovers who want a smaller pup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
9. Portuguese Water Dog<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Originally bred as the helpmates of Portuguese fishermen, these dogs have strong swimming skills and a dense, curly coat that water runs off. Part of their regular grooming routine requires regular trimming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
10. Irish Water Spaniel <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another swimming breed, the Irish Water Spaniel, also has a curly coat that rarely sheds making them a popular hypoallergenic breed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
11. Miniature Schnauzer <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Like Poodles, Schnauzers come in three sizes: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. The Giant Schnauzer stands out at the dog park. The smaller sizes make great apartment dogs. They have a wiry coat on top and a softer undercoat. Regular grooming helps keep allergens to a minimum. The typical breed cut is close-cut on the top and sides with longer fur on the legs, underneath, and around the mouth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
12. Bedlington Terrier<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Often described as looking like a lamb, the Bedlington Terrier sports a curly coat that doesn\u2019t shed much. Like other terrier breeds, they were originally bred for hunting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
13. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These Irish farm dogs have a silky coat with little shedding. Brush them regularly to avoid dander and mats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
14. Kerry Blue Terrier <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Also Irish in origin and named for their blue-gray coat, Kerry Blues have dense and wavy hair. They\u2019re known for minimal shedding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
15. Chinese Crested <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are two versions: Hairless<\/a> and Powderpuff. Despite the name, the hairless version does have tufts on the head, feet, and tail. The Powderpuff has a full, silky coat that lives up to the name.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n16. Xoloitzcuintli <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Xolo or Mexican Hairless has no fur, which means they produce less dander. However, that doesn\u2019t mean they\u2019re completely allergy-free. Some people are still allergic to the proteins in their skin or saliva. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
17. Basenji <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Basenji just may be the most \u201ccat-like\u201d dog on this list. Basenjis don\u2019t bark, though they do \u201cbaroo,\u201d and they\u2019re low maintenance. They clean themselves and don\u2019t have a \u201cdoggie odor\u201d and little dander or shedding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
18. Lagotto Romagnolo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This Italian breed was bred to hunt truffles. They have a thick, curly coat similar to a Poodle\u2019s, which makes them low-shedding with little dander. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
19-20. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
With the popularity of these mixed breed dogs, you may wonder if they\u2019re hypoallergenic. The answer is a definite \u201cmaybe.\u201d It turns out it\u2019s all in the genetics. Some Labs crossed with Poodles get the poodle coat and are more hypoallergenic, while others get more lab. The only way to know if they\u2019ll work for you is to spend time with the specific \u201cDoodle.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Do You Choose Your Hypoallergenic Dog? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"naked](\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/XoloLarge2.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith so many dog breed possibilities, you may wonder which one is right for your family. While there\u2019s no such thing as a completely allergen-free dog, there are many non-shedding varieties, including hairless dogs<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIt helps to consider your family\u2019s lifestyle and your preferences. Are you intrigued by hairless dogs, or are you someone who wants to run your fingers through your dog\u2019s coat? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If yours is an active family who wants a dog to go on hikes with you and spend time outdoors, one of the active Terrier breeds could be a great fit. There are many good family dogs on this list. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFirst, you might wonder what it means for a dog to be hypoallergenic. The term became popular because allergy sufferers hoped to enjoy sharing their lives with a pet without the runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing fits of dog allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many breeds fulfill the hypoallergenic label\u2013meaning they\u2019re less likely to trigger allergic reactions. However, no dog is truly allergen-free.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the American Kennel Club<\/a> (AKC), \u201c…there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs…\u201d That\u2019s because all dogs shed dead skin (pet dander) and have saliva attached to their hair. People can be allergic to both of these. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Interestingly, dogs can have allergies<\/a>, too, though they don\u2019t always show up in the same way. They tend to have itchy skin and digestive issues. While you\u2019re allergy-proofing your life, keep an eye on your future pup\u2019s skin health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, most hypoallergenic breeds are low-shedding dogs, which results in less dog hair coating your couch cushions \u2013 and less pet dander. This may reduce your allergic reactions. Yet, that does vary from person to person, so it\u2019s important to meet your potential pet and spend time together before taking them home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While no dog breed is guaranteed to be completely allergy-free, these breeds are widely recommended for those with allergies. They shed little and have unique coats. However, every dog requires regular grooming, and a good groomer can help you keep the dander under control and your dog\u2019s coat gleaming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Poodles are the poster pups for hypoallergenic dogs. Their dense, curly coats trap a lot of pet dander, which prevents it from spreading. Poodles don\u2019t shed much either because their loose hairs get trapped in those curls. You do need to brush them often to loosen these loose hairs and the dead skin cells. These regal dogs are known for their gorgeous coat, tall, thin body, and aloof personalities. They\u2019re happy to sit quietly while you work or sip a flat white at a cafe. Known for non-shedding, they do require a good grooming routine to keep that coat looking glamorous. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This popular \u201cpurse dog\u201d has a long history of keeping the nobility company. Today, they rank on all the best hypoallergenic breeds lists due to their silky hair instead of fur. They have minimal dander but do require regular brushing to prevent knots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fluffy with a dense, curly coat, Bichon Frises are a popular hypoallergenic family dog thanks to their minimal shedding and cheerful personality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Beloved by ancient Chinese Emperors, Shih Tzus has a royal history. They\u2019re a small breed with hair instead of fur. They also have a double coat, which means they have two layers of hair and surprisingly little shedding. Regular brushing keeps their coat smooth and beautiful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This ridiculously cute ball of fluff has roots in Madagascar, where they were named after the port city of Tulear. Their white coat grows continuously and they don\u2019t shed much nor release much dander. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Continuing the small dog trend, the Havanese have a silky, low-shed coat that makes them popular with allergy sufferers. Their name comes from the Cuban capital, \u201cHavana,\u201d and they\u2019re the island\u2019s national dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Yorkies weren\u2019t always well-groomed lapdogs with bows in their hair; they were originally bred as rat catchers in England\u2019s textile mills. Thanks to their minimal shedding, they make the best hypoallergenic dog lists suitable for dog lovers who want a smaller pup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Originally bred as the helpmates of Portuguese fishermen, these dogs have strong swimming skills and a dense, curly coat that water runs off. Part of their regular grooming routine requires regular trimming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Another swimming breed, the Irish Water Spaniel, also has a curly coat that rarely sheds making them a popular hypoallergenic breed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Like Poodles, Schnauzers come in three sizes: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. The Giant Schnauzer stands out at the dog park. The smaller sizes make great apartment dogs. They have a wiry coat on top and a softer undercoat. Regular grooming helps keep allergens to a minimum. The typical breed cut is close-cut on the top and sides with longer fur on the legs, underneath, and around the mouth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Often described as looking like a lamb, the Bedlington Terrier sports a curly coat that doesn\u2019t shed much. Like other terrier breeds, they were originally bred for hunting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These Irish farm dogs have a silky coat with little shedding. Brush them regularly to avoid dander and mats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Irish in origin and named for their blue-gray coat, Kerry Blues have dense and wavy hair. They\u2019re known for minimal shedding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two versions: Hairless<\/a> and Powderpuff. Despite the name, the hairless version does have tufts on the head, feet, and tail. The Powderpuff has a full, silky coat that lives up to the name.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Xolo or Mexican Hairless has no fur, which means they produce less dander. However, that doesn\u2019t mean they\u2019re completely allergy-free. Some people are still allergic to the proteins in their skin or saliva. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Basenji just may be the most \u201ccat-like\u201d dog on this list. Basenjis don\u2019t bark, though they do \u201cbaroo,\u201d and they\u2019re low maintenance. They clean themselves and don\u2019t have a \u201cdoggie odor\u201d and little dander or shedding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This Italian breed was bred to hunt truffles. They have a thick, curly coat similar to a Poodle\u2019s, which makes them low-shedding with little dander. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With the popularity of these mixed breed dogs, you may wonder if they\u2019re hypoallergenic. The answer is a definite \u201cmaybe.\u201d It turns out it\u2019s all in the genetics. Some Labs crossed with Poodles get the poodle coat and are more hypoallergenic, while others get more lab. The only way to know if they\u2019ll work for you is to spend time with the specific \u201cDoodle.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n With so many dog breed possibilities, you may wonder which one is right for your family. While there\u2019s no such thing as a completely allergen-free dog, there are many non-shedding varieties, including hairless dogs<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It helps to consider your family\u2019s lifestyle and your preferences. Are you intrigued by hairless dogs, or are you someone who wants to run your fingers through your dog\u2019s coat? <\/p>\n\n\n\n If yours is an active family who wants a dog to go on hikes with you and spend time outdoors, one of the active Terrier breeds could be a great fit. There are many good family dogs on this list. <\/p>\n\n\n\n20 Popular Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Poodle <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, which means you can choose the right size for you. The Standard Poodle is a showstopper on the street, while the Miniature and Toy Poodles are lap-sized and easier to groom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Afghan Hound <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Maltese <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Bichon Frise <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Shih Tzu <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Coton de Tulear <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Havanese <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Yorkshire Terrier <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Portuguese Water Dog<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Irish Water Spaniel <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Miniature Schnauzer <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Bedlington Terrier<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. Kerry Blue Terrier <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
15. Chinese Crested <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. Xoloitzcuintli <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Basenji <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. Lagotto Romagnolo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19-20. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How Do You Choose Your Hypoallergenic Dog? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n