Who wouldn’t love a hypoallergenic dog that doesn’t shed? Like all other furry mammals, dogs have dander and fur that can cause even those without allergies to get the occasional nose-tickle. Shed-free dogs and a truly 100% hypoallergenic dog don’t exist, but there are breeds that are better for those with allergies. These dogs shed less, giving you less reason to suffer a sneezing fit. These are 10 popular hypoallergenic dog breeds.
1. Maltese
Bred to be companions, this hypoallergenic dog is energetic and playful. They do well in small spaces, like apartments and have a bright white, silky coat that doesn’t shed. These sweet pups are at the top of our list of 11 Small Breeds That Love To Be Lap Dogs.
2. Poodle
Although poodles have lots of dense, curly fur, their coats only shed less than other dogs. They are very smart, active dogs who excel at training and sports. Toy, Miniature and Standard Poodles are all considered hypoallergenic dog breeds.
3. Portugese Water Dog
Fishermen originally used Portugese Water Dogs to herd fish into their nets. This hypoallergenic dog can have a curly or wavy coat, but doesn’t shed.
4. Schnauzer
The mustache on his snout gave the Schnauzer his name! Like the poodle, they’re known as three breeds (Giant, Standard and Miniature.) Their eyebrows, beards and mustaches can give them the appearance of an old man, but they’re an energetic and protective hypoallergenic dog that doesn’t shed, but will need to have dead hairs plucked from their coat regularly.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are known to be affectionate and loyal, but they’re also stubborn dogs that can be difficult to train. Although this hypoallergenic dog doesn’t shed much, their fur grows very quickly and will need daily brushing to keep it free of mats.
6. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier was bred in Ireland as a farm dog, and shares a common ancestor with the Kerry Blue Terrier. These happy, playful guys are considered a high-energy hypoallergenic dog. They will need lots of exercise to burn the excess. Their soft, silky coats will require daily brushing to keep it free of mats.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is thought to be bred from the Standard Poodle, another hypoallergenic dog due to it’s low shedding. Their curly coat keeps hair and dander from escaping, but they need frequent bathing and combing to keep the coat free of mats.
8. Kerry Blue Terrier
This dog appears on many hypoallergenic dog lists because their soft, wavy coat doesn’t shed. These dogs love people but will prefer being the only dog in their home.
9. Labradoodle
No organization recognizes Labradoodles as a breed, because they are a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle. Labradoodles are an extremely popular because this hypoallergenic dog breed sheds less and has less odor. Labradoodles are often bred for profit. Remember that you can find any breed at your local shelter.
10. Hairless Chinese Crested
A no-brainer hypoallergenic dog, the Hairless Chinese Crested only has tufts of hair at it’s paws, tail and head. People with allergies prefer them because they have so little fur to shed. Their soft skin will still need regular care to avoid common issues like acne and sunburn.
