Pet allergies are believed to affect 10 to 20% of the world’s population. But that’s where hypoallergenic dog breeds, like the loveable Basenji and the curly-haired Bichon Frise, could help make your dream of welcoming a fur friend into your allergy-prone household a reality.
Allergies to fur friends are quite easy to spot. Maybe you get a runny nose every time you’re stroking a dog? Or perhaps your eyes start watering or you start wheezing?
Of course, it’s important to note that no dog breed is 100% allergen-free. Therefore, breeds that are classified as ‘hypoallergenic’ most often tend to be hairless breeds, have shorter single coats, or are dog breeds that shed less so produce less dander (which are the flakes of skin in their fur that subsequently go on to cause allergies).
It’s also worth knowing that a breed that might co-exist happily in your home may trigger another household that’s prone to allergies. The reason for this can’t always be explained. But to help you discover the dogs that are less likely to set your allergies off, we’ve compiled a long and lengthy list of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds.
PetsRadar's guide to hypoallergenic dog breeds
1. Afghan Hound
With its long, shiny, flowing coat you might be surprised to hear that an Afghan Hound is classed as a hypoallergenic dog. But it’s thought that this fur friend, which is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, can be a good fit for allergy sufferers.
Yes, it might be a high-maintenance dog breed with its luscious locks, but if well groomed with one of the best dog brushes, Afghan Hounds don’t tend to shed as much as you might think. This can help you keep your allergies at bay.
As their name suggests, in days gone by, Afghan Hounds were originally bred as a hunting companion in the mountains of Afghanistan and it was their flowing tresses that were designed to protect them from the cold climate.
2. Basenji
Coming with a short coat and known for spending most of their days cleaning themselves, the small and perfectly sized Basenji is another breed of hypoallergenic dog that could be a good fit for allergy-suffering homes.
Due to their routine cleaning schedule, which is often likened to those of a cat, Basenjis don’t come with a typical ‘doggy’ smell. Therefore, although some grooming is required, this is minimal when compared with other longer-haired breeds. Another fun fact about this breed? Basenjis are often considered ‘barkless’ dogs because they actually make sounds closer to a ‘yodel’.
3. Bichon Frise
The name Bichon Frise is French for 'curly-haired small dog' and it makes sense because these little cuties are known, loved and often defined by their fluffy white coats.
Much like the Afghan Hound, this breed isn’t known for shedding often. But you will still need to use one of the best dog grooming kits to help you keep their coats in perfect precision.
Grooming aside, the Bichon Frise are cheerful pups who have shed loads of personality. Small in size, these hypoallergenic lap dogs are often thought of as one of the best dog breeds if you're short on space as they won’t need loads of space to stretch their legs, but they will still need lots of attention.
4. Chinese Crested
Unique is perhaps the best way to describe this breed which comes in two varieties. The first is hairless but has tufts of hair on its head, tail, and feet and then there’s the aptly-named powderpuff version, coming with a thick and silky double coat.
The good news is that no matter whether you choose one or the other variety, the Chinese Crested Dog is one of the small dog breeds that don’t shed much, so can be a good choice for allergy sufferers.
5. Coton de Tulear
Heard of a Coton de Tulear? This breed is related to both the Maltese and Bichon Frise. And, while its coat will grow (and grow) if not groomed, it only sheds occasionally. Therefore, it could be a great choice for a ‘hypoallergenic’ dog breed if you’re prone to sneezing or wheezing around dogs.
This happy-go-lucky breed gets its name from its fluffy, cotton-white coat, as well as its place of origin — a city in Madagascar. Known as a toy dog breed, the Coton de Tulear is a low-maintenance pet thanks to its easy-going temperament. Coming with a sweet persona and will spend its days following you from room to room.
6. Giant Schnauzer
Prefer big dogs? Then a Giant Schnauzer, which stands at 27.5 inches at shoulder height, is one of the largest ‘hypoallergenic’ dog breeds around as its wiry coat is low in dander, and hardly sheds as much as other fur friends.
Just know that this highly active pooch is a bundle of energy. So they will need lots of walking, the best dog toys and the best dog puzzle toys to keep their mind and body active. Intelligent, loyal and natural watchdogs, these fur friends are easy to train too.
7. Irish Water Spaniel
Another big dog to add to the list is the Irish Water Spaniel which is the tallest of all the Spaniels. Allergy sufferers will be pleased to know it’s also a low-shedding breed, making it appealing for those prone to allergies and those who don’t want to spend hours vacuuming away pet hair.
As its name suggests, this is a dog breed that is made for swimming. That’s because this sporting dog was originally bred to be a hunting dog, so they are strong, active, and love the water.
8. Maltese
Not prone to drooling or shedding too much, the humble Maltese is one of the oldest and smallest dog breeds and is thought to have been a lapdog for the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians.
But just because this breed of dog is small, it doesn’t mean it’s quiet. This miniature but lively pooch will shower you with affection, so they’ll make great family dogs, especially if you’ve got a busy household.
9. Miniature Schnauzer
There are three breeds of Schnauzers but the Miniature Schnauzer is by far the smallest of them all and practically shed-less.
But aside from their brilliant hypoallergenic qualities, Schnauzers are perhaps best known for being dogs that come with beards. They also have distinct eyebrows to match, giving them the ultimate ‘old man’ look that you (and all the family) can’t help but fall in love with. This breed is very vocal, so the correct training and enough exercise is needed to help them control their barks.
10. Poodle
While a Poodle might have regal-looking hair that doesn’t stop growing, they are technically classified as hypoallergenic dogs because they hardly shed or drool.
Like most dogs on this list, however, you will still have to groom these pups to keep their unique-looking updos looking fresh and fabulous and this breed of dog feeling its best.
11. Portuguese Water Dog
Easy to train, fun-loving and active, the Portuguese Water Dog also has one more quality to add to its extensive list of pros — and that’s the fact it’s hypoallergenic.
The breed has two types of coat. This includes a long and wavy variety and a short, tight curls variation. Both types of Portuguese Water Dog are single-coated, which means they hardly shed at all.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog that’s full of fun, playfulness, and great with families, an adventurous water dog could be it.
12. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Known for being loving, laidback and fun, the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier joins our list of hypoallergenic dogs because they are not big droolers or shedders. But it’s important to know that while they shouldn’t set off your allergies, this gently waved or curly hair will need lots of grooming. So it’s worth learning how to groom a dog.
Therefore, along with grooming, you’ll need to ensure they get at least a moderate amount of exercise so that their needs are met. Ideal for larger families, these pups are also just as suitable for first-time owners and people in apartments. What’s not to love?
13. Kerry Blue Terrier
If you’re keen to find a dog that doesn’t shed, allow us to introduce you to the Kerry Blue Terrier. Hailing from Ireland, in the 18th century this popular show breed dog was bred to hunt rats, hares and foxes. It then evolved into herding sheep and retrieving and tracking.
Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier still needs regular brushing and bathing in order to keep its coat from getting matted. But in our humble opinion, it’s a small price to pay for what is a dedicated and loyal dog breed.
14. Yorkshire Terrier
Having been bred since the 1880s, the bold, feisty and sometimes bossy Yorkshire Terrier is another hunting breed dog that was used to chase rats. But in more recent times this small energetic breed is much more comfortable chasing toys.
Yorkies are known and loved for having hair and allergy-prone households will be delighted to hear that these loveable dogs don’t shed. Do, however, bear in mind that they will need regular brushing though to keep their coat in tip-top condition.
15. Xoloitzcuintle
Pronounced show-low-uhts-kwint-lee, Xoloitzcuintles are otherwise known as the Mexican hairless dog as they are — as their name gives away — often hairless in appearance. This makes them a suitable dog for most households, including those that contain allergy sufferers.
Some Xoloitzcuintles come with hair, but even those that do shed minimally. So, should you find yourself lucky enough to be the owner of one, this loyal, intelligent, and independent dog could be the perfect fit.
16. Affenpinscher
Just look at this little cutie! Now, even though an Affenpinscher can come with a lot of fur, this adorable dog breed is seen as hypoallergenic because it doesn’t shed a lot. Nor does it have a lot of dander thanks to its wiry fur.
Often depicted by their monkey-like appearance, these German dogs are more informally called ape-terriers and they were originally bred as vermin killers. But today, these loyal and curious fur friends will have you smiling from ear to ear with their big personalities and mischievous ways.
17. Bedlington Terrier
Another allergy-friendly dog breed? The brilliant Bedlington Terrier. Named after the mining town of Bedlington, these small dogs shed very little, which makes them a good choice for those with allergies.
Known for their lamb-like appearance and energetic terrier spirit, a Bedlington Terrier makes for a loyal dog that will thrive in family environments. Show these beauties a lot of love, affection and regular exercise to keep them mentally stimulated and you can live together in perfect harmony.
18. Tibetan Terrier
Coming with a thick, abundant and luxurious coat you could be fooled into thinking that the sensitive and fun-loving Tibetan Terrier wouldn’t suit allergy-prone households. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
The Tibetan Terrier is one of the best dog breeds that don’t shed a load. So it shouldn’t set your allergies off. But that being said, these dogs do require brushing daily as pups and at least three times as an adult to prevent their fur from matting.
19. Cairn Terrier
You might have noticed that terriers seem to tick all the boxes — especially for households that are plagued by allergies. And the small Scottish dog breed is another brilliant example.
Cairn Terriers might come with a double coat, but they have coarse hair so tend to shed less than your average breed of dog, like a Chow Chow or German Shepherd. So these tough dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic. Other brilliant qualities include a high intelligence level and their love for the outdoors.
20. Shih Tzu
Shih tzus, otherwise known as a little Lion dog, are tiny but solid dogs and are thought to have originally been bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso.
As we have mentioned, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. But a Shih Tzu doesn't shed loads, so could work for a household that is prone to allergies.
Due to their small size, Shih tzus don’t need loads of space to run around. That’s because they are low-energy dog breeds and were, in fact, bred to be indoor pooches.
21. Goldendoodle
Part-Poodle, part-Golden Retriever, this playful, smart and happy-go-lucky companion is known as a designer breed.
Thankfully, much like the poodle, the Goldendoodle is another type of non or low-shedding breed. So it could be worth finding out more glorious goldendoodle facts to help you figure out whether or not these beauties are the right fit for your home.
22. American hairless terrier
The clue is in the name of the American hairless terrier. This bald and beautiful hairless dog breed is well worth considering if you’d love to share your home with a canine companion, but want to keep your allergies at bay.
Due to their hairless qualities, these exotic dogs are super low maintenance — but you will need to apply some sunscreen to stop their coat from burning in the summer months and invest in a good quality dog coat to keep them warm in the winter.
23. Brussels Griffon
With their adorably wide range of facial expressions and rare nature, the Brussels Griffon makes for one of the most unusual dog breeds around.
They also make for one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds you can find. And it’s all thanks to their rough coat, which makes a Brussels Griffon shed less than the smooth-coated variety.
That said, these cheerful, curious, and affectionate dogs are tiny — so they could suit a smaller household. But they are full of character so will need plenty of exercise and playtime.
24. Border Terrier
Out of all the terrier breed types you might not know, a border terrier is perhaps the most well-known in the dog kingdom. And, with its wiry hair coat, it’s also one of the dog breeds that’s classed as hypoallergenic as their fur means they’re not high maintenance and won’t need a lot of grooming.
But what they will need is lots of exercise as they have a shed load of energy. Friendly and affectionate, Border Terriers make great family dogs as they are playful and good with children if well-trained.
25. Welsh Terrier
Welsh Terriers are often considered hypoallergenic for one main reason: that being that they have a wiry, low-shedding coat. This means this type of Terrier breed could be a good choice for people with allergies.
Many moons ago, the Welsh Terrier was bred to hunt foxes, otters and badgers. And today, their hunting history and longer-legged nature means they have a lot of energy to burn.
26. Puli dog
Despite its distinctive corded coat, the Puli dog is an unusual looking dog breed that is classed as hypoallergenic. That’s because the cords, or dreadlocks as they are sometimes referred to, do not shed.
These woolly dog’s coats vary in shape and thickness. The trademark locks of the Hungarian herding dog are often black. But you can also find these fur friends sporting a white, apricot or gray color.
27. Havanese
Coming with hair instead of fur, the humble Havanese could be suitable for allergy-prone households as it doesn’t shed as much as other longer-haired breeds. The Havanese also makes for one of the friendliest dog breeds so is ideal for families.
These pooches do well when surrounded by company and they are known for following their pet parents from room to room for most of the day. Loved for being mild-mannered, affectionate and adapting easily, there’s a lot to love about this pooch.
28. Greyhound
Known for being amongst the fastest dogs in the world, Greyhounds tend to be associated with racing. These sighthounds are often depicted by their narrow faces, long skinny legs and long-muscular reared bodies.
But these pet-friendly breeds can also be a good fit for households that suffer from allergies, as they have a short, smooth coat that sheds very little.
29. Samoyed
Energetic and sweet-natured, the lively Samoyed makes the ideal playful and loving companion for the active adventurer. It is, however, worth flagging that the Samoyed will shed a fair amount. But their dander level (which causes the allergies) is very low. Therefore they are considered to be hypoallergenic.
With their luscious fur, they will need frequent grooming though. So be sure to invest in one of the best dog grooming combs to keep them feeling and looking their best.
30. Komondor
If you like the look of a Puli, but are looking for a dog that comes with a heavier frame, allow us to introduce you to the Komondor which weighs up to 130 pounds.
Also hailing from Hungary and coming with a corded coat that isn’t prone to shedding, these dogs can be a good fit for the allergy sufferers among us.
31. Wire Fox Terrier
Another dog breed that comes with a beard? The loveable wire fox terrier which doesn’t shed a lot and can therefore be considered hypoallergenic.
This wiry hair dog breed has a long head with adorable upright and folded ears perched on the top. They are highly independent and can be tough to train — so you’ll need to have lots of the best dog treats (and patience) to hand.
32. Barbet
Not necessarily high-maintenance in terms of grooming, although they will need some TLC to keep their fur in great condition, the Barbet is another type of breed that’s considered hypoallergenic due to their low shedding qualities.
The Barbet is also another dog breed that’s made for swimming as this French dog was originally bred to track down and retrieve waterfowl in lakes and marshes. Today, they’ll happily go for a dip in any water they can find and their webbed paws help them glide through lakes with ease.
Do your research
While crossbreeds like the Labradoodle (cross between a Labrador Retriever and Poodle) are often thought to be the most ‘hypoallergenic’ breeds, it’s actually harder to determine how you may react to them as they may be more Labrador than Poodle. Still, it’s worth investigating all breeds. Just make sure you’re fully informed about their coats, grooming needs, size, and personality so you make the right choice for you.
In addition to choosing the right dog for your needs, it's important to think of the dog too. The last thing you want is to realize that this is a dog you can't live with, and subsequently have to give it up for adoption. As well as serving as a sad ending to your association with that breed, it's also something that can be avoided. With this in mind, please do your research, and make doubly sure that whichever dog you choose, it is the right one for you.
