30 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (With Info & Pictures)

Being a dog lover with canine allergies is a bit ironic and of course, a complete downer. If you’ve been feeling blue over not being able to have a dog without suffering from itchy eyes and sneezing, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of hypoallergenic breeds out there that you can adopt.

However, “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean that a dog is completely free of allergens or that you won’t have a reaction to them. The term is instead used to describe the breeds that shed less or produce less dander and saliva than others (thus, decreasing the risk of them causing an allergy attack). That said, it’s always best to spend time with a pup before adopting them to see how you react.

If you suffer from allergies but have your heart set on getting a four-legged friend, read on to learn about the 30 most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds out there!

The 30 Hypoallergenic Dogs

Hybrid Breeds

A hybrid is a cross between two breeds, and many types have grown in popularity recently. Those mixed with Poodles are usually considered hypoallergenic because Poodles are low-shedding. Here are the three most popular hypoallergenic hybrid dogs.

1. Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle, a mix between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever, is a great hybrid dog for those with allergies because of their Poodle heritage. It means they tend to shed less than most other dogs, which equals less hair and dander. However, some generations of Goldendoodles may be more likely to shed (due to their Golden parent), so you should talk to your breeder before purchasing to find out what genes the dog is likely to have.

2. Havapoo

A cross between the Havanese and the Poodle, the Havapoo is a hybrid that makes a wonderful hypoallergenic pet. Also known as the Poovanese, Havadoodle, or Havanoodle, these dogs have a low-shedding coat that is easy for allergy sufferers to deal with. The Havapoo is also an excellent choice for those with small children or other pets.

3. Maltipoo

The Maltipoo, a cross between the Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, is a low-shedder that can make for easier breathing (though it’s recommended you spend time with this breed before adopting to see how your allergies respond). They’re quite adaptable to different living situations and are relatively easy to care for, only needing monthly bathing and daily brushing. The Maltipoo is fairly energetic, though, so they will need plenty of exercise.

Large Breeds

Are you looking for a large dog that’s considered hypoallergenic? Check out these breeds!

4. Afghan Hound

They may not seem like it with their long, silky coat, but the Afghan Hound is indeed considered hypoallergenic, as they produce less dander than many other breeds! That coat, though, will require lots of upkeep, so be sure you’re up for that if you’re considering getting one. They make a wonderful family pet, but they are a bit difficult to train, so this breed might be better for those who have had dogs before.

5. Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel barely sheds, so there’s less dander about your home to make you sneeze. They will shed seasonally, but so long as they are brushed weekly to remove dirt, you should have little trouble with allergies. As indicated by the name, these dogs love playing in water (and are used to retrieve waterfowl and other birds). The breed is quite affectionate, meaning you can look forward to plenty of snuggles!

6. Schnauzer

Not only do Schnauzers shed less than other breeds, but they also drool less, so there’s less dander and saliva to deal with, making them an excellent fit for those dealing with allergies. The breed makes a fabulous pet for anyone—though especially families—as they are highly protective of their people but are also incredibly friendly and playful. They can be a bit willful sometimes, so expect a few minor disagreements here and there.

Medium Breeds

Sometimes, the right dog is one that’s not too large or too small. Medium-sized dogs fit that description quite well, and these are the most popular hypoallergenic ones.

7. Basenji

These cute dogs may be known as “barkless,” but it doesn’t mean they aren’t vocal. Instead, they make what sounds like a yodel. What they definitely are is hypoallergenic, as they have short coats that don’t shed often. Originating in the Congo, the Basenji was used to help hunters with small game and to control rodents.

8. Kerry Blue Terrier

One of the largest terriers, the Kerry Blue Terrier, is known for their blue coat that ranges from a light blue-gray to a dark slate color. This coat almost never sheds, though, which is why they are considered hypoallergenic (they should still be brushed regularly). These pups will stick to you like glue, so don’t expect to have a lot of privacy with them around. However, do expect a lot of fun with their silly natures.

9. Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid can come with either hair or no hair; the hairless version is the one that’s considered hypoallergenic (for obvious reasons). That hairlessness also means there’s little grooming to do! However, it does mean your pup will need to stay out of the sun or wear sunscreen when outside. This breed makes an excellent watchdog and is extremely affectionate with their people.

10. Poodle

The Poodle is one of the most well-known hypoallergenic dogs around (hence why they are often used to create hybrid breeds). This breed comes in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, with all sizes lacking an undercoat. That means less shedding and fewer allergies. However, the breed’s tightly curled coat requires plenty of grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Although they have a bit of a reputation as being snobby, Poodles are actually great fun. They’re charming, energetic, and incredibly sweet.

11. Portuguese Water Dog

This breed resembles the Poodle with their tight, low-shedding curls, and that coat requires constant upkeep. It’s worth it, though, for the lack of hair and allergens the Portuguese Water Dog will produce! These dogs are incredibly intelligent and take to training well. They also love to play and go on adventures with their people.

12. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

These beauties originated as Irish farm dogs 200 or so years ago, so they are fabulous at herding and guarding farm animals. Although they have wavy locks, they don’t shed frequently, meaning fewer allergens are hanging around your home. They will need a fair amount of brushing, though, and weekly baths to take care of that pretty coat. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier can be a cuddle monster, so be prepared!

13. Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog has an interesting coat—one that can become corded and should never be brushed—but has little or no undercoat, which equals a lot less shedding. Another interesting fact is that the breed has webbed feet! That’s not surprising, considering they were initially used for retrieving waterfowl and farm herding. Since they are incredibly active, they do best with people who will spend plenty of time with them.

14. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced shoh-loh-eats-QUEENT-ly) is a dog breed from Mexico that has been around for nearly 3,000 years. They can come with or without hair (the hairless version is the one that allergy sufferers want). That lack of hair means they are more prone to skin issues, though, and will need to wear sunscreen when going outside. These dogs are loyal to their families and relatively reserved but are great fun to have around.

Small Breeds

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed that’s on the smaller side, you’ll have no problems, as there are more of these than any other on this list.

15. Affenpinscher

Called the “mustached little devil” in France, this hypoallergenic toy breed is among the oldest breeds around (possibly since the 15th century but definitely since the 17th century). However, they’re rare in the United States. If you can get your hands on one of these cute pups, you can look forward to a curious, mischievous, and comedic dog. One important thing to note is that due to this breed’s past as a ratter, you don’t want to have pet rodents in the home.

16. American Hairless Terrier

These Louisiana natives are about as hypoallergenic as you can get. Although they’re called “hairless,” some do have a very short coat. Like other hairless dogs on this list, the lack of hair means they need a serious skincare and skin protection routine. However, after getting one of these pups, you’ll find yourself with a playful and courageous new family member.

17. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier, a native of Bedlington, England, has an interesting look and a coat that hardly ever sheds. That coat only needs the occasional bath and regular brushing. You’ll find that this breed will do well with active families who love to play and exercise and that they can be quite protective of their humans. The breed is also fearless, so keep an eye on them so they don’t attack dogs bigger than themselves!

18. Bichon Frise

This cute pup is one of the best hypoallergenic dogs for families. With their coat that rarely sheds, adaptability, and fabulous personality, it’s no wonder the breed is so popular. They get along great with kids and other canines and just generally love people. They should be brushed daily, which makes for a wonderful bonding time!

19. Bolognese

The Bolognese is a fairly laidback hypoallergenic pup. Although they have long hair, their coats are non-shedding, making for fewer allergens. The breed’s chill nature means they get along well with other dogs and even strangers. They’re a bit less affectionate than some other dogs overall, but that doesn’t mean they don’t still enjoy good snuggles every now and then!

20. Cairn Terrier

If the Cairn Terrier looks familiar, it’s because you’ve seen one as Toto in “The Wizard of Oz”! Bred to be working dogs, these hypoallergenic pups can still make excellent pets, provided that they get enough mental and physical stimulation. They greatly enjoy playing with kids (they also don’t mind just a touch of roughhousing), but they can be incredibly sensitive. Despite their double coats, they don’t shed often and only need to be brushed once a week or so.

21. Chinese Crested

Although the Chinese Crested can have hair, you’re more likely familiar with the hairless one (that still has tufts of hair on their face and legs). This breed is eager to please, so they are highly trainable and friendly with all they meet. Due to their lack of hair, they require a proper skincare routine (such as sunscreen when outside), so don’t think that grooming is totally off the table!

22. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is one of the lesser-known hypoallergenic breeds available, though you wouldn’t think so, considering how floofy these pups are. Given their hair, it’s surprising they shed less than other dogs, but it’s true! Their coat does require a lot of upkeep, though, so consider that before getting one. If you do get a Coton de Tulear, you’ll find that the breed is the perfect companion dog that’s lively and always up for a good time.

23. Havanese

The Havanese makes a wonderful hypoallergenic dog for families. They love children and other dogs and are incredibly cheerful and playful. Not to be confused with the Maltese (there’s a definite resemblance there, though!), the breed has a long overcoat and double coat underneath. You’d think that would make them be on the list of dogs to avoid, but these pups don’t produce as much dander or shed as often as most other breeds. You’ll have to do weekly grooming with this one because of all that fur, but it will be well worth the fun you’ll have!

24. Lagotto Romagnolo

This teddy bear-resembling breed has a dense, curly coat that doesn’t shed, meaning fewer allergies for you! Besides being adorable, the Lagotto Romagnolo loves to snuggle with their people and needs plenty of exercise and play. They’re also rather good at being guard dogs, so you can feel safer knowing you have one around. The breed does need proper socialization and training when young, though, so be sure you can commit to that before getting one.

25. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso breed hails from Tibet and is 1,000 years old. They were originally meant to be watchdogs because of their fabulous hearing and enjoyment of keeping an eye on things, and you’ll still find them to be protective. They certainly aren’t aggressive, though; instead, these dogs are friendly as can be but have a wide independent streak! Despite the long coat, the breed rarely sheds, making them a better choice for those with allergies.

26. Maltese

These affectionate lap dogs are favorites of dog lovers, and it’s easy to see why. The breed is loving and playful and can even be quite protective. You can get a Maltese with long or short hair, depending on the amount of grooming you’re prepared to do. Either one will be less prone to shedding than most other breeds, which should help immensely with allergies!

27. Shih Tzu

You’re probably familiar with these family-friendly dogs, but you might not have known they shed very little, making them a good fit for those with light allergies. This breed is good with children and highly affectionate and loves running and playing. The Shih Tzu requires regular grooming; otherwise, their coat can easily get tangled and matted.

28. West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier (or Westie) is a fluffy pup that you wouldn’t expect to be better for one’s allergies. However, while they are a medium shedder, their coat still collects less dander. The breed has an independent streak, so they will require some training, but they make an excellent companion. Just be sure you can keep up with them energy-wise!

29. Wire Fox Terrier

Since the Wire Fox Terrier has a short, wiry coat, they’re less prone to shedding, making them a good fit for those with dog allergies. They will need to be brushed two to three times a week to maintain their coat, but they only require bathing when necessary. This breed is excellent for kids, as they are highly energetic, playful, and extremely affectionate. They’re also the breed with the most historic wins in the Westminster Dog Show!

30. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are a blast to have around, as they are extremely sweet pups that love almost everyone (but not always other dogs). They are also highly protective of their people; this love and protection make them a great fit with kids. Despite the long coat, they don’t shed often, which equals fewer allergic reactions for you. They do require a bit of grooming to keep their coats looking nice, though.

Conclusion

As you can see, not all hope is lost if you’re a dog lover allergic to canines. Although no dog will be completely free of allergens, several breeds are considered “hypoallergenic” due to their low shedding or low dander production. These breeds come in all sizes and shapes, so you should be able to find one you love. Just keep in mind that even among these hypoallergenic breeds, you may respond differently to two dogs of the same breed. That means you should always spend a bit of time with a dog before adopting them to ensure that you won’t have an allergic reaction.

• See also: Is There a Truly Hypoallergenic Dog?

Featured Image Credit: Angel Sallade, Shutterstock