The Best 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Families

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Do you want a dog but suffer from allergies? Fortunately, many hypoallergenic dog breeds exist that produce fewer allergens. These breeds can be a great choice for people who love dogs but can’t handle the constant sneezing, itchy eyes, or runny noses.

However, it’s important to know that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. But, certain breeds are much better for allergy sufferers because they shed less hair and dander.

1. Poodle

The Poodle is perhaps the most well-known hypoallergenic dog breed. Whether you prefer the standard, miniature, or toy size, Poodles shed very little. Their curly coats trap loose hair, which prevents it from spreading throughout your home. Regular grooming is essential to keep a Poodle’s coat healthy, but the reduced shedding makes them perfect for people with allergies.

Plus, Poodles are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. They love to please their owners and can adapt well to both apartment living and larger homes.

2. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are another fantastic option for allergy sufferers. These fluffy white dogs have a double-layered coat that doesn’t shed much. Because their hair continuously grows, regular grooming is a must. However, this constant growth helps reduce the amount of dander and loose hair in your environment.

Not only are Bichon Frises hypoallergenic, but they also have friendly and playful personalities. They thrive on human interaction and make excellent family pets. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living too.

3. Maltese

The Maltese is a small breed known for its long, silky coat. Surprisingly, despite their luxurious appearance, these dogs shed very little. Like the Bichon Frise, their hair grows continuously, reducing dander and allergens. You’ll need to brush and groom a Maltese regularly, but in return, you’ll enjoy a loving and loyal companion.

Maltese dogs are known for their gentle nature, making them ideal for families and individuals alike. They’re especially great for those looking for a lap dog that won’t trigger allergies.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs became well-known when the Obama family chose one as their White House pet. These medium-sized dogs have a curly or wavy coat that sheds very little. Their water-resistant fur not only protects them while swimming but also minimizes allergens in the home.

Portuguese Water Dogs are highly energetic, so they need plenty of exercise. They’re intelligent and love to be active, making them perfect for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

5. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu’s long, flowing coat might make you think they’re heavy shedders, but that’s not the case. These dogs are actually hypoallergenic because their coat grows continuously, reducing shedding. However, this means regular grooming is crucial to prevent matting.

Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They’re great with kids and other pets, making them wonderful family companions. Their small size also makes them adaptable to smaller living spaces.

6. Schnauzer

Schnauzers, available in standard, miniature, and giant sizes, are all hypoallergenic. Their wiry coats shed minimally, making them a good option for people with allergies. You’ll need to maintain their coat with regular grooming, but their intelligence and trainability make the effort worthwhile.

Schnauzers are highly energetic and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They’re excellent watchdogs and loyal family companions, always ready to protect their loved ones.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are another small breed that doesn’t shed much. Their fine, silky hair resembles human hair more than typical dog fur. This helps reduce dander, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Like other hypoallergenic breeds, they require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy.

Despite their small size, Yorkies have big personalities. They’re confident, playful, and affectionate, always eager to spend time with their owners. They’re also adaptable and can live comfortably in both apartments and houses.

8. Havanese

The Havanese is a small, friendly breed known for its hypoallergenic coat. These dogs have a soft, silky coat that doesn’t shed much, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. Their hair grows continuously, so regular brushing and grooming are necessary to keep them looking their best.

Havanese dogs are incredibly affectionate and thrive on human companionship. They’re perfect for families or individuals who want a loyal and loving companion that won’t trigger allergies.

9. Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a stunning breed with a long, silky coat that’s surprisingly hypoallergenic. Despite their luxurious fur, they shed very little, which helps reduce allergens in the home. However, you’ll need to invest time in grooming their coat to prevent tangles and matting.

Afghan Hounds are independent and can sometimes be aloof, but they’re also very loyal to their families. Their unique appearance and graceful movement make them stand out, and their hypoallergenic nature is a bonus for allergy sufferers.

10. Basenji

Basenjis are known as the “barkless dog,” but they have more to offer than just a quiet nature. These dogs have short, fine coats that shed minimally, making them a good option for those with allergies. Additionally, Basenjis groom themselves like cats, keeping their coats clean and free from excess dander.

Basenjis are independent and curious, with an adventurous spirit. They’re great for active families or individuals who want a dog that’s both low-maintenance and hypoallergenic.

Why Choose a Hypoallergenic Dog?

If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies, choosing a hypoallergenic dog breed can significantly reduce the symptoms caused by dog hair and dander. While no breed is completely allergen-free, these dogs shed much less and produce fewer allergens than other breeds.

Additionally, regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, will help keep allergens at bay. Keep in mind that everyone’s sensitivity to allergens varies, so spending time around the breed you’re considering before bringing one home is always a good idea.

Conclusion

Owning a dog doesn’t have to mean enduring allergies. These hypoallergenic breeds offer allergy sufferers the opportunity to enjoy the love and companionship of a dog without the constant sneezing and discomfort. Whether you prefer a small lap dog like a Maltese or a larger breed like a Portuguese Water Dog, there’s a hypoallergenic option for every lifestyle.

By choosing one of these breeds and maintaining proper grooming habits, you can welcome a furry friend into your life without the worry of allergy flare-ups.