best calm dog breeds hypoallergenic

What Are the Best Calm Hypoallergenic Dogs?

12 Hypoallergenic Calm Dogs

Ready to meet our favorites? Here are 12 hypoallergenic dogs that are cool, calm, collected, and allergy-friendly.

Bichon Frises are small calm hypoallergenic dogs, affectionate and known for their soft, curly coats and cheerful personalities. Theyre social canines and get along well with children and other four-legged family members. They make the perfect companion for a wide range of different owners, from families to the best small dogs for seniors.

Pros

• Relatively low shedding.
• Intelligent.
• Playful personality.

Cons

• Regular grooming is needed to maintain that coat.
• Ear-splitting bark.

Coton de Tulears are small hypoallergenic dogs that are calm and fluffy with cotton-like coats. They have a gentle nature and are well-loved for their sociable and loving demeanor. However, theyre known to suffer from separation anxiety, so may not be a good choice for families who are gone all day.

Pros

• Super sociable breed.
• Generally gets along with other pets.
• Outstanding at agility.

Cons

• Requires regular grooming.
• Careful attention to coat maintenance is needed.

The Basenji is a unique breed known for its barkless nature and clean habits. They have a short, fine coat and are often likened to cats due to their independent personalities. These dogs are open, loving, and calm with their family. Note, that this breed can be tricky to train theyre quick to switch off if you dont keep things interesting.

Pros

• Clean dogs.
• Independent.
• Low-maintenance coats.

Cons

• Requires lots of mental stimulation.
• Because of training better for experienced dog owners.

Havanese dogs are characterized by their long, silky coats and playful, yet easy-going personalities. Theyre natural performers and thrive on being the center of attention. And, although small, Havanese are a hardy breed, so they can handle a bit of rough play with the kids. But, theyre velcro dogs and will never leave your side so forget about personal space!

Pros

• Cheerful personality.
• Highly sociable with people and other pets.
• Easily adapts.

Cons

• Velcro dogs.
• Frequent grooming is needed.

This Terrier breed boasts a soft, silky coat and a joyful, friendly disposition. Theyre adaptable medium-sized hypoallergenic dogs that are calm and can fit into various lifestyles. The Soft-Coated Wheaten is an ideal breed choice for those with little ones. Theyre more laid-back than your typical Terrier, but they can also be a ball of energy at times.

Pros

• Energetic.
• Super loving.
• Versatile breed that excels at a range of activities.

Cons

• Loves to dig.
• Does require regular exercise.

Shih Tzus are known for their distinctive appearance with flowing coats and a friendly, outgoing personality. Theyre warmhearted, mellow, hypoallergenic lap dogs that thrive on human companionship. But they do have a stubborn streak, which, when training, could test your patience.

Pros

• Friendly and affectionate nature.
• Relatively low energy.
• Suitable for apartment living.

Cons

• Regular grooming is needed.
• Not great for small children due to their fragile stature.

If hypoallergenic is what you need, the Poodle is one of the best. This is due to their coat being made up of tight curls that hardly sheds. Theyre highly intelligent and easy to train. Poodles have a gentle nature and make great family dogs. While theyre active canines, theyre surprisingly chilled once their needs have been met.

Pros

• Highly intelligent and easy to train.
• Coat is hypoallergenic.
• Great family dog.

Cons

• High-maintenance grooming.
• Needs lots of exercise.

Italian Greyhounds are slender, elegant small hypoallergenic calm dogs with short coats. Despite their fragile appearance, theyre playful and sweet-natured companions. And, even though these dogs have lots of energy, once theyre in the comfort of their own home, Iggys are more than happy to lounge on the sofa with you.

Pros

• Adaptable to indoor living.
• Minimal grooming requirements.
• Gentle nature.

Cons

The Maltese is a toy-sized, elegant breed with a long, silky coat. Theyre gentle-mannered and lively dogs that make great companions for individuals and families alike. Theyll also fit right in with other dogs, cats, goldfish, you name it. As for training, dont be fooled by their tiny stature if allowed, they will walk all over you.

Pros

• Ideal lapdog.
• Highly adaptable to different living situations.
• Very loving and friendly.

Cons

• Long coat requires lots of grooming and attention.
• Can become yappy without training and socialization.

10. Cobberdog

The friend dog, aka Cobberdog, is a patient, people-pleasing, calm canine bred with the purpose of being the ultimate hypoallergenic therapy dog. An amazing nature, this breed is super friendly, with an instinct to trust everyone they meet. The Cobberdog is also awesome with children and other pets.

Pros

• Small, medium, large, and extra large sizes.
• Caring and fun-loving.
• Adaptable.

Cons

• Breeders must be registered.
• Difficult and costly to find.

Whether hairless or coated, standard, mini, or toy-sized, the Xolo has a sacred place in the culture of Mexico. These dogs have been around for thousands of years and are lovey-dovey, intelligent canines that make incredibly faithful furry companions. With a chilled nature, Xolos only bark when necessary, meaning theyre great allergy-friendly watchdogs.

Pros

• Almost hairless.
• Loyal companions.
• Calm, soft-hearted nature.

Cons

• Prone to sunburn.
• Feel the cold during winter months.

12. Yorkshire Terrier

Although this little bundle is full of energy, theyre also small hypoallergenic calm dogs, and dont require a lot of exercise. Theyre just as happy playing fetch as they are lounging on the couch. Yorkies are devoted dogs that despite their long coat, dont actually shed that much.

Pros

• Affectionate nature.
• Low-shedding.
• Easy level exercise needs.

Cons

• They do require a lot of grooming.
• Known to be quite yappy.

Best Dog Breeds for People With Allergies

So, you want a dog but you seem to have an allergy attack whenever youre around one? Youre not alone! Its estimated that 10 and 20% of people are allergic to cats and dogs, causing many prospective puppy owners to wonder which dogs are hypoallergenic. Spoiler alert: none of them are.

Thats right: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. No, really. Well say it one more time for the people in the back: There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. No mixed-breed dog, no purebred dog, and most definitely not any so-called designer dog, is truly hypoallergenic, no matter what people claim or try to sell you.

That said, it is possible to find less-allergenic dog breeds that are better suited for people with allergies. These purebred dogs have a predictable, non-shedding coat that produces less dander. Dander, which clings to pet hair, is what causes most pet allergies in people. Even though dogs that are hypoallergenic dont truly exist, many breeds make it possible to enjoy the companionship of a dog, even if you suffer from allergies. That predictable coat of a purebred dog is key: you know what kind of coat these breeds will have, and there wont be surprises that end up making you sneeze.

There are also ways to prepare your home to help keep allergens at bay when you have a dog. Be sure to launder your pets bed often, keep up with their grooming, and consider not letting your dog sleep on your bed. Its also helpful to remove heavy carpets and drapes that can trap dander. Vacuum cleaners for pet hair and pet air purifiers also help remove allergens, and some can even groom the hair and dander right from your dog.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is known for being aloof and dignified. They require regular exercise and grooming. They should be bathed and brushed twice a week.

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is a lively, friendly, and intelligent companion. The breed does well with children and is also good for city dwellers due to their minimal exercise needsregular walks and indoor playtime will do. They also need regular bathing and nail trimming.

Bedlington Terrier

The gentle, loveable Bedlington Terrier is known for its curly, wooly coat that resembles a lambs. The breed doesnt need intense exerciseregular playtime and daily walks will do.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a naturally gentle, happy, playful dog that loves activity. The Bichons hair continually grows and doesnt shed, so regular grooming is important to prevent mats.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is an alert, playful dog that thrives on human companionship. They are small and do well in families with gentle children. Cresteds shed little to no hair.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small, hardy dog that is happy, eager to please, and loyal. The breed gets along well with other dogs and children. Their long coat requires daily grooming.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is intelligent and can be territorial, naturally feeling protective of their family. The breed needs a lot of exercise and loves having a job to do. They require regular grooming.

Irish Water Spaniel

This strong, intelligent breed is the clown of the spaniel family. Irish Water Spaniels are active and energetic, needing daily exercise. Their water-repellant double coat requires brushing every few weeks.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is energetic and fun-loving. The breed enjoys being part of an active family that can provide daily exercise. Their coats need regular brushing and trimming.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolois a happy dog with tons of energy, needing plenty of activity. They are affectionate and devoted to their owners. Their thick curly coat is similar to that of a Poodle. They require trimming and regular brushing to prevent mats.

Maltese

Though small, the Maltese is known for being brave, playful, and fearless. They have long, silky white hair that needs to be brushed daily to prevent mats.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer has a natural protective nature that makes them a great watchdog. The breed is smart and cheerful. They adapt well to different living environments, and their double coat requires clipping.

Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)

The Peruvian Inca Orchid can be hairless or coated (the hairless variety does well with allergy sufferers). They also come in three different sizes (small, medium, and large). The breed is loyal and protective of its family. They also have a great deal of energy, needing regular activity. They have minimal grooming needs.

Poodle

The Poodle comes in three size varieties (Standard, Miniature, and Toy).The breed is exceptionally smart and active, needing daily exercise. Their trademark coat requires regular professional grooming.

Portuguese Water Dog

An athletic breed, the Portuguese Water Dogneeds vigorous daily exercise and would do best with a very active family. PWDs are intelligent, loyal workers. Their waterproof coat requires regular maintenance.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

This happy dog is active and needs plenty of exercise daily. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier adapts well to city, country, or suburban living, and does well with children. They have a silky, soft coat that needs regular grooming to prevent mats.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a lively, hardworking dog with natural protective instincts. They are a high-energy breed that does best with an active family. They require little grooming for their curly, wooly coat. No brushing is needed, but at least once a year, they should be shaved down.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a sociable, affectionate breed that has a fondness for kids. They are athletic dogs that need daily exercise. Their beard and leg hair should be brushed often to prevent mats.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard). They also come in two varieties, hairless and coated. The hairless has smooth, tough, protective skin and the coated has a short, flat coat. Theyre calm, tranquil, and attentive, and can also be aloof. They have moderate exercise and grooming needs.

Choosing a Purebred Dog for People With Allergies

With all of these purebred dogs with predictable coat types, shedding, and dander levels to choose from, theres no reason for people with allergies to avoid getting a dog that works for their lifestyle (and their immune system). You can learn more about the activity levels, size, sociability, trainability, and types of sports these breeds may excel at by visiting our AKC.org breed pages, or using our Dog Breed Selector to see which of these less-allergenic dog breeds might be the perfect choice for you.