best hypoallergenic dogs for kids with allergies

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

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.

10 Most Popular Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for People and Kids with Allergies

8. Explore treatment options

There are many different treatments for allergies. While many children grow out of allergies as they get older, these types of situations are more frequent with food allergies. Many children who are allergic to dogs will stay allergic to them even into adulthood. If the child is only mildly allergic, medical treatment may seem like overkill, and its often advisable to try the above methods before resorting to treatment. Its important to remember that you cannot cure a child of allergies. However, for children with moderate to severe allergies, there are treatments available that can limit their allergic reaction and allow them to live harmoniously with dogs.

Allergy shots (also known as immunotherapy)

These are a popular option, though they require commitment and expense. The child will need to go to the allergist on a regular basis to receive these shots. There are two phases to immunotherapy treatment. The first is the build up phase, in which the child will receive injections frequently to build up their immunity. The length of this initial phase varies, but it can last anywhere from three to six months. After the build up phase comes to the maintenance phase, in which the child will need to go to the allergist once or twice a month to receive the injections. Its important to take into consideration how cooperative your child will be- no kid likes getting shots! Though they may be begging for a dog, the prospect of bi-weekly injections may change their (and your!) mind. Allergy shots are frequently, but not always, covered by insurance.

There are many over the counter medications that children can take to combat allergy symptoms. They are most commonly antihistamines. These drugs, which often come in two varieties (one for kids and one for adults), sometimes have mild side effects, such as drowsiness or hyperactivity. While many people take allergy medication for seasonal allergies, like pollen allergies that get worse during the warmer months, many people wont want to give their children medication year round to treat pet allergies. Consult your pediatrician before committing to any medication regime, and think carefully about the potential side effects of any long term medication, even something as simple as allergy meds.

9. Consider another type of pet

While this is the least palatable option, some children are simply too allergic to dogs to enjoy living with them. There are many delightful pets in the animal kingdom including cats, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, lizards, snakes, mice, and gerbils. If your child is allergic to all of the above (which is unlikely but not impossible) consider a beautiful aquarium full of fish, which can be artistic, soothing, and fun! It can be very disappointing for a child who loves dogs not to be able to have one, but there is nothing more unpleasant than getting a puppy only to have to find it another home when the child has a severe allergic reaction. If you suspect your child may be allergic, its good to test them early before committing to any pet (and its the responsible thing to do for the animal, as well!)

Many children will eventually ask for a puppy. And who can blame them? Dogs bring joy, love, affection, and fun into the family and are a great source of unconditional love. If your kid has allergies, however, the fun will likely be short lived unless you take the proper precautions. Researching and choosing a good hypoallergenic dog breed, and keeping them clean is your first priority. Make sure air filters are installed and consider the possibility of medical treatment to combat allergies are all good ideas that may make it possible to bring a pup into a home.

20 of the Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids to Consider Adopting

Last Updated on April 24, 2023

Owning a dog is a huge responsibility, especially for kids. If your child is responsible and has the time to care for and play with the dog, then kids should absolutely have a canine companion.

One of the best dogs to get for kids is a hypoallergenic dog. Not only is it less shedding for you, but it helps with allergies.

A West Highland White Terrier and a girl at a park

Are you curious to learn more? Then keep reading.

What Does it Mean if a Dog is Classified as Hypoallergenic?

Did you know that no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic? Hypoallergenic means that if an allergic reaction is triggered, the response will be less intense.

Hypoallergenic dogs shed little to no fur. This means that there will be less dander.

However, oftentimes, pet allergies come from the dander or saliva. Allergies occur when your immune system acts strongly again a foreign substance.

In the case of pets, its usually dander. Dander is the skin cells that animals shed. When they shed, it gets caught in their fur and hair, which ends up all over your furniture and clothes.

If you think you or a family member has pet allergies, see if they have these symptoms.

For example, allergy sufferers may have a skin rash or itchy hives, coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, a runny nose, watery eyes, nasal congestion, or chest or throat tightening or swelling.

Regardless, non-shedding dogs are your best bet if you have dog allergies but still want to add a furry friend to your home.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Ideal for Kids with Allergies

If you have kids that have pet allergies, then consider getting them a hypoallergenic dog. These are great dogs that will make an awesome best friend for your child.

There are many hypoallergenic pups to help keep your kids allergies at bay, and their low-shedding will keep your house cleaner, too.

Small Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Kids

What is the most child-friendly small dog breed for kids thats also considered hypoallergenic? First, lets talk about some small dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and great with children.

1. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is one of the more popular dog breeds for allergies. This pup is good with kids and has plenty of energy.

They love to play, especially with the children. The Bichon Frise is happy and enjoys doing activities with their family. You can clip their coat short, which will further decrease the dander.

2. Miniature Schnauzer

Not only are Miniature Schnauzers cute, but they are hypoallergenic, great for people with allergies, and awesome with kids. Dog owners will surely love this pooch.

In addition, this dog breed is a great watchdog. They may be wary of strangers and bark at them, but theyre not aggressive pups.

3. Havanese

The Havanese is another small dog breed thats great with children. In addition, if you have other pets in your house, then the Havanese will get along just fine with them.

While they are prone to separation anxiety and may bark a lot, this pooch makes a great pet for an apartment and will be the perfect lap dog for any dog lover.

4. West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland West Terrier, also known as Westies, is a delight to have in any home. They do not shed much and enjoy having fun with their humans.

This dog breed is also another one thats great with children, as long as the kids know how to play with dogs and treat them with respect properly.

5. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are sweet dog thats doesnt shed much, making them hypoallergenic. They also enjoy spending time with kids.

However, they have a silky coat that requires some grooming. Even though they dont shed much, you want to ensure their coat doesnt get tangled and knotted.

6. Basenji

The Basenji is a small hound thats hairless, making them odorless and non-shedders. Its an intelligent breed thats alert and energetic. Theyll do well with lots of exercise and playtime.

This pooch is a great family dog, though they will do better with older children. The best part is that they barely bark, being known as the Barkless Dog.

7. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are a small dog breed thats active, low-maintenance, and loves to play. They dont bark much, so theyre relatively quiet pups.

This pooch will need weekly regular grooming thanks to its bushy coat. But dont let that coat fool you. This little dog is low-shedding, giving them hypoallergenic status.

8. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso, despite its small size, was bred to be a guard dog. Therefore, their hypoallergenic coat will need regular brushing, about once a week. However, they have short dog hair and will shed minimally.

This doggo is calm, but they enjoy their playtime and can have a lot of energy. Theyre protective but will only bark when necessary.

9. Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier has coarse hair, so they dont shed too much. This is an ideal doggo for allergy sufferers. They have fearless personalities but also know how to have a good time. Theyll make a great family dog.

10. Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier is hypoallergenic, and theyre a family-friendly canine companion. They are independent, energetic, and smart, making training a breeze.

In addition, they have a low-maintenance coat thats wiry and doesnt shed much.

11. Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier may be independent and stubborn, but they make great pets. This pooch is happy to lounge on your couch. They have a wiry coat that wont shed too much, and theyll get along fine with children.

12. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a calm breed. This small pup doesnt require a lot of exercise. Theyll enjoy a daily walk with you, but they dont need much more than that. They are great with kids and gentle.

In addition, this doggo is soft, resembling a lamb, with their curly, woolly coat that doesnt shed.

13. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested pooch is an alert pup that craves human attention. These small dogs are playful and will love to join in on activities with the family. They make great family pets as theyre gentle with children. In addition, they shed little to no hair.

14. Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulears are happy dogs that are eager to please, easy to train, and loyal. Not only do they get along well with kids, but theyll also get along well with other dogs and pets in the house.

They do have a long coat that requires daily grooming, but it wont shed too much.

Medium-Sized Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids

Next, lets discuss some medium-sized dog breeds that are great for kids and great for their allergies.

15. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs dont shed much, and theyre great with kids.

This pooch has a curly coat, similar to the Standard Poodle. They require a bit of grooming, but they barely shed, so this pooch is considered hypoallergenic and will help your child breathe easier.

16. Spanish Water Dog

If youre an active family with kids, then look no further than the Spanish Water Dog. This doggo has high energy levels and will thrive going on adventures and exercising with you.

This hypoallergenic pooch is great with kids, protective, and requires little to no grooming, except once a year.

17. Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is another dog breed that will do well in any home. They come in other sizes, such as the Miniature Schnauzer or Giant Schnauzer as well.

They enjoy being around children and will love to play with them. This pooch is athletic and can be energetic, so theyll need daily exercise and playtime.

18. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli can come in three different sizes, such as toy, miniature, and standard.

They can also be hairless or coated. So, you can choose which one will best suit your household if you want to bring this pup home.

This pup is calm, attentive, and has moderate exercise and grooming needs.

19. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are a delight for any family to have. These pups are happy as can be, adapt well to any lifestyle, and theyre great with children.

They have a silky coat that needs to be groomed regularly to avoid tangles, but it wont shed much. In addition, theyre an energetic breed that will need regular exercise.

Large Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids

Finally, lets take a look at some of the large dog breeds. These awesome pups are great for kids, and theyre hypoallergenic.

20. Irish Water Spaniel

Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent and considered to be the silliest of all the Spaniels. However, they are active and energetic, so theyll need plenty of playtime and exercise to tire themselves out.

This pooch has a curly double coat thats water-resistant and sheds very little.

Other Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids

If none of the dogs on this list tickle your fancy, then there are plenty of other hypoallergenic dog breeds. You can check out some of these other breeds below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Would the best hypoallergenic small dog not trigger an allergy?

Since no dog is purely hypoallergenic, allergies may still be triggered. However, if you get a hypoallergenic small dog breed, that trigger may be less.

Allergies are caused by dander, which is dead skin cells. A small dog, given its size, has less hair or fur to shed and should spread less dander, too.

Where can you find a hypoallergenic dog?

You can easily find hypoallergenic dogs through a local shelter. You can give them a call and visit certain dogs to see if you have an allergic reaction to them.

Alternatively, if any of the breeds on this list jump out at you, you can search breed-specific rescues. This is a great way to give a dog a great home, and theyre safe for you as well.

You can also look up reputable breeders if youre looking for a puppy. A good breeder will know whether or not the dog is hypoallergenic and how their grooming needs need to be met.

How do you choose the right hypoallergenic dog for you?

There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right hypoallergenic dog for you and your family.

First, consider the size of your home. Then, choose a dog that can adapt to your lifestyle and the environment you dwell in.

For example, some dogs are better suited in a house with a fenced-in yard, while others will do just fine in a quiet apartment.

Also, consider your family members. Not all dog breeds are well-suitable for children or elderly members.

For example, some pups will do okay with older children, but they wont do well with toddlers. Of course, you should always supervise your dog and children playing together. In addition, they should be well-trained and socialized.

Next, think about the time you spend with your dog.

For example, if you work all day and your dog is home alone, they may be prone to separation anxiety. Alternatively, high-energy dog breeds need a certain amount of exercise, attention, and playtime throughout the day.

Did you know that some dogs shed seasonally while others may shed all year round? When choosing a pup, consider the shedding levels.

If they shed all year round or seasonally, how much will they shed? Hypoallergenic dogs typically shed little to no fur at all.

Finally, think about your dogs purpose. Each breed belongs to a group, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). For example, some groups are Hounds, Sporting, Herding, and more.

Working dogs, for instance, typically have high energy levels and require a lot of exercise and physical and mental stimulation. If you cant meet their energy needs, you might want to consider a low-energy dog breed.

What are the worst dogs for allergies?

Some dog breeds are great for kids, but they are not considered hypoallergenic. In other words, theyre not good for your childrens allergies.

Some of these dog breeds are ones that shed a lot and drool a lot, getting dander and saliva all over the house.

So, for example, Golden Retrievers, Saint Bernards, and Labrador Retrievers might not be a good fit if you need a hypoallergenic pup.

On the other hand, hypoallergenic dogs arent great with kidsfor example, the Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkies), or Kerry Blue Terriers.

How can you help a child live with allergies to dogs?

Even if you have a hypoallergenic dog at home, allergens can still be around the house. However, you can make living with allergies seem like your allergy-free by doing a couple of things.

First, choose the right hypoallergenic dog breed for you. For example, small dogs cause fewer allergies than large dogs because they have less fur to shed.

Additionally, you can keep the dog out of rooms you frequently go to.

While it doesnt seem ideal to keep your doggo out of your bedroom, it will undoubtedly allow less hair to get on your bed sheets so you can sleep soundly at night.

Give your pooch their own space. Your dog should have a crate or bed to sleep in or a safe space to rest during the day. This will also control their dander a bit if they spend a lot of time in that area.

In addition, get your pup regularly groomed. Whether you do it yourself or bring them to the groomers, your dog should get a good clean frequently. It will keep the shedding at bay but also keep their skin and coat clean and healthy.

Another thing you can do is have no carpet in your house. Dander and dog hairs can get stuck in the carpet, making it hard to clean.

Again, hardwood flooring is the best way to go unless you have the time to shampoo your rug regularly.

Finally, you can get a HEPA(high-efficiency particulate air). This is a special air conditioner that will keep allergens under control and make your house feel allergy-free.

Which Breed Makes Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids?

So, which dog breed thats hypoallergenic do you think is right for you and your family? If you can meet the grooming requirements and the exercise needs of some of these dog breeds, then theyre worth looking into.

The dogs on this list are kid-friendly, adorable, and wont leave their fur or hair all over your clothes and furniture.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, they can certainly help with allergies. This way, you and your family can enjoy a fun canine companion. Theyll be your childs best friend.

Do you have a hypoallergenic dog breed at home? Let us know in the comments below!