best hypoallergenic non shedding dog

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.

38 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds (Recommended for Allergic People!)

Are you looking for the best non-shedding dog breeds to get for allergy sufferers like you (or a family member?)

That's what I wrote this article for!

As a fellow allergic dog lover, I can attest that my toy poodle hasn't triggered any harmful reactions yet. (Yes, poodles are allergy-friendly!)

In this article, you'll find:

Let's get started!

38 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds

Non-shedding dog breeds are basically dogs that don't shedat least not as much as other breeds do.

And not only they're the best options for people with dog allergies, but they also require minimal grooming attention!

What's not to love, right?

Let's start off the list with one of the most recognizable dog breeds around the world!

1. Toy Poodle

At the top of our list of low-shedding dogs is everyones favorite loving, playful rascal.

Poodles are not only low-shedding dogs but they're also lauded as among the most intelligent dog breeds out there.

Very prone to training, very talkative, and very loyal, these non-shedding dog breeds are prime best friend material.

And yes you can forget about the shedding.

Breed Overview:

2. Affenpinscher

This German Terrier breed (pinscher means terrier in German) is another bundle of cuteness.

Originally bred as rat hunters, these dogs retain their hunting instincts which makes them great guard dogs.

However, Affenpinschers are also brilliant, playful, and loving and make amazing apartment pets.

Breed Overview:

3. Miniature Schnauzer

Schnauzers are rightfully famous for their big hearts and seemingly unending energy.

And they are much more, too a Schnauzer loves to be the center of attention.

But this non-shedding dog breed is also exceptionally intelligent, so they fill that center easily.

A Schnauzer lives to please and needs a ton of mental and physical stimulation dont let them get bored.

Breed Overview:

4. Saluki

Saluki dogs are both one of the oldest dog breeds known to man approximately 6,000 years old and are also the fastest dogs globally, surpassing other sighthounds like Greyhounds.

These non-shedding dog breeds are very calm and gentle.

They are brilliant and quite elegant as well they require a lot of soft surfaces and comfort, but to repay you for that, they wont shed on said surfaces.

Breed Overview:

5. Irish Terrier

Another iconic breed, Irish Terriers, makes for the best guard dogs and an ideal choice for dogs that shed the least.

More than that, Irish Terriers are also excellent athletes and make for both a great competition dog as well as a great sports buddy.

As fearless as they are when they guard your home, theyll have nothing but love in their big hearts toward you.

Breed Overview:

6. Maltese

The definition of cuteness, a Maltese will love and crave your company and presence more than any other animal or person in the world.

Itll reward your company with an endless supply of love and affection.

But its more than just a cuddle buddy, too.

This non-shedding dog breed is famously intelligent and loves games and tricks.

Breed Overview:

7. Kerry Blue Terrier

Yet another Terrier, the Kerry Blue, is a working dog bred primarily for herding and guarding.

As such, they are not just great guard dogs for your home but also a knowledgeable and friendly companion.

All that, coupled with their distinctive, beautiful look, makes them a great pet for many people.

Breed Overview:

8. Shih Tzu

A literally created dog to be your best friend, the Shih Tzu, will always be by your side and will always try to make you smile.

Gorgeous and cute, as they are intelligent and funny, these non-shedding dog breeds make for amazing pets.

Its no surprise why they are among the most popular dog breeds in the world.

Breed Overview:

9. Standard Poodle

Another classical breed, the Standard Poodle, is known for its quick feet and quick mind.

An intelligent athlete, the Poodle makes for an amazing play partner they love to run, play, and learn tricks, and theyll do all that without shedding almost any hair in your home.

Breed Overview:

10. Scottish Terrier

On the almost opposite spectrum of Poodles, Scottish Terriers are not the best athletes.

They are also not just intelligent but wickedly intelligent to the point that they really dislike training.

A Scottish Terrier does what it wants, but fortunately, one of the key things it wants is to be by your side and make you happy.

Breed Overview:

11. Australian Silky Terrier

Named precisely after their gorgeous, silky coat, the Australian Silky Terrier is also one of the very low shedding dogs.

Very loving and cuddly dogs, but also quite active Silky Terriers dont like being bored and can get destructive when left alone.

When they are with you, however, theyll be your best friends.

Breed Overview:

12. Irish Water Spaniel

A retrieving dog, the Irish Water Spaniel loves water almost as much as it loves people. Very funny and smart.

These dogs live to please you and are great training buddies.

And while theyll keep you busy, you should keep them busy too they require quite a lot of exercise.

Breed Overview:

RELEVANT READ:Most Popular Irish Dog Breeds

13. Cairn Terrier

Yes, Toto from The Wizard of Oz made our list as well maybe non-shedding is magical?

However, aside from non-shedding, Cairn Terriers have much more to offer very intelligent and loyal.

A Cairn will follow you everywhere and do its best to help you however it can.

Breed Overview:

14. West Highland White Terrier

Another white bundle of love, the West Highland White Terrier or the Westie can be a bit of mischief, so dont let these non-shedding dog breeds get bored.

They are very playful and intelligent and will repay your attention and time with many fun times and love.

Breed Overview:

15. Brussels Griffon

An exceptionally loyal companion, the Brussels Griffon can even be loyal to a fault and distrust strangers.

Among the dogs that shed the least, they dont get along with kids too well since they can be moody.

However, a Griffon shows nothing but love and attention toward you as long as you repay him in kind.

Breed Overview:

16. Wheaten Terrier

Another fun-loving breed, the Wheaten Terrier, loves to run and play both outside and indoors.

A Wheaten will shower you with attention, but these non-shedding dog breeds also love to cuddle and nap on your feet.

Breed Overview:

RELEVANT READ: 30 Most Lazy Dog Breeds Perfect for a Couch Potato Owner

17. Chinese Crested

Definitely not your typical dog; the Chinese Crested, however, is also a very non-shedding dog.

In addition to that and their unique appearance, the Crested love their owners and family and distrust strangers and children.

And being almost naked they are not good dogs for cold climates.

Breed Overview:

18. Lakeland Terrier

A scent hound, the Lakeland Terrier, makes for a great watchdog.

They also have a huge capacity for energy and are ready to burst into play at any second.

That, coupled with their impressive intelligence, makes for great pals, and their undying love for their family turns them into amazing pets.

Breed Overview:

19. Basenji

One of the more independent, non-shedding dog breeds on this list, this short-haired pooch, comes from the Congo.

Basenjis do great on their own and can even be stubborn in training, but they do love attention and require a lot of playtime with their owner every day.

Breed Overview:

20. Yorkshire Terrier

Another attention-grabber, Yorkies are one of the most famous dog breeds in the world for a reason.

They may be small, but their personality is enormous only towards their owner.

Yorkshire Terriers can be very focused on their love and often mistrust strangers, other dogs, kids, and even other family members.

Breed Overview:

21. Coton De Tulear

Widely known as a Velcro dog, the Coton De Tulear is the almost perfect lap dog.

Similar to the Maltese, but much calmer and cuddlier, Coton De Tulear still needs daily walks and playtime, of course, but during the rest of the day, they will be happiest in your lap.

Breed Overview:

22. Giant Schnauzer

A Miniature Schnauzer in every aspect other than size, the Giant Schnauzer is a former working dog.

These non-shedding dog breeds need a lot of mental stimulation training, playtime, tricks, etc.

As their smaller brethren, these giants are very loving and loyal companions with a heart that are as giant as they are.

Breed Overview:

23. Border Terrier

A former fox hunting dog, the Border Terrier, has an amazing hunting instinct. If there are squirrels in your nearby park, theyll soon learn to hate your furry friend.

A Border Terrier is much more than just a hunter. They're also very social, loving, and intelligent dogs.

Being one of the dogs that don't shed, they make great family pets as long as they also get the exercise and playtime they need.

Breed Overview:

24. Portuguese Water Dog

A retriever dog, the only thing the Portuguese Water Dog loves more than water is its owner.

Literally bred to please, these Water Dogs are very intelligent and loving and love to play with you until exhaustion.

Fortunately, you wouldn't worry about much hair fall after playing in the water with these dog breeds that don't shed.

Breed Overview:

25. Havanese

If you want a dog that will love you almost unnaturally, then you should consider a Havanese.

Small in size but enormous in heart, the Havanese will soak up your attention while you are there and compose the saddest songs and howl them to no end while you are away.

Breed Overview:

26. Airedale Terrier

A working dog like most Terriers, the Airedale was more specially bred for agility and swimming.

They are also the largest Terrier breed, which doesnt affect their agility one bit.

Other than that, they are precisely what youd expect from a terrier full of energy, highly intelligent, and extremely loyal and loving.

Breed Overview:

27. Bedlington Terrier

Dont be fooled by its lamb-like coat the Bedlington Terrier is as much of a hunting dog as a lot of its Terrier brethren.

Like all Terriers, these non-shedding dog breeds also make for an amazing guard dog and will shower you with love and with its seemingly endless playful energy.

Breed Overview:

28. Labradoodle

Labradoodles may surprise many people for being on this list many Labradoodles are not hypoallergenic and shed a lot.

Thats because while Poodles are non-shedding, Labradors shed quite a lot.

So whether or not a Labradoodle will shed is highly dependent on its ancestry.

However, if you get a 3rd generation Labradoodle and know that its parents and grandparents are non-shedding, this Labradoodle will be a very non-shedding dog.

And more than that, Labradoodles are great in many ways loving, playful, and very loyal. They make for amazing pets.

Breed Overview:

29. Standard Schnauzer

Like their bigger and smaller counterparts, the Standard Schnauzer is characterized by its huge heart's unlimited energy supply as well as being a dog that sheds the least.

They are also very gentle and affectionate dogs that are guaranteed to make your life brighter.

That is unless youve neglected them and theyve destroyed your furniture out of boredom.

Breed Overview:

30. Bichon Frise

The Bichon is a little bundle of cheerful joy that just so happens to be quite non-shedding.

Very affectionate and gentle, this ball of white goodness is sure to make you smile.

Breed Overview:

31. Komondor

You can be forgiven if you dont bet on the Komondor as a qualifier in a non-shedding dog list. Yet, here he is.

The Komondor love deeply and gently known as the dreads for his signature mop-like look.

However, while their coat doesnt shed much, these non-shedding dog breeds still require a lot of grooming and brushing since they quite literally act as a mop around the house.

Breed Overview:

32. Lhasa Apso

A truly royal dog, Lhasa Apso dogs were used as palace guards in Tibet.

And just as their heritage implies, they are proud and confident dogs.

That doesnt stop them from also being loyal and loving towards their owner.

However, it does mean that they are suspicious of strangers.

Breed Overview:

33. Bolognese

The Bolognese is easily mistaken for a Bichon or a Maltese, but it is a separate breed.

Intelligent dogs that love games and puzzles, the Bologneses main priority is still to be close to you.

And as long as they have your presence, attention, and gentle petting, theyll be happy, and theyll do their best to make you happy as well.

Breed Overview:

34. Tibetan Terrier

Another entry from Tibet and another Terrier, too the Tibetan is not an actual terrier, despite its name.

Called Tsang Apso (or Shaggy Dog) in their homelands language, the Tibetans were bred for working and herding, just like western terriers.

As such, they are intelligent, loyal, and loving towards their owner and family.

However, they are wary of strangers.

Breed Overview:

35. Bouvier Des Flandres

These non-shedding dog breeds are powerful and fearless, as they were bred for herding and working.

But today, they are considered to be great athletes.

They require a lot of exercise, as well as strong leadership and assertiveness from their owners.

Bouviers are very gentle, loyal, and loving friends.

Breed Overview:

36.Dandie Dinmont Terriers

Who could resist this breed, often referred to as just Dandies, This small terrier is similar in build to a dachshund with their short legs and long body.

This breed doesnt shed, but they do have a reasonable amount of energy.

If you have a large garden or like to go on plenty of walks, these non-shedding dogs may be right for you.

Breed Overview:

37. Afghan Hound

How can I include the Afghan Hound on my list of non-shedding dogs and not mention their luscious locks?

They are often discounted as a possible choice for allergy sufferers because of the sheer volume of their hair.

This often results in the misconception that they must shed copious amounts, but the opposite is true.

Breed Overview:

38. Hungarian Puli

If youre into dreadlocks, these non-shedding dogs may be just your style.

The Hungarian Puli is fiercely loyal and renowned for their guarding ability.

Its best to start their obedience training when theyre young, as theyre intelligent dogs that can get into mischief if they arent taught whats good and whats bad from the get-go.

Breed Overview:

The Truth about Hypoallergenic Dogs

Some may have labeled non-shedding dogs as hypoallergenics.

But the truth is, no dogs are 100% shed-free and hypoallergenic.

Non-shedding is only equal to low-shedding, which means they still shed but only so minimal that our naked eyes won't notice.

A study even stated that:

[There are] no statistically significant differences between reportedly hypoallergenic and nonhypoallergenic dogs

This means hypoallergenic breeds' can still trigger a persons allergies.

Hold up. I thought you said they're good for allergic people.

Well, yeah. I have allergies, and I cuddle with my poodle just fine.

The non-shedder dog breeds in this article are still the better choice for people with sensitivities because they may cause less possibility to create a reaction due to the type of coat that breed has, according to AKC's Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein.

And by the way, the dogs hair has nothing to do with your allergies. They are caused by the dogs dander and sometimes by its saliva or urine.

And yes, even coatless and hypoallergenic dogs have dander.

But some dogs are much more hypoallergenic than others, and regular grooming can further reduce dander to a much tolerable amount.

With regularly groomed low-shedders, you could have allergic reactions so mild that you wouldn't even notice it.

Otherwise, severe symptoms that you should be concerned about include:

• Rashes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Wheezing or dizziness

Either way, it's best to test out if your allergies are caused by dogs.

6 Tips for Living With Allergies and Dogs

If you're allergic, I'm sure your doctor (as mine have) explained from the get-go that allergies are incurable.

We can only manage our symptoms.

So if you're a fellow allergen sensitive-slash-dog lover like me, let me share with you tips I've learned through the years on how to live with both allergies and dogs safely.

1. Feed high-quality food to reduce shedding

This might not be the first thought to pop into your head when trying to come up with solutions to allergy symptoms.

But trust me, by feeding your dog a high-quality natural diet, their skin will be healthier and shed far less.

Be sure that the diet you choose includes omega fatty acids, even if you have non-shedding dogs.

Check out these foods you can feed them for a healthy and shiny coat.

2. Replace carpets with tiles or wooden flooring

Carpets will be the bane of your existence if you suffer from a pet allergy.

Theres just something about the texture and depth of a carpet that likes to trap and gradually disperse those pesky dog hairs and dander.

If you have the budget to replace your carpet with a nice hygienic tile or wooden floor, it will be worth it!

3. Wash your hands

Are you guilty of stroking your pet and then forgetting to wash your hands? Weve all been there.

But, for those suffering with an allergy, this can make the difference between a great day and a sneezy day.

A quick fix for this is to always have a bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket!

4. Invest in a quality air purifier with HEPA filters

An air purifier with a HEPA filter can benefit an allergic person with dogs by removing allergens such as pet hair, dander, and dust from the air.

HEPA filters are designed to capture small particles, including those that can trigger allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals.

5. Vacuum regularly!

This is a no-brainer but another way to lessen the fur and dander from spreading is to vacuum regularly.

In addition to vacuuming, other strategies for reducing dog dander and other allergens in your home include regular grooming of your dog, washing bedding and other fabrics in hot water.

6. Set up a dog-free zone

Find yourself still sneezing? Set up a dog-free zone!

That means having a room that is off-limits to your dog.

In my case, my ensuite bath and is my dog-free zone, where I also set up a small humidifier and purifier.

My poodles aren't allowed there, so when I'm starting to feel sniffly, I'd go there to calm my allergy.

Non-Shedding Dog Breeds: Before You Go

Just like choosing any pet, there are several things to consider. Most soon-to-be owners choose dogs that don't shed due to allergies or hygiene reasons.

The best thing about non-shedding dogs is that there is always a great option in every category.

As I said before, we all wish all dogs were low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs. But you have to weigh the pros and cons of each and find the dog that best fits your needs.

Do you want a smaller pooch?

Or a family-friendly canine?

Or perhaps a large low-shedding dog that is energetic?

Hopefully, this list of the best non-shedding dog breeds will help you find the ideal pooch for you!

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