best low maintenance hypoallergenic dog
7 Easy Hypoallergenic Dogs That Are Practically No-Maintenance
Are you looking for easy hypoallergenic dogs that dont shed much (or better yet, at all)?
You might if you have pet allergies, but you cant imagine your life without a dog.
Fortunately, Ive got 7 low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs that dont require much grooming.
Just keep on reading.
7 Easy Hypoallergenic Dogs That Dont Require Much Maintenance
Lets make a couple of things clear. Theres no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog breed.
If sometimes tries to sell you that, theyre trying to cheat you.
People arent allergic to dog fur. Theyre allergic to their dander, saliva, and urine.
These contain proteins that oversensitive immune systems consider a treat.
However, some dog breeds shed little dander, and thats why people call them hypoallergenic.
But not all hypoallergenic dogs are low-maintenance.
If we take some small, hypoallergenic dogs, such as Yorkies and Shih Tzu, they require a lot of care to keep their silky coat tangle-free.
As such, for this list of low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs, Ive selected breeds that require minimal grooming and bathing.
#1 Poodle
When you look at the gorgeous coat of a Poodle, you assume that youll need to spend hours maintaining it.
While Poodles look hard to groom, you can trim, shave, or clip their wiry, dense coat in whatever shape is easiest for you to manage.
Moreover, Poodles are a non-shedding breed, so you wont spend hours removing dog hair from your furniture or clothes.
Thats what makes Poodles an excellent choice for people with allergies and one of the best dogs for neat freaks.
Still, Poodles require daily brushings to remove trapped fur, or its going to tangle.
Moreover, youll have to go to a professional groomer to have their coat trimmed short or learn to do it by yourself.
On the plus side, Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and are very easy to train.
They enjoy learning tricks and excel at the show ring with their aristocratic manners and proud stature.
#2 Xoloitzcuintli
The Mexican Hairless dog, also known as Xoloitzcuintli, is another low-maintenance hypoallergenic dog.
Since they have no fur or a very short one, Xoloitzcuintli is one of the most hypoallergenic breeds and require minimal grooming.
All you need to do is bathe them every couple of weeks and wash their paws weekly.
Another good thing about these dogs is that they tend to clean themselves like cats.
So, theyre neat and wont get fur all over your house.
However, they need protection from the sun since they dont have any hair to cover their bodies.
Furthermore, Xoloizcuintili has moderate exercise needs and a calm personality that makes them the perfect breed for busy people.
The Mexican Hairless is also one of the healthiest breeds since they go back to pre-Columbian civilization.
Theyre very protective of their family but aloof of strangers, so they make excellent watchdogs.
#3 American Hairless Terrier
Another hairless dog that is perfect for people with allergies is the American Hairless Terrier.
Originating in Louisiana, these dogs have the typical terrier characteristics minus the fur.
Theyre playful, curious, alert, and they make excellent vermin hunters and watchdogs.
While this breed has coated and hairless varieties, both have minimal grooming needs.
You just have to make sure that your American Hairless Terrier is protected from the elements and that you bathe them occasionally.
Furthermore, American Hairless Terriers have moderate exercise needs and do well with regular daily walks.
These unique Terriers are also highly-trainable and excel at different canine activities.
#4 Bolognese
At first glance, its hard to believe that Bolognese dogs are hypoallergenic.
However, these white, fluffy pooches shed minimally and shouldnt bother people with allergies as much as other breeds.
Besides their non-shedding coats, you can trim your Bologneses fur short so that its easy to maintain and leave the hair untrimmed only around their head.
These fluffy dogs also need an occasional bath to keep their fluffy coat spotless.
The Bolognese also has moderate exercise needs and adapts well to apartments.
Theyre calm, easygoing, and friendly. Moreover, theyre one of the healthiest small dogs and make excellent companions.
However, they are excellent manipulators and might be hard to housetrain.
So, dont give in to their adorable looks. They will rule the household if you allow them too much freedom.
#5 Portuguese Water Dog
Since the Portuguese Water Dog is a relative to Poodles, you shouldnt be surprised that theyre on our list of easy hypoallergenic dogs.
While these furry dogs require several weekly brushing sessions, they shed little because they dont have an undercoat.
You can have their coats trimmed monthly to make it easy to groom and manage your allergies.
In addition to this, Portugal Water Dogs are highly intelligent, and with proper training, theres nothing that these dogs cant do.
Theyre excellent family companion dogs and love swimming.
#6 Irish Water Spaniel
Another dog that loves water and swimming, the Irish Water Spaniel is also a suitable medium-sized hypoallergenic breed for allergy suffers.
While these dogs have a thick, double coat, they almost dont shed.
They do fine with weekly brushings and hair trimming every two months. Since they enjoy water, bathing them wont be a chore.
Irish Water Spaniels are also the perfect easy hypoallergenic dog for busy people, because they rarely bark, adapt well to different living situations, and dont mind being alone.
They also make excellent watchdogs because theyre naturally aloof of strangers.
However, the Irish Water Spaniel is an energetic dog and requires a bit more exercise than the other dogs on this list.
These adorable dogs can also be quite stubborn and independent, so they might not be the best choice for first-time owners.
#7 Lwchen
Known as the little lion, the Lwchen is a heart-melting small dog with a fierce personality.
Despite their long coats, the Lwchen requires minimal grooming and will do fine if you brush them two-three times a week.
Moreover, they need an occasional bath to keep their long fur clean.
The Lwchen is an easy hypoallergenic dog also because theyre mellow, calm, and friendly.
All they need to be happy and content is to be around you and be part of your life.
In fact, these little lions might bond so strongly to their owners that theyre prone to separation anxiety.
No matter what hypoallergenic dog breed you choose, youll have to brush, bathe, and trim their nails.
Proper grooming is essential for your dogs health and to reduce the dander around the house.
So, dont confuse low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs with dogs that dont need any grooming.
What do you think about these 7 low-maintenance easy hypoallergenic dogs? Do you agree or disagree with our list? Share below!
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Ive grown up surrounded by animals dogs, cats, cows, goats, sheep, and horses and that has shaped me into what I am today a crazy cat lady who always has a place for one more cat (or a dog). Ive got two female cats Kitty and Roni, and two tomcats Blacky and Shaggy, but I also feed my neighbors cats when they come for a visit. I just cant say no to them.
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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.