They say a dog is man's best friend until it causes allergy symptoms. Well, they can still be your best friend, but the symptoms they bring aren't. Fortunately, certain dog breeds tend to cause fewer allergic symptoms.
Top 10 Best hypoallergenic dog breeds |
A common misconception is that there are truly hypoallergenic dogs that are completely safe for allergy sufferers. Dog-produced allergens that make you itch, sneeze, or sniffle are caused by their dander. Although there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, there are breeds that shed less. Dogs that shed less frequently also release less dander into the air, which means fewer allergens in your home to cause symptoms.
Hypoallergenic dog breeds for adoption
Although a dog may be considered hypoallergenic, that also does not mean that it is safe for you personally. Before bringing a puppy home, consider seeing an allergist to rule out any breeds you may be more sensitive to.
Below we have compiled a list of dogs that are considered safer for people with allergies.
If you want to adopt a dog but tend to manifest allergic reactions by having contact with a pet, you must choose a " hypoallergenic " breed. We have selected the top 10 hypoallergenic dogs of all breeds for you.
A dog said to be "hypoallergenic" is not a scientific truth. Indeed, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Nevertheless, some breeds would produce fewer allergenic agents thanks to their natural characteristics, so they are by definition less allergenic. These breeds will not save you 100% from allergic irritations, but the hairs, dead skin cells, and saliva will cause you much fewer problems. So your allergic attacks will not be as severe.
how to adopt a hypoallergenic dog?
Discover below the specificities of each of the breeds that make up our top 10 hypoallergenic dog breeds for adoption:
1. Poodle:
The Poodle is an active intelligent dog and is recognized for its elegance. Under its dense and curly coat, the Poodle loses few hairs and dead cells. It thus produces very few allergenic agents. An asset that will be perfect for people allergic to dog hair.
Top 10 Best hypoallergenic dog breeds |
2. Kerry Blue Terrier:
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a very sociable dog who can show unfailing loyalty to his master. Very friendly, it is a dog perfectly adapted to aller
gy sufferers since its coat does not shed hair and thus reduces your exposure to the allergenic agents responsible for your discomfort. His hair still requires regular baths.
3. Chinese crested dog:
This dog is suitable for those who suffer from severe allergic attacks. Indeed, the hairs are almost non-existent in this breed which considerably reduces the risks for people allergic to dog hair. On the other hand, this characteristic makes the dog particularly vulnerable to external aggressions such as rain, wind, or cold. It is therefore important to protect it against the latter.
4. Maltese Bichon:
This dog is an excellent pet that can easily live up to 15 years. He is sociable, affectionate, full of energy, and very intelligent. It is particularly suitable for allergy sufferers since its skin produces very few dead cells.
In addition, he almost does not salivate (the saliva of dogs can also contain allergens responsible for triggering allergies to the dog). Nevertheless, his fur requires a lot of maintenance and almost daily brushing, and several visits to the groomer every year.
5. Labradoodle (a cross between Poodle and Labrador-Retriever):
This dog crossed between the Labrador and the Poodle is very popular. It was created especially at the request of a visually impaired person in the 80s and allergic to dog hair. This person was looking for a service dog with the specificity of being hypoallergenic.
This is how breeders have tried to meet his request and that, no doubt, of many people in his situation. They then crossed a Labrador (for his assistant skills) with a Poodle (hypoallergenic breed - see above). Thus was born the Labradoodle which is therefore perfectly suitable for allergy sufferers.
6. Schnauzer:
The Schnauzer is recognized for being a solid and very energetic dog. Its hard coat is interesting since it molts very little and knows almost no losses. Ideal for allergy sufferers. However, be sure to take care of this precious hair with one brushing per week. He will return it to you very well.
7. Irish soft-haired terrier:
The Irish Soft-haired Terrier is a cheerful, mischievous, and energetic dog. But the particularity that interests us lies in its wavy hair which has no undercoat. By this characteristic, it loses little hair and the softness of the coat prevents it from getting tangled. Assets that will protect you from allergies to dogs. He will ask you (or not) only to perform a bi-weekly brushing to keep his hair in excellent condition.
8. Portuguese water dog:
This water dog is an excellent swimmer. But that's not really what makes it successful anymore. Indeed, its hypoallergenic character was popularized by the former President of the United States, Barack Obama. When he occupied the White House, the latter was looking for a hypoallergenic breed, because one of his daughters was allergic.
Top 10 Best hypoallergenic dog breeds |
9. Curly-haired bichon:
Formerly called the Tenerife Bichon, the curly-haired Bichon has fine, silky, flexible hair, but a little corkscrew, which is what makes the main physical characteristic of the breed. It has the advantage of losing very little hair, which makes it a so-called hypoallergenic dog.
Be careful, this particular hair requires very d
iligent care since it will have to be brushed very frequently and washed several times a year to avoid the appearance of knots.
10. Shih Tzu:
The Shih-Tzu is a great-looking dog, very playful and endowed with overflowing energy. If he is often pointed out for his stubbornness when it comes to obeying, he is a dog who learns only through fun. For allergy sufferers, it is an ideal dog since it does not shed hair. It produces very little dander (dead skin), so it is, therefore, a hypoallergenic dog.
Hypoallergenic dog breeds small
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
Even dog breeds considered hypoallergenic can trigger allergies in some people. What causes sneezing and wheezing? This is usually not the animal's fur.
It's actually a protein found in the saliva and urine of dogs and cats, notes American Kennel Club veterinarian Jerry Klein. “This protein sticks to the dead cells – the dander – of the animal's skin. Contrary to popular belief, no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, but some breeds are less so, and people who suffer from allergies seem to be fine with it.
What makes a dog less allergenic?
A hypoallergenic dog produces less dander because its fur sheds little. "Because these dogs shed little or no hair, there is no allergenic dander that floats in the air or falls to the ground like other dogs do," says Dr. Klein.
And in the same breed, you can have two individuals who have different levels of allergens.
- basenji: This compact dog has shiny short-haired fur and little shedding. It is usually enough to brush it once a week with a soft brush or with a rubber grooming mitt. the Basenji is a distinguished and intelligent dog. But he does need lots of exercise and training this canine that is as independent as a cat can be a challenge.
- Bichon Frize: Bichons have silky hair that constantly grows and they don't shed it. It should not be assumed that a hypoallergenic dog is necessarily easy to care for. Most veterinarians recommend that this breed of hypoallergenic dog needs regular constant brushing, monthly baths, and frequent grooming (with trimming). Personality-wise, Bichons adapt to family life and get along well with other dogs and children.
- Affenpinscher: He is a loyal, affectionate, and entertaining dog. He is small in stature and only needs moderate exercise, so he is a good lap dog. Its thick, medium-length fur is said to be hypoallergenic: a wise choice for those who suffer from allergies. However, it should be brushed twice a week.
- Cotton Tulear: This little white dog that looks like a cuddly toy is charming, intelligent, and a happy character. He is funny and likes to clown around: he can make unique sounds and walk on his hind legs. It is a hypoallergenic dog because it loses little hair and only rarely aggravates allergies.
- Maltese: Experts recommend brushing these hypoallergenic dogs daily and grooming them often to prevent tangles from forming in their long white fur. The Maltese adapt well; he is gifted for the guard and is not afraid of anything. He is an excellent athlete in agility exercises, and you will have fun with him.
- American Hairless Terrier: This curious and playful little dog is protective. He is a very good guard dog. The coat of the "hairless American terrier" has several color varieties. It is characterized by the absence of hair or very short hair. In both cases, grooming is minimal: once a week with a soft-bristle brush and the occasional bath.
- Shih Tzu: Loyal and playful, dogs of this small breed are particularly affectionate with children. Originally, they were bred to spend their days lying in palaces. They are great pets whether you live in an apartment or a house with a garden.
Top 10 Best hypoallergenic dog breeds |
Hypoallergenic dog breeds medium
Chinese crested dog: Are you looking for a playful, affectionate, devoted, and completely hypoallergenic dog? Here is this medium dog, something that is classified as one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds. He is very playful and loves the family and adapts to its habits.
Kerry Blue Terrier: The Kerry Blue Terrier is a lively, adaptable animal that is both guardian and companion. Most Kerry Blues want to be with their owner: they will follow you in all your activities. Therefore, they don't shed and are hypoallergenic, but they should be brushed thoroughly once a week and trimmed a little every four to six weeks.
Portuguese Water Dog: He is affectionate and adventurous, as well as athletic. The Portuguese Water Dog is perfect for active families. Its soft, thick, non-shedding fur is wavy or curly. It is considered hypoallergenic, but it is important to maintain it regularly so that it does not catch allergens in its path.
Puli (Hungarian Shepherd): This sheepdog works closely with humans and will appreciate an active family. He is agile, reliable, and learns quickly. If you put the Puli on your list, know that you will need time to train and groom him.
Irish Soft-Coated Terrier (Wheaten): This happy, friendly, and very devoted animal is a bit stubborn. Dogs of this breed make great companions for families who have time to train and lead active lifestyles.
The Wheaten has only one coat type, but it must be brushed often to prevent knots from forming.
big hypoallergenic dogs
Bedlington Terrier: The Bedlington Terrier has curly, woolly fur reminiscent of lamb. He sheds little hair, but his fur grows quickly and requires regular trimming.
The Bedlington Terrier has a sweet and endearing temperament: it is a fairly active dog that likes to capture the attention of the family. Extremely loyal, this hypoallergenic dog is very protective of those he loves.
Havanese: Its silky coat can display different colors. Most owners leave its fur in its natural state, but some people braid it into dreadlocks, as with Hungarian Shepherds (Puli).
You can also cut your hair to make grooming easier. In any case, the Havanese lose little hair. This adaptable, intelligent, outgoing, and sociable dog makes a very good city dog.
Irish Water Spaniel: He is a hunting dog, active and full of energy. This love-to-please breed is fairly easy to train, but puppies and youngsters need plenty of daily exercise. They are perfect for an active master or family. The maintenance of the Irish Water Spaniel is not demanding: it is enough to brush their hypoallergenic and water-repellent coats every two to three weeks and cut them every two months.
Poodle: Poodles are the epitome of hypoallergenic dogs. They have a lot of charm and some people happily choose crossbred poodles for this reason. But a purebred, whether large or miniature, with a coat that does not shed, is ideal for someone who suffers from allergies.
Schnauzer: If this bearded pooch appeals to you, you have three choices: miniature, standard, and giant. All three varieties are hypoallergenic. Schnauzers have two layers of coat. The first, close to the skin is soft and dense, and the second on top is rough. Daily brushing will prevent knots from forming, especially on the beard and on the sideburns.
Xoloitzcuintle: This is an ancient breed, the Mexican Hairless Dog or Xolo. You won't stop singing its praises if you have allergies. This breed can be hairless or hairless. Hairless dogs occasionally require a bath, followed by body lotion. Furry Xolos need regular brushing and combing.
Top 10 Best hypoallergenic dog breeds |
Best hypoallergenic dog breeds by size
Small hypoallergenic dogs include Hairless American Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frize, Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, Chinese Crested, Bedlington Terrier, Yorkshire, Coton de Tulear, Basenji, Bichon Havanese, and the Maltese.
Large hypoallergenic dogs include the Portuguese Water Dog, Giant Schnauzer, Standard Poodles, Afghan Hound, and Irish Water Spaniel.
low-maintenance hypoallergenic dogs
When people talk about "hypoallergenic" pets, it simply means that the pet is less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. The truth is that no dog is completely safe for allergy sufferers.
Even puppies that don't shed still produce saliva and dander that can cause reactions. However, some dogs shed less and also shed less dander. So if your allergies are mild, it might be easy for you to manage one of these dogs.
But it's worth doing some research before bringing your new best friend home. Spend some time with a pet before adopting it to ensure there will be no adverse reaction.
Another thing to note is that many dog breeds that don't shed still need regular brushing and bathing to keep them happy and healthy. So if you can't do it without sneezing a storm, that's something to consider in your decision. From large dogs that will accompany you on your errands to smaller breeds that are happy to lay on the couch, these are some of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for every person.
Dogs that don't shed:
- Maltese
- Lhasa
- apso
- Bolognese
- Xoloitzcuintli
- Pouli
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Lowchen
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- afghan hound
- Cairn terrier
- Hairless American Terrier
Bolognese: These affectionate little dogs will be happy to spend a lazy afternoon on the couch with you. They don't require as much exercise as some other breeds. They are also low maintenance when it comes to grooming, as their white fur does not shed much.
Lhasa Apso: They may be happy little puppies, but they were originally bred as guard dogs for Buddhist palaces and monasteries. These dogs are known for their gorgeous coats that can grow long enough to reach the ground if you decide to keep their coat long which requires a lot of brushing.
Irish Water Spaniel: Irish Spaniels claim victory for the largest of the AKC spaniels, reaching 60cm, midway between medium and large dogs. They are distinguished by their curly, waterproof, and hypoallergenic coat.
Lowchen: These adorable dogs are tiny but brave. Löwchen, which means "little lion" in German, is a popular breed in continental Europe. They are known to be lively, and courageous as lions and love cuddles. They just need a good brushing every few days.