Two Bernese Mountain Dogs Lying on Floor

What Dogs Are Hypoallergenic? Hypoallergenic dogs are breeds that produce fewer allergens, making them more suitable for people with allergies.

These breeds tend to have non-shedding coats or produce less dander, which is the main cause of pet-related allergies.

Examples of hypoallergenic dogs include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, and more.

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

The term “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean a dog won’t cause allergies at all, but rather that they produce fewer allergens compared to other breeds.

Allergens in dogs come primarily from dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine.

Hypoallergenic dogs often have coats that trap dander and reduce shedding, meaning fewer allergens are present in the environment.

Many hypoallergenic dogs are low-shedding, which helps reduce the amount of fur and dander spread around the home.

Breeds like Poodles and their mixes, such as Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, are known for being low-shedding and hypoallergenic.

Additionally, dogs with curly or coarse coats, like the Bichon Frise and Portuguese Water Dog, tend to trap dander more effectively, making them less likely to trigger allergic reactions.

Learn more about dog hair types and allergens on Wikipedia.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Here are seven hypoallergenic dog breeds that are known for producing fewer allergens, making them a great choice for those with allergies:

  • Poodle: Poodles, whether standard, miniature, or toy, are well-known for their hypoallergenic coats. Their curly hair traps dander, and they shed very little, making them a top choice for allergy sufferers. Poodles vary in size, from toy (small) to standard (large), and can live for 12-15 years with proper care. They require regular grooming to maintain their curly, non-shedding coat.
  • Bichon Frise: The Bichon Frise is a small breed with a soft, curly coat that sheds minimally, making it another excellent hypoallergenic option. Bichons are known for their cheerful personalities and easy-to-care-for coats. They live around 14-15 years, and regular grooming helps maintain their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat.
  • Shih Tzu: The Shih Tzu has a long, flowing coat that doesn’t shed much, which makes it a good choice for allergy sufferers. This small breed requires frequent grooming to keep its hypoallergenic hair tangle-free. Shih Tzus live for 10-16 years and are known for their affectionate nature, making them ideal lap dogs.
  • Portuguese Water Dog: The Portuguese Water Dog, known for its curly or wavy, waterproof coat, is hypoallergenic and sheds very little. These medium-sized dogs are athletic and require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. Portuguese Water Dogs have a lifespan of around 12-15 years and are known for their energetic and friendly nature.
  • Maltese: The Maltese is a small, elegant dog with a long, silky coat that sheds minimally, making it ideal for people with allergies. Despite their long hair, Maltese dogs require regular grooming to maintain their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat. These dogs typically live between 12-15 years and are known for their affectionate, playful demeanor.
  • Lagotto Romagnolo: The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized, curly-coated breed that is not only hypoallergenic but also known for its truffle-hunting abilities. Their woolly coat sheds very little and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. These dogs have a lifespan of around 15-17 years and are known for being active, intelligent, and affectionate.
  • Yorkshire Terrier: The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small dog with a long, silky coat that sheds minimally. Despite their small size, Yorkies are full of energy and require regular grooming to maintain their hypoallergenic coat. With a lifespan of 13-16 years, they are a popular breed for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog in a compact size.
  • Havanese: The Havanese is a small breed with a long, silky coat that sheds very little. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangling, but they are great for allergy sufferers because they don’t produce much dander. Havanese dogs live between 13-15 years and are known for being playful and affectionate.
  • Scottish Terrier: The Scottish Terrier, or “Scottie,” is a small, sturdy dog with a wiry coat that sheds minimally. Scotties require regular grooming to keep their coats looking neat and hypoallergenic. They are known for their independent and bold nature, and they typically live between 11-13 years.
  • West Highland White Terrier (Westie): Westies have a double coat with a harsh outer layer and a soft undercoat. Although they shed, their coat sheds less than other breeds, making them a potential option for people with allergies. These small, energetic dogs typically live between 12-16 years and are known for their friendly and confident demeanor.

For more detailed information on hypoallergenic dog breeds, see our comprehensive guide on dog breeds.

Why do Hypoallergenic Dogs Have Hair and Not Fur?

When experts mention that hypoallergenic dogs have “hair” rather than fur, they are highlighting that the dog’s coat more closely resembles human hair in texture and growth patterns.

Unlike typical dog fur, which sheds more frequently, hair on these breeds tends to grow continuously, is less thick, and sheds minimally, which is why they’re often better suited for people with allergies.

However, being hypoallergenic doesn’t make the dog itself immune to allergies.

To help minimize allergens and keep your dog healthy, it’s essential to choose nutritious, allergen-free food and snacks.

Brands like Jiminy’s offer a variety of healthy, nutrient-rich options that are designed to reduce potential allergens and promote overall well-being for your pet.

For more information about dog health, visit our guide can dogs be allergic to cats fur.

Reducing Allergens in Your Home

To minimize allergens in your home, even with a hypoallergenic dog, regular grooming and cleaning are crucial.

Brushing your dog’s coat daily and bathing them monthly can reduce dander. Using specialized grooming tools for hypoallergenic breeds helps keep shedding under control.

Additionally, frequent vacuuming and dusting, ideally with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, can eliminate settled dander.

Air purifiers, particularly those with HEPA filters, are also effective in removing airborne allergens, especially in areas where your dog spends the most time.

Learn more about dog grooming on Wikipedia.

Expert Insights on Hypoallergenic Dogs

Two Dogs Running

According to Dr. Karen Becker, a holistic veterinarian, “hypoallergenic dogs don’t produce fewer allergens; rather, their specific coat types and grooming needs reduce the allergens that are released into the environment.”

Dr. Becker recommends that people with allergies still maintain regular grooming routines and ensure their dog is bathed frequently to keep dander levels low.

An article from The American Kennel Club (AKC) outlines that while no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, breeds like the Poodle and Bichon Frise are among the best for allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coats.

The AKC also emphasizes the importance of regular grooming to minimize allergens.

Conclusion

While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, and Maltese are known to be better suited for people with allergies due to their low-shedding coats and minimal dander production.

For those seeking a dog but worried about allergies, these breeds offer a chance to enjoy the companionship of a dog with less risk of allergic reactions.

Regular grooming, vacuuming, and the use of air purifiers can further help manage allergens in the home.

FAQs

While hypoallergenic dogs produce fewer allergens, they can still cause allergic reactions.

Regular grooming and cleaning are essential to minimize these effects. Breeds like Poodles and Shih Tzus require frequent grooming to maintain their coats and reduce allergens.

Although no breed is completely hypoallergenic, dogs such as the Bichon Frise and Poodle are less likely to trigger allergies due to their low shedding and coat types.