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Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Updated on March 20, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Wendy Weinand
CMG, MPS, Meritus

Myths | Will a hypoallergenic dog work for you? | Small hypoallergenic dogs | Medium-sized hypoallergenic dogs | Big hypoallergenic dogs | Hairless dogs

Hypoallergenic Dog

If you suffer from pet allergies, you may have experienced the heartbreaking feeling of an eager pup coming towards you, looking for some playtime or affection, but having to turn them away in fear of a flare-up.

Are there any solutions for pet lovers with allergies? You may be very excited at the prospect of hypoallergenic pets that won’t trigger those allergy attacks. However, it’s always important to know the facts before adopting. Unless you’re fully aware of the realities of hypoallergenic dog breeds, your home may not be the best fit for your new pet. Let’s break down some common myths about hypoallergenic dogs to help better understand if this sort of pet will work for you.

Myth: Hypoallergenic pets exist

First, let’s dispel the biggest myth in the pet industry—the fact that hypoallergenic pets exist at all. No pet is completely hypoallergenic. That is because many aspects of a pet can cause an allergic reaction. The hypoallergenic meaning when it comes to dogs usually involves a reduced exposure to dander for their pet parent.

When looking for a pet to adopt, keep in mind that even though they may be referred to as hypoallergenic, it’s still possible for you or your loved ones to have a reaction.

Myth: A dog’s fur is what causes allergic reactions in humans

Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that a low-shedding canine household generally contains the same amount of allergens as one that has dogs that shed more often.

The reason why allergy sufferers may notice less of a reaction with hypoallergenic dogs is because what they’re actually allergic to is their dander. Like humans, dogs shed dead skins cells at a rapid rate. That dead skin—also called dander—is what typically triggers a reaction.

When dogs shed a lot of fur, their dander can spread more throughout the home, causing allergy attacks. Although the allergens are still present with dogs that shed less, people with sensitivities often experience fewer flare-ups.

It’s also important to note that dander isn’t the only aspect of your pet that can cause a reaction. Both the saliva and urine of hypoallergenic dog breeds can cause flare-ups in allergy sufferers as well. Before adopting, it’s essential to figure out exactly what triggers your sensitivities and whether or not a potential pet has these qualities.

Will a hypoallergenic pet work for you?

To answer this question, you need to determine exactly what you’re allergic to. If you have any candidates in mind, it’s best to visit them a few times before going through the adoption process. Make sure all family members are present. Not having all family members at your visit could affect how the allergen impacts you.

When spending time with hypoallergenic dogs, make sure you are aware of any changes or reactions as you pet them or are near them. Dogs need lots of affection—it’s important to make sure you’ll be able to safely play and cuddle with them.

If you learn that you may have an allergy but still want to adopt—we understand that it can be hard to resist. Your next step would be to talk to your doctor about options to help alleviate your symptoms. Once you and your doctor have developed a game plan,, visit the pups again to see if it’s effective.

Even if you have dogs that are hypoallergenic, it's a good idea to do as much as possible to prevent flare-ups. Some preventive measures are:

  • Vacuuming and dusting frequently
  • Getting your dog groomed on a regular basis
  • Not letting your pet sleep in bed with you
  • Not letting your pet on the furniture
  • Investing in quality air purifiers

If you adore pets but suffer from allergies, we understand the heartache of not being able to take your very own dog home to love. However, it’s important to keep the happiness of both yourself and your pet in mind.

You may think adopting hypoallergic dogs will be enough, but living with constant allergies can be very draining and can seriously affect your health—especially if medication isn’t effective. Avoiding your puppy to prevent flare-ups isn’t a good idea for either of you—your puppy won’t understand, and you’ll miss out on the joy being a pet parent can bring.

Before bringing a pet home, make sure no one in your household has any reactions. If you know anyone who has a hypoallergenic pet, visit them often and interact with them frequently to test the waters. You may find a breed that works well for you.

Low-shedding dog breeds

Here are some breeds that many pet parents with allergies turn to.

Small hypoallergenic dogs

West Highland White Terrier

west highland white terrier

These small dogs are often pure white, with short legs and pointy ears. The reason they shed less than other dogs is because their compact double-coat is hard, straight and white. This breed is very charming, active, family-friendly and can make a great best friend.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is double-coated—with a soft, dense undercoat and coarse, curly hair on the outside—but they do not shed a lot. Although that can help by not spreading the dander, be prepared to brush these dogs daily and to set up regular grooming appointments. It may help to nominate someone in the household without a sensitivity to do the brushing. The Bichon Frise is very amicable and a great family dog.

Medium-sized hypoallergenic dogs

Portuguese Water Dog

portuguese water dog

If you’re looking for a dog that is great with kids, the Portuguese Water Dog may be the answer. This breed does not have an undercoat but has two different coat types—curly or wavy—lending way to some really cute hairstyles.

They love to please their pet parents, making these dogs rather easy to train and very loyal companions.

Kerry Blue Terrier

kerry blue terrier

Another breed of dog that is great with families is the Kerry Blue Terrier. They have a very distinctive look with their boxy stance and long beards. Their fur is dense, wavy and very soft. This is another breed whose coat needs lots of brushing and regular grooming.

They’re very smart and affectionate—and because of their signature blue/gray coat, they’re used to getting a lot of attention. Training is very important in helping make this dog a great family member.

Big hypoallergenic dogs

Airedale Terrier

airedale terrier

The Airedale is the largest member of the Terrier family. Because Airedales are extremely active dogs, pet parents need to be prepared to give them lots of exercise like long walks or frequent trips to the park to run around.

They have a wiry coat that helps keep down shedding. Because of this, they usually only need to be brushed once a week. They may need a haircut once every few months.

Poodles

Poodle

Poodles are well-known to be non-shedders. In fact, their poodle traits are the reason Goldendoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic. Poodles are very versatile—this breed comes in different sizes, from the Standard to Large. You could also opt for a Miniature Poodle or even a Toy Poodle if it better suits your lifestyle and living arrangements.

Poodles make excellent pets—they’re highly intelligentand usually pick up on training cues easily. However, they’re also very playful—don’t be surprised if they give you some sass.

Schnauzers

Schnauzer

This is again another breed that comes in different sizes—this time Giant, Standard and Miniature. A Schnauzer’s coat tends to hold onto their discarded fur, making this another hypoallergenic dog breed that will need frequent grooming and brushing to get rid of the excess hair.

Hairless dogs

chinese crested

You may be tempted to opt for a pet that has no hair whatsoever in order to keep allergens at bay. Some of these breeds include:

  • The Mexican Hairless Chihuahua
  • The Chinese Crested
  • The Peruvian Inca Orchid
  • The American Hairless Terrier

These breeds have many different traits and can make great pets, but it’s important to keep in mind that they may need more maintenance and special concerns than you’d think. Unfortunately, their lack of hair makes them more vulnerable to skin problems and infections, meaning these hypoallergenic dog breeds may need frequent trips to the vet.

No matter what breed you choose, you can find all your dog food, supplies and accessories at Petco. We carry all the dog necessities, including sensitive skin dog food if your pup is the one who has allergies.

Want to learn more about allergies and sensitivities to pets, or what to do if your pet struggles with these afflictions? Here’s our Guide for Pet Parents Who Think They May be Allergic to Dogs or Cats.

Petco has a variety of health and wellness solutions to help ensure your dog thrives, including grooming, pharmacy and vet services.

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