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For anyone who loves animals, pet allergies can be the bane of their existence. While poodles have become the poster child for hypoallergenic dogs, there are a variety of breeds that can be ideal for allergy sufferers. The key is to find a pet that barely sheds. From breeds with little to no fur, like the Chinese Crested, to those with thick coats that simply don’t shed, like the Welsh Terrier, there are a variety of canines that can be a good fit for someone with allergies. Read on to find out which dogs can be good for allergy sufferers.
Schnauzers
Schnauzers are known to be among the best dogs for allergy sufferers because they do not shed. The breed has three different coat types: traditional coat, super coat, or mega coat.
The coat can be soft or harsh. Regardless of the coat variations, Schnauzers are generally known for having very little animal dander because they do not shed. People with allergies can choose a Giant Schnauzer, a Miniature Schnauzer, or any size in between.
Whippets
Whippets are sleek, sleek dogs that come in a wide variety of coat patterns and colors. They resemble a smaller version of a greyhound and have a similar streamlined silhouette that makes them fast runners.
They rarely shed and their short coats don’t require much maintenance. As long as they get enough exercise, they’re happy to lounge around for hours and can live very well in an apartment.
Chinese Crested Dogs
Chinese Crested dogs have one of the most unique coats of any dog breed. With their long hair, furry socks, and feathered tails, they almost look like 1970s rock stars. These little pooches rarely shed and also come in a hairless version that’s even more ideal for allergy sufferers.
Ten-pound canines are well-suited to small spaces and require only moderate exercise. Hairless dogs are sensitive to the sun, so wearing sunscreen or clothing is recommended.
Poodles
Like Schnauzers, Poodles come in a variety of sizes and have a coat that is great for allergy sufferers because it doesn’t shed. They do, however, need to be groomed regularly to prevent their coat from matting, which is why many owners choose to keep their fur short.
Poodles are highly intelligent dogs that are easily trained athletes. They are often crossed with other breeds to pass on the benefits of their coat to the other breed, so allergy sufferers may find more variety with a Poodle mix.
Brussels Griffons
The Brussels Griffon may not be the most well-known dog for allergy sufferers, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make wonderful companions. These adorable little pups have big, round eyes and a small, pug-like snout.
They can have a smooth coat, like that of a pug, or a rougher coat, more comparable to that of a schnauzer. They are known for having an almost human-like character.
Hungarian Pulik
The Hungarian Puli (plural: Pulik) is an easy-to-recognize breed thanks to its characteristic mop-shaped coat. Since its fur naturally forms into twists, it does not shed often. At the same time, its dense coat requires some attention in terms of grooming.
Agile dogs love to exercise and need mental stimulation as they are naturally motivated. A Puli can be stubborn, so you will need to be a firm alpha from the start, but don’t be surprised if his independence shows from time to time.
Scottish Terriers
Scottish Terriers tend to have a soft, wiry coat and a dense undercoat, two characteristics that make the dog less likely to shed allergenic dander. Although the dogs are small, they are optimistic and independent.
They tend to be wary of other dogs and strangers, making them an excellent watchdog. They are full of energy and enjoy vigorous play, but can usually do well in small spaces, making them an excellent apartment dog.
Spanish Water Dogs
A Spanish Water Dog’s curly coat can resemble that of a poodle. Their coat is wooly and can grow into cords, but it is advisable to learn about the process of grooming cords or keep their fur short.
Spanish Water Dogs rarely shed and their coats are black, brown, tan or white, and can also be multi-colored. They are very active and make excellent running companions.
Salukis
Salukis are beautiful, old dogs that resemble sighthounds. They have either a smooth coat, like a Whippet, or a feathered coat. Regardless of their texture, they shed only occasionally.
They come in a variety of colors and patterns and have sweet eyes that can melt your heart. These energetic dogs need regular exercise to stay happy and do best in a fenced yard as they love to run.
Xoloitzcuintli, also known as Mexican Hairless
The Xoloitzcuintli (“show-down-eat-the-queen-tlee”), more simply called Xolo or Mexican Hairless, has two varieties of fur: no fur at all or a short, flat coat. Those with hair rarely shed.
Xolos are ancient dogs and were highly regarded by the Aztecs. They have a lot of energy and need daily exercise, but are known to be calm in the home. These alert dogs are deeply loyal and can make excellent watchdogs.
Kerry Blue Terriers
Kerry Blue Terriers get their name from two things: their Irish country of origin and their coat color. Their coat color varies from black to blue, with some being more blue-gray or slate. Their coat is thick and soft, but they do not shed.
Muscular dogs typically weigh up to 40 pounds and love to play with their owners. They train well and enjoy mental challenges, but also appreciate a well-deserved cuddle session.
Scottish Deerhounds
Scottish Deerhounds are gentle giants, standing about 30 inches (76 cm) at the shoulder and weighing between 75 and 110 pounds (34 and 50 kg). Although their coats come in a variety of colors, they are most commonly known for their blue-gray coat color.
Their wiry coat only needs to be brushed every two weeks and they don’t shed much, as it’s done seasonally. These sensitive canines need a lot of attention and generally get along well with other dogs.
Havanese Bichon
Havanese have an impressive coat that looks more like hair than fur when it is well-groomed and grown out. Because their fur is prone to matting, some owners prefer to keep the coat short.
Regardless, Havanese rarely shed and do not need to be bathed often. Their eyes should be cleaned daily to prevent hair from staining their tear ducts. These cheerful dogs are social and intelligent companions who do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
Komondors
Like the Puli, the Komondorok has a wiry coat that requires special grooming. It sheds seasonally, but overall, it does not shed very frequently. The main difference between the two breeds is their size.
While the Pulik typically weighs around 13 kg, the Komondoro can weigh around 45 kg and is very muscular. It loves to run and play, but it needs to be trained from a young age as it can be stubborn and independent.
Bolognese
The Bolognese dog is a great choice for those who love long-haired pets but are prone to allergies, as this breed rarely sheds. Their longer coat requires some maintenance, so owners who want to groom them less often usually keep their coat shorter.
These small dogs do not measure more than 30 centimeters and generally weigh less than 5 kilos. Bolos are very affectionate and do not tolerate being left alone for long periods.
Dandie Dinmont Terriers
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a soft, fluffy coat that does not shed. Its short legs virtually disappear under its low body and it typically weighs no more than 25 pounds.
They do well with moderate exercise, but their small size makes them well suited to apartment living. Although they are cuddly little dogs, they have a deep, intimidating bark. They are courageous dogs whose independent thinking makes early and diligent training imperative.
Welsh Terriers
A well-groomed Welsh Terrier looks more like a stuffed animal than a living animal thanks to its soft, thick coat. Luckily for allergy sufferers, these adorable pups don’t shed frequently and are relatively easy to care for.
These spirited animals are full of energy and need plenty of time to run. Providing plenty of playtime and activity helps keep these intelligent canines relatively obedient. Those looking for an outdoor pet rather than a lap dog may enjoy the companionship of a Welsh Terrier.
Sealyham Terriers
Sealyham Terriers have a double-layered coat that does not shed, but needs to be brushed twice a week to prevent matting. Their fur can also be short to alleviate their grooming needs.
Sealys are adorable, short-legged dogs that only stand about 10 inches tall. They can be stubborn, so it’s important to train them from a young age, but they are also affectionate companions, full of character and charisma.
Löwchen
The Löwchen’s name means “little lion” because its coat, when long, can resemble a lion’s mane. Whether long or short, its fur does not shed unless it is brushed. Since longer fur requires more brushing, people with particularly sensitive allergies may prefer to keep their Löwchen’s coat short.
Another great characteristic of these canines is that their life expectancy is at least 15 years! They are also very affectionate and love to do activities with their master.
Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small dogs known for their sense of humor. Their wiry coat requires a lot of attention as it tangles easily, but it grows slowly and therefore does not require frequent trimming.
Affens only shed seasonally thanks to their unique coat, which comes in a variety of colors. These canines are fearless and are content with a few walks a day and indoor play, making them ideal for apartment dwellers.
