The 25 Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Allergy Sufferers

If you’ve ever longed for a furry friend that won’t give you the sneezes or the sniffles, a hypoallergenic dog might be your perfect match.

Thankfully, dog allergies don’t have to exclude you from dog ownership — in fact, it’s much the opposite! Some of the most popular (and cutest) dog breeds are perfect for dog lovers who don’t do well with pet dander. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, certain breeds are less likely to release allergens into your home.

Most of these breeds are in the small to medium size range and are either hairless dogs, dogs that don’t shed, or dogs with manageable coats that minimize dander. Pet dander is the most common cause of pet allergies, although some people are allergic to the proteins in pet saliva, too. Even so, finding a low-dander companion means you’re more likely to keep your allergies at bay (and your furniture clean).

Ready to find your new hypoallergenic best friend? Here are 25 of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds and why they make great canine companions.

1. Affenpinscher

Like many of the wiry-haired dogs on this list, Affenpinschers are great for allergy sufferers because of their low-maintenance coats. Affenpinscher’s wiry coats do not grow quickly and they’re not big shedders.

These dogs are known as confident, funny, and great toy-sized companion dogs.

2. Afghan Hound

Although Afghan Hounds might not seem like the best hypoallergenic dogs at first glance, their silky coats actually shed very little. As puppies, these dogs have short, fuzzy coats, and as they get older, their fur grows long and requires regular grooming.

Afghan Hounds are known for their dignified and regal appearance. They’re also incredibly devoted and loyal to the people they call their own.

3. American Hairless Terrier

As you may have guessed based on their name, American Hairless Terriers are typically hairless — although there is also a coated variety. In any case, these dogs shed very little or not at all.

You’ll need to care for their ears and protect them from sunburn, but these dogs are an excellent hypoallergenic dog breed. American Hairless Terriers are known for their playful terrier attitude and make great family dogs.

4. Basenji

Basenjis are independent, smart, and easily recognizable by their curly tails. Also known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis make a sound between a chortle and yodel, which is how they’ve earned their nickname!

Basenjis are great hypoallergenic dogs because of their short coat, limited grooming needs, and only occasional shedding.

5. Bedlington Terrier

Another hypoallergenic dog with a recognizable appearance, the Bedlington Terrier’s coat is reminiscent of a sheep. These dogs are known for their liveliness and desire to be the center of attention.

Bedlington Terriers have crisp and curly coats that are a mix of soft and harsh hair. However, they’re not wiry, unlike many other terrier breeds. Although Bedlington Terriers don’t shed, their coats do grow quickly and require regular clipping.

6. Bichon Frise

A dog full of personality and charm, the Bichon Frise is an adorable lap dog easily identifiable by its pure white coat. Bichons are excellent companion dogs that typically get along with children and other pets.

As a hypoallergenic dog breed, Bichons shed very infrequently, and according to the AKC, the hair they do shed is caught up in their undercoat. Bichons need to be regularly brushed and groomed, but generally, they’re great dogs for allergy sufferers.

7. Chinese Crested

Chinese Cresteds are fun, playful, and known for their appearances in movies like Cats & Dogs, Marmaduke, and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Chinese Cresteds come in both a hairless and coated variety called Powderpuffs. As you might expect, the hairless dogs do not shed, and even the coated dogs shed very little.

Both types of Chinese Crested, however, will require some grooming — usually skincare for the hairless dogs and regular brushing for the coated dogs. Overall, these dogs are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog.

8. Coton de Tulear

Although Coton de Tulears may not be as well known as their hypoallergenic counterparts, you’ll know one when you see one! These dogs have soft, cotton-like white coats that can grow long unless they’re kept in a short “puppy clip.”

Despite the flowing appearance of their coats, Coton de Tulears are only occasional shedders and require minimal grooming, especially if their coats are kept short. These hypoallergenic dogs are true companions — they’re fun, happy, and perfectly content to follow you around the house all day.

9. Giant Schnauzer

One of the largest dog breeds on our list is the Giant Schnauzer! As their name suggests, these are big dogs that make great companions. In addition to the fact that they’re intelligent, loyal, and very trainable, Giant Schnauzers do not shed in large amounts.

For mild allergy sufferers, dander can be minimized by regular grooming and brushing. If you’re looking for a hardworking, active, hypoallergenic dog, the Giant Schnauzer will be your best bet.

10. Havanese

The Havanese, with its cheerful demeanor and luxurious silky coat, is a true gem among hypoallergenic dogs. Despite their long locks, Havanese dogs are surprisingly low shedders. With regular grooming, they’re an excellent choice for those with allergies.

Whether lounging on your lap or engaging in playful antics, a Havanese is sure to bring joy and elegance into your home — without activating your pet allergies.

11. Irish Water Spaniel

Like the Giant Schnauzer, the Irish Water Spaniel is one of the largest hypoallergenic dogs, standing tallest amongst all the AKC spaniels. Additionally, Irish Water Spaniels are very active and, as their name suggests, lovers of water.

These dogs are recognizable by their curled coats and tapering “rat tails.” Although Irish Water Spaniels will shed seasonally, their coats themselves are relatively hypoallergenic — but will require regular brushing and trimming.

12. Kerry Blue Terrier

With one of the most unique coat colors in the dog world, Kerry Blue Terriers are known as alert and adaptable family companions. Kerry Blues have coats that come in shades of blue ranging from deep slate to light-blue gray.

These large dogs don’t shed, but they need regular brushing and trimming to maintain their beautiful coats.

13. Lagotto Romagnolo

Not only are Lagotto Romagnolos adorable, teddy-bear-looking dogs, but they also have a fascinating history. They were traditionally bred to search for truffles, earning them the nickname “truffle dog.” These dogs are hardworking and have excellent noses.

The Lagotto may not look like a hypoallergenic dog breed with its thick, double coat of curled hair, but they actually shed very minimally. Just be sure to bring them to a groomer for regular trimming to avoid matting. 

14. Maltese

Similar to Bichon Frise and Coton de Tulears, Maltese dogs are known for their white coats. This is a low-shedding breed, however, the Maltese still require brushing and grooming if their coats are kept long.

Extremely affectionate and happy sitting in the laps of their family members, Maltese are faithful companion dogs that can make a great addition to the family.

15. Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the schnauzers — but don’t let their size fool you. These dogs are outgoing, energetic, and can actually make great guard dogs with proper training.

Like the Giant Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzers shed very little despite their double coat. Brushing and grooming will help you avoid allergy symptoms.

16. Peruvian Inca Orchid

Perhaps one of the rarest dog breeds on our list, the Peruvian Inca Orchid has a name that sounds like a flower – but this breed couldn’t be more different. Originating in Peru, these dogs are sighthounds, similar to Greyhounds or Whippets.

In addition to coming in three sizes, Peruvian Inca Orchids can be hairless or coated. In either case, allergy sufferers don’t have to worry about large amounts of hair or fur with these dogs.

17. Poodle

Likely the most recognizable of all the hypoallergenic dog breeds, the Poodle continues to make the top 10 of the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds year after year. Poodles are available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties — but regardless of size, these dogs are incredibly smart, versatile, and excellent family dogs.

Poodles shed very little and many owners choose to keep their coats cut short to simply make maintenance easier. If you let their coats grow, you’ll need to keep up with brushing in order to avoid mats. 

18. Portuguese Water Dog

Made famous by former White House dogs, Sunny and Bo, the Portuguese Water Dog is a smart, athletic, and water-loving breed. These medium-sized dogs are also very trainable.

Although the Portuguese Water Dog’s curly coat is hypoallergenic, it is thick and will shed seasonally. To minimize allergy symptoms, you’ll want to make sure to regularly groom this breed.

19. Shih Tzu

Known for its sweet and affectionate nature, the Shih Tzu is one of the most beloved hypoallergenic dog breeds. These charming little canines have thick, luxurious coats that give them a regal appearance, yet they are surprisingly low shedders.

Regular grooming is all it takes to keep their coats in tip-top shape, making the Shih Tzu ideal for dog lovers with allergies.

20. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

While most terriers are known for their firm, wiry coats, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is known for its soft and silky fur. This breed makes our list for its low-shedding coat and joyful personality. They will, however, need frequent brushing to avoid mats and to remove excess hair. 

Soft Coated Wheatens can be high-energy, so these dogs require lots of exercise and training. When nurtured and cared for, they are incredibly devoted and loyal companions.

21. Spanish Water Dog

Next on our list of best hypoallergenic dog breeds is the Spanish Water Dog. This breed has curly and wooly locks that can form tight cords when grown out, similar to “Mop Dog” breeds like the Komondor or Bergamasco.

Most dog owners choose to keep the coat of their Spanish Water Dog short, as the longer, corded coat requires much more maintenance. Either way, these dogs shed very minimally, making them great for allergy sufferers. With a history of herding and retrieving, the Spanish Water Dog is an active, playful companion as well as an industrious watchdog.

22. Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer falls between the Miniature and the Giant Schnauzer in size. In terms of personality, these dogs are active, willful, and very trainable. Standard Schnauzers are a dog breed known for being great with kids and very protective of their families.

Like the other schnauzers, this dog has a double coat but sheds very infrequently. The Standard Schnauzer’s coat is usually stripped instead of clipped, as clipping results in more dirt and shedding.

23. Wire Fox Terrier

The breed with the most historical wins at the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City, the Wire Fox Terrier is both hypoallergenic and a friendly family companion. As evidenced by their track record, these dogs are smart, independent, and full of energy!

Wire Fox Terriers have rough, wiry coats characteristic of many terriers. These coats do not shed very much and are very low maintenance, especially when kept short.

24. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are known as one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers. While their fine, glossy coats may look like they’d require extensive care, Yorkies are low shedders and only need regular grooming to look their best.

Despite their small size, Yorkies often possess big personalities and behave as if they are unaware of their petite stature. These lively little dogs offer endless companionship and joy, with no sneezing required.

25. Xoloitzcuintli

Last but certainly not least on our list of best hypoallergenic dogs is the Xoloitzcuintli, often called the Xolo (“Show-low”) for short.

Originally from Mexico, these dogs resemble the American Hairless Terrier and the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Xolos, however, are known for their wrinkled foreheads and are both loving companions and excellent watchdogs.

Xolos come in three sizes and two varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless dogs don’t shed and the coated dogs shed very little, requiring occasional brushing. Like the other hairless dog breeds, Xolos require special skincare, especially when out in the sun.

Is there a 100% hypoallergenic dog?

The phrase “hypoallergenic dog breeds” is thrown around a lot – but is there really such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog?

It’s important to establish that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic or allergen-free. Instead, as Dr. Lynn Buzhardt writes for VCA Hospitals, the term hypoallergenic refers to “breeds that are less likely to stimulate allergies.”

Even if you have a hypoallergenic breed, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the dog will never cause an allergic reaction if you have dog allergies. It just means that the dog is much less likely to cause allergy symptoms in comparison to other breeds.

Dr. Buzhardt also says that not all dogs produce the same proteins in their dander and saliva, so some people can be allergic to a specific dog and not all dogs of that breed. For instance, a person could react to one Maltese and live allergy-free with another.

What about Doodles?

If you’re wondering where mixed breeds such as Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever + Poodle), Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever + Poodle), and others fall in terms of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds, the answer is a little less black-and-white.

Although doodles are often touted as hypoallergenic, it’s actually pretty difficult to predict what kind of coats these dogs will have and how they will affect allergy sufferers.

With Goldendoodles, for example, although half of their gene pool comes from the Poodle, the other half comes from a Golden Retriever. Since Golden Retrievers are frequent shedders, it’s uncertain whether the puppies that result from this mix will have a hypoallergenic coat, a full shedding coat, or something in between.

Choosing the right hypoallergenic dog for you

If you made it this far, you can see there are plenty of adorable hypoallergenic dog breeds to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a big, fluffy dog that defies the laws of shedding or a mini, hairless dog that will live on your lap, allergies don’t need to stand in your way.

When it comes to your allergy severity and dander tolerance, you know yourself best. Not all hypoallergenic breeds are created equal, and individual dogs may vary in the amount of allergens they produce. Think long and hard about whether or not you should get a dog before bringing one home — it’s not a decision to make lightly, especially when your health is a factor.

If you do find the breed that’s right for you, be sure to protect your new companion with a pet insurance plan. Pumpkin Dog Insurance plans cover 90% of eligible vet bills for accidents and illnesses, so you can focus on caring for your pup instead of pulling your hair out over unexpected costs.