These Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Will Help Reduce Those Sneezes and Sniffles
Getting a cute dog for your family is a wonderful experience. The love, snuggles, and playtime, not to mention the responsibility it can teach your kiddos, is well worth it. But what if someone, or more than one person, in your family is allergic to dogs? Whether you know already, or someone develops an allergy, it can make dog ownership not nearly as fun as it should be. That’s why it can be helpful to bring a hypoallergenic dog into your lives. While there's no such thing as a dog that's 100% hypoallergenic, as the American Kennel Club says, you can find a breed that doesn't shed as much, which means less allergy-causing dander around the house!
And let’s face it—if you aren’t jazzed about consistently picking up dog hair, or having it gather on your clothes, one who sheds less might be a good choice. Again, although there is no such thing as a totally hypoallergenic dog, you can ease your symptoms, or at the very least, your allergy medication might have you fully covered. Before purchasing a family dog, be sure to talk to your doc. And remember, these purebred breeds aren’t the only option—you can discover a mix of these pups at your local shelter or rescue as well. Here are 31 dogs to consider as you get started.
Goldendoodle
Known as a go-to, hypoallergenic family dog, Goldendoodles are a cross between Golden Retrievers and Poodles and are famous for being gentle and good with little ones.
Bolognese
White with irresistibly curly fur, these low-shedding doggos are known to be very calm and love to be around people.
Standard Poodle
Reaching around 15 inches tall at their shoulders, these statuesque pups are also quite affectionate and are friendly with guests and new people.
Portuguese Water Dog
This is the breed that the Obamas brought to the White House! You can get one as cute as “Bo” with a Portuguese Water Dog who’s intelligent, attention-loving, and easy to train.
Maltese
Snow-white with some of the sweetest faces around, the Maltese is extremely gentle, affectionate, and generally makes a great family dog.
Chinese Crested
Now that’s a unique-looking pup! These tiny dogs sure turn heads wherever they go, and in addition to their amazing hairstyles, they also tend to be Velcro dogs and follow their owners wherever they go.
Bichon Frise
Looking just like a teeny teddy bear, Bichon Frise pups are almost so cute, you might not think they’re real! But they most certainly are and come with traits like a gentle demeanor and a fun, energetic spirit.
Yorkshire Terrier
Who can resist a Yorkie?! These mini pups pack a lot of dog into a tiny package, with sass, energy, and perkiness.
Welsh Terrier
With a sophisticated look, the Welsh Terrier is friendly and playful, and will love nothing more than to sit next to you on the couch.
Basenji
Originating from Africa, the Basenji is an incredibly smart dog and also strives to please their owners each and every day.
Affenpinscher
With a face that we think looks a little like an Ewok, the way-too-cute Affenpinscher is brave for their small size and can definitely get a little feisty.
West Highland White Terrier
“Westies” are some of the most adorable pups on the planet, and they’re ideal for allergy sufferers, too. With minimal shedding, these dogs are happy, independent, and curious.
Afghan Hound
How gorgeous is this dog? Looking a bit like a canine supermodel, the Afghan Hound sheds infrequently, even though they have a lot of hair. And they are loyal and affectionate.
Bedlington Terrier
How’s that for a cool hairstyle? Sporting some seriously fuzzy fur, the soft Bedlington Terrier is begging for pets and loves to be the center of everyone’s attention.
Komondor
With truly one-of-a-kind fur, the Komondor surprisingly doesn’t shed a lot. They’ll certainly take center stage wherever they go, and they’re known to loyally protect and love their people.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Showing off little “beards,” these cute pups have a lot of character but also enjoy being affectionate with those they love.
Miniature Schnauzer
Typically weighing no more than 11 to 18 pounds, these diminutive dogs are friendly, super smart, and scrappy.
Scottish Terrier
“Scottie” dogs are the absolute cutest! They tend to be big dogs in little dog bodies, with lots of energy and confidence.
Shih Tzu
Showcasing hair that can be put into a teeny-tiny ponytail, these small dogs are usually on the perky side and tend to follow their people around wherever they go.
Wire Fox Terrier
Looking a lot like little stuffed animals, these tiny terriers are very lively and are said to be extremely charming.
American Hairless Terrier
Since they don’t have fur, you better believe these pups won’t be doing any shedding around your house! Their temperaments are energetic, playful, and curious.
Lhasa Apso
Those puppy-dog eyes! These dogs enjoy training and are playful and intelligent.
Brussels Griffon
With eyes that look pretty human-like (and beards to boot!), the Brussels Griffon is famed for its affection for its people and constant curiosity.
Lagotta Romagnolo
Curly hair and sweet eyes make this pup the whole package. In addition to shedding very little, these dogs are also alert, obedient, and loving.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Like the name suggests, you and your kiddos will love petting this pup’s extra-soft fur. They also are devoted to their humans and are cheerful.
Puli
Displaying distinctive fur, the Puli is a confident herding dog who is also entirely loyal.
Coton de Tulear
Small with big personalities, these dogs show their people a lot of love and are generally very sweet with everyone they meet.
Cairn Terrier
You’ll say, “Aww,” every time you spot the Cairn Terrier’s little legs! Apart from being over-the-top adorable, these dogs are also smart and inquisitive.
Italian Greyhound
Quick on their feet with super-smooth coats, Italian greyhounds make great family dogs because they’re so gentle.
Border Terrier
Always down for a training session, Border Terriers learn quickly and have energy to spare.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
As one of the bigger hypoallergenic dogs, these pups are shaggy (but don’t shed a lot) and love to be active with their people.
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