There is some good news for puppy lovers who are constantly worried about allergic responses and reactions to dogs. They are always cautious and hesitant when approaching pooches and never muster up the courage to take a step towards their pet parenting dream.
Did you know? More than 50 million people in the United States have allergies, as noted by the Allergy & Asthma Network. Moreover, 40% of the children in the U.S are prone to allergic reactions. Furthermore, around 33% of people with allergies in America are allergic to cats and dogs.
But that was in the past; close that chapter and move forward towards the world of most dogs that don’t shed, and are equally adorable to other breeds. Some might say they are the rare, fluffy, or smooth-skinned gems that are exotic than the other dogs who are plain, boring, and so last season.
Let’s explore the realm of hypoallergenic dogs that are specifically bred to produce fewer allergens in their hair and don’t disperse fur or dander in the air, but only perfume the environment with their love and magnetic presence.
Dog Breeds That Shed the Least
1. Poodle
Height: Standard poodle over 15 inches, miniature: 10-15 inches, and toy: 10 inches and under
Weight: Standard poodle 40-70 pounds, miniature: 15-18 pounds, toy: 5-9 pounds
Temperament: Competent, problem-solvers, charismatic, jovial, dedicated, and devoted
Physical Characteristics: Pointed noses, small beady eyes, slim necks, floppy ears covered in a dense curly coat
Poodles make exceptional dog sport champions, goofy entertainers, duck hunters, glamorous fashionistas, agility maestros, and obedience trial champions. Although these water dogs were originally bred to be waterfowl and bird retrievers, their intelligence makes them excel in a variety of fields.
The American Kennel Club says these poised and charismatic poodles come in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, and are known for their low shedding and hypoallergenic qualities. Due to their water-resistant coats, strong swimming abilities, and keen sense of smell, they also make wonderful hunting dogs.
These purebred Standard Poodles are the OG hypoallergenic breed that produces low dander. But that isn’t the only benefit these poodles have; they don’t need thorough grooming sessions too often and only require frequent brushing from time to time, to maintain their unique looks.
Exceptional Swimming Champions & Parisian Fashionistas of the Dog World
Did you know? A Toy Poodle resembles a Lagotto Romagnolo, which is also a rare and curly-coated cutie. These good dogs love to play fetch and mentally challenging puzzle games. The Poodles that excel in agility courses are known to masterfully cross all the obstacles with flair.
2. Bichon Frise
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Temperament: Cheerful, Vivacious, Loving, delicate, and patient
Physical Characteristics: Tiny, Fluffy, living, stuffed animal, with drooping ears, dark, round, expressive button eyes, and a predominantly white coat with apricot or cream markings
This little puppy came from the Spanish Isles of Tenerife, the most populous and bustling island among all the Canary Isles, and gained popularity among European nobles and aristocrats when Spanish sailors brought them to Europe.
Hence, according to PetMD, the Bichon Frise is a royal puppy, with a regal aura and flair. This pup has short hair, but it is bundled up in a double coat, where the undercoat is soft and dense. But the outer coat is coarser and curlier, which is why it stands out.
The Adorable Street Performer & Joyful Companion
The curly coat of the bichon does not shed much, but requires regular brushing. It is recommended to use a pin brush to remove tangles and mats, and a slicker brush to maintain their wavy coat regularly.
But did you know? The Bichon Frise continuously grows hair instead of shedding, which might make it suitable for allergy sufferers.
But even though the grooming needs of this curly little lap dog are quite immense, the non-shedding feature in these small dogs is a welcome trait that is a blessing for allergy sufferers.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Temperament: Spirited, Sociable yet Discerning, Philosophical, Confident, and fearless
Physical Characteristics: Long and narrow face, with a flat skull, cute black nose, small triangular perky ears, covered in a luxurious coat of steel blue and golden tan
Did you know? These silky-coated pups with a bold and adventurous spirit are the smallest of the Terrier breeds. So small that you can easily carry them in your handbags, backpacks, or purses and walk on the runway in a blitzy fashion show.
Petplan mentions that these tiny dogs love their humans to the point that you can consider them as your babies. That needs your constant care, attention, and presence at all times.
The Perfect Cuddle Pillow
Yorkshire Terriers are recognized as hypoallergenic due to their low shedding and dander production. These popular “tomboy toys” have a spunky personality and their trademark courage and confidence. Gives them a vibe of vigor and self-importance.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Height: 17-23 inches
Weight: 35-60 pounds
Temperament: Athletic, Fun-Loving, and Eager-to-Please
Physical Characteristics: Sturdy yet Agile frame covered with hearty fur, webbed feet, and muscular hindquarters.
The Portuguese Water Dog is known for its thick, wavy coat that doesn’t shed much, making it hypoallergenic. They have a waterproof coat that is low-shedding and low-dander producing comfy cover.
PDSA narrates that these active dogs that don’t shed require exercise and physical challenges every day. Because they were bred for riding in fishing trawlers and assisting fishermen.
These fishermen’s helpers require regular grooming for their lion and retriever-style coats to help reduce dander in these hypoallergenic dogs.
The Mighty Dog of Water
Portuguese Water Dogs are immaculate fish herders that can retrieve nets in the water. These highly trainable pups also have webbed feet that help them maneuver in the water. Moreover, they also have a long and tapered tail that serves as a rudder and a flag that signals the dog’s location to its owners.
5. Xoloitzcuintli
Height: 18-23 inches (standard), 14-18 inches (miniature), 10-14 inches (toy)
Weight: 30-55 pounds (standard), 15-30 pounds (miniature), 10-15 pounds (toy)
Temperament: Clever, defensive, enthusiastic, reliable, and tactful
Physical Characteristics: Wedge-shaped head, almond-shaped eyes, and bat-like ears that are always standing alert, tough yet smooth, close-fitting skin are the breed’s hallmarks
The Xoloitzcuintli is one of the oldest and rarest hypoallergenic dog breeds, available in hairless and coated varieties. But did you know this scary-looking pooch is the national dog of Mexico? We bet you didn’t, but it’s true.
These unique pups sport a ridge of hair running the length of their head like a mohawk and also have a wrinkled forehead, which makes them look like the red indians of America.
The Naked Wonder Dog
Surprisingly, both hairless and short-coated Xolos are hypoallergenic dogs that shed minimally or not at all. They have a distinct thin tail like the rat, and striking eyes with the shades ranging from dark black to bright yellow.
Orvis says the ancient Mexicans and Aztecs revered this breed and thought of the Xolo as a spiritual being who promoted healing and even guided the souls of their owners to the other realm after death. These pooches come in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, and are also called the Mexican hairless dogs.
6. Lhasa Apso
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Temperament: Independent, Caring, Faithful, Protective, and Tenacious
Physical Characteristics: Dark oval-shaped eyes that are often obscured by their long facial hair, a feathery tail that curls over their back (Hint: they look a bit like the character Chewbacca from Star Wars)
This dog that can barely reach a foot tall, belongs to the 13,000 feet high freezing Himalayan ranges. Their long, dense, double coat covers their body with dog hair. They are not only incredibly loving pooches, but also hypoallergenic pups that have a low-shedding coat.
The Reserved Sentinel of Tibetan Monasteries
Hence, you can now say goodbye to your allergic reactions to dog fur and pet dander troubles. Because this sacred puppy, Lhasa, will be your ultimate furry sidekick. As per the Continental Kennel Club, they don’t pollute the air with their hair. Hence, you wouldn’t have to invest in a vacuum or air purifier.
The most interesting thing about these Tibetan pooches is their crucial role in the Buddhist reincarnation process. The name Lhasa Apso translates as long-haired or bearded dog. But amusingly enough, the diverse variety of coat colors in these pooches has gained them a funny nickname, all hail “the Jelly Bean dog”.
7. Brussels Griffon
Height: 7-10 inches
Weight: 6-12 pounds correct: 8-10
Temperament: Mischievous, lively, happy, sensitive, comical, and savvy
Physical Characteristics: Short face, round head, distinct facial fur, aka fashionable beard, large soulful eyes, and a silky coat
This furry monkey-like pooch hails from the streets of Belgium and struts like a tiny professor with a purpose. A combination of fringed beard, big eyes, and even bigger hearts. This tiny Griffon is another sophisticated pooch who is a perfect combination of charm, sensitivity, and intelligence.
The Wise Philosopher & The Sneaky Pooch of the Canine Kingdom
VCA Animal Hospitals says these flat-faced puppies have unique wiry coats and make excellent family pets. You just need to make sure to detangle and brush their beautiful coats and their cutest feature ever, the majestic signature beards.
Grooming them is pretty easy if you have a rough-coated Brussels Griffon that needs hand stripping every three months with only a twice-weekly brushing.
8. Maltese
Height: 7-9 inches
Weight: 4-7 pounds correct: under 7
Temperament: Deeply Affectionate, Alert, Fearless, and Playful
Physical Characteristics: Beautiful, large, dark, round, and expressive eyes, Black Nose, and Floppy ears covered in snow white fur
More long silky hair and white furriness is coming your way, packaged in a tiny fluff ball, that is brave, gentle, and quite affectionate. This great family dog that doesn’t shed much comes in a small body. But has a big personality and regal demeanor.
Purina UK states this ancient breed hails from Malta and Sicily and is a dream to raise for their pet parents. If you have dog allergies and have a great love for puppies. This energetic and playful Maltese is the perfect choice for you. Because they are not only pretty but also quite endearing and joyful.
The Merry Aristocrat, aka the Most Beloved Toy Breed In The World
The Maltese is a hypoallergenic dog that can stay alone for several hours. But yes, you’ll need to provide them with dedicated maintenance, daily brushing to prevent matting of their lusciously soft and silky locks. This royal lap dog expects nothing less than a professional groomer and a lot of love from you.
9. Coton de Tulear
Height: 10-11 inches correct: 9-11
Weight: 9-15 pounds correct: 8-15
Temperament: Adaptable, animated, and devoted with a side of clownish and loyal personality
Physical Characteristics:
This dog not only has a unique name but also a unique size, frame, and history. Coton roughly translates to cotton in French. Hence, this rare dog that originated in the Island of Madagascar, specifically, and is named after the City of Tulear, is known for its signature cotton-like coat.
Omlet says it is a white, puffy, and soft cotton ball of a toy dog. That looks like a real, live version of a soft toy, and if you have a passion for snuggles and cuddles, this pooch is the best non-shedding breed for you.
The Canine Realm’s Delight
But these easy-going and playful pups will need a bit of daily brushing, a little more spa time, and a lot of pampering. To keep them from shedding and prevent mats in their beautiful, puffy, cloud-like fur.
Conclusion
In the end, you must know that no dog is 100% allergen-free, as all dogs produce allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine. It’s just that the hypoallergenic dogs tend to have single-layer coats that shed less. These long-coated and short-haired breeds don’t shed too much hair.
However, if you aren’t too keen about the list of pooches described in this article, you can explore other low-shedding hypoallergenic pooches like the Irish Water Spaniel, which has a tightly curled coat and a smooth, long tail. Or the Briard that also stands among these breeds that don’t shed significantly and has a dirt-resistant and water-resistant coat.
More options include the powder-puff Chinese Crested, wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Standard Schnauzer, Bedlington Terrier, and the Peruvian Inca Orchid.
