Bringing a dog into the family is an exciting milestone, but for families with allergy concerns, it often comes with extra challenges. Pet dander, saliva, and fur can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, making it crucial to choose a breed that minimizes these risks. While no dog is completely allergen-free, some breeds produce fewer allergens and are often better tolerated in allergy-prone households.
This article highlights seven of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for families with kids. These breeds are known not only for their low-shedding or low-dander coats but also for their gentle temperaments, kid-friendly behavior, and manageable grooming needs. Whether you’re looking for a small companion or a playful medium-sized pup, these dogs offer a balance of affection and allergy-friendliness, making them ideal additions to your home.
Let’s explore the family dog breeds that combine cuddles and comfort, without the constant sneezing.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds For Kids
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Origin: England
Group: Toy
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 4–7 lbs
Lifespan: 12–16 years
The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact, hypoallergenic toy breed known for its lively personality and luxurious silky coat. Despite their small size, Yorkies are courageous and assertive, often behaving like much larger dogs. According to the AKC, they are hypoallergenic because of their hair-like coat that sheds minimally, making them a good choice for allergy-prone households.
Yorkies are affectionate and tend to form strong bonds, often favoring one person in the household. They’re known for their loyalty, alertness, and tendency to shadow their owners’ every move. Early socialization is key, especially with children, as their small frame makes them more delicate.
While they enjoy interactive play and mental stimulation, Yorkshire Terriers are sensitive and can develop “small dog syndrome” if not trained consistently. They are better suited to homes with older, respectful children who understand how to handle small breeds gently.
Yorkies thrive on routine grooming due to their continuously growing hair, and they require regular brushing and professional trims. Their alert nature also makes them vocal watchdogs.
2. Shih Tzu
Origin: China
Group: Toy
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 9–16 lbs
Lifespan: 10–16 years
Shih Tzus are affectionate, hypoallergenic dogs with luxurious, long coats that trap dander, reducing allergen spread. These dogs were bred to be royal lap companions, and they still maintain that affectionate, calm demeanor, making them ideal family pets, especially for children.
Their easygoing and gentle nature makes them highly tolerant of kids, particularly if socialized early. Shih Tzus are patient, enjoy cuddles, and don’t mind indoor living, which makes them perfect for apartment dwellers or homes without large yards.
While they’re low-shedding, their grooming needs are high. Their long coats require frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles, and many owners opt for shorter cuts for easier maintenance. Their moderate energy level means daily walks and some playtime are usually sufficient.
Shih Tzus are generally easy to train and eager to please, responding well to positive reinforcement. Their sweet temperament, compact size, and minimal shedding make them an excellent hypoallergenic option for families with children.
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Origin: Germany
Group: Terrier
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 11–20 lbs
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Miniature Schnauzers are cheerful, spirited terriers known for their signature beards and bushy eyebrows. Originally bred as farm dogs to control rodents, they bring a bold and lively personality into any household. Their wiry coat sheds minimally, making them a suitable hypoallergenic choice for allergy-sensitive families.
Despite their compact size, Miniature Schnauzers are robust and energetic. They form close bonds with their families and are often described as “people dogs” who thrive on companionship and involvement. Their loyalty and alertness make them excellent watchdogs, though they can be quite vocal if not trained early.
This breed typically gets along well with children, especially when socialized from a young age. They’re playful yet sensitive and require mutual respect from kids. While they’re friendly with other pets, their terrier instincts may occasionally lead them to chase small animals.
With high intelligence and a streak of independence, Schnauzers benefit from engaging activities and regular training. Their energy is best channeled through walks, play sessions, or agility games, and consistent grooming keeps their distinctive coat healthy and tangle-free.
4. Bichon Frise
Origin: Mediterranean Region
Group: Non-Sporting
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 12–18 lbs
Lifespan: 14–15 years
The Bichon Frise is a joyful, hypoallergenic breed known for its soft, curly white coat and endearing teddy bear looks. Bred for companionship, these cheerful dogs adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, and make wonderful family pets thanks to their gentle temperament.
PetMD states that they are social, affectionate, and delight in being the center of attention, often clowning around to entertain their loved ones. Their playful nature and sturdy build make them great companions for kids, especially when socialized early to avoid shyness or anxiety.
Although they don’t shed much, Bichons require regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain their fluffy appearance. Their coat traps dander and dead hair, which reduces allergens in the environment, though no breed is entirely allergen-free.
Bichons thrive on routine and enjoy structured play, short walks, and positive reinforcement training. They’re prone to separation anxiety, so they do best in households where someone is usually home. With proper care and attention, the Bichon Frise is a lovable, low-shedding addition to any child-friendly home.
5. Chinese Crested
Origin: Likely Africa/China
Group: Toy
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 5–12 lbs
Lifespan: 13–18 years
The Chinese Crested is a delicate, eye-catching toy breed available in two distinct varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. The Hairless has silky tufts on its head, feet, and tail, while the Powderpuff is fully coated in soft, flowing fur. Both are affectionate companions that thrive on close human contact and enjoy warm laps more than outdoor romps.
Sensitive and alert, Cresteds can be shy around strangers but are deeply loyal to their families. Though small, they’re lively and playful in short bursts, alternating between energetic zoomies and snuggly downtime. Their low-shedding nature makes them a popular hypoallergenic option, but they require extra skincare, especially sun protection and moisturization.
Cresteds are generally good with gentle children and well-mannered pets, though their fragile frames mean rough play should be avoided. Their quirky personalities and expressive faces bring charm to any household, especially those who can offer consistent companionship and a calm environment.
Due to their need for regular skin care and climate sensitivity, they’re best suited for attentive owners who enjoy pampering. A jacket in winter and shade in summer are essentials for this loving, low-allergen breed.
6. Affenpinscher
Origin: Germany
Group: Toy
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 7–10 lbs
Lifespan: 12–15 years
With its shaggy face and mischievous spark, the Affenpinscher—often called the “monkey terrier”—is a bold, compact breed packed with personality. Bred in Germany for ratting, today’s Affenpinschers are known for their comic charm, loyalty, and fearless nature, despite their small stature.
According to WebMD, their wiry, hypoallergenic coat doesn’t shed much but benefits from weekly brushing and occasional trimming to maintain its distinct tousled appearance. Affens do well in apartments and small homes and are adaptable to quiet or moderately active lifestyles.
These dogs form tight bonds with their families and are often devoted to one or two people. While affectionate, they can be independent and stubborn at times, so early training and clear boundaries are important. With proper socialization, they get along well with other pets and older children who treat them gently.
Clever and alert, Affenpinschers enjoy short walks and indoor play. Their moderate energy and compact size make them ideal companions for owners looking for a spirited but low-shedding friend.
7. Maltese
Origin: Mediterranean Region
Group: Toy
Size: Small
Typical Weight: 4–7 lbs
Lifespan: 12–15 years
The Maltese is an elegant lapdog with a history as a beloved companion dating back thousands of years. Recognized for its silky white coat and sweet expression, this breed is charming, affectionate, and thrives on human companionship. Despite its refined appearance, the Maltese has a spirited, lively personality.
Because it lacks an undercoat and sheds minimally, the Maltese is often recommended for allergy-sensitive homes. However, daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles and matting, or many owners opt for a short “puppy cut” for easier upkeep. Their expressive eyes and tear-stained faces also require gentle daily cleaning.
Friendly and social, Maltese dogs love being involved in family activities and generally get along well with kids and other pets. They do best with positive reinforcement training and can be surprisingly agile, excelling in dog sports when given the opportunity.
Though petite, they are alert and may bark to announce visitors. These loving, adaptable dogs do well in apartments or homes, provided they have ample attention, structure, and mental stimulation.
Conclusion
While no dog is completely allergy-free, many hypoallergenic breeds produce less dander and shed minimally, making them great options for allergy sufferers. These breeds can be ideal for families looking for a loving companion without triggering allergy symptoms.
Dogs like the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, and Standard Poodle are known for their curly or silky coats that trap dead skin cells and reduce dander in the environment. Their hypoallergenic traits, however, come with specific grooming requirements. To maintain a healthy coat and prevent matting, regular brushing and visits to a professional groomer are essential.
Many of these dogs are also highly intelligent, energetic, and thrive with daily exercise. Long walks, playtime, and mental stimulation help keep them balanced and happy. Some, especially smaller terrier breeds or mixed breeds with low-shedding coats, adapt well to smaller living spaces.
Whether you prefer a curly coat, an affectionate nature, or a low-shedding dog that fits your lifestyle, the right breed can offer both comfort and companionship, making life with a dog more enjoyable, even with dog allergies.
