Dog allergies have kept too many animal lovers from experiencing the joy of a furry friend at home. The itchy eyes, runny nose, and non-stop sneezing just don’t seem worth it, right? Well, here’s some great news: not all dogs will send you reaching for tissues!
Hypoallergenic dog breeds produce much less of the proteins in saliva and skin cells that typically trigger allergic reactions. These special pups shed very little hair and dander, making life with them much more comfortable for allergy sufferers.
Finding the right breed could be your ticket to finally enjoying dog ownership without the constant battle against symptoms.
In the next few minutes, we’ll introduce you to seven wonderful dogs that might just change your life. From small dogs to medium-sized companions, these breeds combine the best of both worlds: all the love of a dog with minimal allergy concerns.
Hypoallergenic Friendly Dog Breeds
1. Shih Tzu
Despite their luxurious appearance, Shih Tzus are actually one of the best companions for those concerned about dog allergies.
Their long, flowing coat doesn’t shed much, which means fewer allergens floating around the house. Regular grooming helps keep their coat tangle-free while also managing any potential allergen buildup.
Perfect for Sensitive Households
Shih Tzus produce minimal pet dander, which is often the main trigger for allergic reactions. Combined with their low-shedding coat, this makes them a popular choice for allergy-sensitive families.
They’re also small enough to thrive in apartments and cozier homes, without leaving behind much pet hair to clean up.
Gentle, Affectionate, and Social
Personality-wise, Shih Tzus are warm, gentle, and absolutely adore human attention. They get along well with kids, other pets, and guests, making them wonderful family companions. They’re not overly energetic, but they do enjoy daily walks and interactive playtime to stay happy and healthy.
A Little Maintenance, A Lot of Love
While they do require regular brushing and occasional trims to keep their coat manageable, their temperament and allergy-friendly traits more than make up for it.
2. Bichon Frise
With their soft, curly coat and cheerful personality, the Bichon Frise is more than just a lap dog — they’re one of the most allergy-considerate companions out there.
Their coat doesn’t shed much, which helps minimize dander from spreading around the home. It’s one of the main reasons they’re a go-to choice for families with sensitivities.
Gentle on Allergies, Big on Personality
The Bichon Frise is often listed as a top hypoallergenic breed, not just for its coat but also for its overall cleanliness and low odor.
As per Royal Canin, their hair continuously grows rather than shedding in clumps, which is especially helpful for people with allergies trying to avoid constant flare-ups.
Cheerful, Social, and Easy to Love
Beyond being allergy-friendly, they’re affectionate, playful, and love being part of the family. Whether you’re in a house or an apartment, their adaptable nature makes them a great fit for many lifestyles. They enjoy attention, do well with other pets, and have a soft spot for children.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to help fishermen along the Portuguese coast, this breed comes equipped with a dense, curly, waterproof coat that doesn’t shed much. That’s good news for those with pet allergies, as it traps hair and dander instead of letting it float around your home.
Energetic and Loyal by Nature
Portuguese Water Dogs are active, sharp, and love being around their humans. They’re known for being both adventurous and affectionate — perfect for families who enjoy the outdoors. Just be prepared to exercise your dog regularly to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Allergy-Conscious and Clean
This breed produces less dander than many others, making them a practical choice for households trying to reduce airborne allergens.
But to truly benefit from that, staying on top of their grooming needs is a must. Without consistent brushing and trimming, their tight curls can trap debris and mat quickly.
Adaptable and Highly Trainable
They’re intelligent and quick to pick up commands, which makes training them straightforward for both new and experienced dog owners. Their mix of hypoallergenic traits, lively energy, and deep loyalty gives them a well-earned place among allergy-friendly breeds that don’t compromise on companionship.
4. Havanese
The Havanese has a long, silky coat that grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally, which helps reduce airborne allergens.
This makes them a solid option for individuals looking to avoid excess fur buildup at home. As one of the best hypoallergenic dogs, they produce lower levels of pet dander, which can be a relief for those sensitive to common dog allergens.
Size, Temperament, and Compatibility
These small dogs are highly adaptable and tend to thrive in apartments or compact spaces. Bred to be companion pets, they bond closely with their humans and tend to follow them around the house. They’re responsive, gentle, and often excel in training, especially with positive reinforcement.
Care and Grooming Essentials
Though they’re low-shedding, their coat still requires frequent brushing to prevent mats. Regular grooming appointments every few weeks help keep their skin and coat healthy and avoid the buildup of allergens.
Many dog lovers appreciate this breed not just for its appearance, but also for its minimal contribution to household allergens, especially among families where people with allergies need a careful match.
Breed Origin and History
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is descended from Bichon-type parent breeds that arrived on the island centuries ago, as highlighted by AKC. Their background as lapdogs of Cuban nobility explains their strong preference for human company.
5. Samoyed
The Samoyed is one of the most energetic and athletic dogs, originally developed by the Samoyedic people of Siberia to pull sleds, herd reindeer, and endure extreme cold.
They need vigorous daily activity — long walks aren’t enough. Without proper exercise and stimulation, they can become restless and destructive indoors.
Coat and Allergen Considerations
Their fluffy white coat is double-layered and sheds year-round, with heavier blows during seasonal transitions. This coat traps dander close to the skin and requires thorough brushing several times a week to manage the shedding.
They’re not ideal for people sensitive to allergens; in fact, many owners rely on air purifiers to reduce dander and loose hair buildup in the home.
Grooming Commitment
Samoyeds require extensive grooming. Brushing needs to reach the undercoat to prevent mats, and regular bathing is necessary to avoid dirt buildup, especially in their dense coat.
They are a high-maintenance breed in terms of coat care, but their majestic appearance and engaging personality are often worth the effort for experienced owners.
Temperament and Household Fit
They’re alert, vocal, and naturally social — better suited to colder climates and homes with spacious yards, as mentioned in PDSA.
Their expression, often referred to as the “Sammy smile,” only adds to their reputation as absolutely adorable, but potential owners should weigh the grooming and energy needs before bringing one home.
6. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is known for its dignified independence and strong prey drive. Originally developed in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, they were used for hunting large game in harsh terrain — their endurance and speed still stand out today.
Coat Type and Grooming Demands
Their flowing, silky coat is more than just aesthetic — it served as insulation in cold climates. But it tangles easily and demands intense maintenance.
Owners need to commit to brushing several times a week, ideally with detangling sprays, and scheduled baths with blow-drying to maintain the coat’s natural texture. Skipping routine care leads to matting, especially behind the ears and under the legs.
Exercise Needs and Behavior
While not hyperactive indoors, Afghan Hounds require regular sprints and off-leash time in secure areas. Their sight-hound instincts mean they’ll chase anything that moves — training for reliable recall can be a challenge. They thrive best in homes that offer both physical freedom and quiet, structured environments.
Household Fit
They aren’t clingy or eager to please, making them a poor choice for first-time dog owners expecting constant affection.
But for those who appreciate a cat-like personality in a dog body, the Afghan Hound’s grace, intelligence, and aloof charm make them an unforgettable companion.
7. Bedlington Terrier
Despite its lamb-like looks, the Bedlington Terrier is a bold, athletic, and feisty dog under that soft exterior. Bred for vermin hunting in the mining towns of northern England, this breed has a strong prey drive and a confident personality. It’s known for being alert, energetic, and assertive, often challenging dogs much larger in size.
Coat Texture and Grooming Needs
The coat is a unique mix of soft and coarse hair, forming a crisp texture that doesn’t shed much but grows continuously. It needs consistent trimming and brushing to keep its signature shape and avoid matting. Unlike some terriers, the Bedlington doesn’t have a wiry texture — its coat is more fleece-like, and scissoring is often preferred over hand-stripping.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Despite its elegant appearance, this breed is no couch ornament. Bedlington is fast runner and enjoy chasing and playing outdoors. They require daily exercise and mental enrichment to stay balanced. Without it, they can become stubborn and overly vocal indoors.
Household Compatibility
While affectionate with family, they can be aloof or even scrappy with unfamiliar dogs, especially if not socialized early. They’re best suited for homes that can match their energy, provide structured grooming, and respect their independent streak.
Conclusion
Living with allergies doesn’t mean missing out on the joy of dog ownership. These seven hypoallergenic breeds offer hope for anyone who’s been told “there’s no such thing” as an allergy-friendly dog.
Whether you prefer a dog with silky hair like the Havanese or one with a short coat like the Bedlington Terrier, there’s likely a perfect match for your lifestyle. Remember that even large hypoallergenic dogs like the Portuguese Water Dog need frequent grooming to maintain their allergy-friendly status.
Some breeds with a double coat, like the Samoyed, require extra care but reward you with their protective nature and loyalty. Even dog saliva contains proteins that can trigger allergies, so regular cleaning remains important with any breed.
With proper care, weekly brushing, and attention to your specific allergy triggers, these affectionate breeds can bring companionship without the constant sneezing, proving that allergies don’t have to stand between you and your dream of dog ownership.
