Have you ever dreamed of having a dog but backed off because of itchy eyes, sneezing, or a stuffy nose? You are not alone. Millions of dog lovers struggle with pet allergies.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as 10 to 20% of the world’s population is allergic to cats and dogs.
For many people, it means putting their dog-owning dreams on hold. But you don’t have to be one of them! The good news is that not all dogs trigger allergy symptoms in the same way.
In this blog, we will take a look at the most hypoallergenic dog breeds in the world that make them a better fit for sensitive households and allergy sufferers.
Most Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds In The World
1. Poodle
The Poodle comes in three sizes: Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Standard Poodle. All three of them are well-known for being hypoallergenic. The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three and was originally bred for hunting.
The Miniature Poodle and Toy Poodle are smaller variations of this breed that are suitable for smaller homes and apartment living.
Why Poodles Are Great For Families:
Curly coat that catches dander and does not shed much
One of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world
Great with kids and other pets
Learns quickly and loves training games
Needs regular grooming to avoid matting
2. Maltese
The Maltese is a small hypoallergenic dog known for its long and silky white coat. Their coat is beautiful but needs care. If you decide to keep it long, you will have to brush it regularly. A short “puppy” cut with some dog hair grooming clippers is a smart choice if you want easier grooming.
Moreover, PetMD mentions that these pups require regular exercise, positive reinforcement, and mental stimulation to stay active and happy.
Why Maltese Are a Good Choice For Homes:
A low-shedding coat that makes them allergy-friendly
Supper cuddly and calm, totally loves human attention
Great for smaller homes and apartments, and make good family dogs
Minimal grooming is required if the hair is kept in a short cut
3. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is one of the most eye-catching hypoallergenic dog breeds out there. It comes in two types: hairless and powderpuff. Both types are great for allergy sufferers, thanks to their low shedding and very little pet dander. They also don’t drool much. This helps reduce allergic reactions even more.
What Makes the Chinese Crested Stand Out:
Very low odor, a plus for sensitive households
Light and delicate build makes them easy to carry
Naturally quiet and alert
Generally do well with children and other pets if socialized early
Intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement methods
4. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise might just be the happiest little dog you’ll ever meet! These dogs walk around like they are smiling. And honestly, they usually are. With their white, curly coat and cheerful attitude, it is hard not to feel good around them. These are really some of the most adorable pups you’ll ever meet!
On top of being adorable, they are also great for people with pet allergies. Their coat is soft and curly. This helps trap pet dander and keeps dog hair from floating around your home.
Why the Bichon Frise Fits Well in All Types Of Homes:
Their curly coat sheds very little
They need regular grooming to keep the coat clean and tangle-free (great to relieve stress!)
Responds well to training and loves to learn new tricks
Loves attention and makes a great family companion
Small enough to fit in any living space
5. Portuguese Water Dog
If your idea of fun includes the beach, a lake, or even a backyard hose, the Portuguese Water Dog may be your perfect match. WebMD states that this breed was originally bred to help fishermen in Portugal, guide fish into nets, and retrieve things from the water. You get it: they swim like a pro!
They are also among the best hypoallergenic dogs. Their thick coat may look heavy, but it is a single coat that sheds very little.
Why the Portuguese Water Dog is Great For Family Homes:
A low-shedding black coat helps reduce pet allergies
Naturally athletic and loves swimming or long walks
Very loyal and eager to please
Friendly with kids and makes a great family dog
Individuals make great service dogs as well
6. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound looks like it walked straight out of a painting. It has a long, flowing coat and elegant posture that often turns heads. PDSA says that Afghan Hounds often have a “clownish” behavior, and if they are well socialized, they can be good with children.
This breed has a silky coat that doesn’t shed as much as other dogs. This makes them suitable for people with dog allergies.
Why the Afghan Hound is a Safe Pick For Sensitive Owners:
A low-shedding coat that helps reduce allergic reactions
Very clean by nature. They are often called “cat-like” in their grooming habits
Minimum drooling, doesn’t make a mess
Graceful and loves to run
A great family dog that welcomes everyone happily
7. Miniature Schnauzer
There are three Schnauzer breeds: Giant Schnauzer, Standard Schnauzer, and Miniature Schnauzer. Among these, the Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest. This pup may be small in size, but its personality is pretty bold and outspoken.
They are a favourite among allergy-conscious dog lovers. Its wiry coat and soft undercoat work together to keep dog hair and pet dander under control.
What Dog Owners Love About the Mini Schnauzer:
Double coat that sheds less than most other terrier breeds
Needs regular grooming, but won’t leave hair all over your home
Smart and quick to learn new commands
Serves as a great guard dog that is alert and protective
Small size makes them perfect for urban living
8. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is often called the “monkey dog” for their monkey-like appearance. It is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. But still, they are charming and will make you laugh even on your worst days.
Its dense and wiry coat gives off less dander than many other dogs. However, they require a lot of care through brushing and stripping, a process in which the hair is removed by the root instead of being trimmed.
Why Dog Owners Appreciate the Affenpinscher:
Very low shedding, best for allergy sufferers
Small size means fewer allergens overall
Naturally clean and low odor
Their affectionate nature makes them great companion pets
A great mix of goofy energy and loving loyalty
9. Barbet
The Barbet is a shaggy French water dog that is closely related to the Poodle. The AKC describes these dogs as one of the oldest dog breeds, with a first recorded mention in 1387. They have a unique look with shaggy bangs and a beard as well!
These dogs shed pretty little and are a great pick for allergy-prone families who want something a little different. The Barbet’s coat is more like hair than fur. This means it doesn’t shed like many other dogs.
Why Barbets Are a Good Choice For Dog Lovers:
Hair-like coat releases less dander and sheds very little
Loves water and outdoor play, great for active homes
Naturally social and cheerful with family
Needs regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent matting
They excel at many dog sports
10. Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is one of the most unique-looking hypoallergenic breeds in the world. These are hairless dogs with a sleek body and a gentle personality.
They come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. While some have a short and fine coat, most of these pooches are hairless. This means there is very little dander, no shedding, and less risk of allergic reactions.
Why the Peruvian Inca Orchid Works Well For Most Dog Owners:
Naturally clean and low odor
Comes in multiple sizes to suit your space and lifestyle
Makes a good hunting dog and family companion
Calm and affectionate, it bonds deeply with its people
Enjoy trips to the park and outings with the family
Conclusion
Finding the right dog when you have allergies might feel impossible, but it’s not! As you have seen, there are several great hypoallergenic dogs that give you love without the constant sneezing and teary eyes. Apart from the breeds mentioned above, there are other hypoallergenic dogs as well.
These include the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Kerry Blue Terrier, American Hairless Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Lagotto Romagnolo, and Shih Tzu. All of these breeds offer something special for allergy sufferers looking for a loyal companion.
Just remember: while these dogs shed less and produce less dander, no dog is 100% allergy-proof. The main thing is to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and grooming habits. Moreover, it is also important to keep up with regular grooming to minimize pet dander and allergens.
