That a person is allergic does not necessarily mean that they cannot bring a dog home. The trick is to pick the right breed. Precisely, the so-called hypoallergenic dogs are gaining more and more popularity, since by not shedding so much dander or hair, they are less likely to trigger sensitivities and allergies.
Below we show you the complete list of hypoallergenic dog breeds (Large, Medium, and Small).
Table of Contents
What does it mean for a dog to be hypoallergenic?
Before knowing what these dogs are and what characterizes them, it is important to understand what this classification means.
Simply put, the term “hypoallergenic” means that the breed in question is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Typically, many of these dogs are quite shaggy but do not shed much. In addition, their coats are made up of a single layer.
Since there is no undercoat to shed, the result is less hair and dander floating around the home.
In short, hypoallergenic dog breeds are distinguished by:
- A low level of shedding and low dandruff production.
- The presence of a single-layer coat.
- In some cases, the absence of fur.
Are there really hypoallergenic dogs?
Experts warn that there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. Although it is possible to find less allergenic breeds, suitable for sensitive people or those who suffer from asthma and allergies, the truth is that there is still a risk of experiencing some symptoms. Likewise, it is noted that the reaction may vary depending on the person and the dog in particular.
It should be noted that, contrary to what many believe, dog hair is not the main culprit. It is known that most allergies are caused by dander adhering to the pet’s fur and skin.
Small hypoallergenic dogs
1. Yorkshire terrier
One of the favorites among small dogs is, without a doubt, the beloved Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkie’s coat is very similar to human hair, so it is less likely to cause allergies. This breed sheds very little, as its soft, silky coat lacks a second undercoat.
When properly cared for and proper hygiene is maintained, the Yorkshire Terrier can be the perfect pet for allergy sufferers.
- Maintenance: High
- Shedding: Low
2. Miniature Schnauzer
Another very popular hypoallergenic puppy is the miniature schnauzer. This is the smallest of all the schnauzer types. Like the standard and the giant, the mini sheds very little, although it is worth noting that it has a double-layered coat (a soft undercoat and a harder, thicker outer coat).
Frequent brushing and trimming are essential to keep it clean and neat.
Although individual reactions may vary with the schnauzer breed, allergies are unlikely to be caused.
- Maintenance: High
- Shedding: Low
See: How Many Types of Schnauzers Are There? Characteristics and Differences
3. Shih Tzu
Small, very furry, and hypoallergenic … these characteristics make the Shih Tzu a very special pet among allergic owners. Their almost human fur reduces the risk of experiencing the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
Regular brushing and grooming help further combat loose hairs and dandruff in this breed.
- Maintenance: Medium-high
- Shedding: Low
4. Havanese
This bichon can be the perfect companion for those who want a hypoallergenic lapdog. Its naturally long, soft, and silky coat is made up of two layers and can vary from straight to curly.
Although his shedding level isn’t high, you’ll want to brush him daily to keep him free of mats and loose hairs.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Shedding: Low
5. Bichón Malta
The Maltese are another great representative of the bichon dog group. This hypoallergenic, small, all-white dog is often an excellent choice against allergies. Its shedding level is extremely low.
Of course, his coat requires daily gentle brushing, as well as regular baths to keep it free of tangles and dirt.
- Maintenance: Medium-high
- Shedding: Low
It may interest you: All Types of Bichon – 7 Breeds, Differences + Photos
6. West Highland White terrier
Affectionately known as a westie, the West Highland White terrier is also considered hypoallergenic. This lovely, pretty, white pup has a relatively thick, double-layered coat.
While he does not exhibit excessive shedding, he has been known to shed more than other recommended breeds.
Daily brushing is very important to remove any buildup of dead hair.
- Maintenance: Medium-high
- Shedding: Medium
7. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier’s hypoallergenic coat is made up of two coats, a rough, bristly outer coat, and a dense, soft undercoat. It can be the perfect pet for sensitive or allergic people who want to have a lively, independent, and self-confident dog at home.
It is recommended to brush them several times a week, preferably untangling them with your hands.
Maintenance: Medium
Shedding: Low
8. Italian Lebrel
Looking like a real miniature sighthound, the Italian Greyhound is a hypoallergenic breed recommended for allergy-prone owners. This is an alert and sensitive dog whose short, smooth coat requires very little maintenance, but has a slightly higher level of shedding.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Medium
9. Cairn terrier
The thick, bushy coat of the cairn terrier is not only hypoallergenic, but it also repels water. It is generally recommended that the owner maintain a weekly manual brushing and detangling routine, but in essence, this is very easy to maintain the breed.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Low
10. Chinese Crested
Not having the conventional coat of common dogs, the Chinese Hairless Crested is less likely to cause allergies in case of sensitivity to the animal’s hair and dander. This breed only has hair on its ears, head, tail, and lower legs. As expected, it releases little or practically nothing.
The absence of fur does not mean that this dog does not take care of and maintained it. Be warned that exposed skin is prone to irritation, allergies, and sunburn.
Note. The Chinese crested variety with hair (powderpuff) is also hypoallergenic.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Very low
11. Tulear cotton
The stunning Coton de Tulear may be the ideal hypoallergenic breed for allergy sufferers looking for a true family companion. His furry white coat is soft, similar to the texture of cotton. This means that very little hair is lost, only occasionally.
- Maintenance: Medium-high (if maintained with long hair)
- Shedding: Low
12. Border terrier
Like its other relatives in the large terrier family, a border terrier is unlikely to trigger allergy symptoms. Dogs of this breed have a double-layered coat, with the outer coat being hard and bristly, and the undercoat soft and fluffy.
As an owner, you can expect some shedding during shedding season, but it’s not excessive.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Low-medium
13. Brussels Griffon
If you are an admirer of the unique Brussels Griffon, you will be interested to know that there are two varieties, one with soft hair and the other with wire hair. If you are allergic or asthmatic, the recommendation is to opt for a wire-haired specimen. With this variant, you will have minimal shedding.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Shedding: Low
14. Terrier de Norwich
The Norwich Terrier is a small hypoallergenic dog with an affectionate, alert and curious attitude. Their double-layered coat is made up of hard, tough hair on the inside, covering a layer of soft hair on the inside.
Unlike other breeds mentioned on this list, they tend to shed a significant amount of hair during their shedding phases. Manual brushing and detangling every week are essential to remove excess loose hair.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Medium
15. Silky terrier
It is a hypoallergenic toy size puppy of great beauty and charming personality. Given its low level of shedding, it is a highly recommended breed for allergic owners and people who do not want to deal with loose hair around the home.
However, it is noted that the silky terrier’s coat is very susceptible and therefore requires regular brushing and washing.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Shedding: Low
16. Norfolk Terrier
The characteristics of this hypoallergenic terrier are very similar to the Norwich terrier. The double-layered coat experiences more noticeable shedding only during times of shedding. At that point, it is recommended to detangle with your hands to remove dead hair and avoid the accumulation of dandruff and other allergens.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Medium
17. Australian Terrier
The Australian terrier’s harsh, weather-resistant coat has hypoallergenic qualities, repels dirt, and is virtually non-shedding. It is also very easy to maintain; a quick brushing a week is usually enough to take care of this breed.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Very low
18. Lakeland terrier
Billed as a “big dog in a small body,” the Lakeland terrier is another breed to consider among allergy or asthma sufferers. Friendly, confident, and sassy like any other terrier, the Lakeland has a beautiful coat of thick, wire hair.
It does not shed almost any hair, which is why it is a good dog for those who cannot tolerate dandruff.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Very low
19. Affenpinscher
It is considered by many to be a favorite among allergy-free dogs. The Affenpinscher is the type of hypoallergenic dog that you will want to have at home. Although he does lose some hair occasionally, the truth is that his thick fluffy coat sheds very little.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Shedding: Low
20. Sealyham Terrier
Looking for a small hypoallergenic dog that has a great sense of humor and is also outgoing? The Sealyham terrier may be a good option. Their weather-resistant, double-layered coat tends to shed little. This only increases during the molting phases.
Be warned that it requires regular brushing, as its coat tends to tangle easily.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Shedding: Low-medium
21. Lowchen
It may not be as popular a breed in various parts of the world, but the beautiful Lowchen or “little lion dog” is one of the best hypoallergenic dogs to consider. His long coat hardly sheds and to top it off, he requires low maintenance.
Of course, it is noted that the few hairs that it sheds will not come out without the intervention of a brush.
- Maintenance: Low
- Shedding: Very low
