Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds For Allergy Sufferers

When it comes to our canine companions, everyone has heard the phrase “man’s best friend.” For centuries, dogs have stood by our side through some of the most trying times, licking our faces and brightening our days with their wagging little tails. But what if that best friend gave you the sniffles or made you skin break out in inflamed hives? No one wants a bestie that will make their eyes itch.Although many people have experienced the joy of welcoming a dog into their family, there are countless others who may not ever know the delight that a pooch can bring. Millions of people who are allergic to dogs and their dander have been limited in their options when choosing a fur baby. In fact, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology estimated that as much as 10% of the population suffers from dog allergies. However, today, there are numerous studies which have shown that those who are allergic to pet dander have a lot more options than they previously thought. This is due to certain breeds of dog being hypoallergenic. Yes, hypoallergenic. Yes, it sounds a little more than wonky, but it’s true.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

Hypoallergenic dogs typically have non-shedding coats which reduces the amount of dander they produce. While no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, these dogs are way more compatible with allergy sufferers and can make their days a little less sniffly. There is such a wide variety of hypoallergenic dogs that finding a breed that’s perfect for you will be as easy as saying “Sit, boy.”

19. Afghan Hound

First up on our hypo-doggie list is the distinguished Afghan Hound. These tall and slender dogs are very sweet, loyal and affectionate. With a low dominance level, these sensitive dogs must be trained in a very calm, kind and firm manner.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

Afghan Hounds are easily recognizable with their long, silky fur and slender faces; they’re kind of like fashion models of the dog world. These hounds don’t shed much, but boy do they drool. With a healthy diet and daily long walks, you can expect your Afghan Hound to live around 14 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

18. American Hairless Terrier

Next on our list is the American Hairless Terrier, which makes total sense because it’s hairless. Can’t have dander if you don’t have fur. Am I right, or am I right? These pups are small but powerful, with muscles that may even make Arnold a little jealous.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

As an intelligent breed, AHTs thrive when involved in challenging outdoor games. They are an alert, energetic and loving breed that does well in apartments as long as they get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. AHTs are generally a healthy breed and tend to live 14-16 years with proper diet and exercise.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

17. Bedlington Terrier

Now it’s time to discuss another terrier. The Bedlington Terrier to be exact. Unlike its hairless cousin, the Bedlington Terrier is covered in soft, curly, fluffy fur that will make you want to hum Mary’s Little Lamb each time you see them. A cheerful and affectionate breed, the Bedlington Terrier is the absolute perfect choice for families.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

These dogs love to chase and need lots of daily exercise to stay happy and sane. Bedlingtons have a long life expectancy at 17+ years, which makes them the perfect long-term companion for those who want a pet that will grow old right along with them.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

16. Bichon Frise

When you think of fluffballs, you probably imagine something like the Bichon Frise, which is the epitome of fluffball. With poofy white fur, this small breed resembles a little cloud floating in the sky. Although they look incredibly sweet, looks can be deceiving. The Bichon Frise is a mischievous little thing that has endless love to give.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

They are perfect for apartment living, families with other pets and small children. Bichon Frise is the ultimate people pleaser and wants to put a smile on everyone’s face. But they have serious separation issues so don’t plan on leaving this little fluffy pooch along for too long.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

15. Chinese Crested

If you want a patient dog that doesn’t need to constantly run around and play with things, the Chinese Crested may be for you. With little desire to play, this small breed is perfectly content lying by your side for hours while you happily read the latest best-selling novel.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Your Chinese Crested may take a while to warm up to you but when she does, be prepared for the stalker to emerge, because she will never want to leave your side. They are very small and easy to train, and with proper diet and exercise you can expect your loving little stalker to live 10-12 years.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

14. Coton de Tulear

Next up on the list is a pup with the sweetest little face. If the Coton de Tulear had cheeks, you’d likely want to pinch them. Weighing in at a hefty 12 pounds, the Coton de Tulear is a tiny little thing that loves to play and swim and be overall adorable. They are very gentle and can get along well with children and other dogs.

it.wikipedia.org
it.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

They always want to please and will rarely want to leave your side. One trick that comes naturally to the Coton de Tulear is the ability to walk on its hind legs, which just adds to the cuteness factor. They make a great watchdog and can live up to 16 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

13. Giant Schnauzer

So far this list has been comprised of smaller dogs. But I don’t want you large pooch lovers to feel left out, so I present to you the Giant Schnauzer. This schnauzer is referred to as a working breed and is known for not only being courageous, but driven and loyal as well.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

They are very outgoing and need tons of socialization and exercise (physical and mental) to stay happy, and they don’t do well in apartment settings. Giant Schnauzers excel in obedience and can do almost anything if trained correctly. These relentless watchdogs have been known to live up to 15 years.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

12. Irish Water Spaniel

Can you guess what the Irish Water Spaniel’s specialty is? If you guessed anything but water, you would sadly be wrong. These pups just love the water and are fantastic companions for active and experienced owners. The Irish Water Spaniel can get along with pretty much anyone from babies to dogs to strangers.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

They are incredibly intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them amazing in the obedience ring. This breed absolutely adores the outdoors and will thrive in a rural setting with lots of room for playing. Irish Water Spaniels excel in swimming and retrieving and can live up to 12 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

11. Kerry Blue Terrier

Despite its name, the Kerry Blue Terrier is not blue. In fact, this breed comes in a multitude of colors that include white, brown and black. The KBT has a comical reputation and is known for keeping their owners in stitches… from laughing, that is. They are alert, rowdy and affectionate with a protective disposition.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

These dogs have an exceptional memory with an aptitude for anything sporty like catching balls and agility training. Kerry Blue Terriers are an overall healthy breed that does well in apartments and homes with small yards. It is important to socialize these dogs since they need lots of companionship and playtime. KBTs can live up to 15 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

10. Lagotto Romagnolo

The multi-talented Lagotto Romagnolo is no stranger to exercise. This breed loves participating in everything from obedience training to police work and tracking. Basically, the Lagotto Romagnolo is like that over-achiever in high school who kind of got on your nerves because they were better at everything than you were. This purebred breed is known for being loyal, cheerful and social and need active owners who will keep them on their toes.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Living conditions with this breed don’t really matter as long as they get lots and lots of exercise. If you have flowers, you probably want to put them behind a fence because the Lagotto Romagnolo loves to dig and will most likely ruin your chances of winning “Best Garden In Town.” These affectionate dogs can live up to 16 years.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

9. Maltese

If someone were to ask you to picture a socialite’s dog, you’d probably immediately think of a Maltese being carted around in a blinged out doggie-purse. These small, loud and lively canines make great companions to people and other dogs. They can be difficult with their jealousy, obsessive barking and picky-eater tendencies.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Despite those negatives, the Maltese makes a great companion for calm and patient owners. They are sprightly and fearless and have bounds of energy. This breed loves being around people and their small size makes them great for apartment living. A Maltese can grow up to seven pounds (aw!) and live 12-15 years.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

8. Miniature Schnauzer

We can’t mention the Giant Schnauzer without talking about the Miniature Schnauzer, now can we? Weighing in at 10-15 pounds, this breed looks like a teacup breed next to its giant cousin. But you know what they say about small packages. This is one breed that has it all: good temperament, affectionate, intelligent and enthusiastic all wrapped up in a cute little mustache-shaped bow… get it?Because it looks like they have mustaches.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Miniature Schnauzers need lots of vigorous exercise. Daily walks or jogs are a must with this breed. They don’t experience separation anxiety and are a breeze to train. These dogs don’t show signs of aging until very late in life and can live up to 15 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

7. Hairless Peruvian Inca Orchid

If you see a Hairless Peruvian Inca Orchid squinting, don’t assume that he’s up to some sneaky business. He’s just sensitive to sunlight. If you’re looking for an indoor dog, this breed may be your perfect fit. They are easily sunburned and as mentioned before, their eyes have a hard time adjusting to the sun.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

When walking one, you may want to keep your HPIO on a leash because it will run after every little animal it sees, which will most likely drive you bonkers if you’re short on time and need to get home. These dogs have been known to live up to 12 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

6. Poodle

Next up is one of the most recognizable and distinguishable dog breeds today: the poodle. Though they come in many colors, the color white is almost always associated with this breed. These fluffy dogs are proud, clever and sport bigger hair than Dolly Parton on a humid day. Poodles have an ancient history, are regal and affectionate and just perfect for families.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

This breed may come to mind when you think of luxury and opulence, but the Poodle is actually tougher than you think; they can hunt and retrieve with the best of them. With a lifespan of 15 years, many owners are proud to have this intelligent dog in their families.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

5. Portuguese Water Dog

If you’re looking for a breed that’s easily trained, look no further than the Portuguese Water Dog. They are intensely loyal, brave, affectionate and fun to be around. This water-loving dog will function alright in an apartment, so long as they get plenty of outdoor exercise and mental stimulation.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

The Portuguese Water Dog is best known for two things: their webbed feet (crazy, right?!) and the fact that the POTUS has one. If the president’s pup, Bo, is any indication of their coolness, this breed is pretty spectacular. For an active family with a pool or any type of water nearby, this breed makes a fine companion that can live up to 14 years.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

4. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

When mentioning dogs that have a deep devotion to their families, you’d be hard-pressed to find a breed more devoted and loyal than the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. This Ireland native is fabulous with kids and has a steady and patient disposition. Although they don’t require a lot of exercise, they make up for it in their grooming needs.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier adapts easily to any accommodations, so long as they get adequate exercise. One word of caution: this breed is a notoriously messy eater and has been known to wipe their mouths on furniture after eating. This can be annoying, but oh-so-cute. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

3. Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog (are you noticing the water trend, here?) has a distinctive, wooly coat that can form cords which look very similar to dreadlocks. They were originally herders and helped hunters and fishermen alike. This breed is no stranger to hard work and takes joy in activities like hunting and tracking.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Though they are good family dogs, the Spanish Water Dog may be a tad too energetic for younger children. Because they are natural herders, they tend to try and her small children and may nip at them for non-compliance. This agile dog can live for up to 14 years.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

2. Standard Schnauzer

As the original breed, the Standard Schnauzer is an all-purpose, versatile dog that goes above and beyond to protect its family. These spunky dogs have loads of energy and are great to travel with. Standard Schnauzers need exercise and thrive in areas where they can do lots of running and playing. They are highly affectionate and need oodles of love from their human counterparts.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

 

Quick to bark, Standard Schnauzers are very territorial and make wonderful watchdogs. When socialized with children, this breed makes a wonderful and loyal companion for the youngest members of any family. These confident and intelligent dogs can live for up to 15 years.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]

Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless)

And last but certainly not least, we have the Xoloitzcuintli or Xolo for short, because honestly, who can say Xoloitzcuintli? Another more simple and easy to pronounce name for this breed is Mexican Hairless, but Xoloitzcuintli is so much more fun, don’t you think? In native Mexico, this breed was referred to as “doctors,” due to people with arthritis being comforted by the heat from their bodies.

www.flickr.com
www.flickr.com

[adinserter block=”3″]
[adinserter block=”8″]

These sensitive dogs are well-suited for apartment living and are highly intelligent. The Xolo has moderate exercise needs with a calm personality, which makes the breed perfect for those who tend to prefer staying indoors. With less than 1,000 Xoloitzcuintli dogs in the United States, you would definitely have a unique dog that not many others have seen. This hairless pup has a long lifespan of up to 20 years.

en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org

[adinserter block=”7″]
[adinserter block=”2″]