20 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Famous for their love of water, Portuguese Water Dogs were once indispensable helpers for fishermen. Perhaps the most well-known is Bo, the Obama family’s First Dog. These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and great with kids. As working dogs, they need plenty of exercise and love activities like running or playing fetch. Their coat sheds minimally, making them a great option for allergy sufferers.

Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Known for their intelligence, they’re easy to train and love mental challenges. Despite their elegant looks, poodles are active, playful dogs. Their curly coat doesn’t shed much but requires regular grooming to avoid matting. Whether in competitions or as family pets, poodles thrive on exercise and close companionship with their owners.

West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are small dogs with big personalities. They’re independent and can be a little stubborn, which makes early training and socialization essential. Loyal and alert, they make excellent watchdogs. Their white coat rarely sheds or traps dirt, but regular grooming is necessary. Westies are a lively choice for allergy-sensitive families.

The Maltese Terrier is the ultimate lap dog. Devoted to their owners, these small companions are intelligent but can be prone to barking. They’re active indoors and perfect for apartment living, though regular walks are still a must. Their long, silky coat doesn’t shed much but needs daily grooming or trimming to stay tidy. For an allergy-friendly twist, consider the Maltipoo, a Maltese-poodle mix.

If minimal fur appeals to you, the Chinese Crested might be your ideal pet. The hairless variety has hair only on its head, tail, and feet, creating a unique look. Despite being mostly hairless, they still need regular baths to keep their skin healthy. Happy and affectionate, Chinese Cresteds are lap-loving companions that thrive on attention. Their warm body temperature makes them great snuggle buddies.

The Komondor is instantly recognizable for its corded coat, which forms naturally around 8 to 10 months of age. Originally bred to guard sheep, these dogs are protective and loyal. Their cords trap individual hairs, which minimizes shedding and reduces allergens. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the cords clean and manageable. Komondors are a striking, allergy-friendly choice for experienced dog owners.

Basenjis are unique in the dog world—they don’t bark but instead produce a yodel-like sound. Originating from Africa, these short-haired dogs are low-allergy and relatively low-maintenance. However, their independent streak can make training challenging. Basenjis need plenty of exercise and early socialization to prevent boredom, which could lead to destructive behavior. With proper care, they’re loyal and fascinating companions.

Known as the “king of terriers,” Airedales are the largest terrier breed. Their mix of terrier and hound ancestry gives them a more balanced temperament. While they can be stubborn, they’re also friendly and protective. Airedales need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Their wiry coat sheds minimally, making them a great choice for allergy-prone households.

Italian Greyhounds, affectionately called “Iggies,” are miniature versions of the greyhound. With their short, smooth coat, they require little grooming and are ideal for allergy sufferers. These gentle dogs love lounging but also enjoy short bursts of exercise. They’re sensitive to cold weather and often need sweaters or jackets in winter. Italian Greyhounds thrive on attention and affection from their owners.

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, fluffy companion with a hypoallergenic coat that barely sheds. While their curly fur needs regular grooming to prevent tangles, their playful and loving nature makes it worthwhile. Bichons are great with kids and seniors, making them versatile pets for many households.

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their luxurious, flowing coat. Their hair sheds minimally, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. However, their coat requires daily brushing or regular trims to stay neat. Friendly and sociable, Shih Tzus is adaptable and perfect for families or apartment dwellers.

Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs with a soft, wavy coat that’s hypoallergenic. Their coat doesn’t shed much but needs regular grooming to maintain its texture. Energetic and intelligent, Wheatens require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They’re loyal and make excellent family pets.

Known for their elegance, Afghan Hounds have a long, flowing coat that’s hypoallergenic. Despite their regal appearance, they’re playful and affectionate. Their coat requires consistent grooming, but their independent nature makes them unique companions for allergy-sensitive owners.

Cairn Terriers are small but mighty, with a wiry coat that sheds minimally. Their hypoallergenic fur makes them ideal for people with allergies. Energetic and curious, Cairns love exploring and thrive on consistent training and socialization. They’re hardy little dogs that enjoy outdoor adventures.

The Bouvier des Flandres is a large, strong breed with a thick, hypoallergenic coat. While they require regular grooming, their loyalty and protective instincts make them excellent family dogs. They need consistent training and ample exercise to stay mentally and physically fit.

Whippets are sleek, medium-sized dogs with a short, smooth coat that sheds minimally. Known for their speed and agility, they enjoy bursts of exercise but are equally happy relaxing at home. Early socialization helps Whippets develop confidence and good behavior, making them excellent companions.

Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, have a distinctive wiry coat that doesn’t shed much. Independent and intelligent, they’re loyal to their families and make excellent watchdogs. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their unique look. With proper training, Scotties are charming and devoted pets.

The Affenpinscher, or “monkey terrier,” has a wiry, hypoallergenic coat that’s perfect for allergy sufferers. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and are brimming with confidence. Affenpinschers require regular grooming to keep their coat tidy and make delightful, engaging companions.