Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
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Hypoallergenic dog breeds may be a great choice for people who suffer from allergies. They produce less dander and shed less fur, making them an ideal choice for those with allergies.
In this article, we will cover the different types of hypoallergenic dogs, their temperament, and why they may be the right choice for you.
What are Hypoallergenic Dogs, and Why Are They Different?
Hypoallergenic dogs are a special class of canine breeds that produce fewer allergens than other breeds. These dogs are ideal for people with allergies or asthma, as their coats do not shed as much and they produce less dander. These breeds also tend to have short, single-layered coats, which means less dander is floating in the air and on your furniture.
However, it’s important to note that there is a common misunderstanding about these breeds. While they may produce fewer allergens, there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog. The allergens that cause symptoms like itching, sneezing, or sniffing are primarily due to dog dander.
Breeds that shed less frequently naturally release less dander into the air, which can significantly reduce the level of allergens in your home. This means that while no breed is completely safe for those with allergies, choosing a breed that sheds minimally can help manage symptoms.
15 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
1. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, hypoallergenic dog breed that is known for its friendly and cheerful attitude. It has a fluffy white coat and a bright, alert expression. The Bichon Frise is an intelligent breed that loves to be around people and is easily trained.
They are also low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them an ideal pet for those with allergies or asthma. With their affectionate nature and loyalty, the Bichon Frise makes a wonderful companion for anyone looking for a small dog with a big personality!
2. Poodle
Poodles are a popular breed of dog known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hypoallergenic qualities. They come in three sizes—toy, miniature, and standard—and can be found in a variety of colors.
Poodles are ideal for people with allergies because they have a low-shedding coat that produces less dander than other breeds. This makes them an ideal pet for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog. Poodles are also known for their intelligence and trainability, making them the perfect companion for families of all ages.
3. Labradoodles
Labradoodles are a hybrid breed of dogs that have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their hypoallergenic qualities. They are a cross between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, which makes them both intelligent and low-shedding.
This breed is ideal for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Labradoodles also tend to be very friendly and outgoing, making them the perfect pet for families with children. They love to play and can even be taught basic tricks like sitting, fetching, and coming when called. With proper training and care, Labradoodles can make excellent companions for many years to come.
4. Maltese
The Maltese breed is an ideal pet for people with allergies, as it is a hypoallergenic dog. This breed of dog does not shed much and produces very little dander, which makes it a great choice for those with allergies or asthma.
The Maltese is a great choice for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog that will be a loyal and loving companion. The Maltese are also known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them excellent companion pets. They are small in size but have big personalities and are very affectionate.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a hypoallergenic breed of dog that is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and playful personality. This breed has been around since the 12th century and was originally used by fishermen in Portugal to help with fishing tasks.
They are also popular as family pets due to their low-shedding coat, which makes them ideal for people with allergies. Portuguese water dogs are an active breed that loves to play and needs a lot of exercise. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. With proper care, these dogs can be a wonderful addition to any family.
6. Chinese Crested
The Chinese crested is a small, hypoallergenic breed that is ideal for those who suffer from allergies. The Chinese crested dog requires regular grooming to maintain their coat and skin health. This small breed has a beautiful, silky coat that is low-shedding and odorless.
It is also known for its intelligence and affectionate nature, making it a good companion for families. With training, this breed can be easily taught to follow commands and perform tricks.
7. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful, and sturdy hypoallergenic dog that has a history of serving as a guard and watchdog. This breed is known for a distinctive appearance that is both striking and imposing. Its long and thick coat is solid black, or a salt-and-pepper or black-and-silver color.
This breed is an excellent choice for those looking for a loyal and devoted companion, an alert and protective watchdog, and an eager worker. Its striking and imposing appearance, coupled with its loyal and devoted temperament, make this breed an ideal choice for those looking for a large and strong hypoallergenic dog.
8. Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a short, wiry, and rough coat. Their coat does not shed very much and is very low-maintenance when kept short. This breed is both hypoallergenic and a friendly family companion.
They’re also relatively easy to train and have a playful demeanor, making them excellent family pets. In addition, Wire Fox Terrier’s are very intelligent, independent, and full of energy.
9. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a very popular, medium-sized hunting dog with a loose, wavy coat. They come in a wide range of colors, and the undercoat is soft, dense, easy to care for, and easy to maintain on a regular basis.
This breed has a fun but feisty temperament, which makes them great family pets. They do need regular exercise because they tend to be hyperactive. This breed makes perfect field dogs that will help hunt game birds and small animals like rabbits and squirrels.
10. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a medium-sized, aquatic hunting dog that’s known for its thick undercoat, thick fur, and unusual webbed feet. They’re also known for having non-allergenic noses. This means allergens stay in their noses longer than others, which helps them find deadly allergens like animal fur, feathers, dust mites, and pollen.
Allergy sufferers should note that Labradors’ coats can mat if not groomed regularly, so they do require some maintenance. This breed is known for its gentle temperament towards humans and children alike and makes great family pets. Labradors are also very intelligent and do well when trained as guard dogs.
11. Basenji
Basenjis, also known as “dogs that don’t bark,” make a sound somewhere between a chuckle and a yodel, which is how they got their nickname. These are great hypoallergenic dogs because they have a short coat that requires no grooming and only sheds occasionally. Also, Basenjis don’t give off the typical “dog smell” and only need to be bathed when they get dirty.
Basenji’s are good in homes without other animals and get along best with their own breed. This breed is intelligent, independent, and has high energy. This means they need a lot of exercise and to be leash-trained, as they tend to chase small animals.
12. Afgan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an instantly recognizable breed thanks to its long, silky coat and sharp, lean facial features. Originally bred to thrive in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, the dogs grow to be about 27 inches tall and weigh about 60 pounds. They come in a variety of colors, including tan, brindle, red, gold, cream, gray, blue, and tri-color.
Afghan hounds are now bred mostly for pageants and dog shows. This breed has a dignified and reserved personality yet is affectionate and adaptable. Afghan Hounds do well in almost any type of household, of any family size.
13. Kerry Blue Terrier
Named after the county of Ireland where it was born, the breed is known as a general working dog and is used for a variety of tasks, including herding cattle and sheep and as a watchdog. However, it was originally used to control pests such as mice, rabbits, badgers, foxes, otters, and hares. The Kerry Blue Terrier is known for its exceptionally soft, bushy, and wavy blue coat. The coat needs to be groomed twice a week and trimmed and styled monthly.
Kerry Blue loves to run, hunt, explore, play, and dig. The breed can be protective of its owners and can be aggressive towards other dogs and small animals, but is very eager to make friends. This breed is intelligent and independent but needs exercise regularly.
14. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, often shortened to Xolo (“show-low”), is originally from Mexico. These dogs resemble the American Hairless Terrier and the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Similar to the Peruvian Inca orchid, Xolos come in three sizes and two varieties: hairless and coated. Hairless dogs do not shed; hairy dogs shed very little and need occasional brushing.
Xolos are known for their frowns and are both affectionate companions and excellent watchdogs. Like other hairless dog breeds, Xolos require special skin care, especially when out in the sun.
15. Lagotto Romagnolos
Not only are Lagotto Romagnolos a teddy-bear-looking dog, but they also have an interesting background. They were initially bred to search for truffles, earning them the nickname “truffle dog.” The Lagotto may not look like a hypoallergenic dog breed with its thick, double coat of curled hair, but they do not shed much at all. However, they do require regular trimming to avoid matting of the fur.
This breed is friendly and playful, making them a good family dog. They are highly intelligent and do need regular exercise. They make great companion dogs and are very loyal to their owners.
Understanding Dog Allergies
When people experience allergy symptoms around dogs, it’s primarily due to the dander they produce. Dander, which consists of tiny, even microscopic, flecks of skin shed by dogs, can cause reactions like itching, sneezing, and sniffles. It’s a common misunderstanding that some dogs are completely hypoallergenic. While certain breeds produce fewer allergens, it’s important to note that they still generate some level of dander.
However, not all dogs produce the same proteins, so some people are allergic to a specific dog and not a specific breed. This variation means that even within hypoallergenic breeds, individual dogs may affect allergy sufferers differently.
By being informed about these nuances, you can choose a pet that complements your lifestyle while minimizing allergic reactions.
How to Care for Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Hypoallergenic dog breeds are becoming increasingly popular due to their low-shedding coats and low amounts of dander. However, these special breeds also require more attention when it comes to maintenance. It is important that owners understand the specific needs of hypoallergenic dogs in order to keep them healthy and happy.
From special grooming requirements for low-shedding dogs to vet checkups, there is a lot that needs to be taken into consideration when caring for a hypoallergenic dog breed.
The Pros and Cons of Owning a Hypoallergenic Dog
If you suffer from allergies, you may be considering getting a hypoallergenic dog. While hypoallergenic dogs can provide many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks that should be considered before making the decision to get one. While they are referred to as hypoallergenic dogs, no dog is 100% allergen-free.
The advantages of owning a hypodog include reduced allergic reactions due to the lack of pet dander, as well as the potential for increased exercise and companionship.
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages, such as the higher costs associated with purchasing and maintaining a hypodog, as well as potential issues related to grooming and training. Ultimately, it is important to weigh all these factors carefully before deciding if a hypoallergenic dog is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Many dog breeds are better for people with allergies. Hypoallergenic dogs are less likely to trigger allergic reactions because these breeds have less allergenic hair, skin, and fur than others. Allergists recommend specific hypoallergenic dog breeds for their patients.
