While no dog is 100% nonallergenic, there are several low-shedding breeds which are often called “hypoallergenic dog breeds” and are considered a possible option for people with allergies or other sensitivities.
What causes dog allergies?
There is plenty of debate around what causes dog allergies, but the reality is that there are a variety of causes. Some people think that the cause of the allergy lies within the hair – and for some people it does. As such, it follows that if a dog doesn’t shed or is low shedding, then they won't cause allergic reactions.
However, many people with dog allergies aren't actually allergic to the fur. Instead, they could be allergic to:
- Household dust that gets trapped in longer coats.
- Dog dander, the microscopic particles of skin that shed from all animals with fur or feathers.
- A particular protein that’s found in dander, saliva and urine of dogs.
Dogs that do not shed or are low shedders are less likely to trigger allergies in people who are affected by dog hair.
What are hypoallergenic dog breeds?
A hypoallergenic dog is a dog breed that is less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people with pet sensitivities. Of course, it’s important to point out that while some dog breeds are considered more hypoallergenic than others, there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog breed.
‘Hypoallergenic’ dog breeds tend to be thought of as two different types: the first is dogs with little or no hair, such as the hairless Chinese Crested. The other is breeds that don't shed their coat, which will need to have their fur regularly trimmed or stripped or that are low shedding.
If you or a family member suffers from a dog allergy, it's recommended that you spend time with adults of your chosen dog breed first to discover if they will trigger any allergies.
For more information about five dog breeds that are hairless, don't shed or are low shedding, take a look below:
1. Bichon Frise
This small, fun-loving dog breed has curly white fur that keeps growing rather than shedding. Not only do they hardly ever drool, but their thick coat captures loose hair and dander. This won't come out until the fur has been removed, so regular grooming and clipping is essential to maintain their coat.
The Bichon Frise is happy in a variety of living environments, and whether you live in an urban flat or a country mansion, these dogs can usually adapt easily.
The breed's affectionate and lovable attitude makes them good as family dogs (although usually bond more to one person) and they are very trainable. Interestingly, despite being from Tenerife their name actually means ‘fluffy white dog’ in French!
2. Border Terrier
One of the most popular terrier breeds, a Border Terrier's dense and wiry coat makes them a great potential choice for allergy sufferers being a low-shedding breed.. However, their coat will require professional stripping once or twice a year to remove dead hair and old coat, so bear that in mind.
Border Terriers are extremely popular due to their calm yet adventurous personality. As long as they get enough exercise, they will happily spend the weekends snuggled up with you on the sofa, but they are also always up for a new adventure, making them an ideal potentially hypoallergenic dog breed for families with older children.
3. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a hypoallergenic dog breed that in its hairless version, has no hair to shed. It comes in two varieties: hairless and fully coated. The fully coated breed is double coated, low-shedding and requires regular grooming, while the more widely known hairless breed has very little hair that doesn’t shed, making them ideal for those with dog hair allergies.
4. Poodles
Poodles are a potentially hypoallergenic dog breed as they have non-shedding curly coats, which require professional grooming to keep them under control. Some owners opt for one of the flamboyant styles most commonly seen in show rings, whereas others simply keep their coats trimmed to a manageable level.
Poodle crosses like the Labradoodle and Cockapoo have grown in popularity in recent years due to claims that they are hypoallergenic. However, these crossbreeds will only be low shedding dogs if they inherit the coat from their Poodle parentage – and most have very complex coat care needs.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog skyrocketed to fame when President Obama adopted one during his time in the White House. His beloved dogs Bo and Sunny were specifically chosen because his daughter has a dog allergy and the Portuguese Water Dog is known as being a hypoallergenic dog breed!
Bred as a fisherman's helper, this medium-sized breed has a single coat of tight curls, which is virtually non-shedding and waterproof. While they don't have an undercoat, their coat still requires regular maintenance and twice weekly grooming.
Hypoallergenic dog breeds FAQs
If you're thinking about getting a hypoallergenic dog breed, take a look at our content hub, full of advice for getting a new dog. For more advice on choosing the best dog breed, explore our dog breed library for details on almost 200 breeds of dog.
Purina Editorial Team
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