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First, let’s just get this out of the way. No dog is completely hypoallergenic. With that being said, there are a number of different breeds that many people “consider” to be hypoallergenic because they don’t shed very much.
When choosing the perfect pooch for your home, many prospective dog owners will tell you that a low-shedding dog is at the top of their must-have list. That’s because a dog that sheds a lot means constant hair on the floor, on your clothes, in your sheets – well, you get the picture! And all that shedding generally means trouble for allergy sufferers, too.
While it’s nearly impossible for a dog not to shed at all, the following breeds are far less likely to leave their hair all over your living space.
Bichon Frisé
One look at this breed, and you might see what looks like a puffy little marshmallow! (Remember the movie Shrek?) Adorable, yes, and even better? They don’t shed much! Their temperament is said to be delightful, and they’re playful, cheerful dogs who are good for allergy sufferers, too.
Even though you won’t be cleaning up a lot of hair, Bichon Frisés require daily maintenance, so brushing and combing their coats is a must-do! With that adorable face, (and little hair to clean up) this will be an easy task!
Border Terrier
Another low-shedding dog (also considered hypoallergenic) is the Border Terrier! Their weather-resistant coats require only an occasional brushing a couple of times a week.
Border Terriers shed more often twice a year, and their coats will need to be hand-stripped by a professional groomer twice a year, which experts say is the most effective way to reduce shedding.
As far as personality goes, they are happy and affectionate dogs, which, along with the light shedding, are two reasons to love them even more!
Poodle
If you’re an allergy sufferer, the Poodle is a great choice for your home. Yes, they shed, but very little compared to other dog breeds. They have what’s known as a naturally low-shedding coat, and they’re hypoallergenic because their hair is technically not fur.
Poodles need regular, professional grooming to maintain their coat so their hair doesn’t get matted or tangled. Not to mention, they’re endearing, easy to train, and smart. Talk about a perfect pup!
Dachshund
Loveable and playful, the Dachshund is an ideal pet for owners with children. They shed, yes, but not much. The amount they shed depends on their coat type. Long-haired Dachshunds have a dense undercoat and shed the most – about twice a year.
Daily brushing will help with moderate shedding, while a comb can help break up mats and remove loose hairs. Not to mention, Dachshunds are sweet-natured and adorable, so that’s another plus in our book!
Maltese
The Maltese is one of the smallest dog breeds and a great choice for those with allergies. (My mother-in-law had a Maltese, and I hardly ever saw hair anywhere!)
It’s likely because their hair-like coat traps shedding hair, but like other breeds, daily brushing and regular grooming are still necessary to prevent matting.
An occasional bath is also a good idea to keep up with their adorable looks! The Maltese breed is known to be affectionate, lively, and playful, which are bonuses to being a minimal shedder!
Miniature Schnauzer
Known as friendly and energetic, Miniature Schnauzers are known for leaving only a little dog hair behind wherever they go. This breed has a double coat with a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat, and Miniature Schnauzer puppies may shed more as they lose their baby fur.
Yes, you’ll still need to make trips to the groomer every four to six weeks and give them a bath at home a few times a month, but this breed is perfect for someone looking to clean up minimal hair and another great choice for people with allergies.
One more thing.
Remember our earlier reference to hand stripping? This breed requires it too, but it’s something your groomer can take care of with clippers! Easy enough!
Shih Tzu
On a scale of one to five, this breed ranks a one when it comes to being considered a low-to-no-shedding breed! Another hypoallergenic dog, Shih Tzus have a long hair growth cycle, so their hair takes longer to grow and fall out.
Whether you want to let their locks flow or keep a short, well-kept mane, this breed still requires frequent and regular grooming.
It’s suggested you brush their hair daily or every other day to prevent matting and tangling, and why not give them the royal treatment with a full brush out two to three times a week? Their hair will thank you!
Bedlington Terrier
Remember the dog that looks like a lamb? Yep, this is it! The Bedlington Terrier is a dog that sheds very little but like other breeds, it does require consistent grooming to maintain those dazzling looks. Their coat is a mix of soft and harsh (not wiry), leading to many “oohs” and “aahs” from strangers in public.
Remember that they should be brushed and combed regularly, and their hair should be professionally trimmed every six to eight weeks. Do that, and you’ll be good to go!
Chinese Crusted
Remember the dog that wins all the “Ugliest Dog of the Year” contests? Yep, this is it! Aside from being deemed an “ugly” dog, this breed does have an upside! It hardly sheds – and well, that’s because it’s practically hairless!
What hair they do have grows mainly on their head, tails, feet, and ankles. So while this breed may be tough to look at for some, for others, Chinese Crusteds are the perfect dog to put on your lap, or in this case, a nice, clean couch!
Yorkshire Terrier
Not only is this breed adorable, but it is considered hypoallergenic because of its fine, human-like hair that sheds less frequently than fur.
A Yorkshire Terrier’s coat is long, straight, and silky, and it’s among the smallest of the terriers, weighing about seven pounds. Despite its small size, the “Yorkie” makes an excellent guard dog, thanks to its protective nature!
Bolognese
With a look similar to the Bichon Frisé, the fluffy white Bolognese is also non-shedding, so allergy sufferers don’t need to worry!
They have a fluffy white coat that needs to be groomed often, and they’re playful and easy-going, too! Another plus? They’re a calm and affectionate breed, so they’ll likely fit perfectly into any family!
Goldendoodle
You may have noticed this breed’s popularity has increased in recent years! The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, combining the friendly, loyal nature of the Golden with the intelligence and low-shedding, curly, bouncy coat of a Poodle.
Great for those with allergies, the Goldendoodle has a friendly and affectionate nature, and is accepting of strangers, making them excellent family pets and companions!
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
A medium-sized Irish breed, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has a silky coat that’s soft to the touch! It is considered hypoallergenic, but that doesn’t mean this breed is entirely allergen-free.
What it does mean is that Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers produce fewer allergens because of their single-layered, silky coat that doesn’t shed a lot. The breed is considered an intelligent, playful, and affectionate furry family member, too!
Schnoodle
Have you ever heard of the Schnoodle? More than a fun name to say, the Schnoodle combines two hypoallergenic dog breeds – the Schnauzer and the Poodle.
Their low-shedding coat can be curly or wavy, and they’re a good option for people with dog allergies. (Just know that even dogs that don’t shed a lot can still produce allergens in their saliva and skin).
Schnoodles come in miniature, standard, or giant sizes, and their fur comes in a variety of colors!
Malshi
A Malshi is a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu and is a happy, small hypoallergenic dog. It’s a light shedder with long, silky, wavy coats of hair that require lots of maintenance.
Malshis thrive on closeness and are a sought-after designer breed, being the ideal lap dog and companion for many people’s lifestyles. They are known for being affectionate, loyal, smart, and playful and have big personalities!
Aussiedoodle
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Standard or Miniature Poodle, the Aussiedoodle is a hypoallergenic dog that is smart and energetic! They are generally low-shedding and have a wiry top coat, which is less likely to trigger allergies.
Friendly and loving, Aussiedoodles have high-energy personalities and are playful and intelligent. They also have a strong affection for their family and are eager to please!
Barbet
If you suffer from dog allergies, many Barbet owners (who are normally allergic to dogs) find they are quite comfortable around this breed. The Barbet is a French water dog closely related to the Poodle.
As with other hypoallergenic breeds, these fluffy pups have hair instead of fur, so they don’t shed the same way other breeds do, making it another great option for dog allergy sufferers. Barbets are said to have a cheerful disposition and are social and loyal!
Whoodle
Add another cross-breed to the list of hypoallergenic dogs! The Whoodle is the result of a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier crossed with a Poodle, and it hardly sheds at all. With no undercoat, Whoodles produce less dander than other dogs.
They’re friendly, intelligent dogs with an affectionate nature and enjoy being around people and other dogs. They are known to be high-energy dogs, so exercise with this breed is a must! Not to mention, what a fun name to say… gotta love that! Whoodle!
Shorkie
Did you know there was such a breed? The Shorkie is another cross between two hypoallergenic dogs – the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. Talk about being a mix of the best of both worlds!
They have a human hair-like coat that sheds less than fur, (but can grow quite long) and needs regular grooming. Personality-wise, Shorkies are friendly and playful, and fiercely loyal to their owners!
American Hairless Terrier
No hair? No problem! The American Hairless Terrier is a non-shedding hypoallergenic dog that lacks the fur that traps dander, a common dog allergen. They have varying coat color patterns and are known for being kind and protective of their humans.
American Hairless Terriers have energetic personalities and are great with young children, but they can be hesitant with other dogs and smaller animals.
Mexican Hairless Dogs (Xoloitzcuintli)
Add another hairless dog to the list! Mexican Hairless Dogs, or Xoloitzcuintli can be either hairless or coated. The hairless variety is among the best for those who suffer from allergies.
Again, it’s important to know that while no dog is guaranteed not to trigger a reaction, hairless and hypoallergenic dogs can be a good solution for allergy sufferers. The Mexican Hairless is intelligent, protective, even-tempered, playful, and affectionate!
Afghan Hound
Such an elegant breed! With a slender build and long, flowing coat, Afghan Hounds are one of the fastest dog breeds in the world. They’re considered hypoallergenic because they shed minimally, however regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat and reduce allergen levels.
They are independent, dignified, graceful, and loyal, but are reserved with strangers. Patience is required when training, but “ooh la la,” what a lovely look they have!
Shih-Poo
A cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, the Shih-Poo is a minimal shedder and hypoallergenic, thanks to its heritage. This makes the breed adaptable to small living spaces and a great pet for those with allergies or children in the family.
Their personality is typically playful, loving, and affectionate, and they are known for being cuddly and friendly towards other people. The only downside? They might be a bit stubborn, thanks to genes from the Shih Tzu side!
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