If you are an allergy sufferer, you may be hoping for some relief in finding out which dog breeds are considered to be hypoallergenic. We will get to that in a moment; however, it first must be understood that technically, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog breed.
Defining a Hypoallergenic Dog
This is because if you have a pet allergy, you are likely allergic to a protein that is present in the dog’s saliva and urine, as opposed to the dog’s fur itself. According to the Mayo Clinic, this protein sticks to your pet’s dander and that is what causes your allergy problems.
With that being said, if the dog sheds a very little amount, less dander will be floating around in the air for you to breathe in.
Tips to Reduce Dog Allergens
- Smaller dogs shed less dander than a larger one.
- Don’t allow your dog up on your bed, or in other areas where you spend a majority of your time.
- Keep your pet outdoors when the weather is nice.
- Bathing your pet weekly will help remove excess dander.
- Cleaning dander from tile or wood flooring is easier than carpeting.
- Try using a HEPA air purifier.
So, now that we know what a “hypoallergenic dog” really means, let’s have a look at some dog breeds that don’t stimulate allergies in people as much as others do. Here are some of the best breeds for allergy sufferers.
Afghan Hound
You might look at the Afghan Hound and wonder how they could be hypoallergenic. Actually, their silky coats don’t shed very frequently. When they are puppies, their coats are short and fuzzy and when they get older, they have longer coats that need to be groomed regularly. Afghan hounds are best known for their aristocratic beauty and regal appearance.
Basenji
Basenjis are a great choice in a hypoallergenic dog because they don’t have that typical ‘doggy’ smell. They rarely need to be bathed and their short coat needs to be brushed only once a week. They have earned their title of the “barkless dog” so they are perfect for those who enjoy quiet pups. They are smart, independent, and small in size.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested is available in both hairless and coated types. Neither one of them shed at all. However, both types require regular grooming. Their spotted pink skin and spiky hair are what stand out the most about this unique breed. These little doggies only stand between 11 and 13 inches high.
Giant Schnauzer
This big canine is one of the largest hypoallergenic dogs. They are smart, loyal, and very eager to be trained. The dense, wiry coat of the Giant Schnauzer sheds minimally. Regular grooming and brushing help to minimize dander.
Maltese
Perhaps the most recognizable hypoallergenic dog on this list is the Maltese. This little cutie is one of the smallest hypoallergenic dogs. These little lap dogs weigh less than 7 pounds and love to make friends of all ages. Its long white coat requires daily gentle brushing and combing to prevent it from tangling.
Additional Hypoallergenic Breeds
The following breeds are also known to be allergy-friendly:
- Affenpinscher
- American Hairless Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Coton de Tulear
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Lagotto Romangnolo
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Peruvian Inca Orchid
- Poodle
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Spanish Water Dog
- Standard Schnauzer
- Wire Fox Terrier
- Xoloitzcuintli