23 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don't Shed

If you’re an allergy sufferer with a deep love for dogs, you’re in luck! Hypoallergenic dogs are a fantastic option, as they don’t shed as much and can minimize allergic reactions. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, some breeds are more allergy-friendly than others. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the 23 best hypoallergenic dogs, ranging from small to large breeds, to help you find the perfect, low-shedding companion for your family.

Small Hypoallergenic Dogs

1. Bichon Frise

Breed Overview: The Bichon Frise, often called the “fluffy white dog,” is a delightful small breed that tops the list of hypoallergenic dogs. These charming little canines are known for their minimal shedding, which makes them a perfect choice for individuals or families living in cozy spaces.

Physical Characteristics: Bichon Frises are small in size, typically weighing between 10 to 20 pounds. Their curly, white coats are hypoallergenic but also soft and luxurious. Their dark, expressive eyes and perky tails add to their undeniable charm.

Temperament: Bichon Frises are affectionate, playful, and known for their friendly nature. They thrive on human companionship and are great with children, making them an excellent family pet. Their lively personalities and social tendencies make them a joy to have around.

Grooming Needs: While their coat doesn’t shed much, it does require regular grooming to prevent matting. Frequent brushing, as well as professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, is recommended to maintain their fluffy appearance.

Exercise Requirements: Despite their small size, Bichon Frises are active dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys keep them happy and healthy.

2. Miniature Schnauzer

Breed Overview: Miniature Schnauzers are a compact breed known for their astute watchdog abilities and minimal shedding. These little guardians make excellent companions, especially those needing low-allergen exposure.

Physical Characteristics: Miniature Schnauzers are small, sturdy dogs with distinctive bearded faces. Their salt-and-pepper or solid black coats are wiry and hypoallergenic, with minimal shedding. They typically weigh between 11 to 20 pounds.

Temperament: Schnauzers are known for their alert and intelligent nature. They are loyal to their families and can be a bit stubborn at times. However, their playful side shines through when they engage in fetching games and other activities.

Grooming Needs: Their unique double coat is easy to care for. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming keep their skin looking sharp. Their beards, a prominent feature, may require cleaning after meals to keep them looking tidy.

Exercise Requirements: Miniature Schnauzers are active dogs that enjoy daily walks and play sessions. They thrive on mental stimulation and benefit from training exercises to keep their minds sharp.

3. Poodle

Breed Overview: Poodles, available in various sizes, including standard, toy, and miniature, are renowned for their hypoallergenic qualities. Their intelligence and adaptability have made them a popular choice among dog owners.

Physical Characteristics: Miniature Poodles typically weigh between 15 to 17 pounds, making them a small and manageable breed. Their curly and dense coat, which is low-shedding, comes in a variety of colors.

Temperament: Poodles are not only hypoallergenic but also highly intelligent and eager to please. They are known for their trainability, making them a favorite in various canine activities. Their friendly disposition and loyalty to their families make them exceptional pets.

Grooming Needs: Poodles’ coats require regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to maintain their unique style. The “poodle clip” isn’t just for aesthetics; it also protects their joints and organs when swimming.

Exercise Requirements: Despite their small size, Poodles are energetic dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation. They excel in agility and obedience training and enjoy interactive playtime.

4. Yorkshire Terrier

Breed Overview: Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, may be small, but they are known for their spirited personalities and low-shedding coats. Their delicate, human-like hair is less likely to trigger allergies, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitivities.

Physical Characteristics: Yorkies are tiny dogs, typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds. Their silky blue and tan coats are both hypoallergenic and charming. Their small size allows them to fit into purses and laps, making them perfect for on-the-go companionship.

Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers are big dogs with small bodies. They have a ton of attitude, often appearing confident and bold. They are affectionate with their families and can be protective despite their diminutive size.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining a Yorkie’s coat requires regular brushing and maintenance to prevent tangling. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier day-to-day upkeep.

Exercise Requirements: While small, Yorkies are active and enjoy daily walks and playtime. Mental stimulation, in the form of puzzle toys and training, keeps their bright minds engaged.

5. Shih Tzu

Breed Overview: Shih Tzus, known as “lion dogs,” have captivated people for centuries with their regal looks and low-shedding coats. Their charming and friendly personalities make them a popular choice among small hypoallergenic breeds.

Physical Characteristics: Shih Tzus are small dogs with a sturdy build, typically weighing 9 to 16 pounds. Their long, flowing coats, which naturally grow long, are low-shedding, but they do require regular grooming to maintain their beauty.

Temperament: Shih Tzus are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are excellent family pets and get along well with children and animals. They are often described as loyal and affectionate companions.

Grooming Needs: Due to their long coat, Shih Tzus needs regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting and to keep their fur in pristine condition. Many owners choose to give them stylish trims for easier maintenance.

Exercise Requirements: While they have a dignified appearance, Shih Tzus enjoys playtime and daily walks. Their low exercise needs make them adaptable to various living spaces.

6. Maltese

Breed Overview: The Maltese is a tiny and elegant breed weighing around seven pounds. This ancient Greek breed is the epitome of a “lap dog” and won’t trigger allergies, thanks to their all-white coat.

Physical Characteristics: Maltese dogs are tiny, with silky white coats that gracefully flow. Their elegant appearance and compact size make them incredibly endearing to many dog enthusiasts.

Temperament: Maltese dogs are affectionate, gentle, and well-suited for families and individuals. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their sweet and friendly personalities.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining their soft, white fur is essential to prevent matting. Owners can choose to keep their hair in a sporty trim or let it grow long, depending on their preferences and willingness to handle maintenance.

Exercise Requirements: Despite their small size, Maltese dogs enjoy playtime and daily walks. They are adaptable to various living environments, making them excellent companions for apartment dwellers.

7. Portuguese Water Dog

Breed Overview: Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized furballs that gained fame when Sunny and Bo Obama became the First Dogs. Their playful and laid-back personalities make them great additions to any household, even in less presidential settings. They adapt well to apartment living, which is fantastic news for those in smaller spaces.

Physical Characteristics: Portuguese Water Dogs are medium, with curly, water-resistant coats that typically come in black, white, or brown. They weigh around 35 to 60 pounds, making them sturdy but manageable for indoor living.

Temperament: These dogs are known for their cheerful and friendly nature. They are excellent with children and enjoy being part of the family. Their playful disposition makes them excellent companions for various activities.

Grooming Needs: Their curly coats require regular brushing to prevent matting, and they should be trimmed to keep them neat and manageable.

Exercise Requirements: Portuguese Water Dogs love playtime and enjoy indoor and outdoor activities. Daily walks and occasional trips to a dog park help keep them fit and happy.

8. Scottish Terrier

Breed Overview: Scottish Terriers, often recognized as Scotties, are independent and sometimes stubborn dogs. However, their dignified appearance and minimal shedding qualities make them wonderful pets in real life, just as they were in the Disney classic “Lady and the Tramp.”

Physical Characteristics: Scotties have a distinctive wiry coat in various colors, typically black, wheaten, or brindle. They weigh 18 to 22 pounds, giving them a compact but sturdy frame.

Temperament: Scottish Terriers are known for their dignified and confident nature. They may have a stubborn streak, but they are loyal and affectionate with their families.

Grooming Needs: Their wiry coats shed minimally, and regular brushing keeps them looking their best. Professional grooming may be necessary to maintain their dignified appearance.

Exercise Requirements: Scottish Terriers enjoy playtime but are relatively low-energy dogs. They adapt well to apartment living, and daily walks are sufficient to meet their exercise needs.

9. Chinese Crested

Breed Overview: Chinese Crested dogs are easily recognizable due to their unique appearance, featuring a feathery tail and a hairless body. If you have allergies, these hairless dogs make excellent housemates since the only place they have hair is on their feet, bottom, and head.

Physical Characteristics: Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: the hairless and the coated. The hairless variety has minimal fur on their body, and their skin is exposed. They weigh between 5 to 12 pounds.

Temperament: Despite their unique appearance, Chinese Crested dogs are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They make loving and loyal companions, especially for those who prefer smaller dogs.

Grooming Needs: While the hairless variety has minimal grooming needs due to their lack of fur, regular cleaning and sun protection are essential to protect their delicate skin.

Exercise Requirements: Chinese Crested dogs are active and enjoy playtime. Their small size and adaptability make them suitable for various living spaces.

10. Xoloitzcuintli

Breed Overview: Known for their historical significance, the dogs of the ancient Aztecs, Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolos, are loyal and alert watchdogs. These dogs come in two varieties: hairless and coated. If you opt for the elegant hairless variety, you must pick up good dog sunscreen to protect your delicate skin.

Physical Characteristics: Xolos are small to medium-sized dogs, with the hairless variety utterly devoid of fur. Coated Xolos have a short coat with minimal shedding. Their weight typically ranges from 10 to 50 pounds.

Temperament: Xolos are known for their loyalty and alertness. They make excellent watchdogs and are affectionate with their families. Despite their unique appearance, they are endearing companions.

Grooming Needs: For the hairless variety, special care is needed to protect their sensitive skin, including sunscreen and regular cleaning. The coated type has minimal grooming needs, but regular brushing is beneficial.

Exercise Requirements: Xolos are active dogs that enjoy playtime and daily walks. Their adaptability to various living spaces makes them well-suited for different households.

Medium Hypoallergenic Dogs

11. Giant Schnauzer

Breed Overview: Giant Schnauzers are renowned for their shaggy eyebrows and moderate grooming needs. Despite their size, they are excellent choices for allergy sufferers. Their intelligence and ease of training make them an appealing breed.

Physical Characteristics: Giant Schnauzers, as the name suggests, are large dogs weighing up to 75 pounds. Their distinctive coat is wiry and typically comes in black, salt-and-pepper, or solid black. Their dignified appearance complements their imposing presence.

Temperament: Giant Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are protective of their families and make excellent watchdogs. Their task-focused character makes them adaptable to various training exercises.

Grooming Needs: Despite their fuzzy appearance, Giant Schnauzers don’t shed much. Regular brushing with a quality dog brush is essential to keep their coat in good condition. Occasional professional grooming may be required for a neat appearance.

Exercise Requirements: These large dogs are active and benefit from daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy activities like obedience training, agility, and playtime in the great outdoors.

12. West Highland Terrier

Breed Overview: West Highland Terriers, or Westies, are miniature terriers with a curious and lively attitude. Their cheerful demeanor and minimal shedding make them popular among families and individuals, particularly those with allergies.

Physical Characteristics: Westies are small and compact dogs, typically weighing 13 to 22 pounds. Their white, dense coat is not only hypoallergenic but also adds to their charming appearance.

Temperament: West Highland Terriers are known for their curiosity and lively nature. They are confident and often appear fearless. Their playful and cheerful demeanor keeps their families entertained.

Grooming Needs: These terriers have minimal shedding, but their double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Professional grooming can help maintain their tidy appearance.

Exercise Requirements: Westies are active dogs that enjoy daily walks and playtime. They thrive on mental stimulation and are responsive to training exercises.

13. Havanese

Breed Overview: Havanese dogs are characterized by their long, silky coats and curious and happy disposition. Owners can keep their coats long for a regal look or give them a shorter clip for easier maintenance.

Physical Characteristics: Havanese are small dogs, typically weighing 7 to 13 pounds. Their silky, flowing coats come in various colors, adding to their regal appearance.

Temperament: Havanese are known for their cheerful and friendly nature. They are excellent family pets, getting along well with children and other animals. Their affectionate disposition makes them excellent companions.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining a Havanese coat can vary based on preference. Long coats require more attention, including regular brushing and occasional trims. Short clips are an option for those seeking a lower-maintenance pet.

Exercise Requirements: Havanese dogs enjoy playtime and daily walks. They are adaptable to various living spaces, making them great for apartment living.

14. Afghan Hound

Breed Overview: Afghan Hounds are known for their long, shiny hair that requires regular grooming. These sweet hounds shed minimally but need attentive care to keep their coats in top condition.

Physical Characteristics: Afghan Hounds are elegant and tall dogs, typically weighing 50 to 60 pounds. Their long, silky coat is available in various colors and adds to their regal appearance.

Temperament: Afghan Hounds are known for their independent and dignified nature. They have a cat-like demeanor and are often reserved. However, they are loyal to their families.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining their long coat is a commitment. Regular brushing, occasional trims, and professional grooming are essential to prevent matting and keep them looking regal.

Exercise Requirements: Despite their elegance, Afghan Hounds are active dogs that enjoy running and playtime. They require a secure, fenced yard for running off-leash.

15. Basenji

Breed Overview: Basenjis are known for their cat-like demeanor and short, fine hair that minimizes shedding. They are an excellent choice for those who want a low-allergen companion.

Physical Characteristics: Basenjis are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 22 to 24 pounds. Their short, fine coat comes in various colors and contributes to their sleek appearance.

Temperament: Basenjis are known for their independent and self-sufficient nature. They don’t bark but make unique vocalizations. They are intelligent and can be reserved but form strong bonds with their families.

Grooming Needs: Basenjis have minimal grooming needs, thanks to their short coat. Regular brushing is sufficient to keep them looking their best.

Exercise Requirements: These dogs enjoy running and playtime. They require daily exercise and benefit from interactive toys and mental stimulation.

16. Cairn Terrier

Breed Overview: Cairn Terriers are coarse-haired terrier breeds that shed less. Known for their fearless personalities, they make great pets and are even recognizable as Toto from “The Wizard of Oz.”

Physical Characteristics: Cairn Terriers are small dogs, typically weighing between 13 to 14 pounds. Their wiry coat comes in various colors, with a fuzzy appearance adding to their charm.

Temperament: Cairn Terriers are known for their fearless and independent nature. They are confident and can be pretty lively. They are loyal and make excellent companions for families.

Grooming Needs: Their coarse coat requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing helps prevent matting and keeps them looking neat.

Exercise Requirements: Cairn Terriers are active dogs that enjoy playtime and daily walks. They adapt well to various living spaces and thrive on mental stimulation.

17. Bedlington Terrier

Breed Overview: Bedlington Terriers grow distinctive poofs of fur at the top of their heads, giving the sweet-looking breed a lamb-like appearance. These gentle watchdogs are cuddly and can opt for a lower-maintenance short clip for those seeking a snuggly pet.

Physical Characteristics: Bedlington Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 17 to 23 pounds. Their unique appearance is characterized by their curly, wooly coat, giving them a distinct charm.

Temperament: Bedlington Terriers are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are excellent watchdogs and are affectionate with their families. They make excellent companions for those looking for a snuggly and endearing pet.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining their distinctive coat is a bit more involved. Professionals spend time styling their curly fur for dog shows, but pet owners can opt for a lower-maintenance short clip.

Exercise Requirements: Bedlington Terriers enjoy playtime and daily walks. They are adaptable to various living spaces, making them well-suited for different households.

Large Hypoallergenic Dogs

18. Coton de Tulear

Breed Overview: The Coton de Tulear, pronounced “coTAWN day two-LEE-are,” is a charming companion breed known for its soft, white hair. They are less likely to aggravate allergies than traditional fur-coated breeds.

Physical Characteristics: Coton de Tulears are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 9 to 15 pounds. Their coat is cotton-like in texture, with a white coloration that contributes to their delightful appearance.

Temperament: Coton de Tulears are known for their cheerful and affectionate nature. They are friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Their playful disposition makes them excellent family companions.

Grooming Needs: Their soft, cotton-like coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Keeping their coat in a shorter trim can reduce grooming demands and make them more manageable.

Exercise Requirements: Coton de Tulears enjoys playtime and daily walks. They adapt well to various living spaces, including apartments.

19. Irish Water Spaniel

Breed Overview: Irish Water Spaniels belong to the sporting group and are known for their love of water. They have coats that repel water, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and water-loving families.

Physical Characteristics: Irish Water Spaniels are medium to large dogs, typically weighing 55 to 75 pounds. Their unique curly coat is typically liver-colored, adding to their distinct appearance.

Temperament: These dogs are known for their intelligent and friendly nature. They are loyal and make excellent family pets. Their love for water and swimming makes them great companions for active families.

Grooming Needs: Irish Water Spaniels have minimal shedding, and their curly coat requires regular grooming. Frequent brushing and occasional trims help maintain their water-resistant coat.

Exercise Requirements: These water-loving dogs require ample exercise and enjoy swimming. They also benefit from regular playtime and mental stimulation.

20. Lagotto Romagnolo

Breed Overview: The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small to medium-sized breed with a woolly coat. They are low-shedding, active, and affectionate, with a hidden talent for truffle hunting.

Physical Characteristics: Lagotto Romagnolos are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 24 to 35 pounds. Their dense, curly coat can vary in color, and their appearance is charming.

Temperament: Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their active and affectionate nature. They are excellent with families and enjoy outdoor activities. Their truffle-hunting skills add a unique aspect to their character.

Grooming Needs: These dogs have minimal shedding, and their curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Occasional trims help keep their coat tidy.

Exercise Requirements: Lagotto Romagnolos are active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities. Their love for playtime and mental stimulation makes them great for families who want the great outdoors.

21. Lhasa Apso

Breed Overview: Lhasa Apsos were initially bred as guard dogs in the Himalayas. They enjoy brisk walks and have a playful nature. Many owners keep their coats in a shorter “puppy cut” for easy maintenance.

Physical Characteristics: Lhasa Apsos are small dogs, typically weighing 12 to 18 pounds. Their long, flowing coat can come in various colors, adding to their regal appearance.

Temperament: Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent and confident nature. They can be playful and enjoy being the center of attention. Their loyalty makes them excellent companions.

Grooming Needs: Maintaining their long coat can be demanding, but many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are required.

Exercise Requirements: Lhasa Apsos enjoys playtime and brisk walks. Their adaptability to living in smaller spaces, including apartments, is a plus.

22. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Breed Overview: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their adorable appearance and unique coats of wheat color. They are friendly and love to give a “Wheaten greetin’.” Their minimal shedding makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Physical Characteristics: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing 30 to 40 pounds. Their soft, silky coat has a wheaten coloration that adds to their charm.

Temperament: These dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are sociable and get along well with children and other pets. Their “Wheaten greetin'” is a signature welcome they offer their owners.

Grooming Needs: Their soft coat sheds minimally, but it requires regular brushing and occasional trims to prevent matting. Professional grooming may be necessary to maintain their appearance.

Exercise Requirements: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are active dogs that enjoy playtime and daily walks. They are adaptable to various living spaces, including apartments.

23. Saluki

Breed Overview: The Saluki, often referred to as the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” is a graceful and regal breed that is hypoallergenic. They are known for their elegance, loyalty, and minimal shedding.

Physical Characteristics: Salukis are medium to large dogs, typically weighing 40 to 65 pounds. Their slender build and long, silky coat give them a majestic appearance. Salukis come in various coat colors, often with a white chest and legs.

Temperament: Salukis are known for their independent and noble nature. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their families. Their reserved demeanor hides their deep affection for their loved ones.

Grooming Needs: Despite their long coat, Salukis are hypoallergenic, shedding very little. Regular brushing helps maintain their coat’s condition and prevent matting. Occasional professional grooming may be necessary for a tidy appearance.

Exercise Requirements: Salukis are active dogs that enjoy running and have impressive speed. They require daily exercise and enjoy open spaces where they can stretch their elegant legs.

The Saluki offers a unique blend of elegance and minimal shedding, making them an excellent choice for those with allergies. Their loyalty and regal appearance add to their charm, making them an excellent addition to any family.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, for those who contend with allergies, these 23 hypoallergenic dog breeds provide a diverse array of options, from small to large, ensuring a perfect fit for your lifestyle. While it’s essential to remember that no dog can be entirely hypoallergenic, these breeds indeed shed less, offering a substantial reduction in allergen exposure. Embarking on the journey to find the ideal hypoallergenic companion can mark the beginning of a lifelong and cherished friendship.

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