Hypoallergenic dogs are breeds of dogs that cause fewer symptoms for allergy sufferers. These breeds spread less allergenic dandruff around them compared to other dog breeds causing fewer allergy-related symptoms in humans.
While considered hypoallergenic, these breeds are not 100% allergy-free. Even representatives of the same breed shed different amounts of dandruff and all breeds excrete allergenic proteins. Also, a hypoallergenic dog is not the same as a short-haired dog. Even short-haired breeds or those that don’t shed any hair at all may cause allergic reactions. So make sure to check with a professional first before getting a hypoallergenic dog ( or any dog for that matter) in your family.
Here is a list of small and large hypoallergenic dog breeds you might want to consider adding to your family:
1. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, also known as a Monkey Terrier, has a dashingly monkey-like appearance while looking like a terrier. Weighing between 4 and 6 kg when fully grown and measuring between 25 and 30 cm in height at the withers (from the shoulder blades to the base of the paw), it is classified as a toy dog. The coarse coat of the Affenpinscher is mostly black, occasionally with hints of grey or brown.
The Affenpinscher is a lively and confident breed, sometimes strong-willed and fearless, but very affectionate towards their owner. They are often suspicious of strangers, so socialization as a puppy is particularly important.
2. Afghan Hound
The proud and sophisticated-looking Afghan Hound is an elegant dog. The breed is large in size, with the male dog standing 68-74 cm at the withers and the female 63-69 cm. The fluffy and shiny coat comes in all colors from black to silver and everything in between. The average weight of the Afghan Hound is about 25 kg, ranging from 20 kg to 27 kg depending on the sex and build of the dog.
The Afghan Hound was born to run. They are at their happiest while running at full speed chasing after a ball or a squirrel.
3. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is the largest of terriers. The height of the adult male is about 58-61 cm, females are usually between 56-59 cm. The Airedale weighs about 21-28 kg depending on the sex and the dog’s structure. Their soft undercoat and a wiry, wavy, dense, and rough outer coat make up their double coat. They are considered hypoallergenic because they only shed very little.
The Airedale Terrier is confident, bold, and outgoing. They are friendly, energetic, and quick to learn. They are easy to train and well-suited for different dog sports such as agility or rally obedience.
4. Basenji
The Basenji is small to medium-sized and characterized by its curly tail. The Basenji has a smooth, short, and shiny coat, usually red and white. The ideal height of a full-grown Basenji male is 43 cm (from the paw to the highest point of the shoulder), and in females 40 cm. They weigh about 9,5-11 kilograms.
The Basenji is a unique breed as it doesn’t bark at all. They are alert and intelligent and often said to resemble cats as they can sometimes climb trees or fences. The dog shows affection for people close to it but is often wary of strangers.
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is known for its cheerful disposition and fluffy white coat. They’re intelligent and easy to train. They’re also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, as their coat doesn’t shed excessively. Bichon Frises are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations. They’re relatively easy to care for, as they don’t require a lot of exercise.
Because of their friendly and playful nature, Bichon Frises are often used as therapy dogs to provide comfort and companionship to people in hospitals and nursing homes. The Bichon Frise is also a popular choice for families with children.
6. Bolognese
The Bolognese is very similar to the Maltese. It is a muscular little dog with a long, white coat covering its entire body and head. The adult male is about 27-30 cm high at the withers, and the female 25-28 cm. The adult weight of the Bolognese is approximately 2,5-4 kg.
The Bolognese is deeply attached to its owners and often reluctant to be separated from its loved ones. They may be wary of strangers and often alert their owner by barking at new and unusual things. In general, the breed is eager to please and quick to learn.
7. Brussels Griffon
There are two types of Brussels Griffon or Griffon Bruxellois: coarse and smooth-haired. The most prominent feature of the Griffon is its pug-like appearance. The muzzle is short and the lower jaw curves upwards. The dog’s large, protruding eyes and the underline of the jaw are also pug-like features. Griffons can be red, black, or black and tan. The adult is 18-20 cm tall and weighs 2-5 kg.
Griffons are sometimes stubborn, but also quick to learn and have done well in a number of dog sports. They like to stay close to their owners and when left alone for long periods of time they can wreak havoc. Griffons are not recommended as pets for children, as they may misunderstand rough play and become fearful and unpredictable around children.
8. Chinese Crested
There are two variations of the Chinese Crested dog: the hairless (tufts of hair on the head, legs, and tail) and the powderpuff, which has a double coat of long, soft hair. They come in several color combinations. The ideal height of the adult male is 28-33 cm and for females 23-30 cm. They weigh around 5 kg.
The Chinese Crested is a happy, friendly breed of dog. As a pet, it is affectionate and loves to be with people, and doesn’t like to be left alone for very long. It has a playful nature and prefers to sit on its owner’s lap. Although they enjoy spending time indoors with their humans, the breed is quite active and loves to run and play. They are well-suited for agility or for a game of frisbee.
9. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest breed of spaniel, with an adult male’s mane being roughly 53–59 cm and a female’s measuring 51–56 cm. Adults typically weigh 20 to 30 kg. The dog is intelligent, well-built, strong, and has an unusually colored curly coat that is dark brown with a touch of purple.
Although they’re known as a spaniel, this hunting dog is generally utilized as a retriever and is very adaptable. The Irish Water Spaniel makes a cheerful and sociable pet at home. It’s often cautious around strangers until it comes to knowing them. In general, they’re composed and self-assured.
10. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a mid-sized, muscular dog covered with a soft, silky, blue coat with or without black markings. The adult male has a withers height of about 45,5-49,5 cm and weighs about 15-18 kg, the adult female slightly less.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a typical terrier: alert, determined, and confident, sometimes even stubborn. Some individuals don’t get on with other dogs, so thorough socialization early on and ongoing training is essential for this breed. They are fairly active and versatile, often well-suited to agility and other dog sports.
11. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a long, sturdy little dog. They come in several colors: golden yellow, sand, honey, dark grey, slate grey, smoke grey, multicolored, black, white, or brown. The ideal height of the adult male is 25 cm, the female slightly less. The adult weight of the dog is approximately 6-7 kg.
The Lhasa Apso is a loyal and reliable dog. They get along well with children and other dogs. The breed can be independent and wary of strangers, but with patience and consistent training, the dog can become quite obedient.
12. Maltese
The Maltese is a small, toy-sized breed with a long, white coat that is often described as silky or fluffy. They’re known for their friendly and affectionate personality and are often referred to as the “lap dog” breed due to their love of snuggling and being close to their owners.
Maltese are intelligent and easy to train, making them popular for families with children. Maltese typically weigh between 2 and 4 kg and stand around 23 cm tall at the withers.
13. Poodle
The Poodle is a highly intelligent and elegant breed, known for its fluffy, curly coat and distinctive appearance. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Poodles are active and energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
The Poodle is known for their ability to adapt to a variety of environments and lifestyles and is often used in obedience and agility competitions. Standard poodles typically weigh between 14 and 20 kg and stand around 50 cm tall at the withers, while miniature and toy poodles are smaller in size.
14. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed with a thick, wavy coat that is typically black, brown, or white in color. They’re known for their energetic and playful personality and excel in activities such as swimming, retrieving, and agility.
Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent and easily trainable, but can be strong-willed and may require consistent leadership and training. They are generally friendly and social. Portuguese Water Dogs typically weigh between 15 and 25 kg and stand around 50 cm tall at the withers.
15. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized breed with a soft, wavy coat that is typically wheaten or sandy in color. They’re known for their friendly and playful personality and are often described as being “clownish” due to their love of play and mischief.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are energetic and require regular exercise, but are generally well-behaved and easy to train. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers typically weigh between 14 and 20 kg and stand around 45 cm tall at the withers.
16. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small breed with a long, silky coat that is often white, black, or a combination of both. They are considered often “lap dogs” due to their affectionate and cuddly nature. They’re also a breed that is typically full of energy and always ready to play, making them a popular choice for families with children.
In addition to their playful personality, Shih Tzus are also known for their affectionate nature. Shih Tzus typically weigh between 4 and 7 kg and stand around 25 cm tall at the withers.
17. Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized breed with a thick, wiry coat that is typically salt and pepper in color. They’re intelligent and energetic and excel in activities such as obedience, agility, and herding.
Standard Schnauzers are generally easy to train, but may be stubborn at times and may require patience and consistency. Standard Schnauzers typically weigh between 18 and 30 kg and stand around 50 cm tall at the withers.
18. Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized breed with a thick, long coat that is typically white, black, or a combination of both. They’re often referred to as “nanny dogs” due to their protective nature towards children.
Tibetan Terriers are intelligent and generally easily trainable, but may be stubborn at times. They also need to be well-socialized. Tibetan Terriers typically weigh between 9 and 14 kg and stand around 40 cm tall at the withers.
19. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is a medium-sized breed with a smooth, hairless coat that is typically black, grey, or bronze in color. Xoloitzcuintli’s typically weigh between 9 and 16 kg and stand around 40 cm tall at the withers. They are known for their intelligent and energetic personality and are often used in activities such as obedience, agility, and therapy work.
Xoloitzcuintli’s are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts toward their owners. They can make great companion animals for those who can provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need. Due to being hairless, they require a serious skincare routine.
It’s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, and the level of allergens that a particular dog produces can vary depending on factors such as diet and environment. Some people with allergies may be able to tolerate certain hypoallergenic breeds without experiencing symptoms, while others may still have allergic reactions to these breeds. The best way to determine if a particular dog breed is suitable for someone with allergies is to spend time with the dog and observe any potential allergic reactions.
