For pet lovers who are allergy sufferers, the main solution is to simply not have that adorable labrador retriever. People with pet allergies usually have an allergic reaction to pet dander. Whether a dog has a wiry coat, a white coat, or a double coat, their dander can cause allergy symptoms. However, maintaining an allergy-free home doesn’t mean having a dog free home.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
According to the American Kennel Club, or the AKC, there are many breeds out there that are either hairless, produce less dander, or are low-shedding, meaning people with pet allergies don’t have to live a life without dogs. To reduce allergens and sneezing, consider adopting one of these hypoallergenic dog breeds.
Small Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Hypoallergenic dog breeds range in various sizes. For the people with dog allergies who love lap dogs, a small hypoallergenic dogs breed is the way to go. Fortunately, there are many small breeds to choose from.
American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a brave and inquisitive breed. While these little watchdogs can be completely hairless, there are some coated varieties. They range from 12-16 inches tall and only weigh up to 16 pounds, making them ideal for people with dog allergies.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a sweet pup that’s most known for their curly coat and their odd shaped body and head. Also good watchdogs, these energetic canines weigh up to 23 pounds and are no-shedding dogs, which will lower pet allergies.
Bichon Frise
These small, sweet powderpuffs weigh up to 18 pounds but only stand up to 12 inches tall. The Bichon Frise is known for its beauty and intelligence, and its white coat is also hypoallergenic.
Other Small Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
The Chinese Crested, the Coton de Tulear, the Maltese, Yorkies, and Shih Tzus are all hypoallergenic dog breeds that are less than 25 pounds. If you’re looking for a new family member that’s small and full of personality, these dogs could be right for you.
Medium Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
For pet lovers with dog allergies who want a dog that’s just the right size, there are also medium-sized hypoallergenic dog breeds that can keep your home allergen-free.
Basenji
While the Basenji is on the edge between small and medium as they weigh just under 25 pounds and are less than 20 inches tall, these dogs are still good choices for people with pet allergies. Their short dog hair is low-shedding, and these pups are very energetic and entertaining.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Considered a medium-sized dog, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can weigh up to 40 pounds. While individual dogs may have varying heights, many wheaten terriers are around 18 to 19 inches tall. These dogs are also friendly, rambunctious, and low-shedding dogs.
Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer weighs up to 45 pounds, and their wiry coat makes them suitable for people with dog allergies. Their size makes them good watchdogs, and they are also caring and loyal to their owners.
Other Medium Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Other dogs like the Lagotto Romagnolo and the Kerry Blue Terrier are medium-sized, hypoallergenic, and smart dogs as well.
Large Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
For pet parents who want to reduce allergens but want a big dog, there are also some great options.
Poodle
While there can be toy or small versions of poodles, the standard poodle is considered a large breed as they can weigh up to 70 pounds. Most known for their curly dog hair, these dogs are also smart and active.
Irish Water Spaniel
These dogs are known for their curly coat. Irish water spaniels can weigh up to 65 pounds. In addition, they are affectionate and hardworking.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is known for their long, luxurious dog hair. Also hypoallergenic and weighing up to 60 pounds, this specific dog breed is loyal and proud.
Other Large Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
The Portuguese Water Dog and mixed breeds like the labradoodle are also large hypoallergenic dog breeds. Both have high energy, but they make wonderful pets.
If you can’t find a strictly hypoallergenic dog breed, then you can still have a relatively allergy-free life. Pet dander in other dogs with shedding coats can be reduced with regular grooming such as regular brushing of their undercoat and bathing.
