30 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (Vet-Approved Advice)

No one likes dog hair—especially those who suffer from pet allergies. If you love dogs but hate blowing your nose every few minutes, checking out hypoallergenic breeds might be beneficial for you—you may be able to have your cake and eat it, too.

In this article, we will discuss exactly what hypoallergenic means (as this term has become increasingly misleading). Plus, we’ll tell you all about all these hypoallergenic breeds so you can learn more information about them if they strike your attention.

Myth Busting: The Truth About Hypoallergenic Dogs

Many dogs are labeled as hypoallergenic. This can be very misleading, especially to some severe allergy sufferers. If you get a dog under the pretense that it won’t trigger your allergies at all, it is a lie.

No dog is actually ever 100% hypoallergenic, as all of them carry proteins that can trigger allergies to some degree. These proteins can be found in the dog’s dander, urine, and saliva. And all dogs produce dander, urine, and saliva. On top of this, how hypoallergenic a dog is can also depend on the individual dog and person, rather than their breed. Not all dogs produce the same amount and types of the allergenic proteins, it can vary even between individuals of the same breed.

However, hypoallergenic dogs are considered much less triggering than others since they are usually breeds that don’t shed as much. Therefore, their shed hair doesn’t spread dander around as much. But if you have allergies, you still might be affected despite your efforts to get the right breed.

The 30 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed

Without further ado, here is a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds and some useful information about them.

1. Poodle

The Poodle is one of the most popular hypoallergenic dogs. They are often used in breeding programs to make hybrid dogs that can be more allergy-friendly. The Poodle comes in a few varieties, including toy, miniature, and standard.

These dogs make amazing family pets due to their high intelligence and ability to adapt. All size varieties have the same basic traits, though smaller poodles tend to be a little more yappy than their larger counterparts.

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2. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a little dog that looks like a giant cotton ball. It’s often found to be compatible with allergic individuals, creating much less of a reaction than some others. The Bichon Frise is a happy-go-lucky little dog that can make a very good companion animal and do well with children and other pets. Plus, they are small, so they are often compatible with smaller living spaces. They can adjust to many different environments—but they certainly aren’t outdoor-only dogs.

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3. Chinese Crested Dog

The Chinese Crested has naturally occurring pigtails. These dogs are almost completely hairless, except for the tuft on their head and feet. However, you can’t get a powder puff Chinese Crested that is fully furred.

Both types are considered hypoallergenic, the fully coated powder puff is low shedding. Chinese Crested dogs tend to be relaxed and get very attached to owners. You have to take special considerations when you have this breed, especially if you have the hairless variety. These dogs tend to be very susceptible to cold temperatures and direct sunlight. You also have to take care of their skin the same way you do your own. So invest in some dog-friendly skin products!

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4. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog has a water-resistant curly coat that is distinct. These dogs were used directly for hunting and swimming purposes. They tend to be very relaxed with excellent judgment. They work best in homes with frequent outdoor exercise or homes with lots of land to roam and explore! Natural water lovers, these dogs will thrive with beach and boating adventures. So, if you’re an outdoorsy person, this might be the perfect fit for you.

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5. Maltese

The Maltese is another snow-white small dog with a puppy personality! Don’t let the longhair fool you, these dogs are fairly easy to maintain with proper haircuts. Plus, they shed very little!

These dogs can be a little more finicky than some others and might be picky eaters or intolerant of other pets and children. However, they make fantastic pets for a variety of lifestyles and generally work in any sized home.

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6. Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terriers have fascinating coats. They shed very little and tend to be very dark as puppies but lighten up as they get older. These dogs are known for being gentle, good-natured, and affectionate towards people and other pets. While a rarer dog on the list, they certainly are interesting—and they might be more expensive and harder to find as a consequence.

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7. Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a dog of grace and beauty. These elegant ancient dogs have long, flowing coats that require frequent maintenance. While it might be a little challenging to keep up with their grooming demands, they don’t shed often and are considered hypoallergenic dogs. These dogs are very poised, gentle, and observant. They do very well in homes with experienced dog owners.

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8. Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy-go-lucky little dog that is extremely affectionate and friendly with others. These dogs have the classic wheaten-colored coat, though it can vary a few shades. Their fur is hypoallergenic. However, their curly coats and long beards can make them very messy in inclement weather or after eating. However, these can be great candidates for allergy sufferers.

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9. American Hairless Terrier

This hairless breed can be another good choice for allergy sufferers. As with other breeds like the Chinese Crested or Mexican Hairless Terrier, their lack of fur has its own considerations such as protecting them from sunburn and the cold. These dogs are very active, focused, and friendly.

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10. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier has been a popular breed for decades. These little dogs are super compact, and are a suitable size for most condos and apartments. This little dog, though sometimes feisty, is an awesome companion. However, they tend to have a larger-than-life personality and can be a little opinionated with younger children or other pets.

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11. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a common small breed that can be perfect for allergy sufferers or those who just don’t like shedding! These little dogs are very tolerant and friendly, making them amazing for growing families or retired couples!

They tend to get along fabulously with other pets in the home as well, so this agreeable playmate can fit into a variety of lifestyles. Because of their ever-growing long coats, they do require frequent grooming and maintenance.

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12. Schnauzer

The brave Schnauzer could take the world by storm. These independent, often vocal dogs will light up your world with their vibrant personalities. There are three size variations in this particular breed—miniature, standard, and giant.

Personality changes slightly depending on what size you get. For example, smaller Schnauzers tend to be a little bossy, whereas their larger counterparts are often more patient. Larger Schnauzers can also be fabulous watch dogs.

These pups can be very compatible with children and other pets, they can also be bossy and should be closely supervised. However, they are also very fun and energetic.

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13. Affenpinscher

The spunky little Affenpinscher is quite a character! In addition to their little flat faces and shaggy coats, they also don’t shed much. This makes them perfect for any small dog lover.

Affenpinschers are energetic and happy dogs, but they can be a bit possessive and strong willed sometimes. So, take caution with other pets and children.

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14. Basenji

The Basenji dog is one of a kind. They are also known as the “barkless” dog, because you barely hear them make a peep. These dogs can be suitable for apartment dwellers because of their favorable size and quiet nature but they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Basenjis are alert, energetic, and athletic.

While they can be slightly aloof sometimes, they tend to fit in very well with a human family. These dogs are usually very well-behaved and respond well to training.

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15. West Highland White Terrier

The little West Highland White Terrier is such a recognizable face. In addition to being adorable, the Westie is a ball of fun. This terrier is a spicy little dog with a big personality.

While they can get along well with children and animals when they are raised alongside them, they can also be a little stubborn and strong willed.

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16. Havanese

The tiny Havanese might be the world’s happiest dog. They are the national dog of Cuba and the only breed created in the country. These dogs were bred to be companion animals, and they do not disappoint.

The Havanese has such a laid back, gentle character. They are generally highly tolerant of children, other animals, and new situations. They tend to be shadow dogs that will love accompanying you anywhere you go.

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17. Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is among many other terrier breeds that made our list. These distinguished ladies and gentlemen are very affectionate and attached to family members. They share a lot of traits with their terrier cousins, meaning that they are typically brave, independent, and even stubborn at times!

Their overall character makes them great family dogs. The Scottie is certainly a dignified and loyal companion. They can work well in almost any living situation—perfect for growing families and seniors alike.

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18. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a beautiful, long-haired dog of royalty. They are small and, despite their long hair, are considered hypoallergenic as they hardly shed. Their coats are high maintenance from a grooming point of view though. These little dogs tend to be very bold, brave, and chipper. Some of them can be quite independent, and test boundaries, but they are generally good natured and lovable dogs.

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19. Cairn Terrier

The small Cairn Terrier, like many other terrier breeds, is considered hypoallergenic. That means they don’t shed very much at all! They are adorable little dogs that you might recognize thanks to the famous classic movie The Wizard of Oz.

The Cairn Terrier is a bubbly little dog that shows bravery and excitement every day. They love to go on adventures and see new things—so take them for lots of walks and let them explore their surroundings.

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20. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is ready to be the center of your world. These charming little dogs are very self-centered and ready for all the love! They don’t shed, so you don’t have to worry about your lap dog covering your new pants in fur.

Although playful and energetic they can be quite sensitive little dogs. They love companionship and can be prone to suffering from separation anxiety.

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21. Labradoodle

The Labradoodle is a popular hybrid breed. Combining the wonderful features of the Labrador Retriever with the Poodle, you get a hypoallergenic dog that doesn’t shed very much at all. Do be careful which generation you’re buying though, as one that is more closely related to the Labrador might shed more.

Labradoodles tend to take on both traits of parents. They are active, intelligent dogs that will be a loving companion their whole lives. However, they have bad tendencies to eat things they shouldn’t so make sure to put up those expensive shoes!

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22. Komondor

The Komondor is a naturally dreaded dog. These dogs are very uncommon but are used on farms as livestock protectors. This lovely, unique breed tends to be slow and steady, making them good companions, but they can be wary of strangers.

They do best when they have room to explore. So, if you own a home with lots of land—they would love to roam the territory and then come in for a nighttime cuddle later. This is not a city dog breed for sure!

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23. Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle is another hybrid breed. These dogs combined the Golden Retriever with a Poodle to create potentially low shedding and hypoallergenic pups. However the appearance, size and coat will vary considerably according to their breeding generation and what size of Poodle parents they have. Some Goldendoodles will inherit more of a heavily shedding Golden Retriever coat.

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24. Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is the largest of all terrier breeds. It is a dignified and active dog that loves to be part of the family. Their curly, beautiful terrier coats require regular brushing, but they shed very little! These dogs look best when kept neat and tidy.

The Airedale is a very loyal dog that will happily accompany you on outings and walks. They can be a little selective sometimes about who they like and tend to have high prey drives. However, they are incredibly receptive to training and can be very mannerly family members.

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25. Löwchen

The Löwchen, or “little lion dog,” is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a little dog that looks like a lion. This charming pup is a chipper, excitable little dog with plenty of spirit. Löwchens are revered for their intelligence—so much brain in such a small little body.

These rare dogs can make excellent additions to apartments and other small living spaces as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They also adore being the center of attention and tend to pick a favorite person.

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26. Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is known for its wonderful personality. These little guys are usually very agreeable and friendly with everyone. On top of their extremely good character, they are no-shed dogs.

They are small but active dogs that require physical and mental stimulation.

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27. Puli

The amazing Puli dog has natural dreadlocks. Much more dirt and debris can get trapped in the locks, so proper coat care is essential.

These working dogs love to have room to explore, so if you have a home with a large fenced-in backyard or lots of land, they might be a terrific pup. These dogs are smaller than their Komondor cousins but share many of the same traits.

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28. Italian Greyhound

They may be small but these are true sighthounds that can outrun you at every turn. However, despite their nature, they love to be snuggled up for a nap after a long day. Surprisingly, their short, fine coats shed lightly and they are therefore considered hypoallergenic.

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29. Samoyed

This fluffy haired dog is also often described as a hypoallergenic breed however they do shed. They are reported to produce low levels of dander and they do not drool much, some people have reported them to trigger their allergies less than other breeds. This can be very variable though for individual dogs and people as we mentioned at the start.

The Samoyed is a cheerful, playful dog that has great energy. They naturally love the colder weather, so be mindful if you live in hotter climates.

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30. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is on the hypoallergenic list. Their coarse coats barely shed and seem not to trigger allergies. So, they can be the perfect fit for outdoorsy folks who don’t want to deal with shedding.

These dogs are still used for hunting purposes today—so they are highly trainable. They are also highly vigilant and loyal. These dogs make the best companions for rural homes.

Conclusion

Now, you have a wide selection of dogs that you can choose from if you’re looking for low shedding or hairless breeds. Hopefully, you have a better understanding of what hypoallergenic means and how you can navigate that.

There are tons of dogs considered to be hypoallergenic—from instantly recognizable to oddly obscure breeds. Of all these amazing dogs, which was your favorite?

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Featured Image Credit: Natallia Yaumenenka, Shutterstock