Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: Best Dogs That Don't Shed (2026)

What Causes Dog Allergies?

Contrary to popular belief, dog hair itself doesn't cause allergies. The real culprits are proteins found in:

Dander: Dead skin flakes that all dogs produce
Saliva: Contains allergenic proteins that transfer to fur when dogs groom
Urine: Also contains allergens

When dogs shed, they release dander and saliva-coated fur into your home environment. This is why low-shedding breeds are often better for allergy sufferers - they spread fewer allergens throughout your living space.

What makes a dog "hypoallergenic"?

Hair that grows continuously (like human hair) rather than fur that sheds
Produces less dander than other breeds
Drools less (less saliva spread)
Coat that traps dander rather than releasing it into the air

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Here are the most allergy-friendly dog breeds, grouped by coat type and characteristics:

1. Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)

The gold standard of hypoallergenic breeds. Poodles have a tightly curled coat that traps dander and doesn't shed. They come in three sizes to fit any lifestyle.

Grooming: High - professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, daily brushing
Energy: High - needs regular exercise and mental stimulation
Temperament: Intelligent, athletic, eager to please
Best for: Active families, those wanting a trainable dog

See our Poodle Grooming Guide for detailed care information.

2. Bichon Frise

A cheerful, fluffy companion with a powder-puff coat that produces minimal dander. The Bichon's double coat has a soft undercoat and curly outer coat that traps loose hair and dander.

Grooming: High - professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, daily brushing to prevent mats
Energy: Moderate - playful but adaptable
Temperament: Happy, affectionate, great with families
Best for: Apartments, seniors, families with children

3. Maltese

An elegant toy breed with long, silky white hair. Despite the flowing coat, Maltese are virtually non-shedding because they have hair, not fur.

Grooming: High - daily brushing if kept long, or regular trims for easier maintenance
Energy: Moderate - playful but doesn't need extensive exercise
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, can be feisty
Best for: Apartments, singles, seniors

Learn about managing Maltese tear stains, a common concern for this breed.

4. Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant)

Schnauzers have a distinctive wiry double coat that sheds minimally. Regular hand-stripping or clipping keeps the coat healthy and low-shedding.

Grooming: Moderate-High - professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
Energy: High - spirited and needs regular activity
Temperament: Alert, loyal, sometimes stubborn
Best for: Active owners, those wanting a watchdog

5. Portuguese Water Dog

Made famous by the Obama family, the Portuguese Water Dog has a curly or wavy waterproof coat that sheds minimally. An athletic, versatile breed.

Grooming: Moderate-High - regular brushing and monthly trims
Energy: Very High - needs lots of exercise and swimming
Temperament: Adventurous, intelligent, affectionate
Best for: Active families, those near water

6. Shih Tzu

This ancient Chinese breed has a long, flowing coat that sheds very little. They're bred as companion dogs and are well-suited for apartment living.

Grooming: High - daily brushing if kept long, or puppy cuts for easier care
Energy: Low-Moderate - happy with short walks and playtime
Temperament: Affectionate, outgoing, trusting
Best for: Apartments, families, seniors

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Don't let the silky coat fool you - Yorkies have hair similar to humans and shed very little. They pack a big personality into a tiny package.

Grooming: High - daily brushing if kept long, regular trims needed
Energy: Moderate-High - feisty and playful
Temperament: Bold, confident, affectionate
Best for: Apartments, singles, those wanting a portable companion

8. Havanese

Cuba's national dog has a silky, lightweight coat that sheds minimally. They're known for their cheerful disposition and love of family.

Grooming: Moderate-High - regular brushing, can be corded or clipped
Energy: Moderate - playful but adaptable
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, outgoing
Best for: Families, first-time owners, apartments

9. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

A medium-sized terrier with a soft, silky coat that doesn't shed. They're known for their exuberant greetings and friendly nature.

Grooming: Moderate-High - regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
Energy: High - needs daily exercise
Temperament: Happy, friendly, loyal
Best for: Active families, those with yards

10. Lagotto Romagnolo

The Italian "truffle dog" has a dense, curly, waterproof coat similar to a Poodle. They're gaining popularity as a hypoallergenic family dog.

Grooming: Moderate - regular brushing and trimming
Energy: Moderate-High - loves to work and play
Temperament: Affectionate, keen, undemanding
Best for: Active families, those wanting a versatile breed

Hypoallergenic Dogs by Size

Size	Breeds	Weight
Small	Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Havanese	4-15 lbs
Medium	Miniature Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, Lagotto Romagnolo	15-45 lbs
Large	Standard Poodle, Giant Schnauzer, Irish Water Spaniel, Afghan Hound	45-100+ lbs

What About Doodle Mixes?

Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and other Poodle mixes are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but this varies widely. Because they're mixed breeds, coat type is unpredictable - some may shed significantly while others don't.

If considering a doodle, look for:

F1B or multigenerational crosses (more Poodle genetics)
Curly coat types (less likely to shed)
Breeders who can show parent dog coat characteristics

See our Goldendoodle Grooming Guide for more information.

Grooming Requirements for Hypoallergenic Breeds

Here's the trade-off: Most hypoallergenic dogs require MORE grooming than shedding breeds. Their continuously growing hair needs regular cuts, and their coats tend to mat easily.

Breed	Professional Grooming	Home Brushing	Est. Annual Cost
Poodle	Every 4-6 weeks	Daily	$840-$1,800
Bichon Frise	Every 4-6 weeks	Daily	$720-$1,200
Maltese	Every 4-6 weeks	Daily (long coat)	$600-$1,000
Schnauzer	Every 6-8 weeks	2-3x weekly	$500-$900
Shih Tzu	Every 4-6 weeks	Daily (long coat)	$600-$1,000

Grooming Reduces Allergens

Regular grooming actually helps allergy sufferers! Bathing removes dander and allergens from the coat, and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks keeps allergen levels lower in your home.

Tips for Living with Dog Allergies

Even with a hypoallergenic breed, these strategies can minimize allergic reactions:

Before Getting a Dog

Spend time with the breed first - Visit breeders or foster before committing
Consider allergy testing - Identify exactly what triggers your allergies
Consult your allergist - Discuss medication options and immunotherapy

Home Environment

Use HEPA air purifiers in main living areas and bedrooms
Create dog-free zones - Keep bedrooms off-limits
Use washable furniture covers and wash weekly
Replace carpets with hard floors where possible
Vacuum frequently with a HEPA-filter vacuum
Wash dog bedding weekly in hot water

Dog Care

Bathe your dog weekly - Reduces dander significantly
Brush outdoors - Keep loose hair and dander outside
Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks - Maintains low allergen levels
Wipe your dog down after outdoor time
Have a non-allergic family member handle grooming if possible

Personal Habits

Wash hands after petting
Don't touch your face after dog contact
Change clothes after extended cuddle sessions
Take allergy medication as recommended by your doctor

Breeds to Avoid with Allergies

If you have dog allergies, these high-shedding breeds typically cause the most problems:

Double-coated breeds: German Shepherd, Husky, Malamute, Akita, Chow Chow
Heavy shedders: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, Bernese Mountain Dog
Short-haired breeds that shed heavily: Beagle, Dalmatian, Pug, Bulldog
Drooling breeds: Mastiff, Bloodhound, Saint Bernard (saliva spreads allergens)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any dogs 100% hypoallergenic?▼

No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens through dander, saliva, and urine. However, some breeds produce fewer allergens and shed less, making them more suitable for people with mild to moderate allergies. Individual reactions vary, so spending time with a breed before adopting is recommended.

What is the most hypoallergenic dog breed?▼

Poodles are often considered the most hypoallergenic breed due to their curly, non-shedding coat that traps dander. Other top choices include Bichon Frise, Maltese, Portuguese Water Dog, and Schnauzer. The best breed for you depends on your specific allergies and lifestyle needs.

Do hypoallergenic dogs need more grooming?▼

Yes, most hypoallergenic dogs require more frequent grooming because their hair grows continuously instead of shedding. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks and regular brushing (often daily) is needed to prevent matting and maintain coat health.

Why do some dogs cause fewer allergies?▼

Dogs that cause fewer allergies typically have hair instead of fur, produce less dander, and drool less. Their coats trap allergens rather than releasing them into the air. Lower-shedding breeds spread fewer allergens throughout your home.

Can I still be allergic to a hypoallergenic dog?▼

Yes, you can still react to hypoallergenic dogs. Allergies are caused by proteins in dander, saliva, and urine - not just fur. While hypoallergenic breeds may trigger fewer or milder symptoms, severe allergy sufferers may still react. Always spend time with a specific dog before committing.

What is the best hypoallergenic dog for families?▼

The Labradoodle or Goldendoodle (Poodle mixes), Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier are excellent family-friendly hypoallergenic breeds. They're good with children, moderately active, and have low-shedding coats. Consider size, energy level, and temperament for your family's needs.

The Bottom Line

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, many breeds are far better suited for allergy sufferers. Poodles, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Schnauzers, and similar low-shedding breeds produce fewer airborne allergens, making dog ownership possible for many people with allergies.

Remember: these breeds require committed grooming - expect professional grooming every 4-6 weeks and regular brushing at home. But for allergy sufferers who dream of dog ownership, this trade-off is well worth it.

Always spend time with your chosen breed before adopting, work with your allergist on management strategies, and maintain a regular grooming schedule to keep allergen levels low in your home.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: Best Dogs That Don't Shed