Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

What are some common hypoallergenic dog breeds? Everyone surely loves their dog very much.. and there are many who want to get a loveable puppy but have fears of allergens caused by fur and dander.

Pet dander and fur could lead to a myriad of issues for those who suffer from allergies. From watery, itchy eyes to sneezing excessively. Sometimes in severe cases, hives, asthma attacks or even Anaphylactic Shock.

Are Hypoallergenic Dogs Breeds Real?

The Real Truth behind Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

The term “Hypoallergenic dog breeds” is rather misleading (which is why we at Kohepets would like to help clear things up a little). What is commonly termed as “Hypoallergenic dog breeds” are dogs that might be more suitable for people with allergies towards dogs. This does not mean they are allergy-free.

The common allergens originate from the protein found in a dog’s saliva and dander. Unless there is a breed out there that does not have saliva or dander, there is no one true hypoallergenic dog breed or crossbreeds.

Hypoallergenic dog breed -poodle black and white
Poodles are widely popular in Singapore as they are often recognized as designer dogs that are “hypoallergenic”

The general theory is dogs that shed less are often labelled as “hypoallergenic dogs” because their saliva and dander tend to stick and remain on their fur, thus they do not spread around the environment. With frequent baths and grooming, that amount of allergens can be further reduced.

Hypoallergenic dog breed - two labs
Different dogs of the same breed may produce different levels of allergens

But ultimately, the level of an allergy reaction a person can experience may vary from individual dogs – not specific breeds entirely. Just as some people may sweat more than others, different dogs of the same breed may produce different levels of allergens. It also depends on how much of an allergy tolerance each individual person may have.

An increase in allergens from your dog might also be caused by other factors ranging from skin problems or food and environmental allergies. This could lead to more fur dropping or an increase in dander.

To find out more, here are some articles that might help:

Dealing With Common Dog AllergiesManaging Your Dog’s Skin Problems

We have gathered a list of some dog breeds that shed the least for our canine lovers. Read more to see if one of these breeds is perfect for you!

Top 21 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Allergy-Friendly dog breeds

Use the “Shedding Level” guide to gauge how much each Hypoallergenic Dog Breed sheds. This list includes ‘Very Low‘ to ‘Moderate‘ shedding breeds. Take note that this list is not arranged in any particular order.

1. West Highland Terrier

Shedding Level: Low

Westie The Intern - Hypoallergenic dog breed

West Highland Terriers are known to shed very little and usually have a low dander count. This energetic little dog has two layers of coat: A rough wiry overcoat with a soft puppy-like fur undercoat.

To reduce allergens and health complications arising from warm weather, most people in Singapore opt to keep their West Highland Terriers with a short coat. Frequent brushing and combing of your Westie’s hair will also help reduce the amount of loose fur (and dander) being spread around your home.

For those that live in other countries besides Singapore, West Highland Terriers do not shed their coats during seasonal changes.

2. American Hairless Terrier

Shedding Level: Very Low to Low

Hypoallergenic dog breed - American Hairless Terrier

This hypoallergenic dog breed is the perfect family companion, American Hairless Terriers are extremely loving and loyal. What makes them even better is that they shed very minimally – close to hardly at all!

This breed is usually completely hairless. However, there some rare American Hairless Terriers that have hair in an extremely short coat.

Those with a coat are the ones that shed more and require some grooming. Despite them growing a coat, the American Hairless Terrier is still generally considered a “shed-free” dog breed.

3. Xoloitzcuintli

Shedding Level: Very Low to Low

Hypoallergenic dog breed -Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli or Xolo, as they are most often referred to, come in two varieties: coated and hairless, just like the American Hairless Terrier.

The coated Xolo has a flat and short coat, while the hairless Xolo has smooth skin that requires protection. With minimum grooming needs and moderate energy levels, they are a great family pet.

The coated Xolo does shed a little and needs to be brushed on occasion. The hairless Xolo should be bundled up in cold weather and protected from the sun when it is scorching hot.

4. Chinese Crested

Shedding Level: Low

Hypoallergenic dog breed -chinese crested breed

Chinese Crested dogs have a close resemblance to Chihuahuas. What sets them apart is that they are a hairless variety breed. They only grow hair on their head, tail, and feet. The rest of their body is just soft and smooth hairless skin. This makes them a low-shedding dog breed.

One of the greatest things about the Chinese Crested dogs is that they are ideal for owners who suffer from allergies as compared to other dog breeds.

Despite being a mostly hairless variety, they still require regular simple grooming. It is advisable that their hair is brushed frequently to avoid tangling.

5. Maltese

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

Hypoallergenic dog breed -Puppy Maltese

This hypoallergenic dog breed may be tiny, but they show no fear. They are gentle and playful small breeds with a very youthful appearance.

Their soft white coats are often considered “hypoallergenic”. They require daily brushing to manage their light shedding. It is also advisable that they get regular grooming and fur trimming as they shed a little all year round.

Shedding hair is what helps regulates their body temperature. Therefore, a Maltese will still shed its fur – but minimally. Fear not, even if a Maltese sheds fur, it’ll just be a tiny bit!

6. Poodles

Shedding Level: Low

Hypoallergenic dog breed - poodle breed smiling dog

Poodles are one of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds with their single coat of soft curly hair; they do not shed a great deal. They tend to shed just like us humans, with a few strands of hair here and there.

The possible reason why Poodles do not seem to shed a lot is because their shed hair are trapped within the curls of their coat. Thus, it is important to brush them frequently and regularly to remove the shed fur. A far better alternative then letting the shed fur fall freely around the house!

They are considered to be a great choice for a pet – especially for those with allergies as their skin dander gets trapped in their curly coat as well. This keeps allergens to a minimum.

7. Shih Tzu

Shedding Level: Low

smiling shih tzu breed

Many breeders claim that Shih Tzu dogs are a hypoallergenic dog breed but this is sadly not the case. They shed very little hair that still contains dander, which is a very common allergen for many owners.

They have a double coat which consists of a shorter, softer hair as their undercoat and a stronger, thicker hair as an outercoat. It is the undercoat hair that is often shed.

Similar to Poodles, their shedding is hardly noticeable because the hair that has shed is caught in the outer-coat. These trapped hair only comes off when their coat is brushed.

This means it is extremely important to brush them daily to remove all the excess hair.

8. Bichon Frise

Shedding Level: Low

adorable cute bichon frise dog breed

As the ideal choice for a first time dog-owner, Bichons are loyal, playful and full of affection. They are similar to miniature Poodles which have a curly white, soft low-shedding coat.

Their hair, while it hardly sheds, does grow very quickly, so they need to be groomed often to prevent mats. They are not completely hypoallergenic and still have dander which is a very common allergen.

9. Bedlington Terrier

Shedding Level: Low

dlington terrier dog breed with ahircut

With a coat that is a combination of soft and hard hair, the fur of the Bedlington Terrier resembles that of a sheep. While they do not require a great deal of grooming, they should be brushed weekly to prevent mats.

Commonly labelled as a hypoallergenic dog breed, the Bedlington Terrier has very minimal shedding which is ideal for owners with allergies.

10. Irish Water Spaniel

Shedding Level: Low

Often called the clowns of the Spaniel variety, this breed is indeed energetic, playful and mischievous. If you are looking for a fun dog and one that does not leave hair everywhere, this is the one for you!

While they are a low-shedding breed, their curly, thick coat does need to be brushed every week or so to keep it from matting.

This is important because their hair produces a fair amount of oil and this causes their coat to trap debris and dirt quite easily.

11. Portuguese Water Dog

Shedding Level: Low

This extremely energetic breed will do well with a family that is always on-the-go. Portuguese Water Dogs love to go on adventures with their humans and do not tire easily.

Their curly coats are often considered to be “hypoallergenic”. Although, just like most, if not all dogs, they still have dander. They are single-coated which makes their shedding much lesser than most.

Their coats are waterproof too! This unique coat needs to be groomed on a regular basis.

12. Spanish Water Dog

Shedding Level: Low

Picture of a Spanish Water Dog

A good watchdog, the Spanish Water Dog is known to be hard-working and very loyal to their families. With a moderate energy level, they would do well with a fairly active family that will keep them busy.

They are single-coated with very little to no undercoat. This keeps their shedding to a very minimal amount. However, for owners with allergies, remember that dogs still carry allergens through their saliva, dander and urine.

13. Miniature Schnauzer

Shedding Level: Low

A common hypoallergenic dog breed found in many Singapore homes. Despite their small stature, the Miniature Schnauzer is known to be fiercely protective. While this makes them a great watchdog, they are also relatively easy to train.

This double-coated breed has minimal shedding because of their undercoat. However, you should ensure that your Mini Schnauzer gets enough and frequent grooming.

Schnauzers’ amount of shedding depends on their size. The bigger the Schnauzer, the more fur there is to shed!

14. Standard Schnauzer

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

Both affectionate and fearless, this breed just wants to be an active and cherished member of your family! They get along very well with children.

Similar to the Miniature Schnauzer, the Standard Schnauzer is also double-coated and sheds just a little more than their mini companion. Naturally, because of their slightly bigger size, they have more hair to shed.

To keep shedding to a minimum, do groom your Schnauzer regularly with quality brushing sessions.

15. Italian Greyhounds

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

This breed is one of the easiest dogs to groom. Yes, they do shed, but in very minimal amounts. As with most dogs without an undercoat, shedding is minimal.

They are an ideal pet for owners that cannot stand shedding and are looking for a low maintenance dog when it comes to grooming.

The only downside to having a short coat is that Italian Greyhounds tend to get cold easily when kept in an air-conditioned room. That is when you prove yourself to be a good owner and make sure they are warm enough!

16. Coton de Tulear

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

Otherwise, known as the Royal Dog of Madagascar, this affectionate hypoallergenic dog breed sheds much less fur when compared to other dogs in general. They have a long, soft white coat which gives them their super adorable appearance.

This beautiful coat should be brushed several times per week and groomed regularly to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Try using a pin brush to keep their coat from matting!

Even though this breed naturally sheds a little because of their hair growth cycle, the amount of shedding depends on the individual dog’s health status, breeding and frequency of grooming.

17. Lagotto Romagnoto

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

Lagotto Romagnoto

This uncommon yet loyal and affectionate breed loves their owners, making them a good choice for a family pet.

With a woolly, thick coat that is similar to a Poodle, this breed unsurprisingly does need to be brushed and trimmed very regularly. They hardly shed but their coat tends to mat easily.

They are relatively “hypoallergenic” but they may require high maintenance to maintain the beauty of their curly coat.

18. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

Wheaten Terriers are great with children due to their gentle and loving nature. However, they do require lots of exercise as they naturally very active.

With a single layer of soft hair that is similar to that of wheat, this breed sheds only a little amount so it is hardly an issue. They do need to be brushed regularly as their coats are prone to matting.

It is recommended that their coat is trimmed on a regular basis.

19. Kerry Blue Terrier

Shedding Level: Low to Moderate

kerry blue terrier

If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed that is loyal, intelligent and loves to be around people, then a Kerry Blue Terrier could be the dog for you.

Their dense but soft coat needs regular trimming and brushing, mainly around their face, where their hair is longest. This mostly to prevent an unsightly appearance of overgrown fur!

With a considerably “hypoallergenic coat”, they are the ideal option for those who suffer from allergies. Do note that they still have dander and may be a cause of allergic symptoms for owners.

Their coat needs regular trimming and may need more grooming effort when compared to other ‘very low’ or ‘low’ shedding dogs.

20. Afghan Hound

Shedding Level: Moderate

Similar in stature to Greyhounds, Afghan hounds have long silky coats that shed very minimally. This breed only has only one coat of beautiful and lustrous hair.

Their hair is quite similar to human hair. It is constantly growing and in need of regular trimming.

However, they do have a shedding ‘season’ (yes, even in Singapore). This usually occurs during their transition stage from being a puppy to an adult dog. Their new and shiny adult coat starts to grow around the age of 1. Simultaneously, their puppy hair falls out and sheds.

21. Giant Schnauzer

Shedding Level: Moderate

Hypoallergenic dog breed - Giant Schnauzer

Known to be a very loyal breed, they are very active as they love having “jobs” around the household.

The largest of the Schnauzers, they shed the most compared to their smaller counterparts. Despite that fact, they still shed much lesser compared to many other dog breeds.

Their dense, wiry and hard coats tend to grow very rapidly, so they do need to be brushed and clipped regularly.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds – Conclusion

We hope that we’ve helped you understand more about Hypoallergenic dog breeds and dogs that shed less. For those that are wondering where to find grooming and bathing supplies to help keep your dog clean and reduce allergens, come check us out at Kohepets.