The 17 Best ‘Hypoallergenic’ Dogs for People With Allergies

The term “hypoallergenic” can be a bit misleading. There’s no such thing as a completely allergen-free dog. All dogs—yes, even the hairless ones—produce allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine.

When you hear the term “hypoallergenic,” it actually means these dogs produce fewer allergens or don’t shed as much. So, these pups might reduce—but not eliminate—allergic reactions like sneezing, wheezing, or itching.

So what dogs are hypoallergenic? The following breeds are top picks for people with allergies.

1. Affenpinscher

• Size: Extra small 
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Inquisitive, loyal, spunky

The Affenpinscher, nicknamed “monkey terrier,” might not make you sneeze, but they will make you laugh.

Hypoallergenic and hilarious, Affenpinschers require only twice-weekly brushing thanks to their dense, wiry coat that doesn’t shed much. They need lots of attention and thrive when their pet parents are home a lot. Daily mental and physical activity will keep them looking and feeling their best.

2. Barbet

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, social butterfly, loyal

Oh là là—the Barbet is a wavy-haired French water dog with a woolly coat that needs regular grooming but sheds minimally. Happy and high-energy, they love being around people and making new friends.

Mental stimulation is a must for the bright Barbet. Take them swimming, play games like hide-and-seek and fetch, teach them tricks, and provide puzzle toys.

3. Bedlington Terrier

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 11–16 years
• Temperament: Social butterfly, inquisitive, quick

With their lamb-like appearance, Bedlington Terriers are impossible to mistake for any other breed. This small hypoallergenic dog doesn’t shed much, but their curly coat needs lots of care to prevent matting and maintain their iconic hairdo. Friendly and playful, Bedlingtons enjoy everything from tug-of-war and long walks to agility training.

4. Bichon Frise

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 14–15 years
• Temperament: Velcro dog, fun-loving, smart

Keep your allergies at bay with the little Bichon Frise. This cotton-ball-like cutie has a plush double coat, meaning it has two layers. Their long, thick hair means you’ll need to brush your Bichon every day, but they aren’t big shedders.

As born entertainers who want to be the center of your world (they’re nicknamed “Velcro dogs” for a reason), daily cuddles and playtime will always be on your to-do list.

5. Bolognese

• Size: Extra small 
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Playful, calm, loving

With an easygoing approach to life, the Bolognese is a true Italian. Whether you’re sipping espresso or sitting couchside, these mini hypoallergenic dogs will be content to join you (preferably in your lap).

Their fluffy coat doesn’t shed much but needs regular grooming. Laid-back and loving, Bolognese dogs like leisurely walks, learning tricks, and spending time with their family. 

6. Chinese Crested

• Size: Extra small 
• Life expectancy: 13–18 years
• Temperament: High-spirited, Velcro dog, sensitive

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless (with tufts of white fluff on the head, feet, and tail) and powderpuff (with a soft, silky coat all over).

These people-loving dogs don’t need much grooming, but their skin requires protection from the sun and cold, so make sure you have sunscreen and doggie sweaters ready, depending on the season. Chinese Cresteds can also develop blocked skin pores and may require routine bathing—ask your vet for a bath night schedule.

7. Coton de Tulear

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 15–19 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, eager to please, charming

The fluffy Coton de Tulear won’t leave your furniture coated in fur, but the breed requires daily grooming to keep their fur bright and fluffy and prevent matting. Playful but not overly energetic, these dogs need to keep their little legs moving with short walks and games of chase. Cotons do best with a family of homebodies or one that will take them along on outings.

8. Giant Schnauzer

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Watchful, loyal, calm

For those seeking a big hypoallergenic dog, the Giant Schnauzer fits the bill. Their wiry double coat sheds little but requires regular brushing and professional grooming. You’ll also need to wash their beard and mustache after meals, because bits of kibble can get tangled there. Big backyards and tall fences are ideal for these large dogs.

9. Irish Water Spaniel

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–13 years
• Temperament: Quick learner, hardworking, natural athlete

Fluffy and adorable, the low-shed Irish Water Spaniel is a top pick for those with allergies.

But these high-energy dogs have equally high daily exercise needs. Irish Water Spaniels love running, hiking, and playing fetch, but their favorite activity is swimming. Consider hobbies such as dock diving and agility to keep these large hypoallergenic dogs active and entertained. 

10. Kerry Blue Terrier

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Alert, intelligent, affable

While the Kerry Blue Terrier won’t have you reaching for the pet hair roller often, you will be reaching for the grooming tools. Their coat needs weekly brushing to prevent tangles and regular professional grooming to stay trimmed and neat.

As athletic dogs, Kerry Blues also need a full schedule of training and exercise. Jogging, fetch, and puzzle games will keep them mentally and physically fit. 

11. Maltese

• Size: Extra small 
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Lapdog, gentle, eager to please

Playful and affectionate, Maltese are lapdogs that form strong bonds with their people. As such, they do best when you spend most of your time at home with them.

Their silky white hair can grow to the floor, but many pet parents choose to keep this small hypoallergenic dog in a short “puppy cut.” A shorter hairdo cuts down on grooming time, too.

12. Miniature Schnauzer

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Feisty, lovable, ready for anything

The Miniature Schnauzer has all the character of the Giant Schnauzer (including that signature beard and bushy eyebrows), just in a more compact package.

Their wiry double coat sheds minimally but requires regular professional grooming, like many other hypoallergenic dog breeds. Swimming, interactive toys, and training classes will keep them busy and mentally stimulated. 

13. Poodle 

• Size: Extra small, small, and medium 
• Life expectancy: 10–18 years
• Temperament: Sporty, smarty pants, loves the spotlight

Perhaps the most famous hypoallergenic dog breed, the Poodle comes in three sizes (Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, and Standard Poodles) to suit any lifestyle.

But no matter their size, Poodles are spunky and energetic dogs that make great family pets. And because they’re some of the smartest dogs around, Poodles pick up cues and learn tricks with impressive speed.

14. Portuguese Water Dog

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Dynamo, super smart, people pleaser

The Portuguese Water Dog gained fame when the Obamas chose one as their White House pet, partly due to daughter Malia’s allergies. The breed’s waterproof coat comes in two varieties—wavy or curly—both of which shed minimally but require regular maintenance.

From swimming and running to playing games, this active breed needs plenty of movement and mental stimulation. 

15. Standard Schnauzer

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 13–16 years
• Temperament: Problem solvers, dependable, full of energy

Bigger than Mini Schnauzers but much smaller than Giants, the Standard Schnauzer shares the hypoallergenic hair of their related breeds. And like other Schnauzers, this dog is energetic and needs lots of playtime and exercise—along with regular coat upkeep.

16. Xoloitzcuintli

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 13–18 years
• Temperament: Loving, loyal, alert

The Xoloitzcuintli (or “Xolo” for short) is an ancient Mexican breed that comes in both hairless and coated varieties. With little dander and little to no shedding, they’re a top pick for those looking to reduce allergy symptoms.

A Xolo’s moderate exercise needs are easily met with daily walks and games of fetch. Dog puzzles will keep them engaged while you’re busy. 

17. Yorkshire Terrier

• Size: Extra small
• Life expectancy: 11–15 years
• Temperament: Clever, feisty, cuddly

Don’t let the luxurious coat of the Yorkshire Terrier fool you—their long, silky locks shed surprisingly little. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming will keep their coat tangle- and mat-free. Teach these smart, hypoallergenic small dogs tricks to keep them entertained and engaged. 

This article was medically reviewed by Molly Price, DVM, Chewy veterinarian.