Dogs make wonderful companions but some breeds can wreak havoc for people with allergies. Thankfully, certain hypoallergenic breeds have coats that produce less dander, which is attached to shed hair and skin and causes most allergic reactions. While no dog is 100% non-allergenic, the following breeds are less likely to trigger symptoms.
Introduction The Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Hypoallergenic dogs have their origins in breeds like poodles and terriers that have hair coats instead of fur. Continued selective breeding has produced dogs that shed very little, keeping dander to a minimum. General traits include:
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Top Hypoallergenic Breeds:
- Poodle – Elegant, proud, and clever. Poodles have tight curly coats that rarely shed. Available in standard, miniature and toy sizes.
- Maltese – Adorable companion dogs with long silky white hair. Lively and playful. Require regular grooming.
- Shih Tzu – “Little lion dogs” with long flowing coats. Affectionate and charming. Daily brushing needed.
- Bichon Frise – Happy and energetic powder puff pups. Tight double coats resemble cotton. Minimal shedders.
- Yorkshire Terrier – Sprightly and tomboyish. Yorkies have sleek, straight silk coats with little shedding.
- Brussels Griffon – Sturdy toy breed with a thick wiry coat resembling human hair. Minimal grooming required.
- Portuguese Water Dog – Athletic swimmers originally bred to herd fish. Low shedding curly single coats.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – Friendly Irish farm dogs with soft, wavy coats. Need weekly brushing.
- Havanese – Beautiful tropical lapdogs with long, silky fur. Regular grooming required.
- Italian Greyhound – Diminutive sighthounds with short, thin coats. Graceful and sensitive.
Caring for a Hypoallergenic Dog
Food:
- Grain-free: Helps avoid food allergies that cause skin irritation and excess shedding.
- Salmon oil: Provides omega-3s for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics: Supports healthy digestion and immune function.
Environment:
- Air purifiers: Help filter dander and other allergens from the air.
- HEPA vacuum: Removes dander from carpets and furniture.
- Wash bedding weekly: Gets rid of accumulated dander and allergens.
Care:
Bathe monthly: Keeps coat and skin clean to minimize dander.
Grooming:
- Brush daily: Removes dirt, loose hair and dander from the coat.
- Trim every 6-8 weeks: Keeps the coat tidy and healthy.
- Clean face: Wipe around eyes and mouth to prevent staining.
- Trim nails monthly: Prevents overgrowth and splitting.
Preparing for a Hypoallergenic Dog
Here are a few quick tips to get ready for your hypoallergenic pup:
- Puppy proof your home
- Stock up on grooming supplies
- Find a veterinarian
To welcome your new dog:
- Buy stainless steel bowls, quality food, treats
- Have ready plush beds, chew toys, food puzzles
- Child gate areas and hide wires, household toxins
Essentials:
- Slicker brush
- Metal comb
- Dog shampoo
- Nail clippers
Health concerns:
- Patellar luxation – can cause lameness
- Eye issues – cataracts, glaucoma
- Dental disease – brush teeth weekly
Vaccines:
- Core: Distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, rabies
- Non-core: Bordetella, lyme, leptospirosis
Hypoallergenic Dog Names
When picking a name for your hypoallergenic dog, opt for soft sounding names that suit these gentle breeds.
Some popular options include:
Milo, Teddy, Archie, Charlie, Finn, Ollie, Leo, Benji, Benny, Murphy, Otis, Louie, Joey, Ozzy, Jasper, Bodhi
Getting a Hypoallergenic Dog
Hypoallergenic breeds are popular worldwide but especially in:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
Puppies range from $800 – $2500 USD depending on breeder. Consider adopting from:
Breed-specific rescues
Local shelters and humane societies
Before adopting, ensure the dog is:
- Generally healthy
- Up to date on vaccines
- Spayed/neutered
- Free of parasites
- Temperament tested
Top rescue groups:
- Poodle Club of America Rescue Foundation
- Havanese Rescue Inc.
- Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue
“How to stop hypoallergenic dog biting?”
Redirect biting to chew toys, yelp if nipped, and train with positive reinforcement.
“How to socialize and raise a friendly hypoallergenic dog?”
Socialize them young by exposing to new sights, sounds, people. Use praise and treats for desired behaviors.
“How to train a hypoallergenic dog?”
Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Be patient and keep sessions short. Practice basic commands like sit, stay, come.
“How often should I take a hypoallergenic dog to the vet?”
Take puppies monthly until 6 months old, then visit a vet annually and as needed for any health concerns.
“Are dogs good family pets?”
Yes, their affectionate natures and minimal shedding make them excellent family companions.
“Are dogs good with kids?”
Yes, they tend to be very friendly and gentle, but always supervise young children with any dog.
“Are dogs good with other pets?”
Most do well with other dogs and pets when properly socialized. Caution is still needed.
“Are hypoallergenic dogs smart?”
Yes, breeds like poodles and schnauzers are very intelligent and trainable.
“What’s the temperament of hypoallergenic dogs?”
Typically friendly, playful, and outgoing. Make affectionate, low maintenance pets.
“How many types of hypoallergenic dogs are there?”
There are at least 20-30 breeds considered largely non-shedding and hypoallergenic.
“How long do hypoallergenic dogs live?”
On average 12-15 years which is typical for small dog breeds. Proper care can extend lifespan.
“Can hypoallergenic dogs cause allergies?”
They are less likely to cause allergies but nothing is 100% non-allergenic. Individual tolerance varies.
“Are hypoallergenic dogs aggressive?”
No, most are highly sociable and friendly by nature, not prone to aggression.
“Do hypoallergenic dogs have hair loss problems?”
No, their coats are specifically bred to be non-shedding and to avoid excessive hair loss.
By following our website, you can find the perfect dog breeds for you and provide them with the best possible dog care. Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that requires time, money, and patience. But it is also a rewarding experience that will bring you joy and companionship. All information in Dog care tips.
