Best Dog Breeds for People with Allergies: Finding the Perfect Hypoallergenic Companion

For dog lovers who suffer from allergies, the idea of bringing a furry friend into the home can seem impossible. However, the good news is that there are hypoallergenic dog breeds that produce fewer allergens, making them a great option for allergy-sensitive individuals. While no breed is 100% allergen-free, some dogs shed less dander and hair, reducing allergic reactions.

At A Peaceful Pack, we believe that every dog deserves proper training, socialization, and positive reinforcement, regardless of breed. If you’re looking for a low-shedding, hypoallergenic dog to join your family, this guide will help you find the perfect match!

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

Many people believe that dog allergies are caused by fur, but the real culprits are dander, saliva, and urine. Dander consists of tiny flakes of skin that dogs shed, and it’s a common trigger for allergic reactions.

Hypoallergenic dogs tend to:

Shed less dander than other breeds
Produce lower levels of allergens in their saliva and skin
Have hair instead of fur, which reduces shedding

If you or a family member have pet allergies, choosing a hypoallergenic dog breed and maintaining a clean home can make dog ownership possible.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Here are some of the top dog breeds that allergy sufferers can consider:

1. Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)

Personality: Intelligent, friendly, trainable

Size: Varies (Toy: under 10 lbs, Miniature: 10–15 lbs, Standard: 40–70 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: Poodles have tight, curly coats that trap dander and prevent excessive shedding. Regular grooming helps reduce allergens even further. They are one of the most trainable dog breeds, making them perfect for families looking for obedience training and positive reinforcement programs like those offered at A Peaceful Pack.

2. Bichon Frise

Personality: Playful, affectionate, energetic

Size: Small (10–18 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: The Bichon Frise has a soft, curly coat that helps keep dander and loose hair from spreading. They require regular grooming, but their low-shedding nature makes them a fantastic choice for allergy sufferers.

With proper socialization and obedience training, Bichons can be friendly, outgoing dogs that adapt well to family life.

3. Maltese

Personality: Gentle, affectionate, adaptable

Size: Small (under 10 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: Maltese dogs have long, silky hair that doesn’t shed much, which means they produce fewer airborne allergens. Regular brushing and grooming will keep their coats clean and allergen levels low.

At A Peaceful Pack, we recommend early puppy training programs to ensure your Maltese grows into a well-behaved, confident companion.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

Personality: Loyal, energetic, intelligent

Size: Medium (35–60 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: This breed has a curly, water-resistant coat that minimizes shedding and dander. Portuguese Water Dogs are highly active and benefit from mental stimulation and training programs to keep them engaged.

If you're looking for a hypoallergenic dog that loves outdoor adventures, this breed is a fantastic choice!

5. Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)

Personality: Alert, intelligent, protective

Size: Varies (Miniature: 10–20 lbs, Standard: 30–50 lbs, Giant: 55–90 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: Schnauzers have a tight, wiry coat that traps dander and prevents excessive shedding. They require regular grooming, but their low-allergen coat makes them a great option for allergy sufferers.

Schnauzers excel in obedience training and socialization programs, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.

6. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Personality: Friendly, energetic, affectionate

Size: Medium (30–40 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: Unlike many terriers, Wheaten Terriers have a single-layer, soft coat that sheds minimally. With consistent grooming and training, they make loving and playful family pets.

At A Peaceful Pack, we recommend structured training programs to ensure this high-energy breed develops good manners.

7. Lagotto Romagnolo

Personality: Affectionate, hardworking, intelligent

Size: Medium (25–35 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: The Lagotto Romagnolo has a curly, water-resistant coat that traps dander and reduces shedding. Originally bred as truffle hunters, they are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental stimulation and training.

Their intelligence makes them a great candidate for positive reinforcement training methods like those used at A Peaceful Pack.

8. Afghan Hound

Personality: Independent, loyal, elegant

Size: Large (50–60 lbs)

Why They're Great for Allergies: Afghan Hounds have long, silky coats that produce less dander than typical furry breeds. While they require frequent grooming, they shed very little, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Tips for Living with a Dog When You Have Allergies

Even with a hypoallergenic breed, it's important to take extra precautions to keep allergens at bay:

Regular Grooming: Frequent brushing and bathing can reduce dander and shedding.
Air Purifiers: A high-quality HEPA air purifier can filter out allergens in your home.
Vacuum Often: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to keep pet hair and dander under control.
Create Dog-Free Zones: Keep certain areas, like bedrooms, off-limits to reduce allergen exposure.
Wash Dog Bedding Frequently: Keeping your dog’s bedding clean can help minimize dander buildup.

How A Peaceful Pack Can Help

At A Peaceful Pack, we provide positive reinforcement training, socialization programs, and obedience training tailored to every breed—including hypoallergenic ones. Our experienced trainers ensure your dog develops good manners, making them the best companion possible.

If you’re considering adding a hypoallergenic dog to your family, we can help with:

Puppy training programs to establish good behavior early.
Socialization sessions to ensure your dog is comfortable in different environments.
Obedience training for well-mannered behavior at home and in public.
Boarding and daycare options for a safe and structured environment.

Final Thoughts

Owning a dog while dealing with allergies is possible with the right breed and proper care. Poodles, Bichon Frises, Schnauzers, and Portuguese Water Dogs are all great options for allergy-sensitive individuals. With the right training and socialization, you can enjoy a happy and fulfilling life with your furry companion.

At A Peaceful Pack, we’re here to help you build a strong bond with your dog through positive reinforcement training and expert guidance. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support you and your hypoallergenic pup!