Hypoallergenic dog breeds are dog breeds (or designer dog breeds) that are more compatible with allergic persons than other dog breeds. Dog Breeds that shed less are more likely to be hypoallergenic, since the dog’s dander and saliva stick to the hair and are not released into the environment. Smaller dogs will leave fewer environmental pollutants containing dog dander and dog allergens (reduced fecal matter, urine and saliva). Small hairless dogs may be less likely to cause allergic reactions because it’s so easy to bathe them and the dander falls off them.

Non-shedding dog breed are allergy friendly dog breeds that produce less dander, allowing those of you whose suffer from allergies to keep at a very comfortable level, so that you could enjoy raising a cute doggie. There are no totally non shedding dog breeds. However there are dog breeds that shed little to no hair, just like humans do and there are plenty of dog breeds who shed less hair.

Here is a selection of Non Shedding dog breed for you to choose from.

Please consider carefully each dog breed & find a breed which suits your lifestyle.

Also see page – Best Apartment dogs.

Small sized dog breeds that don’t shed

Medium sized dog breeds that don’t shed

Large dog breeds that don’t shed

The level of shedding is a question many prospective pet owners ask when deciding upon which dog to choose. It may be a matter of allergies or some people simply don’t want to deal with the housekeeping issue involved with dogs that shed heavily. Whether it’s a matter of cleaning or allergens that pose a problem, you are in luck. There are many wonderful dog breeds that are neither heavy shedders nor copious allergen producers. There is no such thing as a completely non-shedding dog. Like humans, all dogs shed at least a little hair at one time or another. However there are dogs that shed little hair and these are the best choice for allergy sufferers and, pardon the expression, neat freaks.

Dog Shedding and Allergies: Most dog allergies are caused by dog dander, not the hair they shed. Dander is the dead skin that falls off the dog, depositing itself all over the house and wafting through the air into your nose and eyes in the process. All dogs produce dander, but some dogs create a lot less of it. Low-shedding breeds are considered to be more hypoallergenic, which means they don’t produce as many allergens through flaky dead skin and dander as other breeds do. Dogs also are pollen transmitters and many people are allergic to this powdery substance that helps propagate our trees and flowers. Pets pick it up outside, carrying it home to add to their owners’ allergy woes. The thicker the coat, the more of this stuff they can carry.

Understanding dog shedding: Shedding is affected by hormonal changes that are tied to photoperiod (day length). When kept mainly indoors, the amount of shed hair is affected by the amount of daylight, which also stimulates hormones and promotes shedding. It is also affected by the temperature of your home and influenced by the pet’s level of nutrition and general state of health. In addition to natural seasonal shedding, a dog may drop coat after surgery, anesthesia, or whelping puppies.

Allergic to Dogs? – human allergy and dog

Over ten million Americans (pet owners and non-pet owners) suffer from some sort of a pet allergy. This statistic tells us that there are a great many people out there itching, breaking out in rashes, coughing, and sneezing every time they go near a dog. So what about those allergy sufferers that are also pet lovers? Have their allergies sentenced them to a pet-less existence? Not necessarily.

Most people think that pet allergy sufferers are allergic to animal hair, but this is not the case. They are actually allergic to allergens that are secreted by oil glands and shed with dander (dead skin cells). These allergens are also found in canine saliva and urine.

In the past, doctors would often recommend that patients dealing with pet allergies get rid of their dogs. While this may have caused some of the allergies to clear up, it also caused many a broken heart. Humans can become very attached to their canine companions, and most would do just about anything to avoid having to give them away. Also, getting rid of your dog is not likely to solve the problem, as pet allergens can be found everywhere, including in the homes of people who don’t own pets.

So how can people suffering from pet allergies manage them enough to be able to keep a dog as a pet-and enjoy it? The term “hypoallergenic dogs” is commonly heard today, but there really are no dogs that don’t cause allergic reactions. All dogs have hair (even so-called “hairless” dogs), dander, saliva, and urine, and therefore, all dogs can cause allergic reactions. However, there are some dog breeds that may not affect allergy sufferers as much because of the type of hair these breeds have or the amount of hair they shed. These breeds include:

Curly-coated: Bichon Frises, Irish Water Spaniels, Poodles, and Portuguese Water Dogs.
Hairless: American Hairless Terriers, Chinese Cresteds, and Xoloitzcuintli.
Low-shedding or single-coated: Basenjis, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, and Maltese.
Terrier-type: Bedlington Terriers, Kerry Blue Terriers, Schnauzers, and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers.

No matter what kind of dog you have, taking good care of him can help to alleviate some of your allergic symptoms. By making sure your dog is bathed and groomed faithfully, you will rid him of large amounts of dander. In addition, you can make changes to your home, like covering your mattress with a vinyl cover and changing all bedding at least once a week. Carpets harbor large amounts of dust, dander, and other allergens, no matter how often you vacuum, so hardwood, vinyl, or linoleum floors are much better choices for allergy sufferers.

If you are an allergy sufferer and a dog lover, it is possible for you to own a dog and not be in constant allergy-related misery. Consider choosing a breed that may be less of an irritant to your allergies. Or, if you fall in love with a dog that makes you sneeze like crazy, be diligent about keeping him and your house clean. These measures should help to ensure that just about any allergy sufferer can be given the opportunity to share his or her life with a canine companion.

Dogs that don’t shed or shed less

Here are some of our favorite dog breeds that don’t shed or are light shedders, listed by size to help you find the right companion for you and your family.

Small dogs that don’t shed:

Affenpinscher A spunky terrier blend, the Affenpinscher charms owners with well-timed spirited antics. Active indoors, the breed does well in an apartment if taken for daily walks. Generally good with children and other pets, Affiepinschers are intelligent with a streak of stubbornness.
Australian Terrier Looking for a small, entertaining watchdog? The Australian Terrier is on the job. The Australians created this breed from several terriers, including the Dandie Dinmont. The Australian Terrier’s coarse-haired coat and topknot make this dapper dog easy to care for with a good brushing and some light trimming.
Basenji Although known for not barking, don’t think that this muscular, lightly built, medium-sized dog doesn’t make any sound. The Basenji yodels, mumbles, whimpers, chortles and can even screech like a siren. This intelligent and active dog is best for the dog-experienced family.
Bedlington Terrier Weighing 17 to 23 pounds, the Bedlington Terrier typically has a mild and gentle temperament, but he can also be full of energy. Some say that this medium-sized dog has a lamblike appearance. Check out the breed’s nice topknot at the crown of the head and long drop ears with hair that forms a tassel at the end.
Bichon Frise This breed was favored by the French nobility during the 1500s, but had become a common companion in France by 1800. Most note the dog’s powder puff appearance at first glance, but the Bichon Frise is a sturdy, playful dog known for a cheerful and affectionate temperament.
Bolognese The sweet, playful and affectionate Bolognese gets along with children and other animals. Sometimes this all-white dog has champagne coloring on his back or ears, and his long soft, almost cotton-like coat covers his entire body. The Bolognese needs daily brushing to keep the beautiful coat free of tangles.
Border Terrier One of England’s oldest terrier breeds, the Border Terrier does well with children and other dogs, but he views small animals as prey. This breed’s alert, active and affectionate nature makes him a favorite with active individuals or families. The small, sturdy Border Terrier weighs about 11.5 to 15.5 pounds.
Brussels Griffon This full-of-personality toy dog breed comes in two different coats: rough or smooth. The rough is dense and wiry and the smooth is short and straight. The Brussels Griffon’s intelligence and confidence can make him more challenging to train for inexperienced dog owners.
Cairn Terrier This friendly and lively terrier craves affection and gets along with other animals and children. A good family dog, the Cairn Terrier is a small dog, weighing in at about 13 to 14 pounds. Most people know this breed because one played the part of Toto in the Wizard of Oz.
Chinese Crested Along with being small, fine-boned, active and playful, the Chinese Crested comes in two distinctive varieties: the hairless and the powderpuff. The hairless has special skin care needs, such as protection from the sun. Socialize this dog breed and it will do well with children and other animals.
Coton de Tuléar This cheerful, playful small dog was named for Madagascar’s port city of Tuléar. The Coton de Tuléar has a beautiful, soft, cotton-like coat. He is more commonly seen in the white color variety, although there is also atricolor and a black and white variety. Dachshund (Smooth and Wirehaired and Lonhaired varieties) Called a sausage dog and a wiener, the Doxie will entertain you with its comical and self-important demeanor. Its low-slung body was bred to tunnel after badgers. The longhaired one needs lots of brushing and the wirehair, which occasionally needs to be hand-stripped.
Dachshund (Smooth and Wirehaired and Lonhaired varieties) Called a sausage dog and a wiener, the Doxie will entertain you with its comical and self-important demeanor. Its low-slung body was bred to tunnel after badgers. The longhaired one needs lots of brushing and the wirehair, which occasionally needs to be hand-stripped.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier This breed does well with just one owner or a family, in the city or the country.The Dandie Dinmont Terrier weighs in at 18 to 24 pounds and is known for being independent and intelligent, although reserved. He is affectionate with his family and has a moderate activity level.
Havanese First kept as a companion by the Cuban aristocracy, this breed became popular with the middle class and was brought to the United States with Cuban refugees after the 1959 revolution. Attentive, intelligent and trainable, the friendly Havanese makes a quiet and gentle pet.
Italian Greyhound The small, finely boned Italian Greyhound does well with an individual owner or a family with older children. His short, smooth coat comes in many colors, such as blue, fawn, seal, red and white.This affectionate breed likes attention.
Lhasa Apso Got an apartment? This breed does well in one with his low activity level and small but hardy build. Of course, the Llhasa Apso still needs daily walks, but random dog petters should ask before petting. The Llhasa Apso can be wary of strangers and children, although affectionate with his owner and friends.
Maltese Weighing in between 4 and 7 pounds, this small, white breed is quite fearless considering his size. He trusts his friends but can be wary of strangers. The affectionate and playful Maltese has a silky, flat coat hanging to either side of the body from a center part.
Manchester Terrier This breeds looks almost like a miniature Doberman Pinscher. Small and muscular with a smooth black glossy coat, the Manchester Terrier adapts to most living situations – city, suburb or country. A good family dog, but don’t trust this breed around small animal family members.
Miniature Poodle Almost identical to the Standard Poodle and the Toy Poodle except for size, the Miniature Poodle weighs in at 14 to 16 pounds. This intelligent breed is highly trainable and affectionate. It is known for its curly coat, which can be clipped or left to cord.
Miniature Schnauzer This small, sturdy and square dog resembles the Standard Schnauzer from which the breed was developed. The Miniature Schnauzer weighs around 14 to 18 pounds. Alertness, spirit, loyal and intelligent are just a few of the words used to describe this breed.
Scottish Terrier The popular “Scottie” dog’s official name is the Scottish Terrier. Originally from Scotland, it came to the United States in the late 19th century. Known for its long head, short legs and rectangular shape, this is a confident and brave dog. It may do better with older children and cats than younger children and dogs.
Sealyham Terrier This powerful yet small dog has a rectangular head and body shape. The Sealyham Terrier is best for terrier-experienced owners and can adapt to a home in the city, suburb or country.
Shih Tzu Known for a flowing, long and dense coat and long hair tied in a top knot on the head, the Shih Tzu is a trusting and friendly dog breed. His low activity level makes the Shih Tzu an ideal pet for an apartment – but he still needs those daily walks!
Silky Terrier The Australian Silky Terrier is a small and compact short legged terrier, 23 to 26 cm (9.1 to 10 in), alert and active. The long silky grey and white or blue and tan coat is an identifying feature, hanging straight and parted along the back, and described as “flat, fine and glossy”.
Toy PoodleThe Toy Poodle is remarkably intelligent. Highly responsive, they are said to be one of the most trainable breeds. Sweet, cheerful, perky and lively, they like to be with people. Delightful, very amusing and keen.
Welsh Terrier The Welsh Terrier has a typical terrier temperament. In the right hands, it is a happy, lively, and seldom shy or timid dog, but sometimes can have an attitude. The Welsh Terrier is generally friendly with people and dogs but when a challenge is perceived, he will not back down. Dogs of this breed can be devoted friends and can function either as city dogs or as country dogs.
West Highland White Terrier It is a hardy breed, and can be stubborn leading to issues with training. A Westie may need to have its training refreshed on occasion during its lifetime. Having a typical terrier prey drive, it tends to be highly interested in toys especially chasing balls. It does retain the instincts of an earth-dog, including inquisitive and investigative traits.
Wirehaired Fox Terrier Two of the wire fox terrier’s most distinctive traits are its energy and intelligence. It has a low threshold for boredom and requires stimulation, exercise and attention. The wire fox terrier is a companion animal that requires near-constant attention. Most of them enjoy swimming.
Xoloitzcuintli The Xolo is native to Mexico. Archaeological evidence shows that the breed has existed in Mexico for more than 3,000 years.
Yorkshire Terrier The typical fine, straight, and silky Yorkshire Terrier coat has also been listed by many popular dog information websites as being hypoallergenic. In comparison with many other breeds, Yorkies do not shed to the same degree, only losing small amounts when bathed or brushed.

Medium dog breeds that don’t shed:

Large dog breeds that don’t shed:

Tips for handling dog hair:

Even for low shedding dog breeds, hair control can be a maintenance issue. If you do fall head over heels with a dog that sheds, there are some things you can do to manage the situation.

Regular brushing is the key – the hair will end up in your brush rather than on the carpet, the couch and your clothes.
Vacuum your floors and furniture frequently, using a machine with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter.
Keep at least one room of the house dog-free. Your bedroom is a good choice but this may take training and will power if your pet has gotten used to sleeping with you!
Fit your home with a central air purifier that uses a HEPA filter and use it at least four hours a day to remove allergens.
Clean your dog’s dog bedding frequently.
Wash clothes you wear while interacting with your dog before putting them back in the closet or bureau drawer.
Limit the number of rugs, upholstered furniture, and drapes in your home. Opt for hardwood floors rather than wall-to-wall carpeting.
Bathe your dog regularly and brush or comb him daily, outdoors if possible.
Always wash your hands after touching your dog and avoid touching your eyes and face until you do.

Explore: Small Dog Breeds | Designer Dogs

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