Good Hypoallergenic Dogs for a New Dog Owner

Dogs have long been considered man's best friend, making a loyal and loving addition to most any household. However, allergies can often get in the way of owning a dog for some families. This is due to reactions to proteins found in pet dander, urine or saliva. Luckily, not all dogs supply the same level of dander, with some dogs making a better choice for those suffering from allergies. These dogs are often referred to as "hypoallergenic," though there really is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, suggests MayoClinic.com. However, there are dog breeds that are more tolerable for those struggling with allergies.

  1. Poodle

    • Poodles provide hypoallergenic companionship in three different sizes, making poodles a popular choice for those with allergies. Poodles come as toy, miniature or standard sizes, allowing both those who like small or large dogs to be satisfied with the breed. Poodles are considered "non-shedding." This means that besides shedding their coat very little, they need to be groomed, typically by a groomer, every four to six weeks to keep their coat looking right and healthy.

    Bichon Frise

    • Bichon frise is another common dog choice for allergy sufferers. The bichon frise is a French breed that rarely gets above 12 pounds in weight, and typically ranges more around 6 pounds. This makes the breed desirable for those looking for more of a lap dog. Keep in mind that this breed is extremely intelligent, but not always cooperative, so it needs a family that is actively engaging the dog to keep it from getting bored. The bichon frise also requires a significant amount of maintenance in grooming, and can be prone to skin conditions if the dog's coat is not maintained.

    Yorkshire and Airedale Terriers

    • Both Yorkshire and Airedale terriers produce less dander than many other types of dogs. Yorkshire terriers are a toy breed, making them appropriate for those looking for more of a lap dog, but at the same time can be fragile, so may not be appropriate for those with younger children. Airedale terriers are the exact opposite at 35 to 75 pounds full grown for regular Airedale terriers, and 60 to 100 pounds for the larger Oorang Airedales. While loyal and loving, Airedale terriers are extremely intelligent, and require regular mental and physical stimulation to keep them out of trouble.

    Shih Tzu

    • The Shih Tzu is also considered a hypoallergenic dog. This small toy breed bonds well to its owners and stays a manageable size at about 9 to 16 pounds. The coat of a shih tzu needs regular maintenance to prevent soiling, but the coat sheds very little if kept up. Shih Tzus are definitive indoor dogs, as they can easily overheat on days when outdoor temperatures climb during the summer.