Dogs With Non-Allergenic Hair

Although no fully non-allergenic dog breed exists, certain breeds shed less than others, earning them the classification as hypoallergenic dogs. Less shedding among these dog breeds causes the dog to produce less dander, the dead skin follicles that enter human airways and cause distress to allergy sufferers. To reduce the occurrence of allergy problems, the American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests hypoallergenic dog breeds with predictable and consistent coats and shedding times.

  1. Terrier Breeds

    • Allergy sufferers have reduced allergic reactions to certain breeds of terriers. The American Kennel Club suggests that terrier varieties such as Bedlington terriers, kerry blue terriers, schnauzers and soft coated wheaten terriers produce less dander than many other dogs. Bedlington terriers stand approximately 16 inches tall, dependent upon sex, and have a gentle and energetic nature that makes them suited for families with children. Reaching an average height of approximately 19 inches, kerry blue terriers were bred as hunters, making them better fits for single-pet families. Schnauzers, comfortable in urban and rural dwellings and trainable for shows, reach average heights between 12 and 14 inches. The soft coated wheaten terrier reaches between 17 and 19 inches in height and can easily adapt to families living in city, country or suburban dwellings, with or without children.

    Additional Hypoallergenic Breeds

    • In addition to terriers, the AKC suggests dog breeds such as Maltese, poodles, bichon frise, Chinese crested, Irish water spaniels and Xoloitzcuintli. Weighing in at a maximum of 7 lbs., the Maltese dog breed has a gentle and playful personality making the breed compatible with children. Small, medium and large poodle breeds offer less dander and can adapt to any living arrangement, though daily exercise is required to satisfy the breed's active personality. The playful bichon frise breed has soft, white fur that requires extensive grooming because it resists shedding. Eccentric Chinese crested dogs only have hair on their heads, tails and legs and stand between 11 and 13 inches tall. Bred as a sporting dog, the Irish water spaniel requires a bi-weekly brushing and bi-monthly grooming to keep its coat neat. Nicknamed "Xolo," the Xoloitzcuintli breed is a calm breed suited for moderately active families.

    Hybrid Breeds

    • Hybrid species of the above dog breeds are also believed to inherit the trait of low dander production from their mixed-breed parents. Additional breeds believed to shed less or very little to reduce allergy aggravation include goldendoodles, labradoodles and other designer breeds often mixed with poodles. Unfortunately, the hybrid breeding of these dogs does not guarantee a predictable coat that produces less dander. For this reason, it may be best to test your allergic reaction to the dog before purchase.

    Considerations

    • Whether you decide on a hypoallergenic or non-hypoallergenic dog breed, proper care of your dog can help prevent allergic reactions. To best reduce allergy problems, keep dogs outdoors or deny indoor dogs access to the allergy sufferer's bed. Regular bathing and prevention of fleas and ticks can also reduce allergy reactions by preventing your dog from scratching and releasing dander in the air. You can also reduce pet dander build up in your home by installing air purification systems and removing heavy drapes, carpeting and upholstery that trap dander.