What Dogs are Best for People With Allergies?

Several dog breeds have long been popular companions of owners who suffer from allergies. While no dog is non-allergenic, some have been considered hypoallergenic based on their single hair coat and their lack of hair that needs to shed. Since allergy sufferers can be allergic to a dog's skin dander and saliva, it is essential to keep any dog clean and well groomed to help keep allergens at a minimum.

  1. Poodle

    • Poodles of all three size catagories have long been a favorite pet for allergy sufferers.

      Poodles are bred in three different sizes. They are highly trainable and pleasant but active companion pets with their origins in water retrievers. Toy poodles are the smallest of the sizes, miniature poodles are of medium size and the standard poodle is the tallest of the three. All three sizes feature curly or wavy coats that do not shed. Poodles come in a variety of colors and must be groomed monthly in order to maintain a manageable coat length. An elaborate clip is not essential. Pet poodles are most often clipped into a puppy cut for easy maintenance.

    Irish Water Spaniel

    • The Irish water spaniel has a liver-colored, dense curly coat and is often confused with the standard poodle. This is a large breed dog that does not shed, but will need to be clipped monthly to maintain manageable coat length. The tail of this breed is often referred to as a rat tail in that the further down the tail you go, the shorter the hair gets. This dog was bred in Ireland to retrieve water fowl and while easily trainable, will need to be provided with ample opportunity for exercise and activity.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

    • The soft coated wheaten terrier, as its name implies, has a soft silky coat. The coat is wavy in texture that comes in several shades of blond called wheaten. These dogs need frequent brushing to keep the coat free of mats and a monthly grooming to maintain the coat length. A medium-sized dog, the breed is trainable and should exhibit an even temperament. It is not as tenacious of some other terrier breeds.

    Maltese

    • The Maltese is a small, hypoallergenic breed.

      One of the smallest of the hypoallergenic breeds, the silky white coated Maltese is a small dog appropriate for owners who live in small spaces. The naturally growing straight coat is often seen parted down the middle of the back and flowing freely to the floor. Most pet Maltese are kept with a shorter-length coat through monthly grooming. This is a happy, curious and active small companion breed.