Top Hypo-Allergic Dog Breeds

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 10 percent of Americans are allergic to animals. The Mayo Clinic states that the hair of dogs is not the real culprit. The problem is caused by a protein that is released through the dog's saliva and urine. This protein sticks to the dried skin flakes of the dog, and is released into the air when it moves about. There are no totally allergy-free dogs, but some breeds are known to cause less allergic reactions in people.

  1. Poodle

    • Poodles come in three sizes--standard, miniature and toy--and several colors, including white, black, apricot, gray and brown. Most poodles love kids and have boundless energy for play. They are eager to please and to be the center of attention. Poodles are non-shedding dogs but require regular grooming to keep the tangles from their wiry coats.

    Maltese

    • A very small dog that is fearless and playful, the Maltese is a great dog for kids. They require frequent grooming to keep their long white coats free of mats.

    Bichon Frise

    • Naturally curious and easy to train, this fluff ball has a soft, non-shedding coat. The bichon loves children and loves to play. They come in white and shades of cream. The breed requires a lot of exercise, and vigilant grooming to keep the hair free of mats.

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • The "Yorkie" is playful, energetic, fearless and always ready for adventure. This tiny dynamo usually likes kids, although they are best with older children. They see themselves as larger than they are and may challenge bigger dogs. Yorkies are extremely loyal and affectionate, always preferring to be with their masters. The breed's silky brown and black coat produces little dander but needs regular grooming because it tends to tangle.

    Schnauzer

    • The schnauzer comes in three sizes--miniature, standard and giant. The miniature is the most popular, according to the American Kennel Club. The schnauzer loves children and does not shed. This is a very active and intelligent dog and can be an excellent watchdog.

    Chinese Crested

    • Chinese cresteds are small dogs, available in two varieties. One is totally hairless except for long hair on the feet, head and tail. The second variety, called a "powder puff," has long silky hair over its entire body. Neither dog sheds much, so they are considered hypoallergenic. These dogs are rather delicate, so they are not the best choice for smaller children. They need to be kept out of the sun because they sunburn easily. Sunscreen can be applied to their bodies when outside.

    Irish Water Spaniel

    • Short, human-like hair covers the bodies of these medium-sized dogs. They are active dogs that love swimming. The water spaniel is eager to please and requires regular grooming.

    Bedlington Terrier

    • The Bedlington is a smaller terrier dog that loves to run. The breed adapts well to apartment living if walked regularly. Their coat is shorter in length.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

    • The Wheaten is a larger, active breed that requires a lot of exercise. They love children and can fit into many lifestyles, whether it involves the city or countryside. Regular grooming is required.

    Portuguese Water Dog

    • The Portuguese water dog leaped to instant popularity when President Obama got one for his daughters, one of whom is an allergy sufferer. This dog is lively and needs lots of exercise and attention. This is an excellent dog for kids. The Portuguese water dog is medium-sized and comes in brown, white, black and multi-color. The hair is either loosely or tightly curled and the dog does not shed.