No-Shed Dogs for Children

Allergies to dogs affect between 15 and 30 percent of people with allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergies occur as a reaction of the immune system to dog dander. Allergies may be inherited, which means that if you are allergic to pets, your children may be allergic as well. Opting for a non-shedding dog breed may reduce your allergic reaction to pets. The term hypoallergenic or non-shedding refers to dogs that shed less hair or dander, because there are no dog breeds that do not shed at all.

  1. Hypoallergenic Breeds

    • The list of hypoallergenic dogs includes a number of breeds of various sizes that shed less dander and are candidates for owners with allergies. The list includes: Bedlington terrier, bichon frise, Chinese crested, Irish water spaniel, kerry blue terrier, Maltese, Mexican hairless, all sizes of poodle, Portuguese water dog, all sizes of schnauzer and soft coated wheaten terrier. However, you need to choose a breed that is recommended for children, since certain breeds that are hard to train or toy breeds may not be suitable for families with children, especially toddlers. It is also important to test if your children are allergic to the dog you consider adopting. Allergy sufferers may be allergic to all or only certain dog breeds. Also, a particular dog may cause allergies in your children, even if it is of a hypoallergenic breed. The amount of dander shed may depend in part on the health and diet of each pet.

    Bedlington Terrier

    • The Bedlington terrier is suitable for families with children, and they don't shed excessively. They are adaptable and loving pets. The Bedlington terrier likes to be around people and play. Even if the dog is good with children, the children should be taught how to handle the dog and to avoid teasing it or pulling its tail or coat.

    Poodle

    • Poodles of all sizes do well with children, because they are highly intelligent, cheerful and willing to please. If you have babies or toddlers, opt for the standard or giant variety of poodle, so that the dog is safe. Poodles like to play and can be easily trained.

    Irish Water Spaniel

    • Irish water spaniels have been bred as hunting dogs, but they also do well as companion dogs. Irish water spaniels are quick learners, so training should not be a problem. They may be stubborn while they are puppies, so you may want to get an adult dog for your family.

    Schnauzer

    • Schnauzers of all sizes are considered hypoallergenic, and all sizes are good with children. They are gentle and easily trained. Schnauzers are active and may be noisy. A giant schnauzer is not recommended if you have small children, because the dog can unintentionally harm a toddler.

    Portuguese Water Dog

    • The Portuguese water dog is extremely intelligent and easy to train, which makes this breed ideal for children. The dog is loving and loyal and requires a lot of exercise, so if your children are full of energy, they can expend it with a Portuguese water dog.