Roughly 30 percent of people in the United States are allergic to dogs, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. While it’s easy to blame runny noses, itchy eyes, and sneezing fits on dog hair, it’s actually the stuff dog hair collects that causes allergic reactions. Think: dander (dead skin cells), urine, saliva and pollen. As dogs shed their hair, these items linger in and around the home. This is why non-shedding and hypoallergenic dog breeds are popular with folks who are allergic to canines but love them too much to stay away. Plus, The New York Times reported several studies found children living in homes with pets have fewer allergies in general as adults. Just some food for thought.
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28 Non-Shedding Dogs (Because You’re Allergic but Desperate for a Pet)
Non-shedding vs. Hypoallergenic
The label “non-shedding” is a tad misleading. All dogs shed a little bit. Non-shedding breeds simply shed less. This doesn’t mean you won’t find any dog hair in your home, but anyone who doesn’t want to vacuum constantly or find dog hair literally everywhere should consider a non-shedding breed. Of course, less hair also means less dander.
Hypoallergenic means the breed’s fur doesn’t collect as many allergens. So, if and when the dog does shed, fewer particles of dander or saliva are dispersed into the air. Sadly, there is no magic dog breed that is 100-percent hypoallergenic.
Interestingly enough, since pet dander is composed of proteins specific to a particular pup (in the urine, saliva, and skin), VCA Ark Animal Hospital says it is possible that a person’s immune system can handle one animal but not another. This means two distinct poodles could cause different reactions in a single person.
Breeds
Breeds that fall into the non-shedding and hypoallergenic categories cause fewer reactions in people known to be allergic to dogs. Many of these breeds have long hair, wiry hair or almost no hair. Always remember that each person and each dog is different; you may have to meet a few before you find “the one.” Until then, start here!
1. Xoloitzcuintli
Hypoallergenic
The American Kennel Club lets us know this breed is pronounced “show-low-eats-QUEEN-tlee.” There are three different sizes to choose from: toy, miniature and standard. Xolos have been around for almost 3,000 years, and the hairless varieties have no hair at all, just skin. Unlike some of the other hairless breeds on our list, the Xolo’s skin is tough and tight-fitting.
2. Chinese Crested
Hypoallergenic
Yes, these tiny creatures look like something out of Star Wars, but they are super affectionate and can live up to 18 years old (hello, lifelong companion!). Hairless Chinese Ccested pups are accented with small puffs of hair on their heads, tails, and feet, but are covered in sleek skin everywhere else. All owners of hairless dogs should be prepared with dog-friendly sunscreen in the summer and warm puppy jackets in the winter.
4. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Hypoallergenic
Another hairless pup, the Peruvian Inca orchid comes in gorgeous shades like golden-brown, pinky-white, and spotted. Like the Chinese crested, these unique dogs have small tufts of hair on their heads, almost like miniature mohawks.
7. Kerry Blue Terrier
Non-shedding
Looking for a stunning slate blue coat that won’t leave a trail everywhere it goes? Say hello to the kerry blue terrier. These pups do require routine haircuts and regular brushing (you don’t want that gorgeous blue-grey fur to end up in knots), but wreak minimal havoc in the shedding department.
10. Border Terrier
Hypoallergenic
Notice a trend here? Terriers are known to have wiry coats which make them ideal hypoallergenic and low shedding choices. The border terrier is double-coated, meaning wiry hair on top, soft fur underneath. Get ready for lots of brushing come summer, but minimal allergens year-round.
25. Lagotto Romagnolo
Non-shedding
These water-loving dogs were originally used in Renaissance Italy to find truffles. Their waterproof coats rarely shed, but do require weekly brushings to make sure they don’t mat or snarl. The Lagotto Romagnolo’s full-body curls are actually more like human hair than doggy fur.
26. Puli
Non-shedding
Bred as herding dogs, Pulis developed a thick, corded coat to protect them from brutally cold winters outdoors. Today, their coats can be clipped short, brushed out or corded. Though they hardly shed at all, keeping a Puli’s coat corded does require interacting with their fur often or spending lots of time at the groomer’s. The Puli Club of America offers tons of info on grooming this gorgeous canine.
27. Bergamasco
Non-shedding
Astonishingly, the Bergamasco does not shed, despite its lengthy, wooly coat. Like Pulis, a matted coat is normal. Unlike Pulis, clipping or shaving Bergamascos down isn’t wise. Their coat helps them regulate body temperature. Folks allergic to wool may want to steer clear, though.
28. Lhasa Apso
Non-shedding
Even though these pups don’t shed frequently, they require regular baths and brushings to ensure a healthy coat and skin (even if you decide to clip their fur short). Lhasa Apsos have old souls and though they learn quickly, they can be stubborn and unfriendly with strangers.