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What Types of Dogs Are Good for Allergies?

by Jelena Woehr

Overview

Certain dog breeds are billed as "hypoallergenic"--or suitable for owners allergic to dogs. No dog is truly hypoallergenic. People with particularly severe dog allergies are likely to react, even to breeds considered suitable for allergy sufferers. In addition, individual dogs may cause different allergic reactions in humans even within the same breed.
Poodles

Poodles are frequently recommended for people with dog allergies. They don't shed because their curly coats trap dead hair rather than releasing it. As with all dogs, poodles do produce some amount of dander, meaning people with allergies will react even to poodles. Frequent professional grooming is required. Allergy sufferers for whom poodles don't cause an allergic reaction can choose between toy, miniature and standard sized poodles. All three sizes are highly intelligent and easy to train using positive reinforcement.

Portuguese Water Dogs

When United States President Barack Obama needed a puppy who wouldn't aggravate his older daughter's dog allergies, he chose a Portuguese Water Dog. The breed was previously uncommon in the United States, but is now in high demand thanks to Bo Obama's popularity. Portuguese Water Dogs are similar to standard poodles in that they have a curly, non-shedding coat and are easy to train. Porties are much stockier than poodles and are closer to their working origins, meaning they may be more energetic. They make excellent family dogs, but tend to bond most closely with one family member in particular.
Havanese

Havanese are small, non-shedding dogs with a bold, friendly demeanor that makes them well-suited for almost any household. The Havanese breed was rare until the late 20th century and nearly became completely extinct. These days, there are many Havanese breeders in the United States and throughout the world. These attractive little dogs were once popular as circus performers thanks to their intelligence and willingness to learn. If socialized well, they are friendly to children and other pets. Havanese need more exercise than some small breeds, but can live happily even in apartments if they are walked and trained daily.
Yorkshire Terriers

Yorkshire terriers, or, "Yorkies," are a toy-sized breed with a giant-sized personality. Their single coat is more like human hair than most dog fur. Shedding is minimal and the coat will continue to grow until it is trimmed, meaning professional grooming is a must. Don't let the cute appearance fool you. Yorkies are all terrier. Like most terriers, they are intelligent but prone to ignore commands, chase smaller animals, start fights with dogs several times their size, bark at strangers and more. There's never a dull moment with a terrier in the house. Yorkshire terriers are not suitable for households with young children because of the risk that a careless child could cause serious injury to a tiny dog. Yorkies do best with experienced dog owning adults or families with children over eight years old.
Shih Tzus

The Shih Tzu is a popular companion thanks to its friendly personality and unique appearance. Unfortunately, its popularity has made the breed prone to temperament and health problems due to over-breeding. A well-bred Shih Tzu should be affectionate, trainable and outgoing. They do tend to bark at strangers. Shih Tzus are suitable for most households as long as someone in the family is willing to take responsibility for the breed's extensive grooming needs. Eye cleaning, ear cleaning and coat trimming must be performed regularly. Shih Tzus should also have their teeth brushed every day. Their underbite makes them prone to dental disease, and, without proper care, their teeth may fall out at an early age.
Rare Breeds

Many rare and uncommon breeds are suitable for people with allergies. If none of the more common hypoallergenic breeds interests you, consider investigating one of the following rare breeds: Lagotto Romagnolo, Komondor, Puli, Coton de Tulear, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Xolocuintli, Bergamasco or the Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
Hybrids

Hybrids such as "Goldendoodles" and "Labradoodles" are often bred and sold by unscrupulous breeders who claim these dogs are hypoallergenic, don't shed and don't bark. None of the above can reliably be predicted during puppyhood. Some poodle hybrids will be low-allergen dogs. Others will not. If your heart is set on a hybrid dog, it's wise to adopt an adult dog whose behavior is already a known quantity. Make sure to spend time with the dog and rub your face in its coat to see if your allergies are aggravated by its presence.