Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for People with Allergies

All you need to know about hypoallergenic dogs and which one is best

You are absolutely dying to add to your family and be the proud owner of a dog, but there’s one problem - you can’t stop coughing and sneezing and suffering with hay fever-like symptoms.

Did you know that not all dogs will cause you to react in this way? In fact, some hypoallergenic dogs in Australia are known to cause fewer allergy symptoms. Dogs that don’t shed much are often referred to as hypoallergenic or low allergy dogs. These are the breeds that are going to save you the hassle of grabbing for the tissue box every time they’re around you.

So that dream of adding a furry friend to your family is not a distant wish!

Whilst hypoallergenic dogs are better suited to help your allergies, note that no dogs are 100% allergy-free dogs. The best way to know if a dog is truly allergy-friendly for you is to simply spend some time with them.

You’ll know if you’re allergic to your/a pup if you are suffering with any of the following:

Sneezing or runny/stuffy nose
Facial pain from nasal congestion
Shortness of breath or chest tightness
Wheezing
Watery, red or itchy eyes
Skin rashes or hives

You can manage these symptoms as you would with hay fever by using antihistamines or nasal sprays. You could also consider getting an allergy shot.

In case you didn’t know, it’s not the length of their coat or amount of hair that a dog has that may cause you to experience difficulty in being around them – the problem lies with their dander.

Dander is dead skin that comes from a dog, much like human dandruff. Dogs that don’t shed as much are less likely to spread dander around your home, making them better choices as non-shedding, low-allergy dogs.

It is important that you stay on top of grooming whichever hypoallergenic pup you go for. Nutritional help such as skin and coat supplements can ensure your pick of the pack keeps their coat shiny.

We’ve made it easy for you and put together a collection of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds that are less likely to affect your allergies. Typically, small to medium-sized breeds make great hypoallergenic dogs!

Basenji's are great hypoallergenic dogs

BASENJI

These stubborn but playful creatures make wonderful pets. Basenji’s are popular non shedding dogs – being self groomers; their overall grooming needs are low. You’ll fall in love with their yodel rather than a bark too!

BEDLINGTON TERRIER

These sheep-like pups are affectionate little souls. They love to be in a family and around children. Their woolly and tight curls ensure that dander keeps trapped in until groomed and brushed out. They need regular attention with this though as their coats can become matted if not given some love! Our Omega 3 supplement is a quick and easy way to keep their coats shiny.

west highland terriers make fantastic hypoallergenic dogs

WEST HIGHLAND TERRIER

Active, friendly and a family dog are just a couple of words that spring to mind with these little beauties. Westies make fantastic hypoallergenic dogs if you’re looking to expand your family, with next to no shedding. Their grooming demands are slightly higher than the average though to keep that coat soft and shiny!

BICHON FRISE

Don’t be fooled by that ball of fluffiness! The Bichon Frise is a small, low-allergy dog with a famous wool-like coat but shedding is practically non existent. This popular dog will bring your life extra cuteness and a heap of personality to go with it!

HAVANESE

This low-shedding, low-dander breed doesn’t drool – a win all around! Be careful though, as Havanese need regular brushing and grooming. Their fast-growing fur can tangle easily if not looked after.

IRISH WATER SPANIEL

Do you love the 90’s perm look that these doggo’s rock? Us too! That naturally curly fur retains dander and ensures that it doesn’t spread across your house. These big bundles of fun need to be brushed two to three times a week to keep their coats healthy. They love to swim and be outside and will make you laugh with their clown-like qualities!

POODLE

One of Australia’s favourite hypoallergenic dogs – and it’s no wonder why! Poodles have a great temperament and a build that makes them a very popular breed to have. The curly fur of Poodles holds onto dead hairs, which makes them one of the most allergy-friendly dogs.

SCHNAUZER

You have three sizes to choose from with Schnauzers – pick your size wisely as they are a clingy breed! They are the owners of a wiry top coat with their undercoat catching any loose hairs. Schnauzers are easy to train with their high intelligence and loyalty, making them a popular low-allergy dog choice.

SHIH TZU

Whilst Shih Tzu’s do carry a rather full body of hair, it does in fact resemble human hair rather than your typical doggie fur coat. They do shed, like us, but in minimal amounts – making them a popular choice among those seeking non-shedding dogs in Australia.

yorkie's are cute dogs that everyone loves

YORKSHIRE TERRIER

Yorkies are also the proud owners of a furless body and instead carry a body of hair – very much human like. The hair that they do shed often falls back into their coat as they lack an undercoat. These cute little bundles of joy make ideal hypoallergenic pets that will surely melt your heart!

Don’t forget, if you need any extra advice or would like to add to our list of allergy friendly dogs then just get in touch via our contact form.

You’ll find us on Facebook (Petz Park) where we can answer all of your questions.