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12 hypoallergenic dog and cat breeds
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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If you love animals and have long wanted to get a four-legged friend, but because of allergies you can’t do it, there is still a way out. Allergy sufferers, dog or cat lovers, can get a hypoallergenic breed of animal. Of course, hypoallergenicity is not 100%, but there are breeds with the so-called “low allergy content”.
As a rule, the most hypoallergenic dogs and cats are those with very short hair or no hair at all. Some people are allergic not to hair, but to the animal's saliva, but breeds with "hypoallergenic saliva" do not exist in nature.
Bedlington Terrier
This breed of dog is distinguished by its attention to the owner. Compared to other terriers, they are very kind, smart and calm dogs.
Bichon Frise
Small, neat dogs. They have gained popularity due to their appearance. These snowballs are very suitable for those who suffer from allergies, because they do not shed and do not require daily grooming.
Chinese Crested
These dogs shed almost nothing, but still need careful grooming. Because the dogs are hairless, their skin is very sensitive to the sun's rays and can suffer from dryness.
Devon Rex
The breed of these lovely cats has fur similar to suede, it is very dense and thick. Allergies can occur, but manifest themselves in an individual form.
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Irish Water Spaniel
Representatives of this rare breed get along well with other animals, so they will become good friends for families who love different animals. The Irish Water Spaniel practically does not shed, so it does not require special care.
Kerry Blue Terrier
The dogs are covered with curly hair that sheds almost nothing, but will require frequent trimming.
Labradoodle
Representatives of this breed were artificially bred and combine the genes of a Labrador and a poodle. Allergy sufferers often pay attention to this breed, but dog breeders say that the breed bred by crossing may not have the hypoallergenic properties of a poodle.
Maltese
A miniature dog with beautiful long silky hair. This breed of dog is considered hypoallergenic and with proper care practically does not shed.
Poodle
These dogs shed very little. It is believed that the smaller the dog, the less allergens it sheds. However, this is not proven.
Portuguese Water Dog
One of President Obama's daughters has allergies, so a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo is a happy resident of the White House.
Sphinxes
Cats of this breed have no hair at all or only on their nose. Despite this, there are cases when their owners have had a strong allergic reaction. This is due to the fact that their skin and saliva contain allergens. In general, cat allergens are stronger than dog allergens.
Mexican Hairless Dog / Xoloitzcuintle
This breed, like the Sphynx, can cause allergic reactions, but not always.