Non-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs seem to be more popular than ever. With dog allergies so common, many pet lovers are seeking hypoallergenic dog breeds – sometimes paying thousands of dollars to get them. And still others are going hypoallergenic for the hair, or lack of it. Dog shedding is a big problem for many pet owners, but it’s another strike off the list for owners of hypoallergenic dog breeds.
While no dog is truly hypoallergenic as all dogs shed some allergens, there are some breeds that are known to be better for allergy-sufferers. And, these same dogs that don’t shed may just have you put away the lint roller for good.
1. Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan terriers are proof that hypoallergenic doesn’t mean no hair. They make our list because they shed minimally, but this bushy breed still requires a lot of grooming.
Fun Fact: These fluffy dogs were once the companions to Buddhist monks and the guard dogs of nomadic herdsmen.
2. Maltese Terrier
Maltese Terriers are known for their gorgeous white silky coats, but you won’t find them shedding on your furniture or clothes. These little dogs are sprightly, playful, and very loving.
Fun Fact: The Maltese Terrier is thought to be related to the Tibetan Terrier (above), but their exact origin is not known. They’ve been known as Roman Ladies’ Dogs and were suspected to be used to catch rodents in ancient and medieval cities.
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu dogs are both loyal and friendly, and they happen to be hypoallergenic, too. The Shih Tzu coat does not shed, with the hair only falling out when brushed or broken.
Fun Fact: The name Shih Tzu comes from the word for lion dog in Chinese. This old dog breed was bred to resemble lions as depicted in ancient Oriental art.
4. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon dogs are known for their watchdog abilities and their friendly disposition. But Brussels Griffons are also hypoallergenic dogs as they shed hardly any hair at all. While they tend to bond with one person more than others, Brussels Griffon dogs make excellent pets for families with children.
Fun Fact: The Brussels Griffon is a very expressive dog, which is why they are favoured in movies and TV. The most popular Brussels appearance was probably alongside Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt in As Good As It Gets.
5. Portugese Water Dog
The muscular Portuguese Water Dog is loyal and energetic. Their coat sheds very little and they are considered a hypoallergenic breed, but the Portuguese Water Dog still requires regular grooming.
Fun Fact: Portuguese Water Dogs are rare, but you might’ve heard of Bo, the First Dog. Bo was President Obama of the United States’ gift to his daughters when he became inaugurated.
6. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is happy and energetic breed. These intelligent dogs are known for their skills in agility, obedience, tracking, and even animal-therapy.
Fun Fact: Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers were bred first in Ireland as farm dogs. Called the “poor man’s wolfhound”, the Wheaten was used for herding, guarding livestock, and hunting vermin.
7. Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)
Poodles, coming in three different sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard), are one of the most popular dogs in the world. These intelligent and responsive dogs are also considered hypoallergenic.
