7 Cute Dogs That Won’t Shed All Over Your House

There is nothing worse than discovering you may be allergic to dogs – especially when you’re looking into adopting one. However, those allergies shouldn’t hold you back from finding the perfect companion because there are a variety of hypoallergenic dogs (and cats) that won’t make you sneeze constantly or break out in hives.

A hypoallergenic dog, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), is a dog that has a predictable, non-shedding coat which produces less dander. It is that dander that causes the annoying, itchy eyes and runny nose. But just like some people are more sensitive to dog dander than others, there are some dogs that produce less of it than others.

And no, shaving your dog will not make them hypoallergenic, so don’t even think about it!

So, if you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t shed too much and will keep those allergies at bay, scroll through this list of hypoallergenic dog breeds to see which one would be perfect for you.

Havanese

Any Havanese owner will tell you that these dogs are pretty perfect pets.

Not only are they hypoallergenic and low-shedding – Vetstreet.com gives them a 1 out of 5 on the shed-scale – but they are also incredibly friendly, affectionate, and smart, making them ideal for people who have kids or who like to entertain.

Chinese Crested

This dog breed kind of looks like a cross between a dog, a pony, and a mythical creature – and that’s a beautiful thing. Chinese Crested’s are renowned lap dogs, so they’re most happy when cuddling with the family.

You can choose between two varieties, the hairless and the Powderpuff, and Vetstreet.com dubs them both hypoallergenic (though those who need a true no-shed breed should opt for a hairless Crested).

Schnauzer

Schnauzers were originally bred to work on German farms, and are now known as amazing companion dogs.

Playful, protective, and easy to groom, they’re energetic family dogs through and through. And while Dogtime.com rates them a 5/5 for wanderlust, they score an ideal 1/5 for shedding.

Maltese Shih Tzu

If you’re looking for a pup that just wants to love on you all day, look no further than a Maltese Shih Tzu. A hybrid of the two breeds, these pups are bred solely to be companion dogs for people with allergies, are obedient, outgoing, and always affectionate.

Dogtime.com rates them a 1/5 for shedding, and recommends them as a great option for first-time pet owners.

Border Terrier

These floppy-eared little fellas aren’t just cute, they’re also super easy to care for. A low-maintenance dog that doesn’t require a lot of bathing or training, border terriers were bred to be less aggressive than their predecessors.

While they don’t shed a ton, Hillspet.com makes it clear that their coats will need to be hand-stripped twice a year at the groomer’s.

Bichon Frise

In the market for a dog-slash-teddy bear? These toy-like creatures are always white in color and have big, beautiful black eyes and noses.

Because they’re a double-coated breed, Bichon Frise’s don’t shed, and Dogtime.com highly recommends them for people with allergies.

They do suffer from separation anxiety though, so if you’re not home a lot this breed may not be the right pet for you.

Brussels Griffon

A former Belgian street dog, the Brussels Griffon is as quirky as he is cute. With an expressive, adorable visage that’s often compared to a human face, these dogs are known for their intelligence, sense of humor, and self-importance.

Dogtime.com notes that neither smooth nor rough-coated varieties shed much, but stripping their coat makes them even friendlier to people with allergies.