How to pick a service dog - Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

You may think because of allergies that you will never be able to have a pet dog or a Service Dog, but that’s not always the case. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but there is a large amount of dog breeds that are suitable for people with allergies. Here are some things you should know when thinking about buying a hypoallergic dog! 

What is a Hypoallergenic Dog? 

Dogs secrete a protein in their saliva, urine, and skin that some people are sensitive to. All dogs will have this protein, but the hypoallergenic dogs are just less allergenic to people. Therefore, they don’t shed or shed very little, which makes it less likely for allergies to be triggered. Depending on the severity of your allergies, even some hypoallergenic breeds could cause an allergy attack. This is why it is important to do research about each breed before deciding on a breed. 

How to Choose the Right Hypoallergenic Dog for You

There are a few things you should take into consideration when deciding.  

There are breeds that shed a lot less than others, like Bichon Frise or Lhasa Apso. Mainly, smaller, short-haired dogs are going to shed a lot less and be the best hypoallergenic dog breeds. Always keep this in mind.  

You should try your best to get a pure breed dog. With mixed breeds, one breed could be less hypoallergenic than the other and could shed more, therefore you aren’t certain about what you will get. With a pure breed, you will know if this dog is going to shed a lot or not. Always do a lot of research about the specific breed you're thinking about.  

Aim for a calm dog breed, as dogs that bark a lot will secrete a lot of saliva into the air which contains the protein that can be sensitive to some people.  

Do you have a suitable living space for your dog to live in? Do you have the time to take care of a dog? Do you have the time to look after and train a dog, or a Service Dog? These are all things you must take into consideration.  

It is also recommended you discuss with your doctor which breed would be best for you, or if you should even get a dog.  

It can be a good idea to spend time with a dog that you considering buying before you take it home. If you can stay with this dog for longer than 30 minutes if being in contact, that’s a good sign that this dog could be for you! 

Again, every dog contains this protein, and every dog could cause an allergy for someone, but there is always a chance that you will find a hypoallergenic dog suitable for you and your allergies.  

How much do Hypoallergenic Dogs cost? 

The cost of your hypoallergenic dog will depend on the breed. Some can cost as little as $500, whereas others can be as expensive as $5000.  

You should always shop around before deciding, as some breeders will up their prices for no reason.  

What are the worst dog breeds for people with allergies? 

If your allergic to dogs, your allergic to their saliva or their dander, or even both. Some dogs drool or bark more than others, spreading more saliva.  

Dogs that drool a lot include: 

 • Bulldogs  

 • Saint Bernards 

 • Bloodhound  

 • Newfoundland  

 • Bull Mastiff 

 • Boxer 

 • Great Danes 

 • And many more.  

Dogs that shed a lot include: 

 • Shiba Inu 

 • Siberian Husky 

 • German Shepherds 

 • Chow Chow  

 • Corgi  

 • Labrador Retriever 

 • Bernese Mountain Dog 

 • Alaskan Husky 

 • Akita  

 • And many more.  

The dogs listed above may not be suitable for people with dog allergies.  

The best hypoallergenic dog breeds

1. Bichon Frise - these will make a great, friendly companion dog. They don’t shed unless it is stick in their undercoat. Therefore, they should be brushed and groomed regularly.

2. Basenji – these dogs are known as the ‘Bark-less Dogs’, which of course makes them great Hypoallergenic Dogs. They also have short hair, causing them to shed less.  

3. Bedlington Terrier - these dogs have a unique, curly coat that doesn’t shed. But it does grow fast, so it requires grooming regularly.  

4.  Affenpinscher - these adorable, toy-sized dogs have low-maintenance coats which don’t shed regularly.   

5. Chinese Crested - only some of these dogs have hair, and the coats they have don’t shed. Therefore, they of course make good hypoallergenic dogs.  

6. Labradoodle - these dogs' coats produce very little dander, making it a great hypoallergenic dog. They're also super cute!   

7. Irish Water Spaniel - these are some of the largest hypoallergenic dog breeds there is, which could be ideal for some people (People in need of a Service Dog for mobility assistance).   

8. Xoloitzcuintli - this dog breed may be hard to pronounce, but they can make great hypoallergenic dogs. They come in different sizes and can be hairless or coated. The hairless ones, of course, don’t shed and the coated ones shed very little. The hairless ones do require special skincare though.  

9. Poodles - these are excellent hypoallergenic dogs as they don’t shed much at all. They are a great size and great companion or Service Dog.  

What are the Best Hypoallergenic Service Dog Breeds? 

The most common hypoallergenic service dogs are Poodles! They are known as one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world! They will make especially great D.A.Ds (Diabetic Alert Dog) and for people that struggle with vision/hearing impairments. Same with Labradoodles. These are the most recommended service dogs for people with allergies!