Have allergies been keeping you from adopting your own dog? You don't need to get a dog that sheds excessively or has fur that carries in pollen or other allergens. You also don't have to get a hairless dog. No dog is completely hypoallergenic, but there are some breeds that are more friendly to owners with allergies. To further protect yourself, you should groom your pet regularly and maybe don't let them in your bed. Here are a few breed options for allergy-prone dog lovers.
1. Bichon Frise
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This adorable fluffy white lap dog will not ignite your allergies. The Bichon Frise's undercoat is soft and dense with a coarse and curly outer coat. These dogs do not typically shed, though some grooming is required to remove dead hair and dander. But the coarse outer coat will keep most allergens and dander in place and out of the air until bath time.
2. Cairn Terrier
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This playful dog has a unique wiry coat which sheds minimally and doesn't require much maintenance. Just a weekly brush along with stripping once a year will keep your Cairn Terrier happy. These small dogs are perfect for the busy city life because they can easily adjust to any environment — as long as they have sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to reel in those terrier traits.
3. Shih Tzu
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This regal breed makes for the perfect indoor and purse dog. The Shih Tzu's double coat of hair-like fur will trap hairs in the second layer instead of shedding them on carpet or furniture. However, this breed requires a little more maintenance. These dogs should be brushed every few days and their long hair makes the job a little more difficult. You can style your dog's hair to be shorter and much more manageable if you prefer.
4. Bernedoodle
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This mix of a Bernese and a Poodle is a playful breed with minimal to no shedding coats. Because the Bernedoodle a mixed breed, there are plenty of variations in the coat. Pups with a wavy or curly coat are the least likely to shed or release allergens from their fur into the air. If you're allergic to dog saliva though, you'll likely be allergic to this breed. These dogs are great for first-time owners, love cold weather and are very friendly.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
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This breed graced national headlines when the Obamas brought Bo into the White House. The Portuguese Water Dog has a single-layered coat that does not shed, making it a great companion for allergy-prone humans. These dogs are very active and make for great companions on land or in the water. If you have a busy work schedule or plan to leave your dog alone for long periods of time, this isn't the breed for you.
6. Italian Greyhound
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The smaller cousin of the traditional Greyhound has a very thin layer of hair. While they do shed a little, they are still easy to clean up after. Their thin coats make them ill-suited for cold environments though. Italian Greyhounds don't need a large yard, but are very lively and loyal. This breed could work well in a city environment in warmer climates.
