Choosing the right dog breed to add into your family can already be a tricky task – but when you add a dog allergy into the mix, the decision becomes even harder. To help, we asked our resident vet some of your burning questions: do hypoallergenic dogs actually exist? What are the best dogs for people with allergies? And what advice would you give to a wannabe pet parent looking for allergy friendly dogs?

Do hypoallergenic dogs actually exist?

No – there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, non allergic dogs, or 100% allergy friendly dogs. Hypoallergenic dog breeds tend to be sought after by humans with a dog hair allergy. However – contrary to popular belief – it’s not always dog fur that causes human dog allergies. Dog saliva, dander (dead skin), and dog urine can cause allergic reactions in people, too. This means that no dog can be truly hypoallergenic – no matter how much they do or don’t shed, there are other factors that can make them incompatible with potential pet parents. On the flip side, your dog could be the one suffering with an allergy – and our vet Q&A about dog allergies is here to help.

What are the best dogs for people with allergies?

Although not truly hypoallergenic, there are some breeds that may be better suited to someone with dog allergies. Here are some low shedding dogs to consider:

• Bichon Frises
• All types of Poodles, including Poodle crosses (like Labradoodles, Cockapoos and Cavapoos)
• Miniature Schnauzers, Standard Schnauzers, and Giant Schnauzers
• Irish Water Spaniels
• Portuguese Water Dogs
• Malteses
• Bedlington Terriers

A word of vet advice to wannabe pet parents with dog allergies

• Try before you buy – borrow a friend or neighbour’s dog for a weekend to test if that breed triggers your allergies.
• Get allergy tested to check that it is indeed a dog allergy and measure how severe it is. There are options that can help mild dog allergies.
• If you welcome an allergy friendly dog into your home, you should note down their grooming needs. Dogs who don't shed need to have regular visits to a professional dog groomer to trim their growing hair. It's a good idea to make this a routine when they're puppies so that it doesn't become a stressful event later in life.

Our articles are not a replacement for face-to-face vet advice. It’s important to consult with your vet on a regular basis to raise any pet concerns that you may have.