Best “hypoallergenic” dog breeds (and what that really means)

How we ranked them

A breed makes this list if our profile flags it as lower-allergen or gives it the lowest shedding rating (1). Breeds are then ordered by shedding, least first, with a lower grooming need breaking ties. Ratings come from our breed profiles and describe the typical dog, and every dog is an individual. Being on the list does not mean a breed is safe for people with allergies.

See how we research and rate breeds.

Before you choose

Start with a medical opinion. An allergist can test what you react to and talk through options such as medication or allergy shots (immunotherapy). Then spend real time with the specific dog you are considering, ideally more than once, because reactions differ from dog to dog.

At home, a few habits help: keep the dog out of the bedroom, choose hard floors over carpet where you can, vacuum often with a HEPA filter and wash bedding regularly. If you can, have someone else do the grooming, and brush outdoors.

Be cautious with mixed breeds sold as hypoallergenic, because a crossbreed's coat is hard to predict and the label is often marketing. A low-shedding coat can also mean heavy grooming, so compare our low-maintenance dogs and try the breed selector to balance both.