Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: What to Know
Looking for a dog that sheds less? The breeds below include low-shedding and hairless dogs, but no dog is completely allergen-free. Dog allergies are caused by proteins found in dander, saliva, and urine—not simply by fur. Even hairless breeds produce these allergens, and low shedding does not guarantee fewer allergic reactions.
Allergy responses vary from person to person and dog to dog. Before choosing a breed, spend time with individual dogs and speak with an allergist if you have significant allergies. Regular grooming and household cleaning can help manage loose hair and accumulated allergens.
Browse Low-Shedding and Hairless Breeds by Popularity
*Breeds are presented in order of popularity by default, so that you may see how popular (available) that breed may be. Less popular (or rare) breeds may be more difficult to find, or there may be a significant wait time for your puppy to be born.
Size Range: The lower end of each height/weight range represents typical female measurements, while the higher end reflects male averages.
Miniature Poodle
Height: 10-15"
Weight: 10-15 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #6
Coat & Shedding: Curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming
Best For: Active individuals and families who enjoy training; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Standard Poodle
Height: Over 15"
Weight: 40-70 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #6
Coat & Shedding: Curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming
Best For: Active families seeking a versatile, athletic companion.
Learn More
Toy Poodle
Height: <10
Weight: 4-6 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #6
Coat & Shedding: Curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming
Best For: Engaged owners who enjoy training a lively companion; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Yorkshire Terrier
Height: 7-8"
Weight: 4-7 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 5/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #13
Coat & Shedding: Human-like hair sheds very little
Best For: Owners who appreciate a spirited, confident terrier; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Miniature Schnauzer
Height: 12-14"
Weight: 11-20 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #17
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little when properly maintained
Best For: Active families wanting an alert watchdog and playful companion; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Shih Tzu
Height: 9-11"
Weight: 9-16 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #21
Coat & Shedding: Hair-like coat with minimal shedding
Best For: Companion-focused households; suitable for apartment living, needs short daily walks and regular grooming
Learn More
Havanese
Height: 8.5-11.5"
Weight: 7-13 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #25
Coat & Shedding: Long, silky coat sheds relatively little but needs regular brushing
Best For: Sociable families and owners seeking an interactive companion; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Maltese
Height: 7-9"
Weight: 4-7 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #37
Coat & Shedding: Silky hair sheds minimally
Best For: Attentive owners wanting an affectionate, lively companion; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Portuguese Water Dog
Height: 17-23"
Weight: 35-60 lbs
Energy: 5/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #43
Coat & Shedding: Curly, low-shedding coat requires regular grooming
Best For: Active families who enjoy swimming, outdoor activities and consistent training
Learn More
West Highland White Terrier *
Height: 10-11"
Weight: 15-20 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #45
Coat & Shedding:Harsh, wiry outer coat with a soft undercoat. Sheds minimally.
Best For: Active owners who appreciate an independent, sturdy terrier; suitable for apartment, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Bichon Frise
Height: 9-12"
Weight: 12-18 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 5/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #49
Coat & Shedding: Hair-like coat sheds minimally
Best For: Playful families and companion-focused homes; suitable for apartment living with regular exercise
Learn More
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon *
Height: 20-24"
Weight: 35-70 lbs
Energy: 5/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #51
Coat & Shedding: Harsh, weather-resistant double coat sheds and benefits from regular brushing
Best For: Active outdoor families and sporting homes offering plenty of exercise and field activities
Learn More
Giant Schnauzer
Height: 24-28"
Weight: 55-95 lbs
Energy: 5/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #52
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little when properly maintained
Best For: Active, experienced owners seeking a loyal family guardian and watchdog
Learn More
Scottish Terrier
Height: 10"
Weight: 18-22 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #57
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little when properly maintained
Best For: Confident owners who appreciate a rugged, independent terrier; suited to country or town living
Learn More
Cairn Terrier *
Height: 9.5-10"
Weight: 13-14 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 2/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #68
Coat & Shedding: Harsh double coat can shed less with regular hand-stripping
Best For: Active families who enjoy outdoor adventures and a bold, inquisitive terrier
Learn More
Airedale Terrier *
Height: 22-24"
Weight: 40-65 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #70
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little when hand-stripped
Best For: Active, experienced owners wanting a versatile, energetic working terrier
Learn More
Chinese Crested
Height: 11-13"
Weight: 8-12 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5 (Hairless) / 4/5 (Powderpuff)
Shedding: 1/5 (Hairless) / 2/5 (Powderpuff)
AKC Popularity: #72
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Attentive households seeking a playful companion; suitable for apartment living, needs skin care
Learn More
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Height: 17-19"
Weight: 30-40 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #76
Coat & Shedding: Silky single coat sheds minimally
Best For: Active families who enjoy a lively, outgoing dog and regular outdoor exercise
Learn More
Lagotto Romagnolo
Height: 16-19"
Weight: 24-35 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 2/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #77
Coat & Shedding: Dense, curly coat sheds very little
Best For: Active owners who enjoy scent work, training and outdoor exploration
Learn More
Coton de Tulear
Height: 9-11"
Weight: 8-15 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #79
Coat & Shedding: Cotton-like coat sheds very little
Best For: Companion-focused families and seniors; suitable for apartment living, needs regular activity
Learn More
Border Terrier *
Height: 12-15"
Weight: 11.5-15.5 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 2/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #91
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat can shed relatively little when hand-stripped
Best For: Active owners who enjoy walking, exploring and the spirited nature of a working terrier
Learn More
Basenji *
Height: 16-17"
Weight: 22-24 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #92
Coat & Shedding: Short, fine coat is easy to maintain but sheds lightly
Best For: Experienced, patient owners who can manage an independent hunter and provide secure exercise
Learn More
Standard Schnauzer
Height: 17-20"
Weight: 30-50 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #93
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little when properly maintained
Best For: Active owners wanting a versatile, alert watchdog with regular training and exercise
Learn More
Wire Fox Terrier
Height: 15.5"
Weight: 15-18 lbs
Energy: 5/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #107
Coat & Shedding: Dense, wiry coat sheds little when maintained
Best For: Experienced terrier enthusiasts who enjoy energetic play, training and outdoor activity
Learn More
American Hairless Terrier
Height: 12-16"
Weight: 12-28 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 2/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #108
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Active families wanting a playful terrier; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise and also skin protection
Learn More
Norwich Terrier *
Height: 9-10"
Weight: 11-12 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #109
Coat & Shedding: Wiry double coat sheds and requires regular maintenance
Best For: Active owners seeking a bold little terrier; suitable for apartment living, needs daily activity
Learn More
Welsh Terrier
Height: 15"
Weight: 20 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #114
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds very little with proper grooming
Best For: Active, consistent owners who enjoy a confident terrier and outdoor adventures
Learn More
Silky Terrier
Height: 9-10"
Weight: 8-10 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 5/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #116
Coat & Shedding: Fine, silky coat sheds very little
Best For: Engaged owners seeking a spirited small terrier; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Afghan Hound *
Height: 25-27"
Weight: 50-60 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #117
Coat & Shedding: Long, fine coat needs frequent brushing to prevent tangles
Best For: Patient, experienced owners able to provide secure running space and extensive coat care
Learn More
Miniature Xoloitzcuintli
Height: 14-18"
Weight: 15-30 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #123
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Attentive households wanting a watchful companion; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Standard Xoloitzcuintli
Height: 18-23"
Weight: 30-55 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #123
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Experienced, attentive owners who can provide socialization, exercise and skin protection
Learn More
Toy Xoloitzcuintli
Height: 10-14"
Weight: 10-15 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #123
Best For: Attentive owners seeking a close companion; suitable for apartment living, needs skin protection
Learn More
Norfolk Terrier *
Height: 9-10"
Weight: 11-12 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #126
Coat & Shedding: Wiry double coat sheds and needs regular grooming
Best For: Active families who enjoy a sturdy, adventurous terrier; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Barbet
Height: 19-24.5"
Weight: 35-65 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 5/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #129
Coat & Shedding: Dense, curly coat sheds very little
Best For: Active families who enjoy water activities, training and outdoor recreation
Learn More
Bedlington Terrier
Height: 15-17.5"
Weight: 17-23 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #147
Coat & Shedding: Curly coat sheds very little and needs regular grooming
Best For: Families seeking an affectionate but athletic terrier with regular opportunities to run
Learn More
Affenpinscher *
Height: 9-11.5"
Weight: 7-10 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #153
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds relatively little with proper grooming
Best For: Experienced, attentive owners who enjoy a bold toy breed; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Kerry Blue Terrier
Height: 17-19"
Weight: 33-40 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #155
Coat & Shedding: Soft, wavy coat sheds minimally
Best For: Active, experienced owners who can provide consistent training and plenty of exercise
Learn More
Lakeland Terrier
Height: 14-15"
Weight: 15-17 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #157
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds very little when hand-stripped
Best For: Active, confident owners who appreciate an independent working terrier
Learn More
Löwchen
Height: 12-14"
Weight: 10-15 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 2/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #159
Coat & Shedding: Long, low-shedding coat needs regular grooming
Best For: Companion-focused families who enjoy play and training; suitable for apartment living
Learn More
Sealyham Terrier
Height: 10.5"
Weight: 20-24 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #163
Coat & Shedding: Wiry coat sheds very little with regular grooming
Best For: Owners who appreciate a sturdy, determined terrier; suitable for apartment living with daily walks
Learn More
Spanish Water Dog
Height: 16-20"
Weight: 30-50 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 4/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #167
Coat & Shedding: Curly coat can form cords and sheds relatively little
Best For: Experienced, active owners interested in herding, agility and structured training
Learn More
Irish Water Spaniel
Height: 21-24"
Weight: 45-65 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 1/5
AKC Popularity: #169
Coat & Shedding: Tightly curled coat sheds relatively little
Best For: Active families and sporting homes who enjoy swimming and outdoor adventures
Learn More
Dandie Dinmont Terrier *
Height: 8-11"
Weight: 18-24 lbs
Energy: 3/5
Grooming Needs: 3/5
Shedding: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #186
Coat & Shedding: Mixed hard and soft coat sheds relatively little when maintained
Best For: Families seeking a sturdy, affectionate terrier; suited to rural or town living
Learn More
Peruvian Inca Orchid
(Viringo) - Small
Height: 10-16"
Weight: 9-17 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
Popularity: Not yet ranked
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Attentive owners wanting a lively small companion; suitable for apartment living, needs daily exercise
Learn More
Peruvian Inca Orchid
(Viringo) - Medium
Height: 16-20"
Weight: 17-26 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
Popularity: Not yet ranked
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Active owners who enjoy an alert, athletic companion and can provide skin protection
Learn More
Peruvian Inca Orchid
(Viringo) - Large
Height: 20-26"
Weight: 26-55 lbs
Energy: 4/5
Grooming Needs: 1/5
Shedding: 1/5
Popularity: Not yet ranked
Coat & Shedding: Hairless variety needs skin care and protection from sun and cold
Best For: Active households able to provide secure outdoor exercise and consistent socialization
Learn More* Coat note: Asterisked breeds may shed more than others on this page or have less predictable low-shedding coats. Shedding and individual allergy reactions vary.