10 Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds
In the world of canine companionship, finding a hypoallergenic small dog breed can be a game-changer for allergy sufferers. Not only do these breeds possess charming personalities, but they also tend to produce fewer allergens, making them suitable for people prone to allergies. Let’s explore the top 10 hypoallergenic small dog breeds that stand out globally, in America, focusing on those that don’t bark excessively, and delve into their healthiest food options.
10 Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds in the World
Everyone has their favorite dog breeds, but there are quite a few pros to adopting a small dog. If you live in a smaller apartment or have one or more young kids running around the house, then a smaller dog may be the right choice for you and your family. Here are ten hypoallergenic small dog breeds that are popular around the world due to their allergy-friendly qualities:
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is an easily recognizable breed that has a feathery tail and feet. For those who have a hard time with pet hair, these hairless dogs make great housemates. Chinese Cresteds are renowned lap dogs, so they’re most happy when cuddling with the family.
Portuguese Water Dog
This is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. It is energetic and lively. It sheds very little. This is why it has become famous all over the world. Portuguese water dogs go to the head of their class in obedience training, quickly learning commands and tasks, making them exceptionally well-behaved family pets.
Bolognese
The Bolognese is an intelligent and serious breed that can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. While they shed very little, their long, cotton-like fur does need regular brushing to prevent tangles or mats. Calm and easy-going, this is a good breed for people in apartments.
Brussels Griffon
This wiry-haired breed is affectionate, loving, and comforting, but also playful and energetic. This adaptable pup is a good choice for both a house in the suburbs or a small apartment in the city. The Brussels griffon is loyal and known to forge strong bonds with his humans.
Kerry Blue Terrier
These elegant-looking dogs don’t shed. The Kerry Blue Terriers get their name from the color of their coat, which comes in rich shades of blue and gray. Since they don’t shed, owners need to brush their fur at least once a week to avoid matting.
West Highland White Terrier
Westies are distinguished by their white, low-shedding coats. They have a playful, optimistic attitude, so they quickly bond with their humans. Their coats are a bit thicker than similar breeds, so you can expect a little extra shedding when seasons change. The Westie stands about 11 inches tall and weighs between 15 and 20 pounds.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is another gorgeous hypoallergenic small breed, that deserves our attention. These small dogs with prominent looks have played different roles in modern culture. The breed representatives are known for their assertive, independent, but also very affectionate and playful temperament.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is loyal, curious, and confident, and the breed is playfully referred to as “monkey dogs” and “ape terriers,” according to the AKC. These dogs are very small (usually less than 10 pounds) and do fine in a small apartment as long as they are taken for a walk every day. They do make good watchdogs since they are alert and will bark at anything unusual.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier has a small, compact body and a distinctive topknot of curly hair on its head. These small dogs are naturally affectionate and are a good choice for owners who want essentially constant companionship. Bedlington Terriers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise but are also known for being gentle and good-natured.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin, an elegant and affectionate breed originating from Asia, is known for its distinct appearance, grace, and devoted nature. Often referred to as a “Japanese Spaniel,” this small-sized dog has a rich history and makes for a charming companion. They shed minimally and are considered a hypoallergenic breed.
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10 Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds in America
These breeds have gained popularity in America due to their hypoallergenic qualities, making them compatible with individuals who have allergies or sensitivities to pet dander. Here are ten hypoallergenic small dog breeds that are quite popular in America due to their allergy-friendly traits:
Silky Terrier
Australian Silky Terriers are one of the top hypoallergenic small dogs that people love. They are also very playful and energetic, making them great companions for children. While their coats are long, they’re pretty easy to care for, requiring only a couple of brushings a week.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Schnauzer is a top hypoallergenic small dog that doesn’t shed. They are spirited, strong-willed, and very loyal to their family. This breed does well with other animals and children, making them a great choice for families.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is an adorable, curly dog known for a playfully curious demeanor and an energetic personality to match. It is a breed that stands between 9.5 and 11.5 inches tall and weighs between 12 and 18 pounds. Bichon Frise is French and translates to “curly lap dog.”
Maltese
The snow-white, long, silky coat doesn’t shed, but it needs professional grooming and daily brushing with a pin brush or comb to prevent tangles and breakage. Some Maltese owners prefer a low-maintenance “puppy cut.”
Shih Tzu
One look and you’ll understand why the breed once won over royalty with their regal looks and charming, friendly personas. These dogs can live nearly 20 years old and make excellent companions for any sized household. But they do exceptionally well with children and other pets.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are partially hairless, which means you have to take care to keep them out of too much sun. They weigh up to 12 pounds and love to snuggle in their owner’s laps. You can choose between two varieties, the hairless and the Powderpuff, and Vetstreet dubs them both hypoallergenic.
Portuguese Water Dog
Their playful and laid-back personalities make great additions to any household, even if yours is less than presidential. They even adapt well to apartment living for those in small spaces, but will still need regular walks to keep them fit.
Yorkshire Terrier
Their fine hair has a texture that’s similar to humans’ manes, so it’s less likely to make you sneeze. But groom-averse dog fans, beware: Yorkies do require regular brushing and maintenance to keep their hair tangle-free and silky soft.
Coton de Tulear
In addition to professional grooming, the low-shedding coat needs daily brushing with a coat conditioning spray to keep it tangle-free and protect it from breakage. Or if you prefer, keep your Coton in a shorter pet clip, which requires less maintenance.
Havanese
This pocket-size pup — the breed weighs 10 to 15 pounds — loves children. They are relatively easy to train and want to spend as much time with humans as possible. That noted, they don’t do well when left alone for extended periods of time.
10 Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Bark
While these breeds are often less inclined to bark excessively compared to some other breeds, individual behavior can vary. Training, socialization, and the dog’s environment play significant roles in shaping their behavior, so it’s essential to consider these factors when choosing a quieter dog breed. Here’s a list of hypoallergenic small dog breeds that are generally quieter and less prone to excessive barking:
- Basenji: These pups are all the rage among allergic owners, given that their short and fine coat rarely sheds. Basenjis are touted as amazing adventure dogs too. They can also be stubborn, though, so you’ll need to train them well.
- Bichon Frise: These cheerful dogs are typically not known for excessive barking. They’re friendly and sociable without being overly vocal. Their small size also makes them a fun fit for cozy living spaces.
- Chinese Crested: Both the hairless and Powderpuff varieties of Chinese Crested dogs are known for being relatively quiet and are unlikely to bark excessively. The breed stands between 11 and 13 inches and weighs up to 12 pounds.
- Coton de Tulear: As the name implies, these dogs have white coats that are as soft as cotton. They have happy, loyal attitudes, so they’re likely to follow their favorite human everywhere they go.
- Havanese: These small, playful dogs have a silky coat that doesn’t shed excessively, making them suitable for allergy-prone individuals. Any Havanese owner will tell you that these dogs are pretty perfect pets.
- Japanese Chin: Japanese Chins are known for their affectionate, gentle, and loving nature. Their loving and gentle nature, combined with their hypoallergenic coat, makes them a suitable choice for families or individuals seeking a devoted and elegant companion.
- Shih Tzu: Get to know a good groomer, and start early to teach your pup to love regular brushing. They are affectionate, and friendly but can be a bit independent which can make the process of housebreaking them a bit challenging.
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier originally hails from Ireland, but this affectionate and faithful breed can be happy living pretty much anywhere. These merry and extroverted dogs are recognized by their wheat coloring and their soft, silky coats.
- Whippet: The Whippet, a sleek and athletic breed, is known for its grace, speed, and affectionate nature. Often referred to as “the poor man’s racehorse,” this medium-sized sighthound is a beloved companion that excels in both athleticism and affection.
- Xoloitzcuintli: These dogs are best known for their hairless coats, which makes them a great choice if you or your family members have allergies. Also known as the Mexican hairless dog, this breed’s name comes from the Aztec words for the god of lightning and dog.
10 Healthiest Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds
While these breeds are considered healthier and more suitable for allergy sufferers due to their hypoallergenic nature, individual dogs may still have specific health concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are crucial for ensuring their well-being. Here’s a list of ten hypoallergenic small dog breeds known for their robust health and allergy-friendly characteristics:
- Bichon Frise: These cheerful dogs are not just hypoallergenic but also generally healthy, with a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. They’re playful and adaptable to various environments.
- Poodle: Highly intelligent and versatile, Poodles come in different sizes and are generally healthy, living up to 15 years or more. They require regular grooming but are less prone to health issues.
- Shih Tzu: With an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years, Shih Tzu is affectionate and relatively healthy. They may require specific attention to their eyes and teeth.
- Maltese: These dogs have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years and are generally healthy. They require proper dental care and grooming due to their long, silky coat.
- Schnauzer: Miniature Schnauzers have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years and are relatively healthy, although they may be prone to certain genetic conditions like pancreatitis or urinary stones.
- Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie): Typically living around 11 to 15 years, Yorkies are generally healthy but might be prone to dental issues and luxating patellas.
- Coton de Tulear: This breed has a lifespan of about 14 to 16 years and is generally healthy, although they might be susceptible to hip dysplasia and certain eye problems.
- Havanese: Known for their longevity, Havanese dogs can live up to 14 to 16 years and are generally healthy, though they might experience patellar luxation or heart conditions.
- Portuguese Water Dog: These dogs generally live around 10 to 14 years and are known for being robust and healthy, though they might face issues like hip dysplasia or eye problems.
- Chinese Crested: With a lifespan of around 10 to 14 years, Chinese Cresteds are relatively healthy but might be prone to dental issues and patellar luxation.
Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds Food
When it comes to feeding hypoallergenic small dog breeds, providing a balanced and appropriate diet is crucial for their health. Gradual transitions between foods can help prevent digestive issues when introducing new diets to your dog. Here are some dietary considerations and food options for these breeds:
- Limited Ingredient Diets: Many hypoallergenic dog foods focus on limited ingredients to minimize potential allergens. Look for formulas with a single protein source and limited grains or fillers.
- Grain-Free Formulas: Some dogs may be sensitive to grains, so grain-free options can be beneficial. However, recent studies have suggested that grain-free diets might not be necessary for all dogs, so consult with a vet before making this choice.
- Natural and Organic Dog Food: Foods made with high-quality, natural ingredients and without artificial additives can support your dog’s health. Organic options might reduce the exposure to potential pesticides or chemicals.
- High-Protein, Low-Grain Diets: Many hypoallergenic dog foods focus on high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. Combine this with fewer grains to provide a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion:
Choosing a hypoallergenic small dog breed involves considering various factors, from allergies to lifestyle preferences. These top 10 breeds offer a wonderful spectrum of choices for individuals seeking loyal, loving companions without the worry of allergic reactions. Remember, while these breeds are considered hypoallergenic, individual reactions may still vary, so spending time with a dog before committing is always a good idea.