For many dog lovers, allergies can feel like a barrier to having a furry best friend. Sneezing, watery eyes, and skin irritation are common reactions caused by proteins in a dog’s saliva, urine, and skin flakes (dander). These allergens can cling to fur, bedding, and even furniture.
Here’s the reality: no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic. However, some breeds produce fewer allergens, shed less hair, and are far more manageable for allergy sufferers. And when these breeds also stay small, they’re perfect for people living in apartments or with limited space.
In this expert-level guide, we’ll explore 16 small hypoallergenic dog breeds that offer the joy of dog ownership with reduced allergy risks. You’ll learn each breed’s size, temperament, lifespan, grooming needs, and suitability for allergy-sensitive households.
How We Chose These Breeds
Before we dive into the list, here’s the criteria we used to ensure these are elite hypoallergenic small dogs:
- Weight Limit – Under ~22 pounds (adult weight).
- Low-Shedding Coat – Curly, wavy, or wiry fur that traps dander and reduces shedding.
- Allergy-Friendly Traits – Lower allergen protein production and coat types that minimize spread.
- Temperament – Family-friendly, adaptable, and trainable.
- Grooming Needs – Manageable coat care, with tips for reducing allergens.
- Health & Lifespan – Preference for breeds with longer life expectancy for lasting companionship.
1. Toy Poodle
- Size: 6–9 lbs
- Lifespan: 14–17 years
- Coat: Dense, curly, and non-shedding
- Temperament: Intelligent, playful, and affectionate
The Toy Poodle is one of the most popular hypoallergenic breeds thanks to its low-shedding coat that traps dander. Their intelligence makes training a joy, and they excel in obedience. Daily brushing keeps tangles at bay, while professional grooming every 4–6 weeks maintains their coat.
Pro tip: Bathing regularly (every 3–4 weeks) with hypoallergenic shampoo can further reduce allergens.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
- Size: 11–20 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Wiry outer coat, soft undercoat
- Temperament: Spirited, loyal, and alert
Miniature Schnauzers have a wiry coat that sheds very little, making them a favorite for allergy sufferers. They are friendly watchdogs with a big personality in a small frame. Hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks will keep them looking sharp.
3. Bichon Frisé
- Size: 7–12 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Soft, curly, cloud-like fur
- Temperament: Cheerful, adaptable, and gentle
The Bichon Frisé’s plush coat doesn’t shed much, and regular grooming ensures it stays allergen-friendly. Their happy-go-lucky personality makes them perfect family companions. They require daily brushing to prevent mats and monthly trims for coat health.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
- Size: 4–7 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Coat: Silky, human-like hair
- Temperament: Confident, affectionate, and curious
Yorkies have hair, not fur, which makes them less likely to trigger allergies. They’re adventurous and loving lap dogs. Keeping their coat short in a “puppy cut” can reduce grooming time and allergen buildup.
5. Maltese
- Size: 4–7 lbs
- Lifespan: 14–18 years
- Coat: Long, straight, silky hair
- Temperament: Sweet-natured, playful, and affectionate
With a pure white coat, the Maltese is an elegant yet playful breed. They produce minimal allergens and adapt well to apartment living. Regular brushing prevents tangles, and trimming can make maintenance easier.
6. Shih Tzu
- Size: 9–16 lbs
- Lifespan: 10–16 years
- Coat: Long, flowing double coat
- Temperament: Loyal, friendly, and affectionate
Shih Tzus have hair-like fur that sheds very little. They’re affectionate lap dogs that thrive in small spaces. Grooming every 4–6 weeks and daily brushing keeps their coat beautiful and allergen-low.
7. Havanese
- Size: 7–13 lbs
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Coat: Silky, wavy, low-shedding
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and adaptable
The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese, has a luxurious coat that’s easy on allergy sufferers. They’re intelligent and social, making them great for families or singles. Their coat can be kept long or clipped short.
8. Chinese Crested
- Size: 8–12 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Coat: Hairless or soft “powderpuff” variety
- Temperament: Affectionate, lively, and gentle
The Hairless Chinese Crested has very little hair, making it ideal for minimizing allergens. The Powderpuff has a long, silky coat that also sheds minimally. Skin care is important for the hairless type to prevent dryness or sunburn.
9. Coton de Tulear
- Size: 8–15 lbs
- Lifespan: 14–16 years
- Coat: Soft, cotton-like texture
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and devoted
The Coton de Tulear’s soft, fluffy coat is low-shedding and easy on allergies. These dogs bond closely with their families and love companionship. They require weekly grooming to keep their coat tangle-free.
10. Löwchen
- Size: 9–18 lbs
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Coat: Long, flowing, and low-shedding
- Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, and playful
Also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” the Löwchen is rare but perfect for allergy-conscious owners. Their coat can be styled in the traditional lion trim or kept simple for easier care.
11. Scottish Terrier
- Size: 18–22 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Wiry, weather-resistant
- Temperament: Independent, loyal, and courageous
Scotties have a double coat with a wiry outer layer that traps dander. They’re sturdy, confident little dogs that enjoy both companionship and independence. Hand-stripping maintains coat texture and reduces allergens.
12. West Highland White Terrier
- Size: 13–20 lbs
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Coat: Straight, hard outer coat with soft undercoat
- Temperament: Friendly, alert, and spirited
- “Westies” have a bright white coat that doesn’t shed much. Their playful yet dignified personality makes them a delight in any home. Regular grooming keeps their coat healthy and reduces allergens.
13. Brussels Griffon
- Size: 8–12 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Rough or smooth, low-shedding
- Temperament: Alert, affectionate, and expressive
Known for their “human-like” expressions, Brussels Griffons are charming companions. Their rough coat variety is especially allergy-friendly with minimal shedding.
14. Cairn Terrier
- Size: 13–18 lbs
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Coat: Harsh outer coat, soft undercoat
- Temperament: Energetic, curious, and affectionate
Famous as Toto from The Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier’s coat is weather-resistant and sheds little. They are active, playful dogs that love adventure.
15. Silky Terrier
- Size: 8–10 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Fine, silky hair similar to a Yorkshire Terrier
- Temperament: Spirited, loyal, and intelligent
Silky Terriers combine beauty with brains. Their coat requires regular grooming, but they shed very little, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.
16. Affenpinscher
- Size: 7–10 lbs
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Coat: Dense, wiry, and shaggy
- Temperament: Confident, amusing, and loyal
Known as the “monkey terrier” for their expressive face, Affenpinschers have a wiry coat that holds onto dander, reducing airborne allergens.
Grooming Tips to Minimize Allergens
Even hypoallergenic breeds can cause reactions if grooming is neglected. To keep allergens low:
- Brush daily to remove trapped dander.
- Bathe every 3–4 weeks using hypoallergenic shampoo.
- Use a HEPA air purifier in your home.
- Wash dog bedding weekly in hot water.
- Vacuum regularly with a pet-hair-specific vacuum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there a truly hypoallergenic dog?
No. All dogs produce some allergens, but the breeds above are better choices for allergy sufferers.
Q: Which hypoallergenic dog is easiest to groom?
The Chinese Crested (hairless variety) and Yorkshire Terrier in a short cut require the least daily grooming.
Q: Can allergies go away over time with exposure?
Some people adjust to their dog’s allergens, but others may experience worsening symptoms. Always spend time with the breed before deciding.
Conclusion
Living with allergies doesn’t mean living without a dog. The 16 small hypoallergenic breeds above combine low-shedding coats, reduced allergen production, and affectionate personalities perfect for small homes and big hearts. With proper grooming and home care, they can bring years of sneeze-free joy.
