You wouldn’t disown a family member over allergies, but many families forgo their puppy parenting dreams to keep the family allergy free. Not all dog breeds trigger watery eyes and sneezes, however: Some shed less, have less dander or don’t have any fur at all! We found the top 10 best — and cutest — dog breeds for a family with an allergy problem.
Bichon frisé
Don’t let the puffy coat fool you. These little marshmallows are jolly, easy to train and don’t shed. As long as you brush their curly tresses, they won’t shower dander and dust. This breed is great for a family wanting a small, cheerful dog as an easygoing companion.
Schnauzer
These shed-less pups are great for the owner who loves to be the centre of attention or the kid who loves playing “Follow the Leader.” The schnauzer loves his owners so much that he won’t let them out of his sight, so expect to have a buddy by your side at all times. He does need a firm hand, though, to balance his stubborn, energetic and protective temper. Schnauzers come in three sizes: standard, giant and miniature.
Yorkshire terrier
Don’t have a big yard? Then a Yorkie is perfect for you! They are content playing and cuddling with you indoors. This pup doesn’t shed or have a lot of dander. She does require heavy grooming, however, so keep the brush in hand when she paws at your lap.
Bedlington terrier
Although at first glance he looks more like a lamb than a dog, the Bedlington terrier could be the perfect canine addition to a laid-back family. These dogs do not shed and are very mild-mannered.
Shih Tzu
Despite those long, silky locks, this breed sheds very lightly. Although they need a lot of grooming, they are affectionate, kind and easygoing. But be wary: Shih Tzus tend to become jealous of babies and toddlers, so protect your other little loved ones from their insecurity.
Poodle
Like the schnauzer, the poodle comes in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy. They do not shed, but they do require a lot of grooming and care. They’re easy to train but can get a little yappy.
Poodles too prissy for your liking? Try a Labradoodle. They have the hypoallergenic coat of a poodle but on a Labrador’s body.
Italian greyhound
Perfecto! This little Italian has a thin coat, so he barely sheds, and it’s easy to keep him clean of allergens. The breed is very playful and loyal and does not need a big yard. They’re extremely sensitive to cold, though, so this isn’t a good breed for a family living in a chilly climate.
Basenji
No, not Benji from the movies — even better. These pups don’t shed or bark, have very little dander, and they’re darling, so they’re a great choice. They do sometimes make an odd yodelling noise, and they can be hard to train (like most hounds), but this stubborn demeanour comes packed with a lot of lovable personality.
Chinese crested
The most efficient way to avoid dog-induced allergies is to get a dog without any or with very little hair. You can’t go wrong with the Chinese crested; they barely shed at all. They do produce dander and can be a little clingy, but they’re very good with children.
Samoyed
The Samoyed is a sneezing owner’s dream come true. This breed does shed, but you’ll find no doggie odour or dander, making these dogs the perfect option for people with allergies. They’re known for being laid-back, gentle and “smiley,” so they’re great around kids.
Originally published on SheKnows.com
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