Hypoallergenic dogs are a game-changer for families dealing with allergies. These breeds produce fewer allergens, making them less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, these breeds are the next best thing for allergy sufferers who still want to enjoy the companionship of a furry friend.
For families with kids, choosing the right hypoallergenic breed is crucial. You need a dog that’s not only less likely to cause allergic reactions but also has the right temperament to get along with children.
This post you will see 20 hypoallergenic dog breeds that are great for families with children.
- Poodle
- Bichon Frise
- Welsh Terrier
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Affenpinscher
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Aussiedoodle
- Bolognese
- Maltese
- Goldendoodle
- Shih Tzu
- Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant)
- Coton de Tulear
- Bernedoodle
- Shorkie (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier mix)
- Afghan Hound
- Barbet
- Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)
- The End…
Poodle
Are They Great with Children?
Poodles are fantastic with kids. They’re smart, playful, and patient, making them ideal playmates for children of all ages. Their intelligence means they can quickly learn boundaries and gentle play, ensuring safe interactions with your little ones.
Energy Level
These dogs are pretty energetic. They need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or two, plus some playtime in the yard, should do the trick. This high energy level makes them great for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Lifespan
Poodles typically live between 12 to 15 years. This long lifespan means they can grow up alongside your children, becoming lifelong companions.
Maintenance
Poodles require regular grooming to keep their curly coats in good shape. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks. Their ears also need regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Bichon Frise
Are They Great with Children?
Bichon Frises are excellent with kids. They’re gentle, affectionate, and love to play. Their small size makes them less intimidating for younger children, and their patient nature means they can handle the sometimes rough play of kids.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a moderate energy level. They’re playful and enjoy short bursts of activity, but they’re also content to curl up on the couch for a cuddle. A couple of short walks a day and some playtime should keep them happy.
Lifespan
Bichon Frises typically live between 12 to 15 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their fluffy white coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Daily brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks are necessary. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergy sufferers, but their coat does require consistent care to keep it looking its best.
Welsh Terrier
Are They Great with Children?
Welsh Terriers are energetic and playful, making them great companions for active kids. They’re sturdy enough to handle rough play but also gentle when needed. Their friendly nature means they usually get along well with children of all ages.
Energy Level
These dogs have a high energy level. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are a must for this breed.
Lifespan
Welsh Terriers typically live between 12 to 15 years, providing your family with many years of joy and companionship.
Maintenance
Their wiry coat is relatively low-maintenance. Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping (or clipping if you prefer) are needed to keep their coat in good condition. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergy sufferers.
Portuguese Water Dog
Are They Great with Children?
Portuguese Water Dogs are excellent with kids. They’re playful, patient, and love to be part of family activities. Their gentle nature and high intelligence make them ideal companions for children of all ages.
Energy Level
These dogs have a high energy level. They need plenty of exercise, both on land and in water if possible. Daily walks, swimming sessions, and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Portuguese Water Dogs typically live between 10 to 14 years, providing your family with over a decade of loyal companionship.
Maintenance
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks. Their ears also need regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Are They Great with Children?
Lagotto Romagnolos are gentle and affectionate, making them great companions for kids. They’re patient and can handle the sometimes unpredictable behavior of children. Their playful nature means they’re always up for a game or cuddle session.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are important for this breed.
Lifespan
Lagotto Romagnolos typically live between 14 to 16 years, offering your family many years of companionship.
Maintenance
Their curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergy sufferers, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks.
Affenpinscher
Are They Great with Children?
Affenpinschers can be good with older, gentler children. They’re small and can be easily injured by rough play, so supervision is important with younger kids. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them great companions for responsible children.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy short bursts of activity but are also content to relax at home. Daily walks and playtime should be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Affenpinschers typically live between 12 to 15 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their wiry coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they do need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat in good condition.
Irish Water Spaniel
Are They Great with Children?
Irish Water Spaniels are excellent with kids. They’re playful, patient, and love to be part of family activities. Their gentle nature and high intelligence make them ideal companions for children of all ages.
Energy Level
These dogs have a high energy level. They need plenty of exercise, both on land and in water if possible. Daily walks, swimming sessions, and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Irish Water Spaniels typically live between 10 to 12 years, providing your family with over a decade of loyal companionship.
Maintenance
Their curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks. Their ears also need regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Aussiedoodle
Are They Great with Children?
Aussiedoodles are fantastic with kids. They’re energetic, playful, and patient, making them ideal playmates for children of all ages. Their intelligence means they can quickly learn boundaries and gentle play, ensuring safe interactions with your little ones.
Energy Level
These dogs have a high energy level. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are a must for this breed.
Lifespan
Aussiedoodles typically live between 10 to 14 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more, but generally requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks.
Bolognese
Are They Great with Children?
Bolognese dogs are gentle and affectionate, making them great companions for kids. They’re patient and can handle the sometimes unpredictable behavior of children. Their small size means they’re less intimidating for younger kids.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy short bursts of activity but are also content to relax at home. Daily walks and playtime should be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Bolognese dogs typically live between 12 to 14 years, offering your family many years of companionship.
Maintenance
Their fluffy white coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Daily brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks are necessary. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergy sufferers, but their coat does require consistent care to keep it looking its best.
Maltese
Are They Great with Children?
Maltese dogs can be good with gentle, older children. They’re small and delicate, so they can be easily injured by rough play. Supervision is important with younger kids. Their affectionate nature makes them great companions for responsible children.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy short bursts of activity but are also content to curl up on the couch for a cuddle. A couple of short walks a day and some playtime should keep them happy.
Lifespan
Maltese dogs typically live between 12 to 15 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they do need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat in good condition.
Goldendoodle
Are They Great with Children?
Goldendoodles are excellent with kids. They’re friendly, patient, and love to play, making them ideal companions for children of all ages. Their gentle nature and high intelligence mean they can quickly learn how to interact safely with kids.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are important for this breed.
Lifespan
Goldendoodles typically live between 10 to 15 years, providing your family with many years of loyal companionship.
Maintenance
Their coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more, but generally requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks.
Shih Tzu
Are They Great with Children?
Shih Tzus are generally good with kids, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. They’re playful and affectionate, but their small size means they can be easily injured by rough play. Supervision is important, especially with younger children.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a low to moderate energy level. They enjoy short walks and playtime but are also content to relax at home. They’re adaptable to different lifestyles, making them great for both active and more laid-back families.
Lifespan
Shih Tzus typically live between 10 to 16 years, offering your family many years of companionship.
Maintenance
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they do need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat in good condition. Regular eye and ear cleaning are also important for this breed.
Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, Giant)
Are They Great with Children?
Schnauzers, regardless of size, are generally great with kids. They’re playful, patient, and protective, making them excellent family dogs. The size you choose might depend on the age of your children – Giant Schnauzers might be too big for very young kids, while Miniature Schnauzers could be perfect.
Energy Level
Energy levels can vary depending on the size:
- Miniature Schnauzers: Moderate energy
- Standard Schnauzers: Moderate to high energy
- Giant Schnauzers: High energy
All sizes need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
Lifespan
Lifespan varies by size:
- Miniature Schnauzers: 12-15 years
- Standard Schnauzers: 13-16 years
- Giant Schnauzers: 10-12 years
Maintenance
Their wiry coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies. Regular ear cleaning is also important for this breed.
Coton de Tulear
Are They Great with Children?
Coton de Tulears are excellent with kids. They’re gentle, playful, and patient, making them ideal companions for children of all ages. Their small size and friendly nature mean they’re rarely intimidating to kids.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy daily walks and playtime but are also content to relax at home. They’re adaptable to different lifestyles, making them great for both active and more laid-back families.
Lifespan
Coton de Tulears typically live between 14 to 16 years, offering your family many years of companionship.
Maintenance
Their long, cotton-like coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they do need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat in good condition.
Bernedoodle
Are They Great with Children?
Bernedoodles are fantastic with kids. They’re gentle giants, patient and loving, making them ideal playmates for children of all ages. Their intelligence means they can quickly learn boundaries and gentle play, ensuring safe interactions with your little ones.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level, depending on which parent they take after more. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are important for this breed.
Lifespan
Bernedoodles typically live between 12 to 18 years, providing your family with many years of loyal companionship.
Maintenance
Their coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more, but generally requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks.
Shorkie (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier mix)
Are They Great with Children?
Shorkies can be good with gentle, older children. They’re small and delicate, so they can be easily injured by rough play. Supervision is important with younger kids. Their affectionate nature makes them great companions for responsible children.
Energy Level
These little dogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy short bursts of activity but are also content to relax at home. Daily walks and playtime should be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Shorkies typically live between 11 to 16 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their coat can vary but generally requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they do need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat in good condition.
Afghan Hound
Are They Great with Children?
Afghan Hounds can be good with older, gentler children. They’re generally aloof and independent, which might not suit very young kids who want constant interaction. However, they can form strong bonds with family members and be gentle companions.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise, including daily walks and opportunities to run in a safely enclosed area. They also enjoy activities that challenge their minds.
Lifespan
Afghan Hounds typically live between 12 to 14 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
Their long, silky coat requires extensive grooming. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent matting, and they need regular baths and professional grooming. While they don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, their coat care is time-consuming.
Barbet
Are They Great with Children?
Barbets are excellent with kids. They’re gentle, patient, and love to play, making them ideal companions for children of all ages. Their friendly nature means they usually get along well with everyone in the family.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise, including daily walks and opportunities to swim if possible. Mental stimulation through training and play is also important for this intelligent breed.
Lifespan
Barbets typically live between 12 to 14 years, offering your family many years of companionship.
Maintenance
Their curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but you’ll need to brush them several times a week and get them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks. Their ears also need regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)
Are They Great with Children?
Peruvian Inca Orchids can be good with gentle, older children. They’re affectionate with their family but can be wary of strangers. Their lack of fur means they’re more susceptible to injury, so supervision is important with younger kids.
Energy Level
These dogs have a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise, including daily walks and playtime. They also enjoy activities that challenge their minds.
Lifespan
Peruvian Inca Orchids typically live between 12 to 14 years, providing your family with over a decade of companionship.
Maintenance
As a hairless breed, they require minimal grooming but need regular skin care. They need protection from the sun and cold temperatures. Regular baths with a gentle shampoo are necessary to keep their skin healthy.
The End…
Hypoallergenic dogs offer a fantastic opportunity for families dealing with allergies to enjoy the companionship of a furry friend. From the playful Poodle to the gentle Coton de Tulear, there’s a breed to suit every family’s needs and lifestyle.
Even though these breeds are less likely to trigger allergies, individual dogs can vary. It’s always best to spend time with a dog before bringing it into your home to ensure it’s a good fit for your family’s specific needs and allergies.
