Popular "hypoallergenic" dog breeds, and why no dog is truly allergy-free

For many people who love dogs, allergies make it hard to decide whether they can own one. Low-shedding breeds, often called "hypoallergenic", are popular with people in this situation.

Some people with allergies find they react less to low-shedding breeds, but research hasn't shown that any breed is reliably allergy-friendly. Reactions vary from person to person and dog to dog.

No dog is 100% hypoallergenic

There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. A dog's skin and saliva can trigger allergies in people who are sensitive, whatever its coat. If you have serious allergies, talk to your GP before you start looking for a dog.

Even if you don't have allergies yourself, think about anyone in your household who does. Regular bathing and brushing may help reduce symptoms for some people.

10 low-shedding breeds often suggested

Low-shedding dogs come in many shapes and sizes, from small companions to active dogs for long walks.

1. Maltese

The Maltese is a lively small dog that can suit town living. It has no undercoat, so it sheds very little. Its white coat needs regular grooming to keep it clean and free of mats, and it is prone to tear staining, so the eyes need cleaning regularly.

2. Bichon Frise

Don't be fooled by the fluffy, marshmallow-like coat. Bichons shed very little and are cheerful small dogs. Their coat needs regular grooming.

3. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu's coat can be kept short in a "puppy cut" or grown long. A long coat needs frequent brushing. They shed very little. As a flat-faced breed, the Shih Tzu can have breathing problems, so choose a puppy from health-tested parents with open nostrils. They are also sensitive to heat, so keep them cool on warm days.

4. Poodle

Poodles are low-shedding and come in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. Their coat keeps growing, so they need regular clipping. Poodles are versatile dogs: they were used as retrievers, and they do well in many dog sports.

5. Bedlington Terrier

At first glance, the Bedlington looks rather like a lamb. They shed very little but need weekly grooming, and regular professional trims, to keep their thick coat in good condition. They are loyal to their owners, and were originally bred for hunting.

6. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested comes in two types: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. The Hairless has hair only on its head, tail and feet. The Powderpuff has a full coat of soft hair. Their grooming needs are different. The Hairless needs its skin protected from the sun and cold, so ask your vet what to use, while the Powderpuff needs regular brushing.

7. Schnauzer

Schnauzers shed only a little and make great companions. They love attention and are devoted to their owners. They can be strong-willed and do best with consistent, reward-based training. Schnauzers come in three sizes: miniature, standard and giant.

8. Kerry Blue Terrier

This breed sheds very little but needs regular clipping, or its coat will grow too long. Kerry Blues are born black, and their coat fades to blue as they mature. They can make loving companions, but they are not usually recommended for first-time owners.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier has no undercoat and sheds very little. A Yorkie's hair keeps growing until it is cut, so many owners choose a short trim to keep grooming manageable. Yorkies are intelligent and active, and they need to be kept busy, as they can become bored.

10. Portuguese Water Dog

Often compared to the Poodle, the Portuguese Water Dog has a curly, low-shedding coat that needs regular grooming to stop it matting. It is a sturdier working dog, very active and usually closely bonded to its owners. It needs plenty to do, or it may become bored and destructive.

Before you commit

If you have allergies, spend time with the breed, and ideally the individual dog, more than once before you commit, and talk to your GP. No breed is guaranteed not to cause a reaction.