Spring often brings a spike in environmental allergies — and for people who are also sensitive to pet dander, it can feel like a double whammy. If you’re dreaming of dog companionship but hesitant because of allergies, you’re not alone. The idea of a “hypoallergenic dog” is appealing — but does it hold up? And can you actually adopt one from a shelter?
Are Hypoallergenic Dogs Real?
Let’s clear up the myth:
There’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce allergens to some degree, whether it’s in their saliva, urine, and dander (those tiny skin flakes that shed into the air and onto surfaces).
That said, some breeds are considered lower-allergen or more manageable for allergy sufferers. These dogs typically:
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Shed less
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Produce less dander
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Have coats that trap dander rather than releasing it
These are the breeds people commonly refer to as “hypoallergenic.”
Common Breeds Often Labeled as Hypoallergenic
While reactions can vary by person, these breeds are frequently recommended for allergy sufferers:
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Poodles (standard, miniature, or toy)
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Bichon Frise
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Maltese
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Portuguese Water Dog
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Schnauzers
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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
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Yorkshire Terrier
💡 Pro Tip: Spend time with the breed before adopting. Your reaction to one poodle may be different from another, depending on the dog’s individual coat, grooming, and even diet.
Can You Adopt a Hypoallergenic Dog from a Shelter?
Yes — adopting a hypoallergenic dog is absolutely possible, though it may require patience and intentional searching.
Here’s how to improve your chances:
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Search breed-specific rescues: Many organizations specialize in poodles, schnauzers, or other low-shedding breeds.
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Use platforms like Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet with filter tools for breed and coat type.
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Look at mixed breeds: Some dogs may have inherited the low-dander, low-shedding traits of their hypoallergenic parent, even if they’re not purebred.
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Talk to shelter staff: They often know which dogs may be suitable for people with sensitivities.
“All dogs produce allergens to some degree, whether it’s in their saliva, urine, or dander. However, some breeds are thought to produce fewer allergens than others.”
Allergy Testing and Pre-Adoption Tips
Before committing to adoption, it’s smart to:
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Get allergy testing to understand what specifically triggers your symptoms
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Spend time with the dog you’re considering — ideally in multiple settings
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Avoid making assumptions based on breed alone
Allergy response is personal, and even dogs of the same breed can affect people differently.
How to Minimize Allergens in Your Home
Living with a dog when you have allergies is possible — it just takes some strategy.
Home Environment Tips:
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Vacuum frequently using a vacuum with a HEPA filter
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Use air purifiers in common areas and bedrooms
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Establish pet-free zones (especially the bedroom)
Grooming and Hygiene:
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Bathe your dog regularly (weekly or bi-weekly, based on coat type)
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Brush them outside to reduce indoor dander
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Wipe down paws and coats after outdoor walks to reduce pollen brought inside
You Deserve the Joy of Dog Ownership — Allergies or Not
While there’s no such thing as a 100% allergy-proof dog, there are breeds and routines that can make dog ownership easier for allergy sufferers. With the right approach — including research, intentional adoption, and a few smart home habits — you can absolutely enjoy the companionship of a rescue dog.
There are thousands of deserving dogs in shelters who may be a good fit for you. With preparation, you can give one of them a second chance — and gain a loyal friend in return.
Additional Suggested Resources:
Photo by David Brown
If you enjoyed this post, you should read Top Dog Training Tips for Spring: Clickers, Trails, and Positive Reinforcement here.
Have your allergies kept you from adopting a dog?
