Are Poodles the Only Hypoallergenic Dog?
Friday, December 11, 2020 10:32:39 AM America/Los_Angeles
It’s a common dilemma. You love dogs but have allergies that make it difficult to have animals around the house. Poodles and their curly coats have long been the hypoallergenic fave, but your search doesn’t have to end there!
Photo by Katja Bayer
Here’s a short list of some other popular hypoallergenic dog breeds:
- Bichon Frises: Bichon Frises have a coat much like that of poodles, but are smaller and stockier in stature. They’re similar to poodles in disposition as well, which has led to the breeding of Bichon Poos, a relatively new breed of dogs that don't shed that is a mix between the traditional Bichon and poodle.
- Yorkshire Terriers: You might be surprised to find out that this little creature, often seen sporting a long silky coat, is actually one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds! Even though their coat can be floor-length, it’s more like human hair than it is fur, which makes them a great petite companion for dog lovers with sensitivities.
- Maltese: The Maltese is another breed known for their glossy coat. Again, their coats are more like human hair than fur, making them hypoallergenic. They’re stubborn pups but respond well to reward-based training. Housebreaking these hypoallergenic dog breeds can be a breeze if started early and supplemented with tons of treats and praise.
- Portuguese Water Dogs: These handsome dogs are slightly smaller than the standard poodle but make highly intelligent and loyal companions. Once known for being fishermens' helpers in Portugal, these dogs that don't shed are very tied to their humans and will seek constant attention. Being very smart, they are the perfect candidate for training on indoor dog potties. They also have a tendency to become overweight, so make sure you don’t overdo the treats!
- Hairless Dogs: The American Hairless Terrier and the Xoloitzcuintli are two hairless hypoallergenic dog breeds that have been becoming increasingly popular. If you’re looking for a dog with a little more character, a hairless dog could be for you. Equally interesting are their unique backgrounds: American Hairless Terriers are Louisiana natives that are born with hair that falls out as they grow, and the Xoloitzcuintli is a 3,000 year old breed (!) that is known as the “ancient Aztec dog of the gods,” according to the AKC.
- Schnauzers: These wire-haired dogs that don't shed are a classic and reliable dog breed that is easily trained due to their intelligence. They would take easily to potty training on a real bark dog potty like Bark Potty. Traditionally known for being work dogs, they’re athletic and energetic.
While we love poodles as much as the next dog person, other factors such as size, personality, and training come into play when searching for a new furry addition to your family. Whatever breed you decide to bring into your home, we recommend starting training ASAP to avoid any potty issues. Indoor pet potties can be a lifesaver down the line, if trained properly.