15 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: Dogs that Are Best for People Suffering with Allergies

Approximately fifteen percent of people have pet allergies according to recent statistics. Dog allergies are quite common and many people believe that their allergies will prevent them from owning a pet dog. In truth, there are many dog breeds out there that are classified as "hypoallergenic" and relatively safe for the allergy sufferer. Hypoallergenic dogs produce extremely small amounts of dander, one of the reasons behind the bad allergic reactions. There is no single breed of dog considered to be completely safe for allergy sufferers, but there are breeds that tend to cause less of a problem.

1. Poodle: All of the varieties and cross breeds of poodle are excellent for allergy sufferers. In general the Poodle is considered to be smart, watchful, highly energetic, and a people pleaser. The coat is dense and can be course and wooly or soft and wavy. The breed is considered a non-shedding breed but they do need extensive grooming. They must get regular baths and be clipped every six to eight weeks

2. Schnauzer: This includes the standard, miniature, and giant Schnauzers. In general Schnauzers are intelligent, alert, and loyal with a strong sense of smell. The coat is wiry and easy to look after. The undercoat is very dense and needs to be brushed daily with a short wire brush. The coat of the standard and miniature variety should be clipped twice a year, in the spring and in the fall. The Giant Schnauzer needs to be clipped four times a year. Because of the manageable coat, this breed doesn't have a strong odor and sheds little.

3. Portuguese Water Dog: This breed is generally friendly, intelligent, affectionate, water-loving, energetic, and loyal. They are also said to be excellent with children. The breed has hair that is either wavy or curly; with many have both wavy and curly hair on their bodies. The coat does grow more slowly than a poodle, but should be clipped every two months.