Are you an allergy sufferer who dreams of having a furry friend? You’re not alone, Many people with allergies long for the companionship of a dog but worry about allergic reactions. Luckily, there are plenty of small hypoallergenic dog breeds that could be the perfect match for you.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 10 to 20% of the world’s population is affected by Allergies in cats and dogs. So, choosing a hypoallergenic dog that sheds less is very important. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 25 best small hypoallergenic dogs that are adorable and allergy-friendly breeds so you can find the ideal companion to bring joy into your life without triggering pesky allergies.
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What is a Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Hypoallergenic dogs are known to shed less or produce less saliva, which can help reduce allergic reactions that are better for people with allergies.
These dogs produce fewer things that can make allergies worse, like dander (that’s bits of skin) or saliva. There are no dogs that are completely allergy-proof. People who love dogs but have allergies often choose hypoallergenic breeds because they’re less likely to trigger sneezing or itchiness.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s allergies are different, so it’s a good idea to spend time with a hypoallergenic dog before bringing one home to make sure it won’t cause any problems.
25 Best Small Hypoallergenic Dogs Breeds
Some hypoallergenic dogs that are small and have amazing personalities:
1. Maltese
The Maltese is a small and affectionate dog known for its silky white coat. Despite its luxurious fur, Maltese dogs are hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. These dogs are gentle and loving, making them perfect for families or individuals looking for a loyal companion.
Overview:
Breed | Maltese |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (8-10 inches, 4-7 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $1,000+ |
Coat | Silky, hypoallergenic |
Color | White |
Temperament | Affectionate, gentle, loyal |
2. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful and playful dogs with curly hypoallergenic coats. Their friendly disposition and low-shedding coats make them an excellent choice for those with allergies. They thrive on companionship and are eager to please, making them a joy to have around.
Overview:
Breed | Bichon Frise |
Group | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small (9-12 inches, 10-18 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $500-$2,500 |
Coat | Curly, hypoallergenic |
Color | White |
Temperament | Cheerful, playful, friendly |
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers also known as Yorkies, are small and big personalities dogs. Their silky coats are hypoallergenic and require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Yorkies are affectionate and lively, making them great pets for those with allergies who want a small, energetic companion.
Overview:
Breed | Yorkshire Terrier |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (7-8 inches, 4-7 lbs) |
Life Span | 11-15 years |
Price | $500-$3,000 |
Coat | Silky, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Bold, affectionate, lively |
4. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are renowned for their affectionate nature and long, flowing coats. Despite their luxurious fur, they are considered hypoallergenic because they shed minimally. These small dogs are loyal and adaptable, making them great pets for both apartments and larger homes.
Also read: Why Shih Tzu Are The Best Dogs
Overview:
Breed | Shih Tzu |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (9-10.5 inches, 9-16 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-18 years |
Price | $500-$2,000 |
Coat | Long, minimal shedding |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Affectionate, loyal, adaptable |
5. Poodle (Toy)
Toy Poodles are intelligent and energetic dogs with hypoallergenic coats that come in various colors. Their non-shedding coats make them suitable for allergy sufferers, and their lively personalities make them wonderful companions for individuals or families.
Overview:
Breed | Poodle (Toy) |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (10 inches or less, 4-6 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-18 years |
Price | $1,000-$3,000 |
Coat | Curly, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Intelligent, energetic, lively |
6. Havanese
Havanese dogs are friendly and outgoing personalities. Their soft, hypoallergenic coats come in a variety of colors and require regular grooming to prevent matting. Havanese dogs are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility activities.
Overview:
Breed | Havanese |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (8.5-11.5 inches, 7-13 lbs) |
Life Span | 14-16 years |
Price | $1,000-$1,500 |
Coat | Soft, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Outgoing, friendly, trainable |
7. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested dog breed comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both varieties are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. These unique-looking dogs are affectionate and loyal companions who enjoy being the center of attention.
Overview:
Breed | Chinese Crested |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (11-13 inches, 5-12 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-14 years |
Price | $500-$1,500 |
Coat | Hairless or powderpuff, hypoallergenic |
Color | Varies |
Temperament | Affectionate, loyal, unique appearance |
8. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs have curly, waterproof coats that are hypoallergenic and low-shedding. Originally bred to assist fishermen, these intelligent and athletic dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation. They are loyal and loving companions who enjoy being part of an active family.
Overview:
Breed | Portuguese Water Dog |
Group | Working |
Size | Medium (17-23 inches, 35-60 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-14 years |
Price | $2,000-$3,000 |
Coat | Curly, hypoallergenic |
Color | Black, Brown, White |
Temperament | Intelligent, athletic, loyal |
9. Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are small but sturdy dogs with a wiry, hypoallergenic coat. Despite their rugged appearance, Cairn Terriers are affectionate and playful companions who enjoy spending time with their families. They required low maintenance and less grooming.
Overview:
Breed | Cairn Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (9-10 inches, 13-18 lbs) |
Life Span | 13-15 years |
Price | $700-$1,500 |
Coat | Wiry, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Affectionate, playful, sturdy |
10. Basenji
Basenjis are unique dogs known for their inability to bark. They have short coats that are hypoallergenic and require minimal grooming. Basenjis are independent yet affectionate dogs who form strong bonds with their owners.
Overview:
Breed | Basenji |
Group | Hound |
Size | Medium (16-17 inches, 22-24 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-16 years |
Price | $500-$1,500 |
Coat | Short, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Independent, affectionate, clean |
11. Shih-Poo
Shih-Poos is a crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle, combining the best traits of both breeds. These small dogs have hypoallergenic coats and friendly personalities, making them ideal companions for allergy sufferers.
Overview:
Breed | Shih-Poo |
Group | Mixed |
Size | Small (8-15 inches, 8-18 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-15 years |
Price | $500-$1,500 |
Coat | Soft, hypoallergenic |
Color | Varies |
Temperament | Friendly, affectionate, adaptable |
12. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are small yet sturdy dogs with long, flowing coats that are hypoallergenic. They are affectionate and loyal companions who are devoted to their families. Lhasa Apsos are known for their keen senses and make excellent watchdogs.
Overview:
Breed | Lhasa Apso |
Group | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small (10-11 inches, 12-18 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $1,000-$2,000 |
Coat | Long, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Affectionate, loyal, alert |
13. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are small dogs with big personalities. Their wiry coats are hypoallergenic and require regular grooming to maintain their appearance. Scotties are independent yet loyal companions who thrive on mental stimulation.
Overview:
Breed | Scottish Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (10 inches, 19-22 lbs) |
Life Span | 11-13 years |
Price | $800-$2,500 |
Coat | Wiry, hypoallergenic |
Color | Black, Brindle |
Temperament | Independent, loyal, spirited |
14. Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier dog is not a true breed of terrier dog. These dogs have long, hypoallergenic coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting. Tibetan Terriers are friendly and outgoing companions who enjoy being part of a family.
Overview:
Breed | Tibetan Terrier |
Group | Non-Sporting |
Size | Medium (14-17 inches, 18-30 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $1,000-$2,500 |
Coat | Long, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Friendly, outgoing, adaptable |
15. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are elegant and graceful dogs with short coats that are hypoallergenic. They are affectionate and sensitive companions who form strong bonds with their owners. They are suitable for apartment living, due to their small size and low exercise needs.
Overview:
Breed | Italian Greyhound |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (13-15 inches, 7-14 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $1,000-$2,500 |
Coat | Short, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Affectionate, sensitive, elegant |
16. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are small dogs with distinctive facial expressions and expressive eyes. Their rough or smooth coats are hypoallergenic and require minimal grooming. Brussels Griffons are loyal and affectionate companions who enjoy being the center of attention.
Overview:
Breed | Brussels Griffon |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (7-10 inches, 6-12 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $800-$3,000 |
Coat | Rough or smooth, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Loyal, affectionate, expressive |
17. Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Fox Terriers are lively and intelligent dogs with short, hypoallergenic coats. They are energetic and playful companions who thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Toy Fox Terriers are also known for their agility and make excellent competitors in dog sports.
Overview:
Breed | Toy Fox Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (8.5-11 inches, 3.5-9 lbs) |
Life Span | 13-14 years |
Price | $500-$1,500 |
Coat | Short, hypoallergenic |
Color | White, Tan |
Temperament | Energetic, playful, intelligent |
18. West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are small but sturdy dogs with a double coat that is hypoallergenic. Their cheerful and confident personalities make them popular companions for families and individuals alike. Westies are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming.
Overview:
Breed | West Highland White Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (10-11 inches, 15-20 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-16 years |
Price | $800-$2,500 |
Coat | Double coat, hypoallergenic |
Color | White |
Temperament | Cheerful, confident, loyal |
19. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are spirited and affectionate dogs with a wiry, hypoallergenic coat. They are intelligent and trainable companions who enjoy being part of a family. Miniature Schnauzers are also known for their distinctive eyebrows and beard.
Overview:
Breed | Miniature Schnauzer |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (12-14 inches, 11-20 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $500-$2,500 |
Coat | Wiry, hypoallergenic |
Color | Black, Salt & Pepper |
Temperament | Spirited, affectionate, intelligent |
20. Norfolk Terrier
Norfolk Terriers are small dogs with a fearless and outgoing nature. Their wiry coats are hypoallergenic and require minimal grooming to keep them looking tidy. Norfolk Terriers are affectionate and loyal companions who enjoy being part of an active family.
Overview:
Breed | Norfolk Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (9-10 inches, 11-12 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $800-$2,000 |
Coat | Wiry, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Fearless, outgoing, affectionate |
21. Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulears are small dogs with a fluffy, hypoallergenic coat that resembles cotton. They are affectionate and friendly companions who form strong bonds with their owners. Cotons are also known for their playful and clownish personalities.
Overview:
Breed | Coton de Tulear |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (10-12 inches, 9-15 lbs) |
Life Span | 14-16 years |
Price | $1,000-$3,000 |
Coat | Fluffy, hypoallergenic |
Color | White |
Temperament | Playful, affectionate, clownish |
22. Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are elegant and dignified dogs with silky coats that are hypoallergenic. They are affectionate and loyal companions who enjoy being pampered. Japanese Chins are also known for their cat-like agility and grace.
Overview:
Breed | Japanese Chin |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (8-11 inches, 4-9 lbs) |
Life Span | 10-12 years |
Price | $500-$3,000 |
Coat | Silky, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Elegant, loyal, graceful |
23. Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are small but sturdy dogs with a rough coat that is hypoallergenic. They are energetic and intelligent companions who excel in obedience and agility activities. Australian Terriers are also known for their courage and loyalty.
Overview:
Breed | Australian Terrier |
Group | Terrier |
Size | Small (10-11 inches, 15-22 lbs) |
Life Span | 11-14 years |
Price | $500-$2,000 |
Coat | Rough, hypoallergenic |
Color | Blue, Sandy |
Temperament | Energetic, intelligent, courageous |
24. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers also known as Yorkies, are small and big personalities dogs. Their silky coats are hypoallergenic and require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Yorkies are affectionate and lively, making them great pets for those with allergies who want a small, energetic companion.
Overview:
Breed | Yorkshire Terrier |
Group | Toy |
Size | Small (7-8 inches, 4-7 lbs) |
Life Span | 11-15 years |
Price | $500-$3,000 |
Coat | Silky, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Bold, affectionate, lively |
25. Cairmal
Cairmals are a crossbreed between a Cairn Terrier and a Maltese, combining the best traits of both breeds. These small dogs have hypoallergenic coats and friendly personalities, making them ideal companions for allergy sufferers.
Overview:
Breed | Cairmal |
Group | Mixed |
Size | Small (9-13 inches, 9-13 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $500-$1,500 |
Coat | Hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Friendly, adaptable, affectionate |
25. Pumi
Pumis are energetic and intelligent dogs with soft, curly coats that are hypoallergenic and relatively low-shedding. They are known for their lively and playful personalities, making them great companions for active individuals or families. Pumis are also highly trainable and excel in dog sports like agility and obedience.
Overview:
Breed | Pumi |
Group | Herding |
Size | Medium (15-18 inches, 20-30 lbs) |
Life Span | 12-15 years |
Price | $1,000-$2,000 |
Coat | Soft, curly, hypoallergenic |
Color | Various |
Temperament | Energetic, intelligent, playful |
Conclusion
Finding the perfect furry companion when you have allergies can seem daunting. Still, with the variety of small hypoallergenic dogs available, there’s sure to be one that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you prefer a playful Shih Tzu or a dignified Japanese Chin, these 25 breeds offer options for every allergy sufferer seeking a loving canine companion.
Remember, proper grooming and regular veterinary care are essential to keeping your hypoallergenic dog healthy and happy. So, go ahead and welcome a furry friend into your home without worrying about pesky allergies.