The Best Short-haired Dog Breeds for People with Allergies

Numerous dog breeds around the world can be considered short-haired canines. Many of these are also considered great pets for allergy sufferers, however, not all short-haired dog breeds are hypoallergenic. Some short-haired dogs do shed, and they shed frequently and fervently!

Which short-haired breeds shed?

The Labrador Retriever and the German Short-haired Pointer, for example, are both short-haired dogs, but they are average shedders. The Basenji and the French Bulldog are also short-coated dogs, but they are light shedders and make good pets for people that suffer with allergies. The massive Mastiff, on the other hand, is another short-haired dog breed, but it’s a heavy shedder, as is the much smaller Pug. Therefore, neither is the most compatible breed for a person with allergies. People that suffer from dog allergies are generally allergic to pet dander, and both long and short-coated dogs possess dander; some just have more dander than others.

Short-coated dogs that are noted to be good for people with allergies include the Chinese Crested Dog, the Bichon Frise, the Basenji, Standard Poodle, Irish Water Spaniel, and the Portuguese Water Dog,

Short-haired breeds that are good for people with allergies

Basenji
The energetic Basenji hails from Africa, and has been recognized as part of the AKC’s Hound Group since 1944. Muscular and agile, this short-coated dog stands 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43 cm) tall and weighs 20 to 26 pounds (9 to 12 kg).

Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy dog with hair that rarely sheds. It does require regular grooming, however, to keep its coat from matting. Recognized by the AKS since 1972 in the Non-sporting Group, this diminutive breed stands only 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm) tall and weighs 7 to 12 pounds (3 to 5 kg).

Chinese Cresteds
Chinese Cresteds, recognized by the American Kennel Club since 1991, have little to no hair, and therefore, shed little. Considered part of the Toy Group, these graceful, elegant-looking dogs stand only 11 to 13 inches (28 to 33 cm) and weigh 10 pounds (4.5 kg) and less.

Irish Water Spaniel
Considered the clown of the Spaniel family, the Irish Water Spaniel is a breed of ancient lineage, dating back to the 8^th century in Ireland. The AKC recognized the breed in 1884; it is part of the organization’s Sporting Group. Its coat includes waves, curls and straight features and is considered hypoallergenic; regular grooming is required for the liver-colored coat’s upkeep.

Portuguese water dog
The Portuguese water dog is a robust dog breed with a hypoallergenic coat that requires regular maintenance. This active dog was recognized by the AKC in 1983 as part of the Working Group. It stands 17 to 22 inches (43 to 57 cm) tall and weighs 35 to 55 pounds (16 to 25 kg).

Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is another breed that was originally used for retrieving; however, most people now keep these dogs simply for companion purposes. The curly, dense coat requires regular maintenance and grooming, but this breed is considered hypoallergenic and good for allergy sufferers. The smaller poodle breeds, both toy and miniature, also possess short coats and can be smart choices for people with allergies.

Other short-haired dog breeds that are considered good for allergy sufferers can be found on the AKC website at http://www.akc.org/about/faq_allergies.cfm

Low-maintenance grooming or not?

Many short-haired dog breeds are often low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. An occasional bath and weekly, regular grooming are usually all that’s needed to keep the dog’s short coat sleek, smooth and shiny. However, there are exceptions, as noted above.

Those considering a short-haired dog breed for their home, especially if allergies are a concern, are encouraged to research the various breeds to discover more not only about their coats and whether or not they are hypoallergenic, but also about the breed’s personality traits. Researching your next dog ensures a better family fit.