The Truth About Hypoallergenic Dogs

Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
Jun 21
4 min read

If you’ve ever wanted a dog but sneezed at the thought, chances are someone has told you to get a hypoallergenic dog. Or, if you hate dog fur in your house, you may have heard that hypoallergenic dogs don’t shed, meaning no fur floating through the air!

It sounds like a magical solution of endless cuddles with no allergies or fur tumbleweeds rolling through your house. But is it too good to be true? The short answer is yes.

Here are the facts behind hypoallergenic dogs.

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

The word hypoallergenic gets tossed around a lot, especially in the pet world. It means that something is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

It does NOT mean that something is completely allergen-free.

What Does It Mean if a Dog Is Described as Hypoallergenic?

Some dog breeds (or mixes) are less likely to shed allergens in your home, which can make them more manageable if you have mild to moderate allergies.

So, when you hear “hypoallergenic dog,” think lower risk, not no risk, of allergen exposure.

Do Hypoallergenic Dogs Actually Exist?

Hypoallergenic dogs do exist, but there is NO dog out there that is completely allergen-free.

That differentiation is important because many people assume that allergen-free means the same thing as hypoallergenic when labeling a dog. Every dog produces proteins that can trigger allergies.

Some breeds or mixes, like Poodles, Yorkies, or Portuguese Water Dogs, might be better suited for allergy-sensitive homes. However, the term "hypoallergenic" is more of a marketing buzzword than scientific truth.

What Causes People To Be Allergic to Dogs?

It’s not fur or hair (and we will get to that difference next) that causes people’s allergies.

According to Mayo Clinic, people with dog allergies are usually sensitive to proteins found in a dog's:

Dander
Saliva
Urine

These proteins are microscopic and can become airborne. When this happens, they settle on everything from furniture to clothes to the air you breathe and more.

Even if a dog doesn’t shed much, they can still spread allergens through licking, grooming, or just being in your space.

Is There a Difference Between Fur and Hair When It Comes to Allergies?

Fur and hair have similarities and differences. According to the AKC, both fur and hair are made of keratin, but there is a difference in how fur vs. hair grows.

Dogs who have fur have coats that grow to a certain length and then stop growing. Those types of dogs tend to shed more. Dogs who have hair have coats that grow longer and shed less than dogs with fur. This causes dogs with hair to be classified as hypoallergenic.

Dogs with fur or hair shed dander, but dogs with hair shed it at a slower rate. Less shedding means less dander and less exposure to allergens.

Can People Still Be Allergic to Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Yes. If someone is allergic to the proteins found in a dog’s dander, saliva, or urine, even the most hypoallergenic dogs can still cause a reaction. It all depends on your sensitivity.

Some people might do just fine around a low-shedding, hypoallergenic breed. Others can’t tolerate any dog exposure at all.

It’s always smart to spend time around a dog before bringing one home. Gauge how your body reacts to determine if that particular dog will or won’t be an issue for your allergies.

So, Why the Hype About Hypoallergenic Dogs?

For dog lovers with allergies, it makes sense. The opportunity to have a dog with a lower risk of allergies is a logical choice. But what about people who aren't allergic to dogs?

As a rescue, we’ve seen multiple people who aren’t allergic to dogs still want a hypoallergenic dog. In fact, the hypoallergenic pups we rescue always get more interest than any other dog we help.

The reason for that? People like dogs that don’t shed a lot. It means minimal dog hair floating around the house and less cleaning. Sometimes, it even means less of a dog smell in your home.

Our suggestion if you don’t have a medical reason to need a low-shed dog: Invest in a Roomba and a HEPA filter.

Are There Any Dogs That Don’t Shed at All?

Nope! According to Wild One, even hairless dogs shed.

All dogs have some hair on their body, and that hair doesn’t stay attached forever. It does eventually come off.

How To Minimize Your Allergies to Dogs

If you’re allergic but determined to have a dog in your life, here are some tips to help keep your allergies under control:

Bathe and groom your dog regularly: This reduces dander and loose hair.
Use a HEPA air purifier: These filters help remove airborne allergens from your home.
Wash your hands after handling your dog: This can be especially helpful before touching your face.
Designate pet-free zones: Keeping your bedroom or even your bed off-limits to pets can make a big difference.
Vacuum often: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter regularly to trap allergens in carpets and furniture.
Do your laundry: Wash your bedding, your dog's bedding, couch covers, blankets, and your clothes regularly to remove any allergens from softer surfaces.
Talk to your doctor: Your doctor might be able to give you allergy medications or treatments like immunotherapy to relieve your symptoms.

Learn More: How To Choose the Right Dog for Your Home

Final Thoughts

Hypoallergenic dogs aren't a cure-all for allergy sufferers. Fortunately, they can make dog ownership more feasible.

The key is knowing what you're sensitive to, understanding the limitations of hypoallergenic labels, and making thoughtful choices to reduce allergens in your home.