Top 12 Low Shedding Dogs for Allergy Sufferers in the UK

If you love dogs but start sneezing whenever you’re near one, you’re not alone. Loads of people in the UK want a furry friend but worry about allergies. The good news is, some breeds are known to shed much less hair and dander, making life a bit easier for allergy sufferers. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, these low shedding dogs could be just what you need to enjoy a pet without all the extra tissues. Here are twelve breeds that might help keep your allergies in check.

Key Takeaways

• No dog is completely hypoallergenic, but some breeds shed less and may be easier for allergy sufferers.
• Short-haired dogs aren’t always better for allergies—many long-haired and curly-coated breeds are actually lower shedding.
• Trying out time with a specific breed before committing can help you find the best fit for your allergies.

1. Poodle

Ask anyone who’s ever owned a Poodle, and they’ll probably say the same thing: these dogs are more than just a pretty face. Poodles are legendary for their low-shedding, curly coats, which makes them a popular pick for allergy-prone homes. But what many people don’t realise is there’s more to their coats than just their looks—Poodles shed much less than standard pups, and if you’re quick with a brush, you’ll barely notice a strand.

Let’s break down what makes the Poodle a hit with allergy sufferers:

• Highly intelligent and super easy to train (seriously, they love to show off their skills)
• Come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard – same non-shedding perks, different package
• Famous for being nearly odourless (your sofa will thank you)
• Great for families and smart city living; they can adapt to most spaces
• Lots of fancy haircuts if you want to get creative at the groomers

But before you get carried away with visions of show-dog haircuts, know this: regular grooming is a must. Their curly coat can mat easily if you forget about it for even a week or two, so a trip to the groomer or a steady home routine is non-negotiable.

If you’re after a clever, almost maintenance-free (at least in the hair department) furry friend who won’t leave tumbleweeds on your carpet, a Poodle is worth a look. Just remember, that brain and those curls need regular attention!

2. Bichon Frisé

The Bichon Frisé is like a little puff of happiness that hardly sheds, making life a lot easier for allergy sufferers. Picture a small, bouncy dog with a white, curly coat – these pups look straight out of a cartoon. They’re not just cute though, they’re smart and always keen for a bit of attention. This breed is famous for being playful and good-natured, rarely having a grumpy day.

One of the biggest draws of the Bichon Frisé is that their fur barely sheds at all, and they create less dander than most breeds. That means you’re less likely to be sneezing every five minutes, which is always a win if you’ve got allergies. What they lack in shedding, though, they make up for in grooming needs – their hair needs a regular brush (at least a few times a week) and the occasional visit to a professional groomer to dodge mats and keep their look fresh.

Here’s what you can generally expect from a Bichon Frisé:

These dogs are definitely not couch potatoes! They thrive on human company, so if you’re out most of the day, they might not be the best fit unless there’s someone at home.

• Great for families with children or other pets
• Not likely to trigger sneezing fits
• Needs a consistent grooming routine

If you want a cheerful friend who rarely leaves stray hairs behind and brightens up the place, the Bichon Frisé is right up your street.

3. Schnauzer

If you’ve ever seen a dog with bushy eyebrows and a brilliant beard trotting proudly down the street, chances are good it was a Schnauzer. This breed actually comes in three sizes—Miniature, Standard, and Giant—but they all share one thing: minimal shedding and a knack for being great companions for allergy sufferers.

Schnauzers have a wiry double coat that traps hair and dander quite well, so you won’t find much fur on your sofa. That being said, their distinctive look does mean their coat needs a bit of work to keep it tidy. Regular trips to the groomer or a dedicated brushing routine at home becomes part of the package.

Here’s a quick comparison of all three sizes:

People always mention Schnauzers’ personalities, and honestly, you’ll never be bored with one around. They’re lively, smart, and very alert—not a bad option if you’d like a four-legged friend who also acts as a little security guard.

A few things to know if you’re thinking about bringing a Schnauzer home:

• Their coat needs consistent grooming
• They’re quite adaptable to both flats and houses with gardens
• Schnauzers can be vocal (they like to let you know what’s up)

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic breed that’s also clever and makes a fantastic family pet, a Schnauzer could be just right for you. Choosing a breed from this great selection of low-shedding dogs can make life easier for allergy-prone families.

Schnauzers are full of energy, always ready for an adventure, and rarely shed. What’s not to love?

4. Maltese

The Maltese is quite the legend among small dog breeds, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. With their perfectly white, silky hair and pint-sized frame, these dogs look delicate—almost like they belong in the lap of luxury (which, let’s face it, they often are). What’s really interesting is how little they shed, even though their coat is so glamorous. Unlike most dogs, the Maltese grows hair continuously, which helps cut down on stray fur and keeps dander to a minimum—handy for allergy sufferers who still want a little glamour in their daily life.

Despite their dainty looks, Maltese dogs can be surprisingly lively and bold. They’re always up for a game or a wander, and their playful streak makes them fun companions for all ages. While these pups are super friendly and clever, they definitely need company; they love being around people and don’t do well left alone for long.

Here’s a quick look at the Maltese basics:

When it comes to care, you should know:

• Their long coat means daily brushing is a must, or you’ll end up with mats and tangles.
• They’re happy in small spaces, which makes them a great pick for flats or city homes.
• A Maltese loves cuddles but also likes to let you know what’s going on with a bold little bark now and then.

If you want a companion who won’t cover your home in fur but is always ready for a snuggle, the Maltese is an excellent fit. Their luxurious hair sheds very little, which keeps allergies in check without the constant clean-up (Maltese dogs shed very little).

5. Labradoodle

If you want a dog that’s not just playful and loving but might also keep your sneezes at bay, the Labradoodle is a solid bet. Bred as a mix between the classic Labrador Retriever and the smart-as-a-whip Poodle, these dogs were actually created with allergy sufferers specifically in mind. What makes them stand out is their low-shedding coat, but there’s a bit of a catch here.

Because Labradoodles are a crossbreed (and a relatively new one), there’s no guarantee every single pup will have that magical low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat. Sometimes you get more of the Labrador side with a bit more hair floating about, sometimes you luck out with curls like the Poodle – it’s a real mixed bag. If you’re looking for the most consistent allergy-friendly traits, go for a Labradoodle whose parents are both Labradoodles (that’s called an F2).

Here’s what you should know before deciding if a Labradoodle is for you:

• Can come in three sizes: standard, medium, and miniature, depending on the Poodle parent
• Coats vary (wavy, curly, or straight), so some shed less than others
• High energy: these dogs need a fair bit of daily exercise and play
• Most need regular brushing to keep their coat in good shape and to really minimise loose hair

If cuddles, muddy walks, and a bit of unpredictability sound exciting to you, the Labradoodle could be the perfect dog to join your family – or at least brighten up your living room.

Oh, and a fun little fact: Labradoodles are now so popular that they even replaced the Scotty dog in one version of Monopoly. That’s how much people love them. If you want one, grooming is key to keeping your home (and nose) happy.

6. Portuguese Water Dog

Here’s one you probably won’t see every day on a walk around town, but the Portuguese Water Dog deserves a bit of love from anyone after a low-shedding, allergy-friendly breed. These dogs have a curly or wavy coat that doesn’t drop loads of hair, which is great news if you’re constantly reaching for the hoover.

Those luscious curls do need a fair bit of upkeep, though. Get ready for regular brushing sessions and definitely a haircut now and then if you don’t want your Portie looking like a walking mop. Their fur’s waterproof (no surprise!), thanks to their history as fishing helpers in Portugal—retrieving lost gear and even swimming messages between boats.

Portuguese Water Dogs are lively, clever, and always up for an adventure. They love being part of the action, whether that’s a big family walk or splashing about in a local pond. Like a lot of smart breeds, they thrive with enough exercise, a bit of training, and some work for their brains to do. Basically, they’ll keep you on your toes—and you’ll never have to worry about them being bored.

Here’s a quick look at the key stats for the breed:

A few things to know if you’re thinking about a Portie:

• They need daily exercise – and they absolutely love water!
• They don’t shed much, but their coat requires regular grooming
• They get on well with kids and make good family dogs
• They’re intelligent and really benefit from some training
• Adaptable to various living spaces, but happiest with activity

If you’re after a friendly companion who won’t leave fur all over the sofa, but will happily join you for a wild swim, the Portuguese Water Dog might just be your new best mate.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as most people call them, are tiny in size but absolutely packed with personality. Don’t let their small bodies fool you – these little dogs have a proper fiery attitude and make brilliant companions, especially if you’re after a low-shedding breed for an allergy-prone home.

What’s really special about Yorkies is their long, silky hair, which tends to shed far less than most other dog breeds. Their hair is more like human hair than typical fur, so they don’t leave tumbleweeds rolling around your living room carpet. This can make all the difference if you’re sensitive to dog hair (or just want to keep your hoover in the cupboard a little longer).

Here’s a quick look:

Some things to keep in mind if you’re thinking of sharing your home with a Yorkie:

• They need regular brushing to stop their hair from getting tangled.
• Yorkies tend to be clever, but a bit stubborn. Short, fun training sessions work best.
• They’re good for flats or smaller houses, but can be noisy if not kept busy.
• Despite their size, they’ll try to defend you as if they think they’re a giant in disguise.

Yorkies are small enough to sit in your lap all day, but they’ll still make sure the postman knows who’s boss. They really are big dogs trapped in tiny bodies—adventurous, full of spirit and always up for a cuddle (on their terms, of course).

8. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus might have a regal look about them — and it’s no accident, they actually spent centuries as companion pups to Chinese royalty. But don’t let the fancy history fool you; these dogs are just as happy snuggled up on your sofa as they would have been in an emperor’s palace. Their long, flowing double coats shed very little, which is brilliant news if you’re allergy-prone.

The Shih Tzu’s hair is much more like human hair than typical dog fur, and although daily brushing is needed to keep it from tangling, you’ll be spared the usual tumbleweeds of hair around the house. In fact, much of what does fall out gets caught in their coat, to be removed with brushing rather than dropping everywhere. That’s one of the many reasons Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic – similar to the Maltese and other low-shedding breeds. You can see more about their famous history and coat in this quick background on Shih Tzu coats.

Here’s a quick table covering some Shih Tzu facts:

A few reasons Shih Tzus are a favourite for allergy sufferers:

• Their shedding is low, especially for a long-haired breed
• They’re small, so there’s less dander overall
• Their friendly, loyal nature makes them great family dogs

In my experience, while they need their fair share of grooming, Shih Tzus are gentle, funny, and quite simply make wonderful companions for small homes – or palaces, if you’ve got one lying around.

9. Havanese

There’s something about Havanese that just makes people smile. Maybe it’s their cheerful faces, or the fact that they’re always up for a game. But the best bit for allergy sufferers is their reputation as a low shedding, hypoallergenic breed.

Their long, silky fur might look high-maintenance, but these Cuban charmers don’t shed much at all. Loose hairs tend to get caught in their coat rather than floating around your house, which can make life a bit easier for folks who are sensitive to dog hair and dander. This means regular brushing is a must, at least three or four times a week, to keep knots and tangles under control – but at least you won’t spend every day vacuuming up fur. You’ll find more on why brushing is so important in this handy Havanese grooming overview.

Some fun facts about the Havanese:

• They’re often called “Velcro dogs” because they stick so close to their humans.
• Havanese can be highly trainable, enjoying everything from agility to basic tricks.
• The breed’s gentle temperament makes them all-rounders with kids, adults, and even the odd grumpy cat.

Here’s a quick look at typical Havanese traits:

If you want a friendly companion who doesn’t leave fur everywhere, the Havanese is well worth considering. Just be ready for a bit of daily grooming and lots of snuggles.

10. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is one of those quirky little breeds that really stick in your mind, thanks to their unusual looks and big personalities. This dog comes in two types: the almost-naked ‘hairless’ variety, which has tufts of hair only on the head, tail and ankles, and the fluffier ‘powderpuff’, which can look a little like a glamorous Bedlington terrier in miniature. Both of these are well-loved by people who don’t want dog hair on their furniture or floating around the house.

Let’s be honest, if you’re struggling with allergies, these dogs are a bit of a game-changer. Shedding is very minimal in both types, and they produce barely any dander or dog odour. It’s worth noting, though, that the hairless type needs frequent skin moisturising and sun protection because their skin is more exposed.

Here’s a quick look at their key details:

What makes Chinese Cresteds popular for allergy sufferers isn’t just their coat (or lack of one):

• They shed almost nothing, so you spend way less time hoovering.
• Doggy smells and drool are hardly noticeable, brilliant for sensitive noses.
• Both types are friendly, lively and attach themselves firmly to their chosen humans — they love being part of the family.

Sensitive skin means they’re best for owners who are happy to slap on a bit of sun cream or tweak their skincare routine for a four-legged friend.

A little warning, though: powderpuffs need regular brushing, and hairless Cresteds aren’t fans of chilly British weather, so a warm jumper never goes amiss. These funny, devoted little dogs fit right in with anyone looking for loving company minus the sneezing fits.

11. Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers are a real treat if you want a dog that’s easy on your allergies. They’re known for their bushy coats that hardly shed at all, which is a massive help for anyone sniffling around pets. Now, don’t let the name fool you—they’re not actual terriers in the usual sense. Tibetan Terriers are more like loyal friends than fierce hunters, so you won’t catch them chasing after anything but perhaps a ball in the garden.

A couple of facts stand out about these dogs:

• They were originally bred to keep Buddhist monks company and guard monasteries.
• Their coats are shaggy and long, so while shedding’s not a big issue, you’ve got to keep on top of brushing or things get wild, quick.
• They’re super adaptable and fit into most homes, whether it’s flats or houses with a bit of garden.

Here’s a handy table for the basics:

I’ve found that while they may take a while to warm up to new faces, once they’re settled, you’ve got yourself a dog who’ll stick by your side (literally – they follow you everywhere).

If you’re considering a Tibetan Terrier, just know you’ll be investing time in grooming. In return, you get a charming companion who loves attention, gets along well with respectful kids, and won’t litter your home with fur. All in all, not a bad trade.

12. Löwchen

Wrapping up our list is the fabulous Löwchen, a breed that’s as rare as it is charming. Known as the “little lion dog,” this cheerful companion grabs attention everywhere it goes, not just for its confident attitude, but also for the famous clipped “lion” trim. What’s special for allergy-prone owners? Löwchens have hair instead of fur, and they’re famous for minimal shedding—plus, they produce less dander compared to many breeds.

Here’s what you might want to know if you’re thinking about adding one to your family:

• They’re really adaptable to all sorts of homes, from flats to houses with gardens—no need for excessive space.
• Löwchens are friendly, people-loving dogs that get on well with children and other pets, making them a great all-rounder for most families.
• Their coat does need regular brushing and a tidy-up at the groomer, especially if you keep them in the classic lion cut. But the low shedding means your sofa should stay (mostly) fur-free.

A few key stats:

While Löwchens do need a bit of coat care, they’re surprisingly easy-going otherwise—happy for walks or snuggles, and they love being right in the thick of family life.

So, if you fancy the idea of a pint-sized lion padding around your home without a blizzard of hair, the Löwchen is well worth a look.

Wrapping Up: Finding the Right Low Shedding Dog for You

So, there you have it – a whole bunch of low shedding dogs that might just let you enjoy life with a furry mate, even if you’re prone to sneezing fits. It’s worth remembering, though, that no dog is totally allergy-proof. Even the breeds that shed less can still set off the sniffles for some folks. Everyone’s different, so what works for your neighbour might not work for you. If you’re serious about getting a dog, try to spend some time with the breed first – maybe visit a breeder or a rescue centre. That way, you’ll know if your allergies can handle it before you fall head over heels. And don’t forget, a bit of extra cleaning and regular grooming can go a long way. At the end of the day, there’s a dog out there for nearly everyone – it just takes a bit of patience (and maybe a few tissues) to find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any dogs that are completely hypoallergenic?

No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens through their skin, saliva, and urine. Some breeds, though, shed less hair and dander, which means they are less likely to cause allergies in most people.

Does the length of a dog’s fur affect allergies?

It’s a common myth that long-haired dogs are worse for allergies. In fact, short-haired dogs can sometimes trigger allergies more because their fur and dander spread more easily. What really matters is how much dander and saliva the dog produces and sheds.

How can I reduce allergy symptoms if I have a dog?

To lower allergy symptoms, brush and bathe your dog regularly, vacuum your home often, and use air filters. Keeping one room in your house pet-free can also help. Always wash your hands after playing with your dog.