20 Worst Dog Breeds for People with Allergies: High-Shedding Canines to Avoid

Dogs can make wonderful companions, but for allergy sufferers, some breeds may trigger more severe reactions than others.

Certain dog breeds produce higher levels of allergens, which can cause discomfort for sensitive individuals.

Choosing the right dog breed is crucial for people with allergies to minimize symptoms and enjoy a healthier relationship with their pets.

This article explores 20 dog breeds that may pose challenges for those with allergies, providing valuable information to help potential owners make informed decisions about bringing a furry friend into their homes.

1. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are known for their elegant appearance and long, silky coats. These traits make them a challenging choice for people with allergies.

Their abundant fur sheds regularly, releasing allergens into the environment. The fine hair can easily become airborne, spreading dander throughout living spaces.

Afghan Hounds require extensive grooming to maintain their luxurious coats. This frequent brushing and combing can stir up allergenic particles, potentially triggering reactions in sensitive individuals.

Despite their beauty, Afghan Hounds are not hypoallergenic. Their high-maintenance grooming needs and consistent shedding make them unsuitable for allergy sufferers seeking a canine companion.

2. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are known for their long, silky coats and adorable appearance. Despite their charm, these small dogs can pose challenges for allergy sufferers.

Shih Tzus shed moderately throughout the year and have a double coat that traps dander. This combination can lead to increased allergen production in the home environment.

Regular grooming is essential for Shih Tzus, which may involve frequent brushing and bathing. These activities can release allergens into the air, potentially triggering reactions in sensitive individuals.

While no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus produce more allergens than some other breeds. Their long hair and skin folds can also trap pollen and other environmental allergens, bringing them indoors.

For people with allergies, the Shih Tzu’s grooming needs and allergen production make them a less suitable choice as pets.

3. Bulldog

Bulldogs are known for their wrinkly faces and stocky builds. Despite their adorable appearance, they can be problematic for allergy sufferers. Bulldogs have short, dense coats that shed moderately throughout the year.

Their skin folds can trap allergens, making them more likely to spread dander and other irritants. Bulldogs also tend to drool, which can increase the amount of allergens they produce.

These dogs have a higher likelihood of developing skin conditions, which may exacerbate allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Regular grooming and bathing can help reduce allergen levels, but may not be sufficient for those with severe allergies.

Bulldogs’ indoor-oriented lifestyle means they spend more time in close proximity to their owners, potentially increasing allergy exposure. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Bulldogs are particularly challenging for people with allergies.

4. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive appearance and friendly nature. Unfortunately, they can pose challenges for allergy sufferers due to their shedding habits.

These dogs have short, dense coats that shed moderately throughout the year. They also experience heavier shedding periods seasonally, which can increase allergen levels in the home.

Basset Hounds produce dander, a common trigger for allergies. Their droopy skin and long ears can trap allergens, releasing them when the dog shakes or moves around.

Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and allergen buildup. However, this breed’s propensity for drooling adds another potential source of allergens to consider.

While not the worst offender for allergies, Basset Hounds may not be the best choice for individuals with severe sensitivities to pet dander.

5. Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small dog breed known for its distinctive flat face and long, flowing coat. Unfortunately, these adorable companions can pose challenges for allergy sufferers.

Pekingese dogs have a double coat that sheds heavily, releasing dander and allergens into the environment. Their long fur also tends to trap allergens from outside, bringing them indoors.

Despite their small size, Pekingese produce a significant amount of allergens. Their flat faces can lead to increased drooling, which adds to the allergen load in saliva.

Regular grooming is essential for Pekingese, but this process can stir up allergens. Even with frequent brushing and bathing, these dogs may not be suitable for individuals with severe allergies.

6. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos are small, long-haired dogs that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Their dense, double coat sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal changes.

These Tibetan dogs produce dander, which can accumulate in their thick fur and spread easily around the home. Regular grooming is essential to manage their coat, but this process can release allergens into the air.

Lhasa Apsos also tend to drool, adding another potential source of allergens. Their saliva contains proteins that some people may react to when coming into contact with the dog’s fur or skin.

While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, Lhasa Apsos are not ideal for allergy sufferers due to their coat type and grooming needs. People with dog allergies should consider breeds with less shedding and dander production.

7. Boxer

Boxers are energetic and playful dogs known for their muscular build and expressive faces. Despite their short coats, Boxers are not hypoallergenic and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding occurring during seasonal changes. Their short hair can easily become airborne, spreading allergens around the home.

Boxers also produce dander, which is a common allergen for many people. This dander can stick to their fur and be released into the environment as they move around.

Regular grooming can help reduce allergen levels, but it may not be enough for those with severe allergies. Frequent bathing and brushing can minimize shedding and dander, but it won’t eliminate the problem entirely.

For allergy sufferers considering a Boxer, spending time with the breed before adoption is advisable to gauge potential reactions.

8. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are beloved family pets known for their gentle nature and beautiful coats. Unfortunately, these traits make them less than ideal for allergy sufferers.

Their long, silky fur sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal changes. This constant shedding releases dander into the environment, triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Cocker Spaniels also produce a fair amount of saliva, which contains allergens. Their tendency to drool can exacerbate allergy symptoms for some people.

Regular grooming is essential for Cocker Spaniels, but this frequent maintenance can increase exposure to allergens. Brushing and bathing may temporarily reduce allergens, but it also disturbs and releases dander into the air.

For those with dog allergies, the Cocker Spaniel’s combination of shedding, drooling, and grooming needs makes them a challenging breed to live with comfortably.

9. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are known for their distinctive lion-like mane and blue-black tongues. These fluffy dogs shed heavily, making them problematic for allergy sufferers.

Their thick double coat releases a large amount of dander and allergens into the environment. Chow Chows require frequent grooming to manage their shedding, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.

These dogs also produce a significant amount of saliva, which contains allergens. Their drooling tendency can increase the spread of allergens throughout the home.

Chow Chows are not hypoallergenic and can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Their dense fur traps allergens, making them less suitable for people with dog allergies.

Regular bathing and brushing may help reduce allergen levels, but it’s often not enough to prevent reactions in highly sensitive people.

10. Dachshund

Dachshunds, despite their small size, can pose challenges for allergy sufferers. These popular short-legged dogs shed moderately throughout the year and more heavily during seasonal changes.

Their coats come in three varieties: smooth, wirehaired, and long-haired. Each type produces dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Dachshunds require regular grooming to manage shedding and dander production. Brushing their coat several times a week helps reduce the amount of loose hair and allergens in the environment.

While not as allergenic as some larger breeds, Dachshunds may still cause discomfort for people with dog allergies. Their tendency to seek close contact with their owners can increase allergen exposure.

Individuals with mild allergies might tolerate a Dachshund better than more allergenic breeds. However, those with severe allergies should exercise caution when considering this breed as a pet.

11. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are large, lovable dogs known for their gentle nature and rescue abilities. Despite their friendly demeanor, they pose challenges for allergy sufferers.

These massive canines have long, dense coats that shed heavily. Their fur releases significant amounts of dander, a common allergen.

Saint Bernards also produce more saliva than many other breeds. This drool contains proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Their size contributes to the problem. With more surface area, Saint Bernards release higher quantities of allergens into the environment.

Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and dander, but it may not be enough for severely allergic people. Those with dog allergies should consider other breeds or consult an allergist before bringing a Saint Bernard into their home.

12. Pug

Pugs are beloved for their wrinkled faces and compact size, but they can be problematic for allergy sufferers. These dogs have short, dense coats that shed regularly, releasing dander into the environment.

Pugs are also known to drool excessively, which can contribute to allergen spread. Their facial wrinkles can trap saliva and other allergens, making them more likely to cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Despite their small size, Pugs produce a significant amount of allergens. Their tendency to shed year-round means constant exposure for allergy-prone owners. Regular grooming and cleaning can help reduce allergen levels, but may not eliminate the problem entirely.

For those with dog allergies, Pugs might not be the best choice. Their adorable features come with a higher risk of triggering allergic reactions compared to some other breeds.

13. Maltese

Maltese dogs are known for their small size and long, silky white coats. Despite their adorable appearance, they can be problematic for allergy sufferers.

These dogs shed minimally, but they still produce dander and saliva that contain allergens. Their long hair can also trap and spread allergens throughout the home.

Regular grooming is essential for Maltese dogs, which can stir up allergens during the process. Their coats require frequent brushing and occasional trimming to maintain.

Maltese are prone to developing tear stains, which can harbor bacteria and potentially increase allergen production. This breed also tends to lick themselves frequently, spreading allergens via saliva.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Maltese may cause more allergic reactions than some other small breeds. Individuals with dog allergies should carefully consider their sensitivity before bringing a Maltese into their home.

14. Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdogs are known for their shaggy, fluffy coats that require extensive grooming. This breed sheds heavily, releasing significant amounts of dander and allergens into the environment.

Their long, dense fur traps allergens easily, making them a challenging choice for allergy sufferers. Regular brushing and bathing can help reduce allergen levels, but may not be sufficient for those with severe allergies.

Old English Sheepdogs have a double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding periods during seasonal changes. This constant shedding increases the presence of allergens in the home.

Despite their friendly and gentle nature, Old English Sheepdogs may not be suitable for individuals with dog allergies. Their high-maintenance coat and persistent shedding make them a less-than-ideal choice for allergy-prone households.

15. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is a small breed known for its distinctive appearance and lively personality. Despite its compact size, this dog can pose challenges for allergy sufferers.

Brussels Griffons have a dense, wiry coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. They require regular grooming to manage loose hair and dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

This breed’s facial structure, with its prominent beard and mustache, can trap allergens close to their face. When the dog shakes or rubs against furniture, these allergens can become airborne, potentially causing problems for people with allergies.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, the Brussels Griffon’s shedding and grooming needs make it less suitable for those with dog allergies. Potential owners with sensitivities should spend time with the breed before bringing one home to assess their individual reaction.

16. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs known for their luxurious double coats. These pint-sized pooches shed moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal changes.

Their dense undercoat and long outer coat can trap allergens like dander, saliva, and urine proteins. When these particles are released into the air, they can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Pomeranians require regular grooming to manage their shedding and reduce the spread of allergens. Daily brushing helps remove loose fur and dander, but this process can also release allergens into the environment.

Despite their small size, Pomeranians can produce a significant amount of allergens relative to their body mass. This makes them potentially problematic for people with dog allergies.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Pomeranians are not considered a good choice for allergy sufferers due to their shedding and grooming needs.

17. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. They have short, smooth coats that shed moderately throughout the year.

These compact canines produce dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Their saliva also contains allergens that may cause problems for some people.

Boston Terriers have a tendency to drool, especially after eating or drinking. This can increase the spread of allergenic proteins in the home environment.

Regular grooming and bathing can help reduce allergens, but may not completely eliminate the risk for allergy sufferers. Frequent vacuuming and air purification are recommended for households with Boston Terriers.

Despite their charming personalities, these dogs may not be the best choice for individuals with severe allergies or asthma. Potential owners should spend time with a Boston Terrier before adopting to assess their allergic reactions.

18. Borzoi

Borzois, also known as Russian Wolfhounds, are elegant and graceful dogs with long, silky coats. Their luxurious fur can be problematic for allergy sufferers, as it tends to shed moderately throughout the year.

These large sighthounds produce dander, like all dogs, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Their size means they have more skin surface area, potentially leading to increased allergen production.

Borzois require regular grooming to maintain their coat and minimize shedding. This grooming process can release allergens into the air, making them less suitable for people with allergies.

While not the worst offenders for allergies, Borzois are not considered hypoallergenic. Those with dog allergies should exercise caution and spend time with a Borzoi before bringing one into their home.

19. Cockapoo

Cockapoos are a popular mixed breed resulting from crossing Cocker Spaniels with Poodles. Despite their cute appearance, they may not be ideal for allergy sufferers.

Cockapoos inherit traits from both parent breeds, including their coat characteristics. While Poodles are known for being hypoallergenic, Cocker Spaniels are not.

The coat of a Cockapoo can vary widely, ranging from curly to wavy or straight. This inconsistency means some Cockapoos may produce more allergens than others.

Regular grooming is essential for Cockapoos to minimize shedding and dander. However, even with proper care, these dogs can still trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Potential owners with allergies should spend time with a Cockapoo before committing to ensure compatibility. It’s important to note that no dog breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic.

20. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are small, terrier-like dogs known for their distinctive monkey-like faces. Despite their compact size, these dogs can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Affenpinschers have a dense, rough coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Their fur can trap allergens like dander, saliva, and urine proteins, which are then released into the environment.

Regular grooming is necessary to maintain an Affenpinscher’s coat, which can increase exposure to allergens for allergy sufferers. Brushing and combing their fur can release trapped particles into the air.

These dogs also have a tendency to bark and yap frequently. This behavior can increase the spread of allergens through saliva droplets in the air.

While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, Affenpinschers may pose more challenges for people with allergies compared to some other breeds. Their combination of shedding, grooming needs, and vocal nature can contribute to higher allergen levels in the home.

Understanding Dog Allergies

Dog allergies can significantly impact the quality of life for sensitive individuals. Recognizing the causes, symptoms, and differences between allergies and sensitivities is crucial for managing reactions effectively.

Common Allergens

Dogs produce several allergens that can trigger reactions in susceptible people. The primary culprit is a protein found in dog saliva, urine, and dander. This protein adheres to the dog’s skin cells and fur, becoming airborne when shed.

Other common allergens include:

Dog hair
Skin oils
Pollen or dust trapped in the dog’s coat

Contrary to popular belief, a dog’s fur itself is not an allergen. However, longer-haired breeds may collect and spread more allergens than short-haired dogs.

Symptoms of Dog Allergies

Dog allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:

Sneezing and runny nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Nasal congestion
Coughing or wheezing
Skin rashes or hives

In some cases, individuals may experience asthma attacks triggered by dog allergies. Symptoms typically appear within 15-30 minutes of exposure to the allergen.

The severity of reactions can vary based on the individual’s sensitivity and the amount of allergen present. Some people may only react when in close contact with dogs, while others might experience symptoms simply by entering a home where a dog lives.

Difference Between Allergies and Sensitivities

Allergies and sensitivities to dogs are often confused, but they involve different immune system responses.

Dog Allergies:

Involve an overreaction of the immune system
Trigger the production of antibodies
Cause immediate and reproducible symptoms
Can be diagnosed through skin or blood tests

Dog Sensitivities:

Do not involve the immune system directly
Symptoms may develop more slowly
Can be difficult to diagnose with standard allergy tests
May cause a wider range of symptoms, including digestive issues

Understanding this distinction can help in developing appropriate management strategies. While allergies often require strict avoidance or medical intervention, sensitivities might be managed through reduced exposure and lifestyle adjustments.

Management and Prevention Strategies for Dog Allergies

Effective management of dog allergies involves a combination of reducing allergen exposure, medical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments. These strategies can help alleviate symptoms and allow people with allergies to coexist with dogs more comfortably.

Reducing Allergen Exposure

Regular grooming is essential for minimizing allergens. Brush dogs outdoors daily to remove loose fur and dander. Bathe dogs weekly using hypoallergenic shampoos to reduce allergen levels on their skin and coat.

Create allergen-free zones in the home, particularly in bedrooms. Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove airborne allergens. Vacuum carpets and upholstery frequently with a HEPA-equipped vacuum cleaner.

Wash dog bedding weekly in hot water. Consider using allergen-proof covers on human bedding to reduce exposure during sleep. Keep dogs off furniture and out of bedrooms to limit allergen spread.

Medical Treatments

Antihistamines are common first-line treatments for dog allergies. These medications block histamine, reducing symptoms like sneezing and itching. Nasal corticosteroid sprays can effectively reduce inflammation and congestion.

For severe allergies, immunotherapy may be recommended. This treatment involves regular injections or sublingual drops of small allergen doses to build tolerance over time.

Decongestants can provide short-term relief for nasal congestion. Eye drops may help alleviate itchy, watery eyes. Consult an allergist to determine the most appropriate medical treatment plan.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help flush out allergens and reduce congestion. Use a neti pot or nasal spray for this purpose.

Wear a mask when grooming dogs or cleaning areas where they spend time. Change clothes after prolonged contact with dogs to avoid spreading allergens.

Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in multiple rooms. These devices can significantly reduce airborne allergens.

Increase ventilation in your home by opening windows regularly. This helps remove stale air and reduce indoor allergen concentrations.

Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce allergy symptoms. Stay hydrated to thin mucus secretions and ease congestion.