Most dog owners these days are looking for small dogs because they’re often represented as good pets for allergy sufferers. But, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Yorkie, or Chinese Crested aren’t your only options if you or someone in your family is allergic to dogs.
Big hypoallergenic dogs exist too!
Now, when I say large dogs, I don’t mean German Shepherds. What I mean are medium-sized to large-sized canines, for example, Poodles, or some dogs of the Terrier breed. The large hypoallergenic dog breed group is rich in diversity.
We have all kinds of dogs, featuring long hair, wiry coats, curls, or no hair at all. You’ll see it soon when you read on – there’s a best friend for everyone’s taste!
The American Kennel Club divide dogs by their size. But, today, we’ll make two general groups: tiny dogs and big dogs. Our focus will be on big dogs, aka those that don’t really fit into our laps.
If you’re looking for a bigger buddy with zero to no shedding, then keep on reading.
1. Afghan Hound
Rarely is any dog breed as recognizable as the Afghan Hound.
They’re elegant, graceful, and stunningly beautiful.
Some might think long-haired dogs are not hypoallergenic.
Well, they’re wrong.
The truth is, some long-haired dogs, in this case the Afghan Hound, can absolutely be hypoallergenic.
No one said a thing about them being low-maintenance. Afghans are definitely not low-maintenance dogs!
Sadly, you’ll need to devote some time to brushing your Afghan Hound daily. This is the only way to achieve spectacular silky hair. Your Afghan will pay you back in zero allergic reactions and no stray hairs around the house.
Daily brushing isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll manage it in under 10 minutes. It’s all worth it, considering how gorgeous Afghan Hounds are!
2. Portuguese Water Dog
When the former First Family of the USA, the Obamas, moved into the White House, they wanted a dog. Almost every former US President had a canine pet as a loyal sidekick.
But, the Obamas needed a hypoallergenic dog for their kids. Enter, Portuguese Water Dogs (PWD).
A fairly unknown dog breed became extremely popular in the States when Bo and Sunny entered the White House.
The Portuguese Water Dog is highly appreciated for their friendly spirit and zero dead hairs around the house.
These dogs feature lovely curly coats, but that’s not the only physical trait special about PWDs. Thanks to their webbed feet, Portuguese Water Dogs are excellent swimmers and enjoy playing in the water all the time!
The only problem with these doggos is that there aren’t many good PWD breeders in the States and the price of an average PWD can be a bit high.
3. Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels are big hypoallergenic dogs, but they aren’t as popular as some other breeds on this list.
However, the demand for hypoallergenic dogs is pretty high, and I strongly believe that Irish Water Spaniels will become more popular in the future.
What’s so pawmazing about these doggos?
Besides the low-shedding coat, Irish Water Spaniels are blessed with stunningly good looks. These dogs are covered in curly hair, with lovely frizzy hair on their floppy ears.
Much like their friends the Portuguese Water Dogs, Irish Water Spaniels enjoy swimming and all other activities involving water.
What’s so amazing about Irish Water Spaniels is the fact they’re not only hypoallergenic, but they also suit owners with asthma, as they don’t trigger breathing problems.
4. Standard Poodle
How can we forget about the ultimate big hypoallergenic dog?
Let’s welcome our buddy, the Standard Poodle!
As the biggest of all Poodle sizes, the Standard Poodle is a wonderful specimen of big dogs that don’t trigger allergic reactions.
Poodles are usually covered in curly or wavy coats. They don’t shed, and don’t distribute saliva or dander, and thus they’re considered the ideal canines for allergic people.
When a Poodle sheds, only a small amount of dead hair gets released from its body. That small amount of hair will get trapped under the top coat.
When you brush your Poodle, you should collect all the dead hair on the brush. No more loose hairs around the house. No more sneezing!
5. Schnauzer
Believe it or not, Schnauzers, a breed we all can easily spot in a room full of dogs, are hypoallergenic. Schnauzers come in several sizes.
We’re not going to talk about miniature Schnauzers. Instead, we’ll focus on the standard Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer.
Schnauzers that come in the giant size are definitely one of the biggest of all big hypoallergenic dogs. But, their impressive appearance isn’t the only beautiful thing about them.
Giant Schnauzers are also lovely because they feature long mustaches and wavy hair.
They look like elegant gentlemen that would give you a tissue if you sneezed. But, they won’t, because they won’t make you sneeze ever!
The Giant Schnauzer is a dog that requires lots of space, time, and attention. If you can provide these three necessities, then you’ve got yourself a new pet!
6. Sheepadoodle
Popular hybrid dogs are also one of the best hypoallergenic dogs ever. It doesn’t matter that they’re not purebreds like their Poodle parents.
These dogs have been around for a while, enjoying immense popularity, featuring pawmazing traits, and going deep into our hearts.
It’s only natural to think of them as breeds of their own.
One of the popular designer dogs bred to cause zero allergies are Sheepadoodles.
This is a cross between the Poodle (usually a Standard one) and the Old English Sheepdog.
The Sheepadoodle is definitely hypoallergenic, but breeders have gone so far in their intent to create pups with more hypoallergenic traits that we now have different Sheepadoodle generations, i.e. F1 Sheepadoodle, F1b Sheepadoodle, etc.
Each generation has more hypoallergenic traits than the one before.
No matter which Sheepadoodle generation you pick, the chances you’ll suffer from dog allergies are non-existent.
7. Airedale Terrier
Did you know that hunting dogs can also be hypoallergenic dogs?
Well, of course, they can! Poodles were once hunting dogs! Airedale Terriers too! But, the only difference between Poodles and Airedale Terriers is that Airedale Terriers are still being used as terrific hunters!
This dog breed is what big hypoallergenic dogs should be like.
Airedale Terriers are quite impressive, with their tall posture, square-shaped face and small floppy ears. They’re covered in curly hair, granting their low-shedding qualities.
I hope Airedale Terriers will recover their lost popularity and there will be more Airedale breeders. They’re super friendly and great with families.
If you live outside the city, and you have plenty of space around the house, I’m sure your family will be satisfied with an Airedale Terrier pup!
Read More: Top 10 Airedale Terrier Breeders In The U.S.
8. Labradoodle
Labradoodles are one of the pioneers of designer dogs, first bred back in the 1980s.
These puppers are a result of breeding Poodles and Labrador Retriever dogs. The many good sides of Labradors and the Poodle’s hypoallergenic traits have joined to create one of the most fantastic big hypoallergenic dogs.
However, since the other side of the Labradoodle family is a shedder (yes, the Labrador), I recommend you pick a Labradoodle from one of the later generations.
As you know, the more generations a breed has the more chance of them carrying hypoallergenic traits.
How about you try the F1 Labradoodle, or maybe the F1b Labradoodle? Both are terrific and friendly towards allergic people.
9. Black Russian Terrier
As one of the finest Russian dog breeds, the Black Russian Terrier is also one of the greatest big hypoallergenic dogs.
This dog breed dates back to the beginning of World War I. Their origin country is, naturally, Russia. The Black Russian Terrier was the end result of mixing dogs like the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, Rottweiler, and Newfoundland.
Russian police and military forces needed their strong work ethic and impressive strength.
What they didn’t know was that they also created a dog breed that’s low-shedding and perfect for allergic people. The Black Russian Terrier rarely sheds.
It’s got a lovely dense coat that once served as protection from Russian winters but now serves as a soft blanket to run your fingers through it.
10. Puli
Name a dog breed with more spectacular hair. I’ll wait…
Okay, there are quite a few stunning dog coats in the canine world, but you can’t deny that Pulis are very special dogs. In fact, Pulis are weird-looking dogs, but they’re also special in every possible way.
Rarely does any other dog have such a unique hairstyle as the Puli. I mean, how many dogs have you seen fashioning dreadlocks? Not many, eh?
Well, thanks to those dreadlocks, Puli dogs are extremely hypoallergenic and highly praised among allergic people.
Still, they come with a huge downside, and that’s their grooming. You should let a professional handle your Puli, so you don’t mess up their dreadlocks and make them lose their hypoallergenic features.
11. Lagotto Romagnolo
As you may have figured out yourself by now, water dogs are quite common in the category of big hypoallergenic dogs. The coat type that’s resistant to shedding is also water-repelling and comes in various lovely shades.
The Lagotto Romagnolo dog breed is one of those unusual and rare dogs in the canine kingdom. Not many people know about them, and we don’t have many Lagotto breeders in the States, but, in Italy, they’re very popular.
The Lagotto Romagnolo is also known as the Italian Waterdog. They were highly valuable for hunting waterfowl.
But, modern times have resulted in a few changes in their job description. Lagotto Romagnolos are now used as truffle hunters. Thanks to their sharp sense of smell, Lagottos are able to find pricey truffles within seconds.
You may not go truffle hunting, but you will appreciate the Lagotto for its hypoallergenic traits and overall friendly temperament.
12. Bouvier Des Flandres
As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, long-haired dogs can be hypoallergenic too!
The Bouvier des Flandres is the ideal example.
This is definitely a rare dog breed in the States, but thanks to their low-shedding qualities, they’re highly likely to become popular. The Bouvier des Flandres is actually a herding dog from Flanders, Belgium.
Now that their herding days are mostly over, Bouviers like to serve as highly-appreciated family dogs. They’re kind, sweet, extremely friendly, and above all loyal.
Bouvier des Flandres is also an intelligent dog. They possess an impressive level of intelligence, probably making them the finest family dogs of all time! If you have a chance to adopt a Bouvier, I strongly suggest you do so.
13. Goldendoodle
A superstar among all Doodles and all big hypoallergenic dogs is the Goldendoodle.
As a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, the Goldendoodle is one of the most popular family dogs.
Their friendly nature, patient character, and eagerness to show affection all the time are not the only things making Goldendoodles so fantastic.
Breeders have gone so far that the Goldendoodle now has multiple generations. Those of you who are mildly allergic to dog hair and saliva can adopt a first gen Goldendoodle.
However, for those who are severely allergic, but still want a four-legged buddy, I recommend the F3 Goldendoodle. They’re super rare, but also super hypoallergenic.
14. Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies look awfully like some other dogs on this list. Yes, they’re almost the same as the Old English Sheepdogs (OES)!
We’ll discuss OES soon, but now, let’s see why Bearded Collies are so special!
Bearded Collies are on the bigger end of the big hypoallergenic dog scale. Back in the day, they were used as herding dogs, but also as sheepdogs. Hence the similarities with the OES.
Bearded Collies have long and straight hair that’s less likely to shed. People prone to allergies can definitely enjoy the company of a Bearded Collie.
If you decide to adopt one, I must warn you they require daily grooming sessions. Bearded Collies should be brushed regularly because their coats get mats and knots easily.
15. Bergamasco Shepherd
No, their coats aren’t matted and neglected. That’s just the way Bergamasco Shepherds look.
The Bergamasco Shepherd is one of the biggest dog breeds on this list of big hypoallergenic dogs. Since they sport a somewhat matted coat look, Bergamasco Shepherds are considered hypoallergenic.
To be precise, Bergamasco Shepherds have three different hair textures that make flat layers of felted hair, or those matted chunks of coat.
Grooming a Bergamasco Shepherd is not a walk in the park. You need to be extra careful with grooming Bergamascos as they don’t need brushing or combing. Still, they need to maintain good hygiene to prevent skin infections and conditions.
Bergamasco Shepherds aren’t a shy dog breed at all. They’re extra friendly and sociable, and enjoy meeting new people and animals too.
16. Komondor
Moving on with dogs sporting an unusual coat.
Here we have the Komondor, one of the best big hypoallergenic dogs ever.
The Komondor is known for its corded hair that resembles dreadlocks. Their coats are long and mostly white and, no, they don’t need the standard grooming regime like other big fluffy white dogs.
And, yes, they are dogs that look like mops!
The Komondor was once used as a watchdog. They’re highly alert and always keep an eye out for potential trouble. Komondors are loyal, brave, and good judges of character. They don’t trust strangers easily.
If you’re looking for a guard dog that doesn’t shed and won’t leave a mess on your sofa, then the Komondor is the right dog for you!
17. Bernedoodle
Coming from an extremely large parent breed, Bernedoodles are one of the biggest pups on our list of big hypoallergenic dogs.
These doggos may look like huge shedders, but the truth is different. Bernedoodles shed only a little bit, but you won’t even notice the dead hair. We can say with all honesty that Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic dogs.
These traits go for all these Doodles, no matter which Bernedoodle coat color they’re featuring.
Their pawmazing coat features aren’t the only good things about Bernedoodles. They’re quiet, calm, and friendly.
A Bernedoodle is a cuddle buddy, but it can also complete any task you give it successfully, and keep an eye on you and your family, just in case something bad happens.
18. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
One look at the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and you’ll see it’s got the silliest hair of them all!
Well, their name implies so too!
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier have a medium-length coat which starts off as a dark shade, but becomes lighter as the puppy grows up. This is called pigment progression and some dog breeds experience it.
Besides the lovely appearance, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a typical member of the terrier dog breed from the inside.
Yes, they are friendly and cheerful, and always ready to play. But, they’re also awfully stubborn and a menace to train. As if training terrier dogs wasn’t hard enough already!
If you want a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, prepare yourself for strenuous obedience lessons. But, it’s all worth it considering the fact they’re one of the finest big hypoallergenic dogs.
19. Old English Sheepdog
It’s time to mention the Old English Sheepdog! You know, one of the reasons why we have the Sheepadoodle!
Dog enthusiasts among you might recognize this breed under the name “Shaggy dog”. Old English Dogs are truly shaggy.
Everything’s big with this dog: the coat, the personality, and the size.
Old English Sheepdogs are one of the biggest canines on this list. They were purposely bred for sheep herding and escorting cattle to the market. So, their work ethic isn’t to be doubted at all.
The Old English Sheepdog is very proud of its long coat that doesn’t shed at all. It does require regular brushing to keep it nice, fluffy, and shaggy.
Looking for a dog that will turn heads and won’t turn your life upside down? The Old English Sheepdog is the dog for you!
20. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
What do you mean you don’t need a cool gundog name? Of course, you do! Because, after reading about the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon you’ll want to have one.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is definitely the best gundog. They can fetch and hunt down any animal you want them to!
A dog so spectacular deserves a cool gundog name, right?
When they’re not hunting, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons like to stay active and do all sorts of exercises. These dogs have high energy levels, so daily exercise is in order.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is one of those scruffy-looking dog breeds. They have a soft double coat with wiry hair.
Even though they don’t shed and are considered to be hypoallergenic, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons still need lots of grooming and even occasional coat hand stripping.
Regular grooming will make your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon the star of the forest!
21. Aussiedoodle
Thanks to strong Poodle genes, Aussiedoodles, a mix of Poodles and Australian Shepherds, are considered hypoallergenic.
Aussiedoodles are low to non-shedding dogs. They also lose zero to no dander, and they don’t salivate at all. This makes them an ideal hypoallergenic dog breed.
No matter which hairstyle your Aussiedoodle fancies, the suitability for allergic people doesn’t decrease.
Besides having terrific outer features, Aussiedoodles are sweethearts from the inside too. These puppers are super smart and loyal. Training them can be a bit of a struggle because they are stubborn fellas, but you’ll get the hang of it.
22. Mountain Cur
What’s that weird-looking dog? It’s got the funniest facial expression ever, along with the quirkiest-looking ears!
That’s the Mountain Cur! It’s a 100% American dog breed and truly is something else.
You don’t get a chance to see a Mountain Cur every day. If you are lucky enough to adopt one, you’re in for a treat. Mountain Cur dogs are big, but they don’t shed. In fact, these dogs are considered low-maintenance pooches.
You won’t need to worry about brushing, vacuuming, or sneezing all the time. The Mountain Cur is that awesome!
However, you will need to make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise because this is a highly active dog breed. The Mountain Cur is officially recognized by the AKC, even though it was once considered a mutt dog.
23. Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier dog breeds are something special. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and coat textures. While most of them trigger allergic reactions, i.e. Jack Russels, some actually don’t.
The hypoallergenic Terrier we’re all looking for is the Kerry Blue Terrier.
Kerry Blue Terriers boast a lovely curly coat in a shade of deep blue. It’s curly, and a bit wiry around the face where the hair is longer. Still, this only increases the cuteness factor.
These Terriers are bred to assist humans in multiple ways. Kerry Blue Terriers can chase vermin, but also herd cattle, or serve as hunting dogs.
You might not need them for the same purposes but, don’t worry, these dogs have one more: they’re awesome companions and deeply loyal to their humans.
24. Xoloitzcuintli
Wait a minute: aren’t these dogs like…naked?
Well, they sure seem like they’re naked!
It’s time to meet the Xoloitzcuintli, otherwise known as the Mexican Hairless dog.
The first Xoloitzcuintli breeders were the Aztecs some 3,000 years ago. The popularity of this ancient breed hasn’t dropped ever since. The Xoloitzcuintli is a rare dog breed, but people value them for their hypoallergenic features.
Since this is a dog without hair, you can expect zero allergic reactions.
Xoloitzcuintli is, actually, a good family dog. They’re calm, never aggressive, and loyal above all. Xoloitzcuintli protective instincts are definitely out of this world.
This is a great choice for your new pet if you can get past the zero coat and the feeling of touching its bare skin. I know some people are afraid of it.
See Also: Xoloitzcuintli Cost: How Much Will These Puppies Cost You?
25. Samoyed
Lastly, I want to mention one dog breed a lot of experts fight about. The hypoallergenic status of a Samoyed is questionable.
Some say it is a hypoallergenic dog, while others claim it isn’t.
Facts are facts: Samoyeds aren’t huge shedders, but they still shed.
Unfortunately, fortune won’t favor those claiming Samoyeds are hypoallergenic. There are often cases of allergic reactions around Samoyeds. Being big, fluffy, and white dogs doesn’t mean they’re big hypoallergenic dogs too.
Samoyeds are high-maintenance dogs. They need a lot of brushing on a daily basis, and thus a lot of your time. If you or your family members are having severe allergic reactions to dogs, maybe skip the Samoyed.
There are other big hypoallergenic dogs worthy of your attention!
To Sum Up…
Now that you know which big hypoallergenic dogs are out there, would you consider adopting any of them?
Dog lovers that suffer from allergies tend to seek dogs that will be low-maintenance ones. Sadly, not a lot of them are familiar with dogs like Komondors or Pulis which require a minimum amount of grooming.
I sincerely hope that after reading this article, allergic people will open their minds and try some other breeds that are out there. Poodles are great and highly trainable, but the Portuguese Water Dog is spectacular too!
Go back through the list and pick your favorite big hypoallergenic dogs!