The best non-shedding dogs for kids are Poodles, Basenji, Affenpinscher, Lhasa Apso, Terriers, Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, and Havanese.

Although there are no such breeds as completely hypoallergenic, there are several breeds that will cause fewer difficulties for children with allergies.

Dog allergies affect 10–15% of children; however, the majority of them are sensitive to dog dander rather than dog hair.

Dogs who shed less, on the other hand, are the least prone to induce allergy reactions since dander is generally attached to the hair.

Some dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, are excellent with kids, but they shed a lot, are more prone to induce allergic reactions.

People who get a Golden doodle may think that their dog does not shed much, but they may shed just like a Golden Retriever.

Some studies have indicated that children who have been exposed to dogs early in life are less prone to develop allergies, but more research is needed. [1]

Note: Drooling dogs create complications for children with allergies.

If you’re searching for a list of the best non-shedding dog breeds, we’ve compiled a list that we believe are both fantastic with children and ideal for people with allergies.

They’re all adorable, hypoallergenic, and won’t shed hair in your home.

10 Best Non Shedding Dogs for Kids

  • Poodles
  • Basenji
  • Affenpinscher
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Terriers
  • Bichon Frise
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • French Bulldog
  • Havanese

Poodles

Poodles are an energetic and hypoallergenic breed that is easy to train, intelligent, and ready for fun activities.

They prefer being around kids since they like being active.

These are not, however, low-intelligence animals.

Poodles were raised and trained as water retrievers, so new tricks, tasks, and games excite them.

They are considered second in intelligence, just behind the extremely intelligent Border Collie.

Poodles shed a little bit, but their loose hair gets tangled in the coat that needs to be combed out.

Grooming is required based on the length of their hair; however, if the hair is trimmed short, then brushing is only required every 6-8 weeks or so.

There are three sizes of poodles: standard, toy, and miniature.

Standard poodles are most patient with kids below three, while miniature and toy poodles fit better with older children.

Note: Poodles may bite out of fear if kids threaten them.

Overall, poodles shed very little and release less dander, making them an excellent hypoallergenic breed. [2]

Basenji

The Basenji is ideal for those who want a hound but don’t want the size or hair problems.

After several unsuccessful attempts, the breed was finally transported to America and England.

It belonged to Africa, and English immigrants were the ones who took it down.

The Basenji is a short-sized dog with attractive markings, which might include brindle or tri-colors.

The breed has a reputation for being extremely intelligent.

The Basenji is an alert, lively, and curious pet who lives on exercise and action.

They get along well with kids; however, the temperament of the Basenji is best suited to older kids.

When meeting new people, Basenjis are excellent with family but distant with strangers as they require a long time to adjust.

They are self-sufficient and are not the type of dog that can be trained to perform tricks for treats.

They are a great companion for families that love to spend most of the time outside because of their curious and fearless temperament.

Because of its unusual, curved larynx, the Basenji does not bark but instead makes a yodel-like sound.

It is also a relatively peaceful dog at home.

It only requires a light brushing every now and again and is odorless.

Affenpinscher

If you’d like a dog that is brave to the core while remaining unaffected by its size, an Affenpinscher is a breed for you.

In France, these dogs are called the mustached devil, and in Germany, they are known, as the monkey-faced terrier, due to their bold and naughty nature.

However, the house ladies quickly got attracted with their look, and it became a housebound pet.

They are faithful and loving, and they like to enjoy themselves with their loved ones.

Affenpinschers guard their food and toys with their lives.

We would not recommend this dog for families with small and cranky toddlers, as these little dogs can become violent and irritable in these situations.

It requires a variety of training since it gets bored quickly and reacts better to a harder touch than a relaxed one.

The coat is harsh and wiry, but allergic patients have no issues if their coat is cut to a decent length and combed often.

 Affenpinschers were bred to hunt out pests and rats in stables

Because of its tiny size, the Affenpinscher survives in an apartment.

It also only barks when absolutely required.

But when comes to aggressiveness, it doesn’t give a damn about its size and fights just like a large dog would.

Lhasa Apso

A Lhasa Apso is among the long line of friendly dogs who are ironically close with family members but stay reserved with outsiders.

They’re adorable and cuddly, and regardless of their size, they’re good house guardians.

The Lhasa Apso is a strong dog that can develop into a joyful pet.

It originates from Tibet and may appear tiny and fragile.

It requires care and a lot of training, yet it does not get tired quickly.

This dog’s job was to act as a guard and warrior at Tibetan monasteries and temples that were high in the mountains.

Lhasa refers to Tibet’s holiest city, while Apso refers to a long-haired dog.

As a result, the Lhasa Apso is a long-haired watchdog of Lhasa and a representation of Tibet’s bearded snow lion.

They are also prone to Canine Atopic Dermatitis. [3]

It doesn’t shed much, but it does require weekly brushing to maintain its fur in good condition.

You may always trim the hair short, but it still needs to be brushed once a week.

Terriers

Yorkshire terriers, Cairn terriers, Wire Fox Terriers, Scottish terriers, Bedlington terriers, and Welsh terriers all shed very little and only need brushing once a week.

Terriers, such as the Tibetan terrier, are typically small to medium-sized canines with a powerful prey drive because they were bred to hunt down rats and other small creatures.

You must keep tiny pets out from your terrier’s reach as they could easily kill them. [4]

Terriers are also excellent diggers, and even the well-kept lawns may suffer due to their aggressive digging.

They are, nevertheless, incredibly tolerant with children, especially the most clingy ones.

They adapt well to the training and, once adjusted, become affectionate, obedient, and fantastic companions.

It’s preferable to take them for a walk on a leash because if they see rodents, they’ll hunt them down to satisfy their thirst.

We cannot express enough how gentle and caring they are with children, making them a fantastic first pet.

There are total 26 types of terriers recognized in the US.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a lively and fun-loving breed that originated in France, where the small dogs were often pampered pets of nobles.

After the French Revolution was over, Bichons became stray dogs when they came into the life of commoners.

These fluffy white canines eventually became renowned circus dogs with remarkable acts due to their intelligence, energy, and beauty.

Bichon Frises are still playful and want to spend time with loved ones.

They interact with people of all age groups in a kind and respectful manner.

Bichons are neither delicate nor fragile, despite their small size.

They can be amazing buddies if children are trained to handle them softly and respectfully.

Professional grooming is required for the thick hypoallergenic coat.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The joyful, even-tempered Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good companion to everyone, even kids, especially family members.

This breed prefers cuddling and fewer play sessions and is kind and friendly.

You need to teach your children how to properly interact with these small dogs since they do not enjoy playing rough.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, like the Pug, is one of the larger members of the AKC Toy Group.

It is tiny enough to live in apartments and easy to carry while traveling.

Although it is lively and energetic, regular walks in the park or neighborhood are enough to give a Cavalier appropriate exercise.

The low-maintenance coat does not need any extensive grooming.

Did you know: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was named after King Charles II of Britain.

Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a cheerful little dog who enjoys spending time with his or her favorite humans.

Just like many other dogs in the AKC Sporting Group, this breed was bred to be friendly with people, other dogs, and cats.

Cocker Spaniels make excellent friends for kids who are kind and respectful.

They like playing and will fetch all the balls your kids can toss, as well as participate in many dog sports or adventures.

These canines are small enough to not hurt little kids yet strong enough to handle some light roughhousing.

Cockers are active but only require moderate exercises like daily walks and fetching balls.

However, their coat requires professional maintenance on a regular basis.

French Bulldog

The French bulldog, often known as a Frenchie, is a versatile and energetic breed that enjoys doing everything from lying on the couch all day to playful sessions with their loved ones.

The French bulldog is basically a mini version of the Bulldog, which is equally kid-friendly and is also known as the English Bulldog.

The only significant difference is Frenchie’s enormous “bat” ears that stick up in the air.

When you mix Frenchie’s distinct looks with its curious and friendly attitude, it’s no surprise that adults and children both are drawn to them. [5]

Frenchie, despite its small size, can make an excellent companion for kids if they are taught to play well and politely engage with the dog.

Their sleek coat requires a little care, and the breed needs moderate daily exercise.

You need to brush their coat once a week to get rid of any loose hair.

Be careful about breeds like Frenchie, which are more prone to respiratory problems and overheating.

Havanese

This breed was founded more than 300 years ago in Havana.

Havanese are the only breed native to Cuba, and they were beloved lapdogs of affluent plantation owners till mid 19th century.

The Havanese are pleasant and friendly with people and make friends everywhere they go.

Though several toy breeds are not advised for children, this canine is little but strong and has a reputation for being great with kids who are gentle.

The Havanese is extremely energetic and fast, so kids will enjoy teaching them many tricks.

You can engage the kids to brush their coat on a regular basis, or it may be trimmed short for better care.

Conclusion

In the end, you need to find the perfect dog that could easily get along with your kids.

Even if the dog is great for toddlers or kids, many pet experts recommend waiting until your kid gets five.

By that age, kids get a bit mature and could easily be taught to handle pets with care.

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