3 Best Hypoallergenic Medium Sized Dogs for Allergy Sufferers
Loving dogs while living with allergies can be tricky — but it doesn’t mean you have to give up on owning a pet. Choosing hypoallergenic medium sized dogs is often the perfect solution.
Table of Contents
These breeds typically shed very little, produce fewer airborne allergens (dander), and often have hair instead of fur, making them ideal for people with mild to moderate dog allergies and smaller living spaces like flats or cosy homes.
If you want a dog that’s big enough to be active and playful yet allergy-friendly, medium-sized hypoallergenic breeds offer the best of both worlds. Below are three standout choices trusted by veterinarians, breeders, and allergy-sensitive pet owners worldwide.
🐶 Top Hypoallergenic Medium Sized Dogs
1. Spanish Water Dog
Best for active families & swimmers
The Spanish Water Dog is a lively, intelligent breed known for its distinctive shaggy coat and enthusiastic personality. Often compared to the classic sheepdogs seen in old cartoons, these friendly pups thrive when given space to run, play, and swim.
✅ Key Traits:
- Extremely playful and energetic
- Excellent with children
- Strong herding instincts
- Hypoallergenic curly hair that sheds very little
- Loves water activities
These dogs are natural swimmers — if you live near a lake, beach, or have a pool, expect endless splash sessions. Despite being gentle with family, early socialisation is required between 2 to 12 months of age to avoid aloof or overprotective behaviour around strangers.
⚠️ Care Needs:
- High attention and mental stimulation required
- Regular curly coat maintenance
- Ongoing training for best behaviour
2. Bouvier des Flandres
Best hypoallergenic guard & watchdog dog
The rugged and impressive Bouvier des Flandres is built for strength and loyalty. Historically bred for farm work — such as cattle herding and cart-pulling — these dogs remain confident protectors of home and family.
Even former US President Ronald Reagan chose this noble breed as a companion.
✅ Key Traits:
- Low-shedding thick hair (not fur)
- Strong protection instincts
- Calm and affectionate with family
- Great for cold climates
- Intelligent & trainable
⚠️ Care Needs:
- Weekly brushing
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
- Firm training due to stubbornness
- Health monitoring for bloat & gastric torsion
Their sheer presence can intimidate smaller animals like cats — early discipline and obedience training are essential.
3. Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintle)
Best zero-shedding hypoallergenic dog
The fascinating Xoloitzcuintle, commonly called the Xolo, is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence — with roots dating back more than 4,000 years in ancient Mesoamerica.
Their unique hairless appearance resembles ancient Egyptian dogs carved into stone reliefs.
✅ Key Traits:
- Almost completely hair-free
- Extremely low dander production
- Sizes range 10–50 lbs
- Calm temperament
- Long life span
Some Xolos develop small patches of fine hair on the head or tail, but most remain nearly bald. Their lack of fur makes them one of the best hypoallergenic dogs for severe allergy sufferers.
⚠️ Care Needs:
- Skin moisturising
- Wearing coats in cold weather
- Sun protection outdoors
Due to near-extinction before the 1950s, finding a reputable breeder today can be difficult — especially outside Mexico and the USA.
✅ Choosing the Right Hypoallergenic Dog
When picking the perfect allergy-friendly companion, consider:
- Activity level → Energetic dogs vs relaxed lap companions
- Climate compatibility → Hairless breeds dislike cold
- Training commitment → Some breeds demand consistent discipline
- Grooming tolerance → Brushing vs skin care routines
Even hypoallergenic breeds can still produce allergens, so always spend time with the breed before adoption to ensure compatibility with your allergies.
❓ FAQs – Hypoallergenic Medium Sized Dogs
Are hypoallergenic dogs completely allergy-free?
No breed is 100% allergen-free, but hypoallergenic dogs produce much less dander and shed minimally, making allergic reactions less likely.
Which medium dog is best for severe allergies?
The Mexican Hairless (Xolo) is the top choice due to nearly zero shedding and very low allergen output.
Do Spanish Water Dogs require grooming?
Yes. Their curly coats need regular trimming and mat prevention maintenance.
Are Bouviers good family dogs?
Absolutely — once trained properly, Bouviers are loyal, gentle, and protective companions.
Can allergy sufferers have dogs indoors?
Yes — with proper cleaning routines, air purifiers, and choosing hypoallergenic breeds.
