Shelley Mamott, Staff Writer

Many would be dog owners are hypersensitive to allergens from dogs that can trigger allergic reactions. Luckily, for these allergy sufferers there are a number of hypo allergenic, non shedding dogs breeds that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Here is a list of the top ten hypo allergenic dogs to choose from so you and your best friend can live together happily.

1. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are very small dogs with very big personalities. They have a long luxurious coat, that sheds very little but does require regular brushing and grooming. Yorkies are very outgoing and highly sociable. They are always on alert and can be relied upon to bark even at the smallest sign of danger or the presence of intruders.

2. Dachshund

Dachshunds with their big droopy ears, long bodies, short legs and warm intelligent eyes, are definitely endearing to anyone. They come in three different coat types—short or smooth haired, wire haired and long haired. The long-haired Dachshund may shed a little and need daily grooming, however the other varieties don’t shed as much. They love to be around people, and can make good watchdogs because they are naturally suspicious of strangers.

3. Poodle

The Poodle is the ideal dog for allergy sufferers because they hardly ever shed. They possess a lustrous dense coat, curly or corded and need to be groomed regularly to keep their coats free from tangles. Their affectionate and loving nature allows for a strong bond with all family members. They make excellent watchdogs and are constantly alert and quick to bark.

4. Shih Tzu

Even though the Shih Tzu has a long silky coat they are considered non shedders. However because of their long hair, they need to be regularly groomed with daily brushing to avoid tangles. Owners my opt to clip their coats close to the body if they don’t have the time and patience to do daily brushing. These high energy little dogs can be a good watch dog but without a pack leader, they can develop  ‘small dog syndrome’  which can make them behave as if they are the boss of the household.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

The Schnauzers are extremely affectionate which make them an excellent family dog. Their wiry overcoat and soft undercoat requires the need for regular grooming but they hardly ever shed making them excellent for those prone to allergies. A lot of Miniature Schnauzer owners prefer to have the hair clipped short except for its beard, legs, eyebrows, and mustache.

6. Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier has a smooth short coat which can be easily groomed and shedding is relatively insignificant. This breed loves people and because they are fairly quiet they are suited well to apartment living. They are known to be rambunctious on occasion.

7. Maltese

The Maltese is a toy breed that has very long silky hair which does not shed. This breed requires regular brushing which can prove to be expensive and time consuming. Known to be highly intelligent, a Maltese can also have a stubborn streak. These dogs can be highly excitable and fearless.

8. Havanese

The Havanese is a non-shedding dog with a silky wavy double coat that requires regular grooming. This dog’s outer coat is soft and light which allows them to be protected during extreme weather conditions. They have a strong social need and love to be with human company. They are excellent with children and highly intelligent. Known for their sunny disposition they will quickly welcome any guest into your home.

9. West Highland Terrier

The Westie’s coat has two layers—a straight outer coat which is smooth, hard and weather resistant and an inner coat that is short and soft. Their shedding is negligible. Their coat needs daily brushing to keep it free from lose hairs and to prevent matting. They are energetic little dogs with instinctive hunting skills.

10. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise has a thick wavy coat but no distinct undercoat. It does not shed but it’s fluffy coat needs to be brushed daily and some may opt for regular professional grooming. Because it can get costly and time consuming some owners may choose to clip the Bichon Frise’s hair close to its body for less cost and maintenance. These dogs are friendly, affectionate and and  live well with other pets in the household.