Are Terriers Hypoallergenic?

Quick Take

• The 'hypoallergenic' label on dog breeds is largely a marketing myth, a claim that a scientific study now has the numbers to prove. See the science →
• Most allergy sufferers blame fur and dander, but there's a third culprit that makes truly allergen-free dogs impossible. Discover all three culprits →
• The one terrier breed that produces zero shedding might actually make your allergies worse, not better. Check the non-shedding breeds →
• With nearly 50 recognized terrier breeds, picking the wrong one could mean years of allergy symptoms you never saw coming. Explore all terrier breeds →

Terriers are a diverse group of spirited dogs primarily developed in the British Isles (England, Scotland, and Ireland). They were bred to locate, chase, and flush out burrowing animals (like rats, badgers, and foxes) from underground dens, and their name comes from the Latin word terra, which means earth. Terriers first began arriving in the United States in the mid-1800s, where their development continued. The Boston terrier, for example, was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893.

Contrary to popular belief, no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic. While fur and dander have a reputation for causing allergic reactions in their owners, dog saliva is one of the primary vectors for pet allergies, and it is a major reason why no dog breed is truly 100% allergen-free. However, many terrier breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they have single coats, which significantly minimize shedding and the spread of dander that also causes allergic reactions.

Hypoallergenic Dogs Do Not Exist

Hypoallergenic is mostly a marketing term. Dogs deemed hypoallergenic are less likely to cause symptoms because they shed less hair, but they are not truly allergen-free. Scientifically, there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog breed.

A 2011 study published by the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy found that the amount of dog allergen present in homes with hypoallergenic dogs is no different from that in homes with regular breeds.

Some people do have fewer symptoms around dogs that are marketed as hypoallergenic because they are allergic only to dog fur. However, dog dander, saliva, and urine are also capable of producing allergic reactions.

Are Terriers Considered Hypoallergenic?

While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, many terriers make excellent pets for allergy sufferers. Thanks to their unique, hair-like coats, they trap dander and shed significantly less than other breeds. However, because the terrier is a massive classification, with nearly 50 recognized terrier breeds, shedding and dander levels can vary dramatically.

Which Terriers are Hypoallergenic?

Many terriers have wiry coats, while others have longer, human-like coats that shed even less frequently. It is these longer, human-like coats that are considered more hypoallergenic.

Below are just a few hypoallergenic terriers:

Yorkshire Terriers: Yorkies are small terriers that have silky, human-like coats that shed very little. They’re spunky, affectionate, and outgoing.

Bedlington Terriers: Bedlington terriers have curly coats similar to Poodles. They are small- to mid-sized dogs that are loyal, protective, and smart.

Kerry Blue Terriers: Kerry Blues have soft, wavy blue coats. They’re medium dogs, weighing 33-40 pounds. They’re affectionate, protective, and active.

American Hairless Terriers: American Hairless Terriers: American hairless terriers don’t shed at all because they don’t have fur. This is beneficial for people with fur allergies, but it might actually make dander allergies worse, since petting them exposes you directly to their skin and dander. These pups are affectionate, energetic, and sweet. They’re also quite small, weighing just 12-16 pounds.

Those with dog allergies should spend time with a dog before adopting it to ensure the dog doesn’t trigger their allergies. Remember, even dogs that are marketed as hypoallergenic can still cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Is It Possible to Own a Non-Hypoallergenic Terrier if You Have Dog Allergies?

Terriers are some of the lower-shedding dog breeds so long as their coats are cared for. This can help people with fur allergies.

Depending on the severity of your allergies, your specific triggers, and the symptoms you are willing to tolerate, you may still have an allergic response to most terriers. If you’re willing to live with some symptoms and don’t have severe allergies, you can reduce your symptoms by:

• See a doctor or try over-the-counter medications. If you haven’t already, seeing an allergist or trying a new medication might help lessen your symptoms. An allergist can determine the cause of your allergies and if there are dogs that won’t trigger them at all.
• Spend time around your terrier before committing to adoption. See how your allergies fare around the dog or breed you wish to adopt. Let them lick you, run your hands through their fur, and then touch your face.

After Adopting Your Terrier

• Use furniture covers. Even old blankets on the couch will keep fur and dander from building up on the surface. You can remove the covers before you sit, and wash them regularly.
• Give your terrier their own bed, or their own place on yours. Sleeping with your terrier on your pillow is likely to trigger your allergies. Having them sleep at the end of the bed, over the comforter, or on their own blanket may not. Alternatively, keep your terrier out of the bed altogether and provide them with their own comfortable space to sleep.
• Avoid touching your face after petting your terrier. Touching your face after petting your terrier essentially delivers the allergens directly to your sinuses.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your face or after activities known to set off your allergies, such as grooming or if your terrier licks your hands.
• Keep a clean house. Regularly vacuuming the furniture and floors, washing throw blankets, mopping, and other cleaning tasks can help reduce the allergens in your home.
• Run an air purifier. Air purifiers help remove allergens from the air.
• Groom your terrier often. Frequent brushing and regular trips to the groomer will reduce shedding around the house and can also help minimize dander.