5 Hybrid Dog Breeds Ideal for Allergy Sufferers in the US

Hybrid dog breeds, often called designer dogs or mixes, have become increasingly popular across the United States, cherished for combining the best qualities of their parent breeds, especially when considering temperament and coat type.

Many hybrids are intentionally bred to have low-shedding coats, significantly reducing allergens in the home, making them great companions for individuals with allergies. The Poodle's genetics play a key role in many of these crosses, contributing hypoallergenic traits, less dander, and fewer allergy triggers.

Hybrid breeding programs in the US often focus on combining the intelligence and trainability of service dog breeds with coats that shed minimally, since common purebreds like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers generally shed quite a bit.

Here are five popular hybrid dog breeds favored by allergy sufferers in 2025, blending desirable traits with advice on responsible ownership.

1. The Shih-Poo

The Shih-Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a toy Poodle. Thanks to the Poodle heritage, this breed has a very low-shedding coat, typically rated 1 out of 5 for shedding, making it an excellent choice for those allergic to dog dander.

Shih-Poos are known for their loving and playful personalities but require regular grooming due to the Shih Tzu's coat needs. Many allergy sufferers prefer to hire professional groomers to minimize allergen exposure.

2. The Jackapoo

The energetic Jackapoo blends a Poodle with a Jack Russell Terrier. The shedding varies depending on the Jack Russell lineage, but typically it's low, around 2 out of 5, especially when wirehaired genetics are present.

Jackapoos are bright, spirited dogs suited for active families or individuals seeking a small to medium-sized pet without heavy shedding concerns.

3. The Maltipoo

The Maltipoo, a hybrid of Maltese and Poodle, boasts tightly curled, low-shedding coats. This breed is one of the most consistent low-shedding hybrids, earning a 1 out of 5 on the shedding scale.

Maltipoos are affectionate and gentle, making them wonderful family pets and suitable for owners dealing with allergies who manage grooming carefully.

4. The Poochon

The Poochon is a sweet blend of the Bichon Frise and a miniature Poodle. Both parents have coats that shed minimally, so this mix similarly scores 1 out of 5 in shedding.

Poochons are usually cheerful and adaptable, thriving in households that maintain regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and reduce allergens.

5. The Schnoodle

The adaptable Schnoodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, with sizing options ranging from small to larger, fitting various lifestyles.

Schnoodles are rated 1 out of 5 for shedding, ideal for allergy-sensitive owners. Their intelligence and affectionate nature require consistent grooming and mental stimulation to ensure well-being.

Care and Responsible Ownership Tips

While these hybrid dogs offer lower shedding and are often allergy-friendly, responsible pet ownership is crucial:

• Only purchase puppies from reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and ethical breeding to avoid risks linked with irresponsible breeding.
• Consistent grooming, whether at home or professionally, is necessary to keep coats healthy and prevent matting, which can increase allergen spread.
• Frequent laundering of bedding and cleaning living areas helps reduce dander in the household.
• If you have serious allergies, consult your veterinarian or a canine allergist for tailored advice about keeping a dog safely.

Why Hybrid Dogs Are Favored by Allergy Sufferers

Hybrid breeds often offer the best of both worlds: friendly, intelligent temperaments combined with coat types that shed less, which helps lower allergy triggers. This combination makes them highly appealing to families looking for a loving dog without high allergen exposure.

Although no dog is truly hypoallergenic, selecting a well-bred hybrid with a low-shedding coat can make life significantly more comfortable for allergy-prone individuals, while still enjoying all the joy a dog brings.

For those interested in beginning their search, consider exploring these breeds through Shih-Poo puppies, Jackapoo puppies, Maltipoo puppies, Poochon puppies, and Schnoodle puppies.

In summary, these five hybrid dog breeds are among the best-known options in the US for allergy sufferers in 2025. They offer a range of sizes, temperaments, and low-shedding coat qualities that suit many allergy-sensitive households.