Special Report

The Best Dogs for People With Allergies

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5. Irish Water Spaniel
> Size: 21-24 inches, 45-68 pounds
> Shedding: Seasonal
> Good with kids?: Better with supervision
> Trainability: Eager to please
> Life expectancy: 12-13 years

This mop-headed dog helps shed the myth that hypoallergenic pets must be close to hairless. The tallest of all spaniels recognized by the AKC, the Irish Water Spaniel is a medium-to-large sized dog that is distinguished by its curly, waterproof coat. It has yet to become a popular household choice in the United States.

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6. Kerry Blue Terrier
> Size: 17.5-19.5 inches, 33-40 pounds
> Shedding: Infrequent
> Good with kids?: Better with older children
> Trainability: Independent
> Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Although the Kerry Blue Terrier was originally bred to guard, herd, and hunt, this medium sized dog fits in well with apartment life. Intelligent and independent, the Kerry’s soft, wavy coat rarely sheds, making it a great hypoallergenic dog for any owner living in the city.

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7. Maltese
> Size: 8-10 inches, 6-8 pounds
> Shedding: Infrequent
> Good with kids?: Better with older children
> Trainability: Responds well
> Life expectancy: 12-15 years

This elegant pooch has quite the hairdo. With a floor-length coat of silky white hair, the Maltese needs to be groomed often in order to avoid knotting. Despite their dainty appearance, they have a reputation for being courageous and perky.

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8. Poodle
> Size: <10-15 inches, 4-50 pounds
> Shedding: Infrequent
> Good with kids?: Yes
> Trainability: Eager to please
> Life expectancy: 10-18 years

The Poodle is another dog breed that has to have an exceptionally groomed coat to look presentable. It is one of the only dogs that come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. This proud pooch enjoys walking, running, and swimming, so if you’re the athletic type you may just want to invite your Poodle along for the workout!

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