Whether you have dog allergies like me, or you’re just looking for a low-shed dog, hypoallergenic dog breeds have become very popular over the last few years. With their increased popularity came an increase in price. However, finding an affordable hypoallergenic dog is still possible if you know where to look.
In this post, we will explore the least expensive hypoallergenic dog breeds that offer all the benefits of being allergy-friendly without needing a loan to get one. From small terriers to charming toy breeds, these budget-conscious options will help you find the perfect canine companion while keeping your finances in check.
What is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
But before we get started, it is important to understand what “hypoallergenic” really means. When a dog is referred to as hypoallergenic, it means that the breed is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to pet allergens.
While no dog breed is completely allergen-free, hypoallergenic dogs typically have coats that produce fewer allergens, such as dander, which is the primary cause of pet-related allergies.
However, dander isn’t the only source of allergens. Proteins found in a dog’s saliva, urine, and even their skin can also trigger allergic reactions. These proteins can become airborne or settle on surfaces, making it possible to come into contact with pet allergens in various ways.
Some allergy sufferers find that their symptoms vary between individual dogs, even within the same breed. By spending time with the dog, you can better gauge your potential reaction and make an informed decision.
Additionally, consulting with an allergist and discussing your plans can provide further personalized advice and testing options to ensure you find the best hypoallergenic companion for your needs.
How to Lower the Cost of Getting a Dog
There are several cost-effective ways to bring a dog into your home. One of the most common and affordable options is adopting from a shelter or rescue organization. The cost of adoption typically ranges from $250 to $800, depending on the dog’s breed and age.
Another option is purchasing an older puppy or dog from a breeder. In my research for this post, I discovered that older purebred puppies often cost significantly less than their 8-week-old counterparts.
You could also consider becoming a guardian home. In a guardian home agreement, you house and care for a dog while the breeder retains breeding rights for a specified number of litters until the contract ends.
8 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Cost Less Than The Rest
1. Cairn Terrier
Breed Group: Terrier
Weight: 13-18 pounds
Height: 9.5-10 inches
Grooming Level: Moderate
Average Costs: $1,500-$2,200
The Cairn Terrier is a small, hardy breed known for its spirited and cheerful personality. These dogs are lively and adventurous, making them excellent companions for active families.
Cairn Terriers are intelligent and curious, which can sometimes translate into a mischievous streak. They are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their independent nature means they can be a bit stubborn, so consistent and patient training is necessary to bring out the best in them.
Grooming needs for the Cairn Terrier are moderate. Their wiry, weather-resistant coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and to keep it looking tidy. Hand-stripping or trimming a few times a year helps maintain the coat’s texture.
Cairn Terriers are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable option for individuals with mild allergies. They shed minimally, which helps reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.
2. Scottish Terrier
Breed Group: Terrier
Weight: 18-22 pounds
Height: 10 inches
Grooming Level: Moderate
Average Costs: $1,300-$2,500
The Scottish Terrier, often referred to as the Scottie, is a small but sturdy breed known for its distinctive beard, eyebrows, and dignified appearance. These dogs are independent, confident, and often described as having a “big dog” attitude in a small dog’s body.
Scotties are loyal and protective, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. While they are generally good with children, they may prefer to be the only pet in the household due to their strong-willed nature.
Grooming needs for the Scottish Terrier are moderate. Their dense, wiry coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and trimming to maintain its neat appearance. Hand-stripping or clipping several times a year is recommended to keep their coat in optimal condition.
Scottish Terriers are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with mild allergies. They shed minimally, which helps reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.
3. Shih Tzu
Breed Group: Toy
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Height: 9-10.5 inches
Grooming Level: High
Average Costs: $1,800-$3,000
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy breed known for its long, flowing coat and charming personality. These dogs are affectionate and friendly, making them excellent companions for families and individuals.
Shih Tzus are known for their playful and sweet nature, and they generally get along well with children and other pets. Their intelligence and desire to please make them relatively easy to train, although they can sometimes be a bit stubborn, requiring patience and consistent training methods.
Grooming needs for the Shih Tzu are high due to their luxurious coat, which requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat healthy and looking its best, and many owners choose professional grooming services to manage their pet’s coat.
Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with mild allergies. Their minimal shedding helps reduce the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
4. West Highland White Terrier
- Group: Terrier
- Weight: 15 to 20 pounds
- Height: 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
- Grooming Level: High
- Cost: $2,000 to $3,500
The West Highland White Terrier, commonly known as the Westie, is a small but sturdy dog characterized by their bright white coats, pointed ears, and deep-set, dark eyes, giving them a distinctive and alert expression. They are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with mild allergies.
Westies are known for their friendly and spirited personality. They are full of energy and enjoy being active, making them great companions for those who lead an energetic lifestyle. Despite their small size, they have a bold and confident nature, often showing no fear towards larger dogs.
Westies are generally good with children and can make excellent family pets when socialized properly. They are intelligent and can be trained, but they also have a stubborn streak, which may require patience and consistent training techniques.
Grooming needs for Westies are moderate to high; their double coat requires regular brushing and trimming to keep it neat and clean.
5. Miniature Poodle
Breed Group: Non-sporting
Weight: 10-15 pounds
Height: 10-15 inches
Grooming Level: High
Average Costs: $2.500-$3,500
Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable, known for their alert and active nature. They are eager to please, making them one of the easiest breeds to train.
Miniature Poodles are friendly and enjoy being around people, which makes them excellent family pets. They get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their playful and affectionate demeanor ensures they are delightful companions.
The grooming needs of Miniature Poodles are quite high. Their curly, dense coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep it manageable.
Poodles are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats, making them a good choice for individuals with mild allergies.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Breed Group: Terrier
Weight: 11-20 pounds
Height: 12-14 inches
Grooming Level: Moderate
Average Costs: $2,500-$3,500
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, robust breed known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows, giving it a unique and expressive appearance. These dogs are friendly, intelligent, and energetic, making them excellent companions for active families.
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their playful and outgoing nature, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, and they often excel in obedience and agility activities.
Grooming needs for the Miniature Schnauzer are moderate. Their wiry coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and trimming to maintain its characteristic look. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition and to minimize shedding.
Miniature Schnauzers are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with mild allergies. Their low-shedding coat helps reduce the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
7. Havanese
Breed Group: Toy
Weight: 7-13 pounds
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Grooming Level: Moderate to High
Average Costs: $2,500-$3,500
The Havanese is a small, sturdy breed known for its friendly and affectionate personality. These dogs are highly social and thrive on human companionship, making them excellent family pets. They are gentle and playful, making them great with children and other pets.
Havanese dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Their adaptability and loving nature ensure they fit well into various household environments, from apartments to larger homes.
Grooming needs for the Havanese are moderate to high due to their long, silky coats that require regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
Havanese are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with mild allergies. Their minimal shedding reduces the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
8. Maltese
Breed Group: Toy
Weight: 4-7 pounds
Height: 7-9 inches
Grooming Level: High
Average Costs: $3,000-$3,500
The Maltese is a small, elegant breed known for its long, flowing white coat and lively personality. These dogs are affectionate and playful, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
Maltese dogs are known for their gentle and loving nature, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, though they can have a stubborn streak that requires consistent and patient training techniques.
Grooming needs for the Maltese are high due to their long, silky coat, which requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat’s health and appearance, and many owners opt for professional grooming services. Maltese are considered hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for individuals with mild allergies. Their minimal shedding reduces the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
How We Chose These Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
When selecting breeds for our Hypoallergenic Dog for Less list, we focused on breeders who conduct genetic health testing on their breeding dogs. These breeders typically charge more than those who skip this important step, which is why our costs might be higher than what you might expect.
However, investing a bit more in a health-tested dog can pay off in the long run, as it reduces the risk of genetic disorders that could appear as the dog ages. Comprehensive health testing screens for common hereditary conditions, increasing the chances of having healthier offspring.
While you may find these breeds for much less on puppy broker sites, taking a proactive approach could save you a substantial amount on future veterinary bills and treatments.