5 Hybrid Dog Types Good for Allergy Sufferers in the UK
Hybrid dog types have surged in popularity across the UK, often called designer dogs, cross-breeds, or mongrels. These blends typically combine the best traits of their parent breeds, especially focusing on temperament and coat characteristics.
Many hybrids are bred particularly to have low-shedding coats, which helps reduce allergens around the home and can be an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Notably, the Poodle's influence in these crosses often means a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, less dander, and fewer allergy triggers.
Early hybrid breeding programmes often aimed to marry the intelligence and trainability of assistance dog breeds with low-shedding coats, since common pedigree retrievers like the Golden Retriever puppies and Labrador Retriever puppies typically shed heavily.
Below are five hybrid dog types that are popular choices for UK allergy sufferers in 2025, combining desirability with responsible breeding insights.
1. The Shihpoo
The Shihpoo results from crossing a Shih Tzu puppies with a toy poodle. The poodle side contributes a very low-shedding coat, scoring 1/5 for shedding, making it highly suitable for allergy sufferers.
Shihpoos enjoy affectionate, playful temperaments but require significant regular grooming due to the Shih Tzu's high-maintenance coat traits. Allergy sufferers often prefer to arrange grooming assistance to avoid allergen exposure.
2. The Jackapoo
The lively Jackapoo crosses a Poodle with a Jack Russell. The coat varies with the type of Jack Russell parent, but usually it sheds minimally, rated 2/5, especially when wirehaired Jack Russell genetics are involved.
Jackapoos combine intelligence and energy, suitable for active owners who seek a small to medium-sized companion without heavy shedding concerns.
3. The Maltipoo
The Maltipoo has Maltese and Poodle ancestors, both of which have tightly curled, low-shedding coats. This hybrid is one of the most predictable low-shedding types, achieving a 1/5 rating for coat shedding.
Maltipoos are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets and suitable for allergy sufferers who manage grooming well.
4. The Poochon
The Poochon is a delightful hybrid between the Bichon Frise and a miniature Poodle. Both parent breeds have coats that shed very little, and so their mix scores 1/5 on shedding scale, providing a friendly and hypoallergenic option.
They are generally cheerful and adaptable dogs, thriving in families who prioritise regular grooming to keep their coat in optimum condition and reduce allergen spread.
5. The Schnoodle
The versatile Schnoodle crosses a Schnauzer with a Poodle, both breeds having different size variants. This variety means owners can consider a small, medium or larger sized Schnoodle based on their lifestyle.
Schnoodles are ranked 1/5 for shedding, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. The breed’s intelligence and affectionate disposition demand ongoing grooming and enrichment, which helps maintain a happy, healthy dog.
Care & Responsible Ownership Tips
While these hybrid dogs offer reduced shedding and allergy-friendly coats, it's essential to emphasise responsible ownership:
- Only acquire puppies from reputable breeders who prioritise health, temperament and proper breeding ethics, reducing risks associated with indiscriminate crossbreeding.
- Regular grooming at home or professionally keeps coats healthy and prevents matting, which can exacerbate allergen spread.
- Frequent cleaning of the dog’s bedding and living areas helps minimise dander in the home.
- Consult your vet or a canine allergist for personalised advice if you suffer severe dog allergies but wish to keep a dog.
Why Hybrid Dogs Appeal to Allergy Sufferers
Hybrid dogs often combine the delight of friendly, intelligent temperaments with practical physical features like low-shedding coats. This combination attracts owners wanting a family companion with a lower chance of triggering allergic reactions.
It's important to remember that no dog is completely hypoallergenic; all dogs produce some allergens. However, selecting a carefully bred hybrid with low shedding helps create a more comfortable environment for allergy-prone owners without sacrificing the joys of pet companionship.
For those beginning a search, considering the below breeds and exploring reputable breeders can be a great start to finding a hypoallergenic dog suitable for your home:
In summary, these five hybrid dog types represent some of the best options in the UK for allergy sufferers in 2025. Each offers a blend of temperament, size variety, and coat characteristics aligning with the needs of those sensitive to pet allergens.
