Allergies are frustrating in general, whether you're allergic to a certain type of food or just seasonal pollen. But if you're an animal lover and find that your allergies flare up around dogs, it can be downright disheartening. You may believe that your sniffles and sneezing are tied to a dog's coat, but you've actually been misled.

"Many people believe that pet allergies are caused by shedded fur, but in fact, most people who suffer are actually allergic to their dander," Whitney Woolstenhulme, founder of the poodle-mix website Doodle Doods, tells Best Life. "Dander will cling to fur, and so when the fur is shed, the dander particles will disperse into the air and cause a reaction."

While no breed is 100 percent hypoallergenic, some dogs are less likely to trigger severe reactions. "Scientists believe that the characteristics of the coat and skin in these breeds mean that they produce fewer allergens," a veterinarian tells Best Life.

If you've been struggling to find the right dog to avoid those red itchy eyes and scratchy throat, our experts have got you covered. Read on to find out the six breeds vets recommend seeking out.

READ THIS NEXT: The 7 Best Dogs for Beginners, Vets Say.

1 Bichon Frisé

One of the breeds most recommended to Best Life by experts was the Bichon Frisé. These small white dogs are surely fluffy, but they're not going to make your allergies flare up.

"Apart from their kind and lovable personality that makes them so great for family dogs, Bichons are well-known for their pure white double coats that produce almost no dander," explains Sabrina Kong, DVM at We Love Doodles. "Bichons shed very infrequently, but when they do shed, they do it in very small quantities as most of their hair ends up being caught up in their undercoat, which is why they're so great for people with allergies."

Aiden Taylor, professional dog trainer and founder of the blog FurDoos, adds that these pups' temperaments are great for those with depression and anxiety. Bichons also won't shy away from houseguests. "When they meet new people, they quickly become best friends, so you don't have to worry when people are coming for dinner or Netflix & chill," he says.

2 Bedlington Terrier

Searching for a sweet, unique, and allergy-friendly breed? Look no further than the Bedlington Terrier.

"Always fun-loving and wanting to be in the center of attention, this breed is best for toddlers and seniors," Taylor tells Best Life, noting that they're a "curly fur of cuteness."

Erin Mastopietro, CEO of Dope Dog, agrees and notes that the Bedlington Terrier also has "lamb-like fur" that's allergy-friendly. "Their coat does not shed much but can grow really quick, so you need to clip them now and then." But if you're fine with that, Mastopietro adds that "they are gentle, friendly, and love to gain the attention of their family."

READ THIS NEXT: 5 Low-Maintenance Dogs You Barely Need to Walk.

3 Basenji

You might not recognize this unique breed, which is currently ranked as the 87th most popular in the U.S., according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). The Basenji is often cited as a "cult breed," and this is one group those with allergies might consider joining.

"This breed has a short and low shedding coat," Mastopietro says, adding that you'll want to tend to the Basenji's shiny fur with a "soft bristle brush." But what they lack in allergens they make up for in energy, so this dog is a great choice for those with an active lifestyle, she adds.

4 Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, commonly referred to as "Yorkies," are also a solid option for the allergy afflicted.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb

"They have a silky coat that's more similar to human hair than a fur coat, and they don't shed," Daniel Caughill, co-founder of The Dog Tale, explains. "This means they'll need a haircut a couple of times a year, but they won't shed all over your home, leaving pet dander to agitate your allergies."

Taylor calls the Yorkie "a walking hypoallergenic plushy," and notes that their small stature is good for those with limited space. "Being a lap dog during the Victorian Era, this breed is a perfect comfort during autumn and winter months," he adds.

READ THIS NEXT: The Dog You Should Have Based on Your Zodiac Sign.

5 Poodle

Poodles are another hypoallergenic breed, and like Yorkies, they have a single layer of hair. "Poodles have a single coat, as opposed to the double-layered coat that most other dogs have," Woolstenhulme says. "This means that rather than shedding, their curly, single coat will just keep growing."

Their signature curly coats don't require too many trips to the groomer, and using a hypoallergenic shampoo can further downplay allergy symptoms, says Erika Barnes, founder and CEO of Petsmitten.

However, Poodles are also known for their tricky temperament, which led to the development of crossbreeds, Woolstenhulme adds. These include familiar names like Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever and Poodle), Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever and Poodle), and Maltipoos (Maltese and Poodle). These are also good selections for those with allergies, but you want to make sure that your doggo "inherits more genes from the Poodle side," according to Woolstenhulme. This will require a bit of research into Doodle genealogy and a bit more grooming, so you'll have to accept that as a tradeoff.

For more pet advice delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

6 Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a unique choice for those with allergies, as there are both hairless and powderpuff varieties.

According to Hilda Wong, founder of Bark Posts, if you opt for the powderpuff, you'll have to commit to daily brushing of its coat, but it shouldn't be too challenging.

"The undercoat is shorter and the overcoat is long, making it easy to brush," she says. "If you have a problem with a dog's hair then you can go for hairless Chinese Crested because the shedding is not a problem and dog odor is also less."

Wong further notes that, like other breeds on this list, the Chinese Crested will fit in with your family and is both attentive and adaptable.

Abby Reinhard Abby Reinhard is a Senior Editor at Best Life, covering daily news and keeping readers up to date on the latest style advice, travel destinations, and Hollywood happenings. Read more Filed UnderAnimals • Health Advice • News • Pets Read This Next

• 

  The Surprising Way Dogs Find Their Way Home

  This might act as a compass for our lost canine companions. October 3, 2022
• 

  The 8 Best Dog Breeds If You Work From Home

  Pet experts say these breeds make the best canine coworkers. September 30, 2022
• 

  The Smart Man's Guide to Spotting Counterfeit Wine

  That $2,000 bottle of Bourdeaux might be worth $20. Here’s how to be sure it’s the real thing. April 13, 2017
• 

  The 5 Best Light-Bodied Red Wines for Extending Your Summer

  Don't let September ruin a killer party. August 25, 2017
• 

  17 Insanely Cool New Luxury Bicycles for Spring

  Meet the bikes that cost more than a car. March 31, 2017
• 

  Best Life Essentials

  You deserve the best. Live life to the fullest with these ultimate essentials. October 21, 2016
• 

  This Is the Safest Way to Store Meat

  Don't let that filet set you up for food poisoning. February 7, 2018
• 

  Here Are the 10 Wealthiest Cryptocurrency Millionaires Under 40

  Including one guy who is only 24 years-old! February 7, 2018
• 

  This Is the Safest Way to Clean Your Floors

  Keep your floors clean and looking brand new with this easy tip. February 8, 2018
• 

  15 Things Your Real Estate Agent Won't Tell You

  These are sure to shock even the most intrepid homebuyers. February 14, 2018