At Stokeshire, we work with hundreds of families every year who want the joy of a dog without the constant allergy symptoms.
The truth is this: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic — but coat type, genetics, and grooming routines can dramatically reduce allergic reactions.
Our Australian Mountain Doodles, Golden Mountain Doodles, and Bernedoodles are intentionally bred for allergy-friendly coats, predictable shedding, and calm, family-centered temperaments.
This guide will help you understand why many doodles are more allergy-friendly than traditional breeds — and how to choose the right puppy for your home.
What “Hypoallergenic” Really Means
The term “hypoallergenic” is one of the most common—and misunderstood—words in the dog world. It suggests a complete absence of allergens, but the truth is a bit more nuanced.
For a dog to be considered hypoallergenic it means it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. It does not mean it is 100% allergen-free. The primary culprits behind dog allergies aren’t the hairs themselves, but tiny proteins found in dander (skin flakes), saliva, and urine. These allergens can become airborne or get trapped in a dog’s coat, triggering symptoms in sensitive individuals.
This is why no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic. However, the type of coat a dog has plays a massive role in managing allergies. Dogs that shed heavily release large amounts of dander and hair into the environment, spreading allergens everywhere. In contrast, dogs with low-shedding coats keep dander and saliva-coated hairs trapped within their curls, significantly reducing the amount of allergens in your home.
This distinction is crucial. It’s not about the breed itself but about the specific coat genetics that produce a low-shedding, allergy-friendly companion.
→ Explore more hypoallergenic vs. non-hypoallergenic dog education
Why Doodles Are Considered Hypoallergenic
The secret to the doodle’s allergy-friendly reputation lies in their Poodle heritage. Poodles are celebrated for their single-layer coat of curly hair that sheds very little. When crossed with beloved breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, or Australian Shepherd, this desirable coat trait is passed on.
Here’s what makes doodles an excellent choice for allergy sufferers:
- The Poodle Contribution: Poodles do not have a traditional fur coat. Instead, they have hair that grows continuously and sheds minimally, similar to human hair. This trait is a cornerstone of doodle breeding.
- Less Shedding, Fewer Allergens: Doodles inherit this low-shedding quality, meaning fewer allergen-covered hairs are released onto your furniture, floors, and clothes.
- Dander-Trapping Curls: The signature wavy and curly coats of doodles are brilliant at trapping dander and loose hairs. Instead of falling out, they get caught in the surrounding coat until they are removed through regular brushing.
- Furnishings Matter: A key genetic component is the presence of “furnishings”—the adorable mustache, beard, and eyebrows characteristic of doodles. These furnishings are linked to the low-shedding coat type that is ideal for families with allergies. Unfurnished doodles, while lovely, tend to have straighter, higher-shedding coats.
- Hybrid Vigor: Crossbreeding can also lead to “hybrid vigor,” which often results in healthier dogs with more stable and predictable coat traits when managed by a responsible breeder.
→ Read: “Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic? Separating Fact from Fluff”
Coat Types Explained: Curly, Wavy & Unfurnished
At Stokeshire, we focus on breeding doodles with predictable, allergy-friendly coats. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right companion for your family’s needs.
Curly Coat
This coat is the most similar to a Poodle’s. It consists of tight, dense curls and is the best option for individuals with moderate to severe allergies, as it sheds the least. This coat requires diligent daily brushing to prevent matting but offers the highest level of allergy friendliness.
Wavy Coat
Often called a “fleece” coat, this type offers the best of both worlds. Its soft, flowing waves are beautiful, low-shedding, and easier to maintain than a curly coat. It’s an ideal balance for families with mild to moderate allergies who want a lower-maintenance grooming routine.
Unfurnished Coat
An unfurnished doodle lacks the signature beard and eyebrow furnishings. Their coat is typically straighter and sheds more, making them less suitable for families with significant allergies. However, their incredible temperament and classic “retriever” look make them a wonderful choice for families without allergy concerns.
→ See more allergy-friendly doodle coat education
Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids (Stokeshire Edition)
A family dog should be more than just allergy-friendly; it needs a temperament that meshes seamlessly with the energy and love of children. Our doodles are bred not just for their coats, but for their hearts. Picture impromptu cuddle sessions during storytime and a joyful, wagging tail at every family barbecue—that’s the experience a Stokeshire Doodle brings.
Our puppies are ideal for families because we prioritize:
- Gentle Temperaments: We select parent dogs known for their patient, loving, and gentle natures.
- Predictable Family Energy: Our Australian Mountain Doodles, Golden Mountain Doodles, and Bernedoodles are known for their balanced energy levels, making them perfect playmates who also know when it’s time to settle down.
- Early Temperament Testing: We use the respected Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test to understand each puppy’s individual personality, allowing us to match them with the right family dynamic.
- The Stokeshire Method: Our puppies begin their lives with a foundation of socialization and training, exposing them to various sights, sounds, and gentle handling to build confidence and adaptability.
→ Browse more hypoallergenic resources for families with kids
Best Large Hypoallergenic Dogs
For those who believe bigger is better, our Standard Doodles offer the perfect combination of size, gentle spirit, and allergy-friendly coats. They are adventure-ready companions for active Midwest families, equally happy on a hiking trail or curled up at your feet.
Our large hypoallergenic breeds include:
- Standard Golden Mountain Doodles (GMDs): These gentle giants combine the loving nature of a Golden Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle.
- Standard Australian Mountain Doodles (AMDs): A mix of Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle, AMDs are intelligent, loyal, and adventurous dogs with beautiful, allergy-friendly coats.
- Large Bernedoodles: Known for their striking tri-color coats and calm, affectionate personalities, our large Bernedoodles are fantastic, low-shedding family members.
These breeds are celebrated for their strong family temperaments and coats that help keep allergies under control.
→ Read the full guide: “Best Large Hypoallergenic Dogs for Families”
Stokeshire’s Allergy-Friendly Breeds
We have poured our hearts and expertise into perfecting three exceptional doodle breeds, each offering a unique blend of traits to fit different families.
Australian Mountain Doodles (AMD)
Our AMDs are known for their silky, low-shed coats and predictable outcomes. They are athletic and intelligent, making them adventure-ready companions for active families.
Golden Mountain Doodles (GMD)
With therapy-grade gentleness and stunning wavy coats, GMDs are the quintessential family dog. Their rich color genetics and low-shedding nature make them a popular choice.
Bernedoodles
The classic tri-color markings of the Bernedoodle are unmistakable. We breed for wavy and curly coats to minimize shedding while maximizing their calm, loving, and goofy personalities.
How to Choose the Right Puppy if You Have Allergies
Finding the right puppy is a journey we’re honored to guide you on. Here are the steps to ensure a successful match for your family.
- Identify Your Sensitivity Level: Be honest about the severity of your allergies. Are they mild, moderate, or severe? This will be the most important factor in determining the right coat type.
- Match to the Right Coat: For severe allergies, a curly coat is the safest bet. For mild to moderate allergies, a wavy coat is often a perfect fit. We can help guide this decision based on our deep knowledge of our puppies’ genetics.
- Consider Early Exposure: If possible, we encourage families to visit and interact with puppies to gauge their reaction. This “allergy test” can provide invaluable peace of mind.
- Establish a Grooming Routine: A consistent grooming schedule is key. This includes weekly brushing to remove trapped hair and dander, along with regular baths using a gentle shampoo.
- Control Your Home Environment: Simple habits like using HEPA air purifiers, washing dog bedding frequently, and creating “dog-free” zones (like the bedroom) can make a world of difference.
Your dream of dog ownership is within reach. We are here to help you find the perfect, furry addition to your family.
→ Talk to us about which coat type is best for your family
Our Hypoallergenic Promise: A Commitment to Honesty
While no breeder can guarantee a 100% allergy-free dog, we can promise our unwavering commitment to you. Our promise is one of transparency, education, and support.
- Predictable Coat Outcomes through careful genetic selection and years of breeding experience.
- Early Genetic Testing for coat traits, so you know exactly what to expect.
- Early Grooming Exposure for our puppies, so they are comfortable with the brushing and bathing needed to keep allergens at a minimum.
- Lifelong Support and Education to help you manage your home and grooming routine for a happy, sneeze-free life together.
Our dedication is to setting you and your new puppy up for a lifetime of success and companionship.
