Epic dogs tales
Living in New York is tough — especially when you love dogs but can’t stop sneezing around them. The good news? Some breeds are allergy-friendly and apartment-approved.
You love dogs — but your allergies don’t. And in a tiny New York apartment, there’s no escaping the sneezing… unless you choose the right breed. Luckily, some dogs are made for city life and won’t trigger your immune system.
The 5 Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for NYC Apartments
Living in a crowded city like NYC comes with compromises. But if you’re an allergy sufferer who dreams of a furry friend, you don’t have to give up on dog ownership. The key is choosing a breed that produces less dander and thrives in compact urban environments.
Here are 5 hypoallergenic dog breeds that do just that — and they won’t take up your whole apartment (or your tissue box).
Poodle — Smart, Stylish, and Sneeze-Free
Poodles are a triple threat: intelligent, elegant, and allergy-friendly. Their curly coat traps dander instead of shedding it into your space — perfect for small NYC apartments.
Whether you pick a toy, miniature, or standard size, they adapt easily to limited space. Plus, their brains make training a breeze (ideal when you’re avoiding barking complaints from neighbors).
Bichon Frise — Compact, Cuddly, and Low-Shedding
These little clouds of joy have coats that don’t shed much and help reduce allergic reactions. Bichons love to cuddle and are quiet enough for thin-walled buildings — a major bonus in NYC.
With a bit of grooming and daily walks, your Bichon will be the happiest pup on the block.
🐕 Maltese — Glamorous Looks, Gentle on Allergies
The Maltese might look like a show dog, but they’re surprisingly well-suited for allergy sufferers. Their silky white hair doesn’t shed much, and regular brushing keeps allergens at bay.
They’re also tiny, polite, and lightweight enough to carry on the subway. Big personality, small space.
🌊 Portuguese Water Dog — Energetic, Loyal, and Hypoallergenic
Yes, they’re larger than most on this list — but their tight, curly coats make them an unexpectedly great hypoallergenic choice. They love physical activity, so they’re best for NYC owners who enjoy long walks or jogs in the park.
Originally bred to work in water, they’re clean, loyal, and always ready to play — just make sure you can keep up.
👜 Yorkshire Terrier — Small, Stylish, and Allergy-Smart
Don’t let their long, silky coat fool you — Yorkies produce little dander and shed minimally. They’re also confident, sassy, and made for city life.
These tiny charmers don’t need much space or exercise, and they’ll happily sit in your lap while you sip overpriced coffee in the West Village.
Living With a Dog in NYC Doesn’t Have to Mean Allergies
Choosing the right breed is half the battle. The rest? Regular grooming, a good air filter, and maybe some allergy meds just in case.
But with any of these 5 hypoallergenic breeds, you’re already ahead. You’ll finally get the dog you’ve always wanted — and the clean nose to enjoy them with.
Got a hypoallergenic dog in NYC?
Drop your experience in the comments! What works, what doesn’t, and what tips would you give other allergy-prone dog lovers in the city?