Everyone deserves a companion to keep their moods up during difficult days. Allergies to animals can make that even more challenging. However, there is a solution to the problem.

This list offers hypoallergenic animals you can keep as pets. From cats and dogs to lizards and turtles, these are breeds that may be suitable for those with allergies. They’re also perfect for first-time pet owners.

1. Bichon Frise

These dogs are little balls of energy. They’re brilliant and easily trained, making it perfect for anyone to keep around. The Bichon Frise’s curly coat is hypoallergenic and produces less dander, making it more suitable for those with allergies.

Regular grooming also helps reduce shedding and allergens. Bichons react well to positive reinforcement, so keep that in mind during training.

2. Sphynx

One of the popular choices for those with cat allergies is the hairless Sphynx. This breed occasionally has a super light layer of fuzz, but it usually doesn’t trigger people’s allergies.

The Sphynx does require a thorough cleaning regimen for its exposed skin. These cats’ skin gets oily, and dust can get into the wrinkles and folds, so baths, wipes, and lotions are essential.

3. Central Bearded Dragon

Nothing is cooler than telling everyone you have a pet dragon. The Central Bearded Dragon is one of the most famous bearded dragon breeds.

If you enjoy a little whimsy, magic, and fantasy, then nothing beats having this ancient-looking reptile as a pet. They are 100% dander free. You only need to worry about the food you feed them, as those might cause allergies.

4. Leopard Gecko Lizard

Moving on to another reptile that’s relatively easy to care for is the Leopard Gecko Lizard. These small reptiles are adorable and come in various patterns and colors. Since they’re ground-based, they don’t go around climbing walls, which makes them easier to tame and care for.

They have lively personalities and an insect-based diet. In terms of allergies, you’re in the clear’ just be careful when feeding them since their food may carry allergens that might affect you.

5. Portuguese Water Dog

This medium-sized dog is the choice of former President Barack Obama and his family, and it’s not hard to see why.

The Portuguese Water Dog has a thick, curly coat that doesn’t shed much, making it a popular hypoallergenic breed amongst pet owners. If you enjoy a friendly, high-energy dog, this is a great breed for you. They need regular exercise and are highly trainable.

6. Oriental Shorthair

Contrary to popular belief, other cats besides the Sphynx could be great for those with allergies. The Oriental Shorthair is one of them.

Due to its short coat, the Oriental shorthair requires minimal grooming, making it great for those with allergies. Unlike the stereotypical quiet cat, this cat breed is curious, intelligent, and playful. Plus, some have a meow that sounds like a honking goose.

7. Kunekune Pig

A trend among those with allergies is to get a pet pig. The Kunekune pig is one of the most loved breeds for adoption. They’re trainable, intelligent, sweet, and perfect for families or mingling with children.

Pigs typically have hair rather than fur, and this breed also does not require constant brushing. They shed a lot in the summer, but dander is not an issue. One thing to keep in mind is that they can grow quite large.

8. Corn Snake

Snakes tend to have a bad reputation, but we’re here to debunk that. These slithery creatures are some of the best pets to have for someone with allergies.

The corn snake is the best pet snake due to its friendly nature and small size. It’s easy to care for, and if the owner gets bitten, the bites usually do not cause injury. This snake breed has a long lifespan of 20 to 25 years, making it the perfect lifetime companion.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkie is known to be affectionate and spunky, with few issues in adapting to any living situation you might have.

They’re small and easy to manage, and their silky coats don’t shed much. With proper grooming, they won’t spread dander or allergens around. Their size also makes them the perfect pet for travel.

10. Siberian

At first glance, you might be confused about how a Siberian cat does not trigger allergies with all its thick, long fur. It looks like it should spark an immediate sneezing fit.

The answer is that Siberians produce fewer allergen proteins than most cats. Their cuddly and affectionate nature makes them a well-loved choice among sensitive pet owners everywhere.

11. Budgerigar Bird

More commonly known as budgies, this breed of parakeet is one of the most popular types of birds due to their friendly and talkative nature. They’re hard to miss, too, since they come in all shades of bright yellow, green, and blue.

With a 6 to 12-year lifespan, you’ll have a comic companion to talk to for a while. Budgies tend to have strong bonds with their humans, so they make great pets.

12. Schnauzer

Schnauzers are a versatile dog breed and come in miniature, standard, and giant sizes. All three are hypoallergenic since their fur does not shed much.

They all need a good amount of activity and exercise to keep them healthy, especially the Giant Schnauzer, so keep that in mind. Otherwise, they’re excellent and intelligent companions.

13. Siamese

If you like vocal, clingy cats, the Siamese may be the breed for you. This breed has a short coat that doesn’t shed much or produce many allergens. They do require a lot of attention, however, so if you’re going to be gone most of the time, you might not want to add a Siamese to your home.

They also require Siamese-specific food, so consult your veterinarian if you decide to get one.

14. Yellow-bellied Slider Turtles

You really can’t go wrong with having a turtle as a pet. Turtles are easy to care for and primarily enjoy being left alone. One of the more popular pet turtle breeds is the Yellow-bellied Slider Turtles.

These turtles are easy to find and are usually active during the day. Just get the right tank size and feed them a healthy diet. They’ll last a long time.