Dogs are loyal, great protectors and wonderful companions – unless you are someone who suffers from allergies. Dog dander attached to shedding fur is one of the main causes of allergic reactions, which can include sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, or a mix of all these symptoms.

Roughly, 10 percent of the U.S. population is allergic to dogs, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

If you have been missing out on the unconditional love and companionship of a dog because you fear an allergic reaction, there are dog breeds available that are perfect for allergy suffers. What makes these dog breeds so special? They have non-shedding coats, which means less dander.

We have compiled a list of popular and easily obtainable hypoallergenic dog breeds. There are more exotic, and costly, breeds that fit the bill, too.

The American Kennel Club recommends the following dog breeds:

Bedlington Terrier. This dog resembles a lamb with a curly, wooly coat. The breed is gentle, loving and moderately active. The Bedlington Terrier is happy with daily playtime and walks.

Bichon Frise. Although small, the Bichon Frise thrives on activity. This naturally happy, gentle and playful dog does require regular grooming as its fur continually grows and doesn't shed. Without proper grooming, mats will form that collect dirt and are painful.

Chinese Crested. The Chinese Crested is a playful, alert dog that loves human companionship. They are small dogs with delicate bones that do best in families with gentle children. Since this breed has little fur, it sheds little to none.

Maltese. Don't let this little white furball fool you -- the Maltese is brave and fearless despite "too cute" looks. A wonderful companion dog, the Maltese travels well, is social and very playful. Their long, silky white fur needs to be brushed daily to prevent painful mats.

Poodle. This breed is well-known and popular for being hypoallergenic, but also for being high maintenance since their trademark coat requires monthly professional grooming. While the Poodle may look like a foo-foo dog, the breed is exceptionally intelligent, active and haughty. The Poodle requires daily exercise. The Poodle comes in three size varieties: Toy, Miniature and Standard.

Portuguese Water Dog. U.S. President Barack Obama and his family have two water dogs. President Obama is athletic, and the Portuguese Water Dog is ideal for him because the breed needs vigorous daily exercise. This breed is fiercely intelligent, loyal and determined to please. Their coat is waterproof and requires regular maintenance.

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Schnauzer. The Schnauzer has a natural protective instinct that makes this breed a great watchdog, especially for families with children. This dog adapts well to different living conditions and travel. Smart, cheerful and good-natured, this breed is athletic and needs daily exercise. Their double coat requires clipping. They're facial (beard) and leg fur should be brushed regularly to prevent mats. The Schnauzer comes in three sizes: Miniature, Standard or Giant.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. City, country or suburban living suits this active dog just fine. The breed is very smart and is known to excel in agility and tracking. Many are used in animal-assisted therapy because they do well with children. Their silky, soft coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats.

Spanish Water Dog. The Spanish Water Dog is a high energy, hardworking dog with protective instincts. Low maintenance, no brushing is needed for their curly, wooly coat. The AKC recommends that the dog's coat be shaved down once a year.

Once you have your dog at home, here are simple steps you can take to ensure dog ownership doesn't mean allergy suffering:

  • Wash your pet's bedding often
  • Groom your dog by brushing and washing with a mild shampoo every couple of weeks
  • If your dog sleeps with you, wash your bedding often
  • Remove wall-to-wall carpeting that can collect dander (and flea eggs)

Moving into an apartment? Find out which breeds are the best apartment dogs.