I have severe allergies and have successfully owned the following "hypoallergenic" breeds: Mini Poodle, ShihTzu, Mini Schnauzer, and currently Havanese. Our Havanese are wonderful with our grandbaby and grandtoddlers. They love being part of the family. They don't shed and can be kept short. They prefer the sofa to the floor for family time. We show ours so keep them in full coat which requires frequent brushing. Havanese are small but sturdy little dogs. They don't require a lot of exercise but will have fun romping with your childen or going on walks. They are little clowns, not barkers, and will steal your heart.