Understanding Dog Allergies
Many people love dogs but struggle with unpleasant allergic reactions around them. Dog allergies are caused by proteins found in their urine, saliva, dander and hair. When exposed, these allergens can trigger symptoms like sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes, runny nose, itchy skin, and asthma attacks in sensitive individuals.
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a truly 100% hypoallergenic dog breed. All dogs produce allergens to some degree. However, some breeds tend to be better tolerated by those with dog allergies. These dogs produce fewer allergens or shed less dander and hair.
Finding the right hypoallergenic dog breed can allow you to enjoy life with a furry companion even if you have pet allergies. Here are the top breeds recommended by veterinarians and allergy experts.
Best Breeds for People with Dog Allergies
1. Poodle
Poodles have a non-shedding, curly coat that produces far less dander than most dogs. They are one of the most popular breeds for allergy sufferers for good reason.
Make sure to have them brushed and groomed frequently to prevent matting and optimal allergen control. Standard poodles with a larger build tend to be best for dog allergies.
2. Bichon Frise
This petite, fluffy breed has a minimally-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Bichon frises are energetic and loving companions that adapt well to city or apartment living.
Be sure to bathe and brush them weekly to prevent excess dander buildup. Also change air filters in your home frequently to filter out circulating allergens.
3. Chinese Crested
The Chinese crested has fine, wispy hairs and sheds little to no dander. Those with severe dog allergies may do better with the hairless variety that requires skin moisturizing.
Their small size and affectionate nature make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want lap dogs. Minimal grooming is needed beyond bathing every week or two.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
This low shedding breed has a wiry topcoat and soft undercoat. Their coat needs stripping or clipping every couple months to prevent matting.
Schnauzers are energetic, intelligent dogs that thrive with regular play and training. Their medium-small size makes them a good fit for city living.
5. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto has a hypoallergenic dense, curly coat that produces little dander. Regular brushing and grooming is required to prevent tangles and minimize shedding.
Bred as a water retriever dog in Italy, they are athletic, smart and make lively family pets. Their rarer breed may require joining a waitlist with reputable breeders.
6. Irish Water Spaniel
Known for its curly, allergy-friendly coat, the Irish water spaniel sheds little hair and dander. Coat maintenance involves thorough brushing and bathing.
This active, high-energy breed thrives with plenty of daily exercise and playtime. Having acreage or living near a park is ideal for them to roam.
7. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
With their soft, wavy coats, Wheaten terriers shed minimally and produce little dander. Their energetic, bouncy nature makes them ideal for active families.
Ensure their coat is groomed every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting. Frequent bathing and brushing also helps control loose hairs and allergen levels.
8. Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican hairless dog, this breed is virtually hypoallergenic. Its skin requires moisturizing and sun protection without a coat.
Xolos are extremely loyal, protective pets ideal for allergy sufferers who want a guard dog. Early training and socialization is a must with this smart but strong-willed breed.
Worst Dog Breeds for Allergies
To steer clear of unpleasant allergic reactions, those with dog allergies generally want to avoid the following breeds:
1. Labrador Retriever
Labs have a short, dense double coat that sheds heavily year-round. Dander and hair can really accumulate rapidly in your home with this breed.
2. German Shepherd
German shepherds also have a double coat prone to heavy shedding seasons. Their long hair also easily attaches to clothing and furnishings.
3. Beagle
Beagles shed constantly and are not a good choice for allergy sufferers. Their short coat releases heavy dander that sticks to surfaces and irritates allergies.
4. Boxer
Short-haired boxers shed a fair amount of dander. They also tend to slobber and lick which spreads saliva allergens during playtime.
5. Golden Retriever
Goldens have a highly allergenic double coat that sheds heavily. Their long hair also needs daily brushing to minimize loose hairs streaming into the air.
6. Siberian Husky
This breed has a dense double-coat that goes through two heavy seasonal sheds per year. Husky hair and dander really gets spread around a home without diligent vacuuming.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Their short, stiff coats constantly shed fine hairs and dander. Frequent bathing and home cleaning is a must with this highly allergenic breed.
8. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are heavy shedders that are ill-suited for households with dog allergies. Shedding and dander is a year-round concern with this breed.
9. Pug
The fine, short coat of pugs produces a lot of allergy-triggering dander. Their wrinkly skin folds also trap dander and other allergens in the home.
10. Dachshund
Doxies have a long, shedding single coat that sticks easily to furniture and clothes. They are not a compatible breed match for allergy sufferers.
Tips for Living with a Hypoallergenic Dog
Choosing a low-shedding or non-shedding breed is a good starting point if you have dog allergies. But you also need to take other precautions to make sharing your home with a pup more comfortable and allergy-friendly.
Brush and bathe regularly
Consistently grooming and bathing your dog at least once a week reduces loose hairs and keeps dander under control.
Vacuum and clean often
Use a HEPA filter vacuum daily to remove allergens from floors, furniture, drapes and other home surfaces your dog contacts.
Restrict access
Keep your dog out of bedrooms and only allow them on washable surfaces to limit fur and dander transfer.
Change air filters
Swap out AC and heating system filters every 1-2 months to catch airborne allergens before circulation.
Wash bedding
Your dog's bedding should be washed weekly in hot water to kill allergens they deposit while sleeping.
Limit licking/kisses
Try to avoid your dogexcessively licking or kissing your face since saliva allergens can trigger reactions.
Wipe paws
Wipe your dog's paws every time they come inside to prevent trapping allergens from outdoors.
Try air purifiers
HEPA air purifiers actively capture allergens so they don't circulate and worsen symptoms.
Take medication
Talk to your allergist about taking allergy medication as needed to control reactions to your hypoallergenic pup.
Finding Your Ideal Hypoallergenic Breed
Those with dog allergies definitely don't need to avoid having a loving furry companion. Selecting the right low-shedding or non-shedding breed makes enjoying life with a dog possible.
Research breeds thoroughly, meet parent dogs first when possible, and opt to adopt an adult dog so you know their coat type. Being diligent with home cleaning and grooming helps further reduce allergen levels.
While no dog is 100% allergy-free, the happy friendship possible with a hypoallergenic furry friend far outweighs the extra household upkeep required. Don't let allergies stop you from welcoming a compatible canine buddy into your life.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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