Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Allergy Suffers and Worst Breeds

Understanding Dog Allergies

For many pet lovers, living with dogs brings great joy and companionship into their lives. However, for those who suffer from allergies, certain dog breeds can trigger uncomfortable allergy symptoms and make owning a dog seem out of reach.

Dog allergies are caused by pet dander - tiny pieces of skin that dogs naturally shed. This dander contains certain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals when inhaled or coming into contact with skin. Typical allergy symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, skin irritation, and asthma flares.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Fortunately, with the right dog breed choice, people with allergies can often still enjoy life with a furry friend. Certain dogs produce less dander and are therefore considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is completely non-allergenic, these breeds make owning a dog more manageable for allergy sufferers.

The Best Hypoallergenic Dogs

If you have allergies but dream of owning a dog, consider one of these more allergy-friendly breeds:

Poodle - Poodles have a tight, curly coat that traps dander instead of releasing it into the air. They come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes.
Maltese - These tiny companion dogs have a long, silky, hypoallergenic coat.
Schnauzer - Standard schnauzers have wiry coats that minimize shedding and dander release. Miniature schnauzers have similar coat qualities.
Portuguese Water Dog - Just like poodles, their tight curls trap dander against their skin.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - While they shed seasonally, wheatens rarely aggravate allergies with their soft, wheat-colored coats.
Bichon Frise - A puff ball appearance comes from their dense, curly coats that hold dander in.
Chinese Crested - Hairless varieties of this breed are ideal, but powderpuffs can work too thanks to little shedding.
Italian Greyhound - Tiny and shedding-free, this petite breed can thrive in small homes alongside allergy sufferers.
Xoloitzcuintli - Also known as the Mexican hairless dog, this breed is a hypoallergenic natural thanks to its hairless body.

Maintaining a Hypoallergenic Dog

While the above breeds shed less and release less dander, they still require grooming and maintenance to keep allergens at bay:

Brush frequently to control loose hair and dander particles.
Bathe your dog regularly to wash away dander before it builds up.
Clip or trim coat hair to minimize shedding triggers.
Vacuum pet areas to remove hair and dander from surfaces.
Change air filters to capture airborne allergens.
Wash bedding, toys, crates etc. to prevent allergen buildup.

The Worst Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

On the opposite end of the allergy spectrum, certain dog breeds are notorious shedders and dander producers that should be avoided by people with allergies. Here are some of the worst dog breeds if you suffer from allergies:

Top Allergenic Dog Breeds

Labrador Retriever - Americas favorite breed sheds its short, water-resistant coat year-round. Labs produce abundant dander too.
German Shepherd - Double coated shepherds shed heavily during seasonal coat blows. Guard hairs also spread allergens easily.
Bulldog - Multiple skin folds trap moisture, yeast, and dander on bulldogs. Skin wrinkles also make them tricky to groom.
Boxer - Short coats release dander constantly with these energetic dogs. They also carry it on their skin folds.
Beagle - A handsome hound popular for its allergens. They shed year-round and stir up dander when active.
Golden Retriever - Soft, thick coats on goldens look gorgeous but drop hair and dander excessively inside homes.
Rottweiler - An abundant double coat that goes through seasonal shedding cycles spreads allergens widely.
Siberian Husky - Breed hallmarks like thick fur and plumed tails distribute heavy shedding and dander.
Australian Shepherd - Aussies have everything allergens love - a weather-resistant double coat, active nature, love of the outdoors, etc.
Dalmatian - Short, stiff coat hairs stick tenaciously to clothing and surfaces, dispersing proteins that trigger reactions.

Precautions with High Shedding Dogs

People sensitive to dog allergens should use extreme care when exposed to heavy shedding breeds by:

Washing hands immediately after contact to avoid spreading proteins.
Showering after interactions to rinse away sticking allergens.
Using HEPA air filters to capture airborne particles from high dander dogs.
Asking owners to wash dogs before visits to control shedding volume.
Keeping distance and avoiding face-to-face snuggling or kisses.
Taking antihistamines preventively if you'll be exposed for long periods.

Cross Breeds - Best of Both Worlds?

Stumped between picking a hypoallergenic or perfect shedder breed? Cross breeding introduces unique coats and temperaments. Some well-liked cross breeds like Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever x Poodle) and Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever x Poodle) blend favorite breeds while attempting to gain the poodles hypoallergenic qualities.

However, cross breed traits can be unpredictable in first generations. Work with a responsible breeder focused on allergy-friendly lineages if pursuing a mixed breed. Meeting parent dogs also helps assess shedding and temperament outcomes.

Other Allergy Considerations

While coat types impact potential reactions, other allergy considerations exist too for prospective owners:

Size - Small dogs have lower overall dander production even in abundant shedders. Miniaturization can reduce reactions.
Grooming Needs - Non-shedding breeds require diligent grooming every 6 to 8 weeks to prevent coat matting trapping dander against skin.
Activity Level - The more time outdoors roaming and playing, the more allergens dogs bring indoors. Consider a lower energy companion.
Gender - Un-spayed/un-neutered dogs can trigger more allergy reactions due to hormone changes influencing skin and coats.

Living with Dogs Despite Allergies

From selecting the best low-shedding breed to managing environments, many options exist for dog lovers with allergies. Work closely with your doctor, allergist, breeders, trainers, groomers, and vets to find sustainable solutions. Be open to trying allergy medications as well to make dog ownership possible.

While no approach eliminates reactions 100%, the rewards of dog companionship make it worthwhile for many allergy sufferers. Optimizing air quality, grooming, hygiene, and proper breed selections allows more people to experience the joys of living with dogs regardless of allergies.

FAQs

What is the most hypoallergenic dog breed?

The most hypoallergenic dog breed is widely considered to be the standard Poodle. Poodles have tight, curly coats that do not shed significantly and trap dander against the skin rather than releasing it into the air. Regular grooming is still required though.

Can you be allergic to certain dogs but not others?

Yes, people can be allergic to some dogs but not others. Allergies are triggered by exposure to specific proteins in pet dander, urine, and saliva. Since every dog breed produces different levels of various proteins, some may cause allergy flares while others do not.

What short haired dogs shed the least?

Some short haired dogs that shed very little include the Italian Greyhound, Chinese Crested, and Boston Terrier. Their fine, thin coats release negligible dander. However, any dog can trigger allergies, so interact cautiously when first exposing yourself.

Can you develop a dog allergy over time?

Yes, dog allergies can develop over months or years of repeat exposure. Some people, especially kids, will become sensitized over time as immune systems react more severely to pet proteins they once tolerated. Allergy development is not well understood though.

Should I get rid of my dog if I develop allergies?

Not necessarily. Many allergy management options exist for dog owners, including medications, air filters, frequent bathing/grooming, restricted access, and more. Re-homing should only be a last resort after attempts to control symptoms, however your health is the priority.

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.