Unfortunately, occasionally the people who seem to love dogs the most can be allergic to them. On the plus side, there are some solutions to this problem that don’t involve not having a dog. One possible solution is to look for breeds that are “hypoallergenic.” That is, the dog breeds that cause fewer allergic reactions in people allergic to dogs. These dog breeds are not actually free of the allergens that cause allergy sufferers to react, but they often seem to cause fewer reactions than other dog breeds. It is not possible to find dogs or breeds of dogs that do not have any allergens.
People with dog allergies are exceptionally sensitive to dog hair allergens. Actually, it’s not the dog’s hair that’s causing the problem, but things that are attracted to the hair, like pollen and dust that stick to the hair follicle. Also, dog dander can be part of the problem. “Hypoallergenic” dogs still have them, just to a lesser degree. Common allergic reactions to dogs include skin rashes, watery eyes, itching, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Other reactions may include wheezing, asthma attacks, and difficulty breathing. Obviously, the problem can be quite serious.
Dogs that are considered hypoallergenic generally produce less dander and have less hair to attract allergens. These breeds include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- bedlington terrier
- bichon frize
- chinese crested
- irish spaniel
- kerry blue terrier
- Maltese
- poodles
- portuguese water dog
- Schnauzers
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Xoloitzcuinti
Dogs like Bichon Frizes and Poodles are good with families and have lower shedding rates, making them allergy-friendly. They also have a good temperament as a general rule. They enjoy family life and are great with children. Also, they make good watchdogs without being aggressive. If you’re a single adult, you might consider a dog like a Chihuahua or Portuguese Water Dog. These dogs have low levels of shedding and tend to bond with one person rather than multiple people. You could even choose a hairless dog like the Chinese Crested.
Be careful if you consider a “designer dog.” “Designer dogs,” often mixed with poodles, are not recommended for allergy sufferers due to their unpredictable coat. There is no way to guarantee that a litter will produce puppies with the same Poodle coat, which makes the high prices unjustifiable and the claims of these ideal dogs misleading.
No matter what breed of dog you are considering, it would be a good idea to contact a purebred dog breeder or purebred rescue for a visit. Plan to spend at least 30 minutes playing with the dog to see how he reacts before making any kind of decision. If you have a strong allergic reaction in that short amount of time, you know you’re going to have trouble living with the dog. If the breeder lives some distance from you, you can send him an item of his clothing and ask him to place it near the dog for a day, then return it to you in a plastic bag. You can wear the garment or breathe from it to judge your reaction. If you have no reaction, the dog might be one for you to consider further and you can visit the breeder in person. If you have a negative reaction, then you know that you probably don’t need to see the dog in person. Any reaction in person would probably be even stronger.
Some allergy sufferers take allergy shots for their dog. Other allergy sufferers who have dogs vacuum their house several times a week to make sure there is no dog hair left in the house. Both reduce reactions to allergens.
Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, German Shepherds, Afghan Hounds, and Labrador Retrievers all shed a lot of hair. Contrary to popular belief, a short-haired dog does not shed less than a long-haired dog. If you have your heart set on a dog breed that sheds a lot, talk to your doctor about allergy shots or consider whether you’re willing to vacuum your house every day.
Regardless of the breed you choose, you’ll need to plan for regular brushing of your dog, as brushing can reduce the amount of shedding. You will also need to plan on bathing your dog often. This will help reduce the amount of pet dander. Grooming and bathing will help reduce the allergens that cause allergic reactions.
With a little research and planning, you can find a dog that fits your needs. It may take some time, but it can be done. Many people with allergies to dogs live quite happily with dogs. With a little work you can find a great dog to suit your situation, lifestyle, and allergies!
