Does spending time with dogs leave you watery-eyed and sneezing, yet your heart yearns for a furry friend of your own? Maybe you’ve heard about hypoallergenic dog breeds and are wondering if they could be the answer. Read on for why people are allergic to dogs, what ‘hypoallergenic’ really means, and suggestions of breeds that might be your perfect allergy-friendly match.
Why are people allergic to dogs?
Allergies to pets are very common — the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that 10–20% of the world’s population is affected by allergies to dogs and cats. Contrary to popular belief, it is not dogs’ fur that triggers reactions: sensitised immune systems react to proteins (allergens) in dog saliva, urine or dander (dead skin cells).
Symptoms of allergies include:
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Skin rashes and hives
- In severe cases, anaphylactic shock
When dogs lick themselves they spread saliva allergens onto their fur, and dander spreads when dogs shed or groom. Dog fur can also collect other allergens such as dust mites, moulds and pollens. So although fur isn’t the primary source, it can carry allergens in several forms.
What is a hypoallergenic dog breed?
Something hypoallergenic contains fewer allergy-producing substances than normal — but is not completely free of them, and can still cause a reaction.
We’re sorry to be the bearers of bad news, but there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog breed. One study even found no difference in the amount of dog allergen in homes with hypoallergenic breeds compared to non-hypoallergenic ones. Some people are even allergic to one dog but not another within the same breed. All is not lost, though — many people find their allergies aren’t triggered by some of the breeds below.
Why are some breeds less likely to trigger allergies?
Hypoallergenic dogs disperse fewer allergens. Many have low-shedding coats, resulting in less dander in the home. In wiry and curly coats, dander and loose hairs get trapped in the fur rather than shed into the environment. Breeds that drool less are also less likely to cause reactions.
Which dog breeds are best for people with allergies?
With the caveat that no breed is guaranteed allergy-free, here are 6 to consider. Always spend lots of time with a prospective pet before bringing them home, and use a reputable source.
1. Poodle
Poodles come in three sizes — toy, miniature and standard — so there’s an option for every home. Intelligent, easy to train, loyal and active, they’re well known for tight curly coats that are low-shedding. Those coats need regular clipping and grooming to prevent mats. (Poodle cross-breeds are popular but have less reliable coat characteristics than pure-breds.)
2. Schnauzer
Loyal, inquisitive and intelligent, Schnauzers also come in three sizes. They’re considered hypoallergenic thanks to their low-shedding, harsh wiry coats.
3. Bichon Frise
Cute little white fluff-balls — not only do Bichons have low-shedding coats, but the hair they do shed gets caught in their curls rather than deposited around the home.
4. Affenpinscher
A toy breed with a big personality and an adorable face. Its low-shedding wiry coat requires little maintenance, making it a great option for allergy sufferers.
5. Chinese Crested Dog
This distinctive breed is either hairless or coated (Powderpuff). Even the haired variety is very low-shedding. Hairless dogs still produce dander and need skin care, as they’re prone to sunburn and irritation.
6. Bedlington Terrier
Often likened to a lamb thanks to its tightly curled, woolly coat, this medium-sized terrier is low-shedding and traps hair and dander. They’re sweet, lively and intelligent — if sometimes stubborn.
Other breeds to consider include the Airedale Terrier, Maltese, Afghan Hound, Irish Water Spaniel, American Hairless Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier.
What else can I do to reduce allergic reactions?
Whichever breed you choose, these steps help reduce your allergen exposure:
- Keep your dog out of the bedroom and off the sofas.
- Wash their bed frequently on a hot wash.
- Wash your hands after stroking them.
- Groom and wash them regularly to remove dander and loose hair (ideally not indoors).
- Use HEPA air and vacuum filters.
Summary
Breeds such as Poodles and Schnauzers are commonly reported to be hypoallergenic, making them appealing for allergy sufferers who long for a dog. But remember: no breed is completely hypoallergenic, and all dogs can potentially trigger reactions. It’s not the hair itself but proteins in saliva, urine and dander — and low-shedding coats simply disperse fewer of them. Always spend time with your hoped-for dog before committing, as you may react to one dog yet be fine with another of the same breed.
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