Theoretically, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog or an allergy free dog. “Hypoallergenic” is this case really means – to have a decreased tendency to aggravate allergies. The good news is that some breeds do seem to cause fewer allergies than others. The key is to find breeds that produce a lesser amount of allergens or reduced allergic reactions and shed less hair and dander than most dogs.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), almost 10% of the total U.S. population are allergic to animals (Pet Allergy). This number is quite significant for the individuals and families that cannot currently own a dog and are searching for the right hypoallergenic dog.
For Simplicity, the term “Hypoallergenic Dog” in this article will be used to describe dogs that produce a lesser amount of allergens or reduced allergic reactions and shed less hair and dander than most other dog breeds.
The very small, sticky, and lightweight dog allergens originates in a dog’s skin and saliva. This allows saliva and dander allergens to float about in the air; and around the home, contaminating almost everything it comes into contact with.
Keep in mind that even though a hairless dog or short-haired dogs may seem to be the right breed for those with allergies, the dander (skin scales) is actually the significantly causer of allergic reactions, not the thickness, length or amount of hair on the pet according to the (ACAAI).
Hypo means less and not none, as all breeds of dogs still produce a certain amount of allergens and dander. Finding the right dog with the right coat type also plays an important role in the aggravation of allergies.
“Tips To Control Dog Allergy and Allergen Exposure For Dog Owners”
If you are a person with pet and dog allergy, ensure the dog is neutered and bath you dog at least once or twice a week. Experts recommend that regular bathing of pets, is an effective way to decrease allergens release, particularly dogs. It will also be a good idea to wipe your dog with a warm, clean towel everyday to prevent dander and hair falling.
Never sleep with your dog. If possible, try not letting your dog into the bedroom and make a habit to close all air vents to the bedroom. Also try to disallow your dog from sleeping on any carpeting in your home.
Purchase a High Efficiency Particulate Air or HEPA filter. A HEPA filter is a type of high-efficiency air filter which can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles sizing 0.3 micrometers in diameter. You also can purchase vacuum cleaners that use the HEPA filter technology as part of their filtration systems.
The HEPA filters are excellent for trapping fine particles; such as dust mite feces, pollen and other allergy and asthma symptoms triggers. This has been proven to be highly beneficial for people suffering from allergy and asthmatic problems.
If the above measures do not help to reduce your pet and dog allergies, try allergy shots as a treatment option.
“Consider Your Current Living Situations When Buying”
If you are thinking about buying or adopting a hypoallergenic dog, it will be a good decision to designate certain places in your house for your pet to sleep and roam around. Dog breeds that are single-coated (do not have a thick undercoat) and hairless usually do not shed their skin cells (dander) as often and will make a good hypoallergenic dog.
If you need to leave your dog often unattended for the day because of work related issues, talk to a breeder to find suitable breeds that will not be as nervous or scared as other breeds.
Allergy attacks may be more frequent for people living in a smaller house or an apartment, as dander and hair is confined to a smaller space. For this reason, a smaller hypoallergenic dog like the Chinese Crested (Hairless) will be a suitable addition. These breeds do not need a lot of room to run around and they are not too noisy.
Smaller hypoallergenic breeds such as the Maltese, Poodle and Bishon Frise require a little more from their owners. They require more companionship and they’ll also need to be bathed weekly and brushed daily to prevent knots from developing in their fur.
While these are good hypoallergenic breed choices; dogs with shorter hair and are single-coated, they may not be the best choice if you have small children. Territorial and moody, these dogs get upset when they are competing with children for attention.
If you live in a larger home, you will be able to purchase a larger hypoallergenic dog like the Kerry Blue Terrier (single-coated). By allowing your dog to walk or run around in the yard, you are actually helping him to shed hair outside instead or inside.
Once you bring your new dog home, allow your body a few weeks for any needed adjustments and getting used to. Your allergies may become worse before it get’s better again.
“List of Hypoallergenic Dogs – Dogs That Are Considered Good For Allergy Sufferers”
While the Labrador retriever still remains the most popular dog that people want to own, for those with allergies, Labradors may not necessarily be the best breed to choose. There are many other types of dogs that would be more suitable for allergy sufferers.
These breeds include the: Chinese Crested, Kerry Blue Terrier, and the Schnauzer. Not only beautiful; they also have short hair and are single-coated or longer hair that does not shed as much as other breeds. These dogs are also purebred and can be found by contacting your local dog breeder online and offline.
The Chinese Crested is available in two varieties, the hairless, or the powder puff.
Both types are considered hypoallergenic dogs and are desired by those who have dog and pet allergies.
Chinese Crested (Hairless):
The more common of the two, has hair on its paws, head, tail and sometimes, on its chin. Their hair is usually softer than other breeds and they do not shed as often. The hairless Chinese crested is also prone to sunburn and acne. Other than skin issues, these dogs are very friendly and enjoy being with their owners.
Powder Puff Chinese Crested:
The Powder Puff Crested breed grows a Full-Coat of long, soft hair that doesn’t shed as often. Research has shown that owners often experience fewer allergy issues with this breed due to its longer hair which in more intact and harder for dispersion.
Both the hairless and the powder puff varieties are suitable companions for those with dog and pet allergies.
Kerry Blue Terrier (Single Coated):
The origin of this dog’s name comes from its coat which takes on a blue sheen once it reaches adult hood. Originally used for hunting, the Kerry Blue Terrier is now considered a working dog and requires constant companionship.
This larger hypoallergenic dog that has a flat head, predominant chest, and a coat that is similar to that of the Poodle or Maltese.
Like most Terriers, in order to maintain their coats, dog grooming every two months and brushing its coat to prevent clumping every week is routine.
Since this breed doesn’t shed much, this makes it one of the more appropriate, larger hypoallergenic dogs that you might consider choosing. The Kerry Blue Terrier also single-coated, which may aid in reducing a person’s allergic reactions.
Schnauzer (Single-Coated):
The Schnauzer comes in three different varieties: the Miniature Schnauzer, the Standard Schnauzer, and the Giant Schnauzer. Even though they vary in size, the schnauzer can be recognized by its boxy face, short hair, and square build.
This hypoallergenic dog breed grows short hair and does not shed much. Like the Terrier breed, regular dog grooming should also be on the time-table. This breed will make a good addition to any family because of its easy going temperament.
TIP –You should learn how to take care of any type of dog breed before buying one.
“A Few More Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds To Consider”
(Terriers – Single-Coated)
These dogs have short coats and are considered to be single-coated breeds, meaning that they do not have an undercoat. Undercoats are found on animals that have thick fur. The undercoat usually contains loose fur and dander, which can cause allergy attacks in both humans and other animals.
Originally used for hunting because of their small size, speed and satisfaction for finding their prey, terriers are now considered one of the best household pets to keep. They do not grow very large and do not spread allergens around the house like other dog breeds.
(Greyhounds, Single-Coated)
There are many varieties of greyhounds that you can consider. While greyhounds are considered fast, they do not like to run long distances and enjoy sitting with their owner’s for long periods of time. Since greyhounds have short hair and are single-coated, they are a good choice for those with allergies. Greyhounds are also great with children and are relatively easy dogs to train and to have around in the family.
(Poodles – All Sizes, Single-Coated)
These woolly, baby sheep looking like dogs do not have an undercoat, and do not shed easily. Perfect for those with allergies, the poodle is a hyper-active friendly dog that enjoys the company of people and children.
While the poodle is a suitable pet for those with allergies, it will develop health problems as it ages. Arthritis, loss of eye sight and hearing may occur. These are usually common health problems with smaller pure bred dogs.
(Bichon Frise – French, means Curly lap dog, Single-Coated)
This breed of hypoallergenic dog has an undercoat which is very springy and will not hold much dander and hair. These dogs are small; like a marshmallow puff dog and are usually very happy looking and cute. They will need to be groomed in order to maintain their signature ‘marshmallow’ look.