Hypoallergenic Dogs
Which Dog Breeds are Best for People With Dog Allergies?
What is a hypoallergenic dog breed? Since no dog classifies as NON-allergenic, a hypoallergenic dog refers to a breed that is LESS likely to produce an allergic reaction. What makes some breeds less likely to cause allergies, and are hypoallergenic dogs a good choice for all allergy sufferers?
Which Dogs are Considered Hypoallergenic?
Dog allergies are really allergies to the dander, saliva and urine of dogs. The proteins produced in the sebaceous glands are commonly transported into the environment by the shedding of dander and on the hair. Breeds that shed less are recommended to allergy sufferers for this reason and are often classified as ‘hypo allergenic’ by breed promoters.
Since shedding seems to be a main cause of allergy symptoms the AKC (American Kennel Club) makes the following recommendations for low-shedding breeds: Poodles, Maltese, Bedlington Terriers, Kerry Blue Terriers, Irish Terrier, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, Basenji, Chinese Crested, Schnauzers, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Xoloitzcuintli.
Are Hypoallergenic Dogs Safe for All Allergy Sufferers?
No dog is guaranteed to be safe for all allergy sufferers. As individuals may be more sensitive to particular breeds, or even individual dogs, the best-case scenario is to test your sensitivity to the actual dog that is to join the family rather than make generalizations about breeds.
If you have severe symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath the ACAAI (American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology) recommends removing the animal from the home as the safest course.
Other Dog Breed Recommendations for Allergy Sufferers
Smaller breeds have less dander and will obviously be less of a problem. Dogs with short coats or coats that do not shed may also be less bothersome to people with dog allergies.
Dogs with short cycles of dander shedding (which mean MORE dander to spread allergens into the environment), such as Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, Chinese Shar-Pei, Basset Hounds, German Shepherd Dogs, Irish Setters, Afghan Hounds, Doberman Pinschers and Dachshunds, may be breeds best to avoid.
Other Ways to Manage Dog Allergies
Keeping your pet well groomed and the house as free of allergens as possible should also reduce allergy symptoms. Keeping dogs away from bedrooms and off furniture is another practical step to limit the effects of their presence for allergy sufferers.
If allergies are minor or seasonal you may consider some form of allergy treatment to control or possibly desensitize you to your pet allergy. You should discuss allergy control options with your doctor before getting a dog.
Learn more about managing dog allergies in the following article: 'Pet Allergies'
Chinese Crested
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