Do your allergies flare up when you’re around your dog friends? You’ve got a lot of company. In the United States, about one out of every 10 people is allergic to dogs. Allergies usually manifest themselves as:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Itchy, watery, red eyes
- Hives or a rash
You don’t have to give up your ambition of dog ownership if this describes you. You might be able to discover a dog that doesn’t cause you to cough. All you have to do now is figure out which breeds are perfect for you.
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Before You Start Your Search
Before you go to an animal shelter or a breeder, have an appointment with an allergist. You should double-check that you’re allergic. To determine if dogs are the source of your sneezing, allergists use a simple skin prick test. In 15 to 20 minutes, they should have the results.
A sensitivity to the fur of a dog isn’t the only symptom of a dog allergy. You can also be irritated by dog saliva, urine, and dander. These allergens include a specific protein that your body reacts to.
Best Breeds if You Have Allergies
There aren’t any dog breeds that are completely free of allergens. However, some dogs appear to create fewer issues than others.
Focus your search on breeds that will have the least negative impact on your system. This could mean smaller breeds with less shedding. A dog who enjoys being outside could also be beneficial. As a result, some of the allergens are left outside the house.
Over 270 breeds have been designated as “hypoallergenic” by the American Kennel Club. However, these dogs appear to be the least troublesome:
Afghan hound: There are no dog breeds that are completely free of allergens. However, some breeds of dogs appear to create fewer issues than others.
These moderate canines have long fur and are quiet. You must brush them on a daily basis.
American hairless terrier: The absence of hair indicates a reduced allergen burden. They’re lively, terrific with children, and don’t mind living in an apartment.
Bedlington terrier: The absence of hair indicates a reduced allergen burden. They’re vivacious, terrific with children, and don’t mind living in an apartment.
Bichon frise: They require regular haircuts because they are small, fluffy, lively, and do not shed.
Chinese crested: These small dogs shed very little and show a lot of affection.
Coton de tulear: These brief dogs require daily grooming. They get along with other dogs and children well.
Schnauzers (giant, standard, and miniature): All three types of schnauzers are suitable for allergy sufferers. They all require varying amounts of activity and grooming, but they are all intelligent and have similar coats.
Irish water spaniel: They’ve got a water-repellent double coat. They’re a fun-loving breed that’s about the size of a medium-sized dog.
Kerry blue terrier: Exercise is essential for these high-energy terriers. Brushing and trimming are required on a regular basis.
Lagotto Romagnolo: The coat of this dog resembles that of a poodle. They get along nicely with active owners and are generally content.
Maltese: The fur on this small dog is long and velvety. To keep it tangle-free, you’ll need to brush it every day.
Peruvian Inca orchid (hairless): Peruvian Inca orchids, like other hairless dogs, are a fantastic alternative if you don’t want to deal with shedding. They are active and come in a variety of sizes.
Poodle: These curly-haired canines come in a variety of sizes and shed very little.
Portuguese water dogs: This intelligent breed is ideally suited to a very busy owner. They require daily exercise.
Soft-coated wheaten terrier: These canines have a lot of activity and get along well with children. They have a smooth coat that needs to be brushed often to avoid matting.
Spanish water dog: The coat of this breed is distinctive, with wooly curls that must be shaved once a year. They require a lot of movement.
Xoloitzcuintli: They have a difficult name to pronounce, yet they are easy to care for pets. They’re quiet and don’t require much grooming or activity. Hairless and coated versions are available in toy, miniature, and standard sizes.
Allergen-Reducing Tips for Your Home
Even if you find a breed that suits you, it’s a good idea to limit your exposure to allergies from dogs. Here’s how to do it:
- Keep certain parts of your house dog-free, like your bedroom or a guest room.
- Clean carpets and upholstered furniture often.
- Use a good-quality vacuum cleaner.
- Use an air filter in your home.
- Change your clothes after lots of contact with your dog.
- Put a nonallergic person on dog grooming duty.
- Wash your dog weekly.
- Keep your dog on an anti-inflammatory diet that meets its needs for essential fatty acids.
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