Looking to get a puppy, but afraid of possible allergic reactions by one or more family members? There’s good and bad news on the subject of hypoallergenic dogs.
One piece of bad news is that there are no allergy-free dogs. Another is that there is no promise that any two people will react the same way to a puppy.
The good news is that there are some identified breeds that have been proven to cause fewer allergies in people sensitive to pet hair and dander.
Before getting a puppy, it may be a good idea to expose yourself to different breeds. Perhaps you could dog sit for a friend in their home where the dog lives.
Dog dander, which is really dead skin cells, and saliva are the main causes of allergies from canines. The amount of dander produced by a breed is often linked to the type of coat the puppy has. The dogs that shed the most hair are most likely to shed the most dander.
People with allergies to dogs should avoid getting puppies that will develop dense, heavy coats because this type of fur collects dust and pollens. They should also avoid dogs such as saint Bernards and mastiffs that salivate a lot.
Smaller canines will probably be the better option for those who suffer from allergies to dogs.
The following are some breeds of puppies that have proven to cause less allergic reactions in humans: American hairless terrier, Airedale terrier, bichon frise, Bolognese, cairn terrier, Chihuahua, Chinese crested, cockapoo, greyhound, Irish water spaniel, Kerry blue terrier, komondor, labradoodle, Maltese, miniature schnauzer, Peruvian hairless, poodle, Portuguese water dog, puli, shih-tzu, Tibetan terrier, west highland terrier and wirehaired fox terrier.
Those allergic to pet hair and dander may want to avoid breeds that have been deemed most likely to cause allergic reactions. Those breeds include the Afghan hound, basset hound, Chinese shar pei, cocker spaniel, dachshund, Doberman pinscher, German shepherd, golden retriever, Irish setter, Labrador retriever and springer spaniel.
Further information about puppy breeds that are less likely to cause allergic reactions among humans can be found on the American Kennel Club website and at the Dog Breed Info Center. Both can be found online.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, about 10 percent of the American people are allergic to animals.
How can you tell if you are one that is allergic to dogs? Rashes, sneezing and itchy, watering eyes are a very good indication of an allergy problem.
In extreme cases, allergic reactions to animals can prove to be fatal. This is most likely to happen to someone who suffers from severe asthma.
Doctors can perform tests on their human patients to determine whether or not a person is allergic to dogs. Skin and blood tests are required for the diagnosis.
If you find yourself to be allergic to your puppy and you don’t want to get rid of the dog, there are some steps you can take to minimize the problem. Clean the puppy’s bed linens daily. Daily cleaning of the house and all surfaces the puppy uses can minimize allergy symptoms. Heating and air conditioning vents should be cleaned regularly.
It is also important to have the puppy bathed and groomed regularly to remove loose hair and skin dander.
Related posts:
- Understanding Allergic Reactions
- How to Test What a Puppy is Sensitive to
- Popular Puppy Breeds
- Hair Loss – Common Causes and Solutions
- Canine Food Allergies
Perfect Puppy Care Free Membership
Join our community and gain the ability to submit photos into our Puppy of the Week Contest and win great prizes.
Click Here to Register
