Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Monday November 10, 2008
Hypoallergenic dog breeds are in the spotlight these days as the Obama family sets out to find the perfect "first dog." The buzz about the Obamas' future dog may be all the rage right now, but they are not the only ones who want a dog but are limited by allergies. There is good news for all you allergy sufferers out there - you have many dog breed choices!
If you or someone in your family is allergic to dogs, a hypoallergenic dog breed might be right for you. The most popular of these low-allergen breeds include Poodles, Schnauzers and Bichon Frises - but there are many more where these came from. Are you a dog owner who suffers from allergies? Please share your secrets!
Photo Dropzink/Wikimedia Commons
Comments
I share my life with a Bichon and I can’t imagine a better choice for the Obama family! In fact, they could satisfy both needs of a hypoallergenic breed and a shelter dog by adopting through Small Paws Rescue (www.SmallPawsRescue.org). This rescue group works specifically with Bichons.
I have mild/moderate pet allergies–I’m allergic to long haired dogs and pretty much all cats. I’ve had Mr. Henry, my Westie, for more than a year, and not so much as a sneeze on his account!
So, while Westies might not be completely hypoallergenic, the are a good option for some allergy sufferers.
Thank you for the information on the best dog breeds for people with allergies. I would really like to get a dog and will now consider these breeds.
My mother and siblings as well as most neices and nephews are all allergic to pet dander. I being a large dog lover and having three kids with no allerges at al, wanted to find a large dog breed that would be good for my kids and my mom. I found the Bouvier des Flounder. WONDERFULL dog with my children excellent guard dog and she doesent shed!! If there is anyone out there looking for a large dog breed that jives with their senses look at the Bouvier! I have a blond Bouv, her name is Sophie and we all can love on her!!
I’m sure Lia was referring to the Bouvier des Flandres (not Flounder), a wonderful, loving, protective herding dog that’s great with kids and does not shed. We’ve had several through the years and although our kids are grown and gone, we have yet another.
Great points. There are so many people who are allergic in one way or another. One thing that doesn’t get much press is that dogs themselves often have allergy issues. I always make sure my dog shampoos, toys, beds, etc. are hypoallergenic. I shop where they focus on those types of products.
Hate to break it to you, but there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. The thing that causes allergies in people is dander – dead skin cells that constantly slough off 24/7. There is no way to stop this from happening.
However, certain breeds are better choices than others when it comes to controlling dander. The proteins in dander that cause allergies to flare are different in different dogs – while one breed may make you hack and wheeze, another might not. And regular grooming and general precautions can go a long way towards limitting allergic reactions.
But the idea that a dog can be hypoallergenic…. please.
Actually, there are some potentially hypoallergenic dogs (hypo means low, not none). There are no non-allergenic dogs.
Derek is correct about the fact that allergies to dogs are exacerbated by the dander and not the hair. However, the dander travels WITH the hair. Most high-shedding dog breeds tend to have an oily coating on the hair that increases the amount of dander stuck to their coats. The more hair these dogs shed, the more dander that comes with it. Dogs who shed little to no hair leave less dander in the environment (but yes, they still shed some dander). Fortunately, most of this dander comes off with the hair when the dogs are groomed regularly rather than depositing itself in your home and on you. If you are very sensitive, you should be sure that someone else grooms your dog. If you are allergic to the saliva, then you are probably out of luck, though. “hypoallergenic” dogs are actually low shedders but their saliva is not low-allergen.
Everyone reacts differently to different types of dogs depending on their unique sensitivity, but there truly are dog breeds that can be considered hypoallergenic – depending on the individual’s allergies.
~ Jenna, Dogs Guide
I am highly allergic to just about all dogs but I have two papillon’s and they do not cause allergic reactions. My son and daughter also live at home and we are all allergic to so many things. I would highly recommend a papillon but you will have to check out the temperament first. They are both wonderful dogs but the female is definitely an alpha type and more aggressive while the male is a constant companion and will adjust to just about anything in his environment.
The Kerry Blue Terrier would make an excellent choice. They are small enough for the girls to carry and work with, but they have substance and the demeanor of a big dog. They are very intelligent, eager to please, love their family, and have heart and courage. They can be long lived and I have known them to be playful and fun loving late into their second decade of life.
Try a Maltese. I always have been allergic to dogs but have had a Maltese for about a year – he sleeps with me and everything – and I have no problems with him. No shedding, etc. he is a great dog.
Try a Maltese!!!