Most people love dogs – and, it goes without saying, people with allergies really love hypoallergenic dogs.
Nothing cheers me up better than walking into our home and being greeted by our dog Bingo.
He’s always happy to see his family – even if we’ve only been in another room for a while!
And, while I’m not one of them, some people have allergic reactions to dogs.
Common symptoms of dog allergies include:
- redness of the skin and rashes
- Shortness of breath and coughing
- Swelling in the nose membrane and itching
But, it does not mean that interacting with every dog can be a nightmare for dog lovers.
Certain hypoallergenic dogs do not cause any allergies so even if you are allergic to dogs, there will be a good breed for you.
Here’s what you need to know along with the best dog breeds for avoiding allergic reactions.
What Is A Hypoallergenic Dog?
In the simplest of words, a hypoallergenic dog is compatible with people who tend to be allergic to dogs.
My wife suffers from bad allergies to cats and dust mites, so we need to make sure we have an allergy-friendly home.
Thankfully, she’s not badly allergic to dogs, so we were able to get a Lab/German Shepherd – you can see him in this post on whether or not dogs can eat raw chicken.
However, if you or a member of your family have more severe allergic reactions, you’ll need to avoid the following dogs.
There are different hypoallergenic dogs that you can choose from but is important to note that no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic.
Common breeds that DO cause allergies include:
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Huskies
- Labs
- Retrievers
- Basset Hound
- and many more
You will find the low energy hypoallergenic dogs to be a better fit if you have allergies.
You will find the breeds to be far easier to handle than non-hypoallergenic dog breeds.
A hypoallergenic dog does not need to be purebred as there are also hypoallergenic dog breeds that are a cross between different breeds like the famous Labradoodle.
What Makes A Dog Hypoallergenic?
No matter the dog breed, dogs can produce things that cause allergies.
Even the tiniest of microscopic flecks of skin could end up causing an allergic reaction.
A hypoallergenic dog is best described as a dog that does not shed or sheds very little.
As allergy-causing particles are not released into the environment, individuals with allergies can adopt these furry creatures and give them a home.
Some hypoallergenic dogs have a thin undercoat or do not have an undercoat at all.
This ensures that they do not shed or shed in smaller amounts seasonally.
Pet hair is the main culprit for allergies so hairless dogs can be the best option.
What makes hypoallergenic dogs the perfect choice is the fact that they do not produce as much dander.
It means that people who have pet allergies would be comfortable around them.
Benefits Of Non-Allergic Dogs
The advantages of getting low-allergen dogs are obvious.
They do not trigger an allergic response, unlike non-hypoallergenic dogs.
Even though it is still possible to experience irritation after getting licked by a hypoallergenic dog, getting a hypoallergenic dog breed is a great option in comparison to not owning a dog at all.
Besides, simple measures like limiting exposure should be enough.
In addition to the above, you can set up a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter for removing larger pet dander.
Top Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
The good news is that there are various hypoallergenic dogs.
We don’t mention them in this list, but different types of French bulldogs are also good for people with dog allergies.
1. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels griffon is one of the most popular hypoallergenic breeds out there.
It is a compact, hypoallergenic breed that does not shed much. It only sheds during fall and spring.
As the breed does not have much hair, you have nothing to worry about.
What makes the Brussels griffon a favorite is its iconic beard. It is also known for its rough and short coat.
2. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher has a slow-growing coat.
This means that its hair would not be replaced as often and so those who suffer from dog allergies will find the breed to be an excellent choice.
It is simply adorable and does not release much dander.
3. Maltese
This post would be incomplete without the Maltese.
It is a small dog breed that does not have much of an undercoat.
It has long, silky hair that does not curl. A great thing about the breed is that it barely sheds.
As it is a small breed, it does not produce as much dander.
4. Poodle
A poodle is a true gem. It is a breed that is world-famous for its unique look.
No hypoallergenic breed can beat the poodle.
It comes in three different sizes, which include:
- Standard
- Miniature
- Toy
The breed does not shed as much since it requires regular grooming.
Experts claim that the poodle is the best hypoallergenic dog breed, so if you are stressed about being exposed to a dog, you should get a poodle.
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a hypoallergenic breed that not many people know about.
However, it is definitely worth getting if you are allergic to dander.
Even if its hair continues to grow, it sheds very little.
If you clip its hair, it will grow slower.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terrier is a truly adorable little creature.
It has a single layer of hair that resembles human hair.
Similar to other smaller dog breeds, it does not produce much dander and does not shed.
Hence, allergy sufferers will find the Yorkshire terrier to be a great option.
7. American Hairless Terrier
Besides the Yorkshire terrier, there is also the American hairless terrier that had to be mentioned.
It is an American hairless dog breed that is hypoallergenic. In fact, it only has hair on its whiskers and eyebrows!
You won’t be needing an undercoat rake, or in fact, any kind of dog brush for this hypoallergenic coated variety.
8. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is considered to be the clown of the Spaniel family.
It is the perfect hypoallergenic breed.
As it is double-coated, the allergy-inducing hair and dander get trapped inside the coat and does not release into the environment.
The only thing that you need to keep in mind is that it requires regular brushing and grooming.
Low Dander Dogs
Having an allergy does not restrict you from owning a dog – simply get a dog that is suited to your situation.
This list isn’t conclusive either, they are many more breeds like Goldendoodles or Afghan Hound.
From the Brussels griffon to the Irish Water Spaniel, each hypoallergenic dog breed mentioned above has something to offer.
What about if your dog is allergic to certain foods?
Check out these signs of dog food allergies to find a solution to your dog’s problem.
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