You or someone in your family may be allergic to dogs, suffering from a runny or stuffy nose, watery eyes and sneezing fits. But it’s not hopeless. You can help your current situation, and there are also dog breeds that are less likely to cause reactions.
Dog allergy is actually a reaction to their fur dander, which includes proteins (allergens), dead skin and saliva from licking, plus dust and pollen they’ve picked up. The most allergy-causing dogs have double coats, and they shed a lot.
Active measures you can take:
- Wash your face and hands often
- Change clothing after close contact
- Wash or wet-towel your dog frequently
- Brush your dog outside whenever possible
- Use allergen-reducing dog shampoo
- Vacuum, dust, sweep and mop often with microfiber cloths and Swiffer-style mops that trap particles
- Get HEPA a filter for your HVAC and vacuum
- Use allergen-reducing sprays for sofas, chairs and bedding
- Replace carpeting with flooring
- Make some areas such as the home office a no-go zone for pets.
But if you are an allergic person looking for a dog who can be your snuggle buddy, there are some breeds that are less prone to triggering symptoms.
The old saying was, “Get a poodle.They have real hair.”
Hair or fur, it’s all keratin. The difference is that, more like a human, healthy Poodle fur doesn’t fall out very much. Dogs with tightly curled fur like the Poodle also tend to trap any loose strands in their coat until they can be brushed out, so they are virtually shed-free.
While no dog is totally hypoallergenic, the American Kennel Club recommends some breeds that are mostly hypoallergenic. Surprisingly, they’re not all short-haired, and they’re not all small. Even the luxuriously-locked Afghan Hound is on the list.
The Spruce Pets lists 32 hypoallergenic breeds, such as Poodles, Bichon Frise, Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Basenjis, Scottish Terriers, Schnauzers, Hairless Terriers, Boxers, water dogs, and even Greyhounds. Their common denominator is that they shed less.
So, will your family pet become hypoallergenic if you shave her? No.That would expose more dander. Just love her as she is and take the necessary cleaning steps to make your life more comfortable.
If you are looking for a companion for your dog without doubling the shedding, or if you have been concerned that you can never have a dog because of allergies, consider these practically hypoallergenic breeds. Look for the type of dog that matches your energy level and the activities you enjoy. They are all interesting breeds, and will be fun family pets.
Heron’s Crossing provides end-of-life care for pets in the Metro Atlanta area. In-home appointments with compassionate vets are available. If you’d prefer a home-like setting away from your home, our Decatur office is also available by appointment.