Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds: They’re Nothing to Sneeze At!

Hypoallergenic dogs are a great solution for would be dog owners that have allergies. Many dog lovers that thought they would never be able to own a dog because of the uncontrollable symptoms to pet dander, may not have considered a hypoallergenic dog. A small number of dog breeds are considered hypoallergenic, meaning they do not cause allergic reactions, either because they shed only small amounts of hair or because their dog dander is not allergy producing.

Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a non-allergenic dog or a non-shedding dog, a common misconception by some owners with allergy problems that purchase dogs believing they will be cured of dog dander issues.

Although the amount of allergy producing dander will be reduced with a hypoallergenic dog, owners still need to go through a regular routine to ensure that pet dander from pet hair is removed from their environment. It is important to recognize that it isn’t the pet hair itself causing the allergic reaction, but the dander that comes off when the dog shedding occurs. Dogs that make little to no dander are the dogs that are considered hypoallergenic dogs and will be best suited for a home with someone who is allergy sensitive.

What Causes Dog Allergies...

As previously noted, it is not the actual dog or even the hair of the dog, but the dander that flakes off the skin and causes allergies. Unfortunately, this dander can easily be carried throughout the house when it attaches to the hair of the dog, falls onto the floor, couches or beds of a home, causing potential allergens to be spread throughout the home.

Keep in mind that many humans with allergies will make the mistake of buying a hairless dog or a short-haired dog thinking they will produce less allergens than a long-haired breed. This is not always the case. In fact, some medium to long-haired dogs produce little to no dander, while other short haired dogs produce a lot of dander. Remember that all dogs produce dander, it is just that some produce a great deal less than others.

Tips for Reducing Pet Allergens...

1. Purchase a high suction vacuum that can quickly and effectively remove almost all pet dander from the home. Use this on a daily to weekly basis as needed.

2. Find a large air purifier that can be used in the main areas of the house. Keep the air purifier running at all times in order to effectively reduce dander. Remember to clean the purifier on a regular basis as well.

3. Brush your pet 2-3 times a day. Give dogs a bath at least once a week to remove excess dander. Do this outside so that dander will not collect in part of the home.

4. Limit dog access to your sleeping and sitting areas. Regularly wash sheets, curtains, pillow covers, table clothes and any other removable upholstery covers.

A List of Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds...

Afghan Hound

American Hairless Terrier

Basenji

Bedlington Terrier

Bichon Frise

Border Terrier

Chinese Crested Dog

German Shorthaired Pointer

Greyhound

Italian Greyhound

Irish Water Spaniel

King Blue Terrier

Lhasa Apso

Maltese

Mexican Hairless

Peruvian Ina

Poodles (all)

Portuguese Water Dog

Schnauzers (all)

Shih Tzu

Yorkshire Terrier

Wheaten Terrier

Whippet

Also, if you have allergies and are considering the purchase of a hypoallergenic dog, it might be wise to spend as much time as possible around the dog beforehand to see how you will react. By doing so, it might save you, and the dog, from the emotional turmoil of having to give up your new friend if you find your allergenic reactions too strong.

Even though author Richard Livitski doesn't suffer from dog allergies, he is sympathetic toward those who do, so he wrote this article to help. He does though run a dog names website http://www.dog-names-and-more.com where dog names as well as grooming, training, and dog care tips can be found.