What Are the Best Breeds for People with Allergies?
If you have allergies, your best bet for a pet may be an animal with fur or feathers instead of scales or oily secretions. Long-haired guinea pigs and rabbits are good choices if you’re allergic to cats and dogs.
Experts aren’t sure why some people develop allergies to pets while others don’t, but one theory is that people who are exposed to pets at an early age (when their immune system is still developing) become less allergic over time.
People with cat allergies can live with dogs — but not all dog breeds are equally hypoallergenic. Dogs that shed less often produce fewer allergens, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
Hypoallergenic dog breeds may still cause allergies for some people because of saliva or dander (dead skin cells). These are less likely to be a problem if the animal is bathed regularly, groomed often, and kept indoors.
There are many breeds of dogs that are considered “hypoallergenic.” Maybe you have friends or relatives with these types of dogs but don’t know they’re good for people with allergies. Here are some examples of hypoallergenic dog breeds:
Best Breeds for People with Allergies:
Afghan Hound, Basenji, Chinese Crested, Chow Chow, English Springer Spaniel, Kerry Blue Terrier (AKA “Irish Blue”), Lhasa Apso, Maltese Terrier (AKA “Maltese Toy”), Poodle (Toy), Portuguese Water Dog, Puli, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier.
There are other dogs that shed less and may not trigger allergies for some people. Ex:- Maltese, West Highland White Terriers, Bichon Frise, Poodle (Miniature).
Some mixed breeds may also carry the genes for less shedding and produce less dander.
Of course, there are always exceptions to these general rules. Some dogs that shed a lot do not trigger allergies in all people; likewise, some dogs (usually those bred for shows such as poodles) who don’t shed much can cause allergies in some people.
If you’re thinking about adopting a purebred dog, visit your local animal shelter to find out if they have any hypoallergenic mixed breeds available. Also, keep in mind that some breeds are more prone to specific health problems than others; for example, many small breed dogs (such as Chihuahuas, Maltese, Bichon Frise) are prone to dental problems.
Before getting a pet for allergy reasons, be sure you can afford to take care of all the animal’s needs. Dogs need vaccinations every year, and cats require yearly shots as well as regular veterinary visits, grooming, training classes, food — not to mention the initial cost of the animal and all the supplies you’ll need for it.
Dog-Allergy Symptoms
If you think a dog may be triggering your allergies, keep track of when symptoms occur, what you’ve been doing at the time, and whether other people in your home have been affected. Then talk to your doctor about allergy testing.
Allergies are usually caused by one or more of these factors:
Sensitivity to the saliva on the skin, fur, hair? Long-haired dogs may shed more allergens.
Dander, which is made up of microscopic skin particles containing dander and skin oil released when petting or stroking an animal.