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HYPOALLERGENIC DOGS

This short article presents important information for those searching for hypoallergenic dogs and struggling with dog allergies. While dogs in general do not always trigger strong allergic reactions, it is still important to check whether you or your children are sensitive before adopting a four-legged companion, in order to avoid the difficult situation of having to give the dog back.

Let us begin by addressing a common misconception related to hypoallergenic dogs. Many people believe that there are breeds that do not cause allergies at all. In reality, allergies are not caused by dog hair itself, but by allergens found in the animal’s skin, saliva, and bodily secretions. Therefore, even breeds often described as hypoallergenic dogs can still trigger allergic reactions. If you come across claims that a particular breed is completely allergy-free (for example, because it does not shed), such statements should be treated with caution — every dog has the potential to cause an allergic response.

ALLERGY AND SHEDDING

It is true that greater quantities of the allergenwill be left around if the pet sheds a lot of hair compared to breeds which do not shed at all. Therefore, if you want to minimise the spread of the allergen, choose a breed which sheds as little hair as possible, and remember that, just as there are no dogs which do not trigger allergies, THERE ARE NO DOGS WHICH NEVER SHED!

Every single hair eventually falls out and is replaced by a new one. The shedding process is different for every dog, however, and depends on such factors as genetics, environment, climate and temperature, breed, type of coat, and gender. Some breeds shed a lot of hair during a particular season, other breeds shed very little at a time but all year-round, and some shed in barely noticeable quantities.

1. These dogs shed more:

• females

– as shedding is controlled by hormones. Females shed more when in heat and after giving birth, which is independent of regular seasonal shedding. This can be reduced to a degree by spaying.

• short-haired breeds and breeds which have an undercoat

– breeds which do not have an undercoat shed seasonally and in low volumes. This is not the case for breeds with a thick undercoat. Double-coated dogs which live indoors shed year-round to a varying extent. Such breeds include:

1. Spitz
2. German shepherd
   
3. Labrador
4. Pug
   
5. Corgi

• thick-coated breeds

2. These animals shed little:

• breeds which do not have an undercoat
  

1. Flat coat retriever
2. Setter

• dogs which have long hair on the snout, regardless of the type of hair

1. Shaggy-coated dogs – Polish lowland sheepdog
2. Wooly-coated dogs – poodle
3. Rough-coat dogs – schnauzer, griffon, fox terrier; regular trimming is required to avoid shedding
4. Long-coat dogs – Yorkshire terrier, shih-tzu, lhasa apso; regular brushing is required
5. Coatless breeds or breeds with sparse coats – Mexican hairless dog, Chinese crested dog, Peruvian hairless dog, Maltese

Hypoallergenic dogs types

Companion animal websites promote several dozen dog breeds which are said to be hypoallergenic. These lists are often compiled with marketing needs in mind, which should be taken into account when making the choice.

Below are 11 breeds selected by AKC as the safest for people with allergies:

1. Bichon frise

2. Chinese crested dog

3. Maltese

4. Irish soft coated wheaten terrier

5. Poodle

6. Mexican hairless dog

7. Schnauzer

8. Bedlington terrier

9. Kerry blue terrier

10. Irish water spaniel

11. Portuguese water dog

If you are researching hypoallergenic dogs types, it is important to understand that reducing allergens at home depends not only on the breed but also on consistent hygiene. Regular cleaning is essential regardless of your dog’s coat type and should include both pet care and household maintenance. Depending on the type of hair, your dog may require routine trimming, cutting, brushing, and bathing. Whenever possible, these grooming activities should be done outside the home or in a room not used by the person with allergies. It is also advisable to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and specialized allergen-neutralizing cleaning products designed for allergy sufferers.

FAQ – Dog for Allergy Sufferers: Most Frequently Asked Questions

Are there dog breeds that do not cause allergies?

No, there are no dog breeds that are completely allergy-free. Allergies are a reaction to allergens present on the skin and in the animal's secretions, not to the fur itself.

What dog breeds are recommended for people with allergies?

Breeds that shed less and may be a better choice for allergy sufferers include: Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Maltese, Poodle, Mexican Hairless Dog, and Schnauzer.

Can regular grooming help reduce allergy symptoms?

Yes, regular brushing, bathing, and maintaining the dog's hygiene can reduce the amount of allergens in the environment, which may help alleviate allergy symptoms.

In conclusion, it is worth emphasizing that choosing the right dog is crucial for the comfort of an allergy sufferer. If you are wondering which dog is best for people with allergies and want to find a reliable source for purchase, visit WorldPetNet. There you will find dog breeders offering purebred dogs with a lower risk of triggering allergies, helping you make a more informed and safer decision.

Read more:

Dog Socialization – Everything You Need to Know

Heatstroke in Dogs – How to Recognize It?