ALLERGY FRIENDLY DOG BREEDS

If you're reading this, you, or someone around you may have a dog allergy, but that doesn't mean you don't want to share your life with one. Is it possible? Of course, it is! In addition to being able to take steps to help you reduce or control these allergic reactions, there are some dog breeds that do not cause allergies, known as hypoallergenic.  Keep in mind that there is no scientific evidence that certifies that specific breeds are 100% hypoallergenic, but there are dogs that produce less allergies than others.

But what are hypoallergenic breeds?

Allergy by dogs is basically caused by dander proteins. Thus, the allergens are found in the skin of dogs and not in the hair, as is often thought. These proteins are also found in saliva, urine or even in the sebaceous glands. Thus, we could say that hypoallergenic breeds are simply those that produce less dander and shed less hair.

The fact that a dog breed is considered hypoallergenic does not mean that it cannot cause any reaction (whether in the form of a rash, irritation, sneezing or itchy eyes). Allergy-free dogs are on this list because they secrete fewer allergens than other breeds, thus reducing symptoms and the likelihood of a reaction.

Generally, dog breeds that shed less hair are the least allergenic, as they do not distribute the shedding skin through the air. Therefore, in the list you will find hairless dogs, dogs that do not shed hair and others that do not produce dandruff at all. In addition, we also find other breeds that have the same pH of the hair as humans.

Don't forget that every person and every dog is different, as is the degree or intensity of allergies. It is possible that some of the breeds listed below do not cause allergies in some people, but they do in others.

Here are 10 hypoallergenic dog breeds!

Yorkshire Terrier: for people with allergies, this is the ideal dog. It sheds almost no hair, so it will shed a minimum number of allergens. However, its coat needs daily care to avoid tangling and soiling!

Poodle: this breed is a good choice for someone with allergies. It exists in both large and small size (toy poodle) and both variations sport a coat that ensures minimal shedding.

Bichon: Although it may not look like it because of the length of their hair, they shed very little hair and very little allergens. The Bichon breed has several sub-breeds (Maltese and Frise), so the options of hypoallergenic dog breeds multiply!

Schnauzer: this breed has short hair and sheds very little, so they will also be perfect for people with allergies!

Labradoodle: it is a hypoallergenic breed created by crossing Labrador retriever and poodle. It should be noted that not all types of this breed are hypoallergenic, although some of them share the same qualities as their Poodle ancestors.

Water dogs: their curly and compact coat never sheds from their skin. Therefore, they do not shed allergens all over the house. However, they should be brushed often to avoid tangles.

Shih Tzu: is one of the breeds recommended for allergy sufferers and asthmatics. They don't shed any hair, but don't forget to have them brushed and trimmed at a reputable groomers!

Italian and English Greyhound: both have such a short coat that allergy sufferers have no problem with them. If you want a small, quiet and easy to train dog, go for the Italian Greyhound. On the other hand, if you are a lover of large breeds, choose the English Greyhound!

And you, do you know more hypoallergenic breeds? We read you in the comments!