These Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Will Fulfill Your Needs

A friend in need is a friend indeed! And adorable puppies definitely make the list of friends I want to have. Dogs are considered the friendliest and most loyal pets to have, and many people are opting for dogs the moment they get a chance to live by themselves. However, a really common issue that can be formed in this situation is that some people are actually allergic to dogs. So, what can you do if you are one of those people? Well, there are some hypoallergenic dog breeds you can opt for! This way you can give yourself a new friend, and give your friend a home.

What Are Dog Allergies?

Dogs release proteins into their dead skin, saliva, and urine, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people when their immune systems react unusually to these typically harmless proteins. Different dog breeds produce varying amounts of dander, making some dogs more allergenic than others.

Over time, these allergens cling to the dog’s fur and can spread to carpets, clothing, walls, and between couch cushions. While pet hair itself isn’t an allergen, it can trap dust and dander. Pet dander can also remain suspended in the air for extended periods, potentially entering your eyes or lungs.

Symptoms of Dog Allergy

The symptoms of a dog allergy can range from mild to severe and might not show up right away in people with a lower sensitivity to allergens. Signs that you might be allergic to dogs include experiencing swelling and itching in the nose or around the eyes, skin redness after being licked by a dog, coughing, difficulty breathing, or wheezing shortly after exposure to allergens, a rash on the face, neck, or chest, and in individuals with asthma, the possibility of a severe asthma attack.

Dog Allergy Treatments

The most effective way to eliminate a pet allergy is to remove the pet from your home, but there are strategies to minimize exposure and reduce symptoms if you want to keep your pet. These include using medications like antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids, considering cromolyn sodium nasal spray or decongestants, and exploring allergy shots (immunotherapy) for severe cases. Saline rinses can help clear allergens from the nasal passages. Lifestyle changes involve creating dog-free zones, regular pet baths, removing allergen-attracting items, using HEPA purifiers, and possibly considering hypoallergenic dog breeds. A trial period when introducing a new pet can assess family members’ reactions.

What are Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?

Dr. Jill A. Poole, a professor, and chief of allergy and immunology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, explains that there is no such thing as hypoallergenic dog breeds because all dogs produce the same proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. Instead, it’s more accurate to distinguish between shedding and non-shedding dogs. Shedding dogs release more hair into their environment, potentially leading to a buildup of dog hair in the home.

Non-shedding dogs don’t shed their hair as readily but require regular grooming. When dogs shed, some people may develop an irritant response to the hair, which is different from an allergic response as it doesn’t trigger antibody production. To reduce irritant responses, choosing a dog that sheds less and regularly cleans up loose dog hair can be helpful.

Top 10 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

If you have a dog allergy, here are some of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for you:

1. Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs with distinctive curly coats and a charming, lamb-like appearance. They are known for their gentle, affectionate, and playful personality. These intelligent dogs are good watchdogs, quick learners, and tend to get along well with children.

While they are not extremely high-energy, they require regular exercise and benefit from consistent training methods. Their low-shedding coat makes them a suitable choice for people with allergies.

2. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small breed that embodies charm and amiability both in its appearance and personality. With its distinctive curly, white coat and endearing dark eyes, it’s hard not to fall in love with this breed.

In terms of temperament, the Bichon Frise is friendly and affectionate. They thrive on human companionship and tend to form strong bonds with their owners. This affectionate nature makes them excellent as family pets, always eager to share their love.

Their playful disposition adds to their appeal. Bichon Frises have a joyful and lively approach to life, making them ideal playmates for both children and adults.

3. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a breed of dog that stands out for its distinctive appearance and endearing personality. With two distinct varieties, the Hairless, and the Powderpuff, there’s a unique charm to each.

The Hairless variety features exposed skin with hair limited to specific areas like the head, feet, and tail. In contrast, the Powderpuff has a soft, flowing coat covering its entire body. This diversity in appearance allows potential owners to choose the version that best suits their preferences.

Chinese Cresteds are small dogs, typically weighing between 8 to 12 pounds and standing around 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. Their fine-boned build, expressive dark eyes, and distinctive ears contribute to their overall appeal. What truly sets Chinese Cresteds apart is their charming personality. They are renowned for their affectionate nature, forming strong and loving bonds with their owners.

4. Maltese

The Maltese breed is truly a gem among dogs, celebrated for its elegant and enchanting qualities. Maltese dogs are small and typically weigh around 4 to 7 pounds. They have a stunning coat that is long, silky, and pure white, which adds to their regal appearance. Their expressive, dark eyes and delicate features give them an air of sophistication.

Maltese dogs are also renowned for their charming personality. They are incredibly affectionate and thrive on forming deep bonds with their human companions.

5. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized dogs with strong and muscular build. They have a curly or wavy coat that comes in various colors, including black, brown, and white. Their webbed feet and love for water make them excellent swimmers, and their expressive eyes add to their charming appearance.

One of their most distinguishing features is their love for water. As the name suggests, Portuguese Water Dogs have a natural affinity for water-related activities. They excel in swimming and have historically been used as working dogs by fishermen, assisting in tasks such as herding fish into nets.

6. Poodle

oodles come in three recognized sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. They have a curly or wavy coat that is renowned for being hypoallergenic and comes in various colors. Their intelligent, expressive eyes and elegant appearance add to their appeal.

Besides their cute looks, Poodles are celebrated for their versatile and charming personality. They are highly affectionate and thrive on forming strong bonds with their human companions. Their loyalty and dedication make them outstanding family pets.

7. Schnauzer

Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and quick learning abilities. They are excellent problem solvers and are eager to please their owners. This makes them highly trainable and responsive to various commands and tasks.

One of their most distinguishing features is their distinctive facial hair, which adds to their unique appearance. Schnauzers require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance, including trimming their beard and eyebrows.

Schnauzers are adaptable and can thrive in different living environments, from apartments to homes with yards. They have moderate exercise needs and enjoy playtime and mental stimulation.

8. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are renowned for their charming and affectionate personality. They thrive on forming close bonds with their human family members and often become devoted companions. Their loyalty and gentle nature make them wonderful pets, especially for families.

Shih Tzus are also known for their friendly disposition and adaptability. They generally get along well with other pets and people, making them sociable additions to households. Their temperament is often described as friendly and outgoing.

9. Spanish Water Dog

Spanish Water Dogs are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy build and a distinctive curly or wavy coat that comes in various colors. Their expressive eyes and agile frame give them an appealing appearance.

One of their most distinguishing features is their proficiency in water-related tasks. Spanish Water Dogs have historically been used as working dogs, assisting fishermen with herding and retrieving. They are equally at home on land and in the water. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in various living environments, including apartments and homes with yards. They have moderate exercise needs and enjoy both physical activity and mental stimulation.

10. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers or Yorkies are small dogs with a fine-boned and elegant build. They have a silky, straight coat that is typically a combination of blue and tan colors. Their expressive eyes and perky ears give them an adorable appearance.

These pups are credited for their charming and affectionate personality. They thrive on forming close bonds with their human family members and often become devoted companions. Their loyalty and confidence make them excellent pets, especially for families and individuals seeking a charming and spirited canine friend.