The Best Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Good Dogs for People with Allergies

A dog lover, yet allergic? You are not alone. Many people have allergies to dogs, and it complicates having them as pets. Some breeds, however, are believed to be hypoallergenic due to their low-shed coat and a small amount of dander. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, some breeds would work better for people with allergies.

Understanding Dog Allergies

Most people believe that allergies from pets come from fur, but in most cases, the villain is dander! Pet dander is a small skin flake that animals shed. Other allergens are saliva and urine, which have proteins responsible for allergic reactions. These allergens become airborne and settle on surfaces such as furniture, clothes, and carpets, causing symptoms like:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy Eyes
• Wheezing
• Skin rashes

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, certain breeds produce less dander. Those breeds shed minimally and have coats that trap the allergens instead of releasing them into the air. These breeds are often recommended for allergy sufferers.

Best Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

If you’re looking for a furry companion but struggle with allergies, consider these low-allergen breeds:

1. Afghan Hound
   • Size: Large
   • Coat Type: Long, silky
   • Temperament: Independent, sweet, energetic
   • Grooming Needs: High – requires frequent brushing=

Afghan Hounds are known for their elegant, flowing coats. Though their fur is long, they shed very little and produce less dander than other breeds.

2. Bichon Frise
   • Size: Small
   • Coat Type: Soft, curly
   • Temperament: Friendly, playful, affectionate
   • Grooming Needs: High – requires regular brushing and grooming

Bichon Frises have hair, not fur, which helps reduce dander. Their curly coats trap allergens, making them a good option for allergy sufferers.

3. Chinese Crested
   • Size: Toy
   • Coat Type: Hairless or powderpuff (long, soft coat)
   • Temperament: Lively, affectionate, alert
   • Grooming Needs: Low (hairless) to medium (powderpuff)

The hairless variety of the Chinese Crested has minimal dander, making them ideal for those with severe allergies. However, they require skin protection from the sun.

4. Kerry Blue Terrier
   • Size: Medium
   • Coat Type: Wavy, non-shedding
   • Temperament: Intelligent, active, loyal
   • Grooming Needs: Moderate – requires regular trimming

Kerry Blue Terriers have non-shedding coats that require frequent grooming, which helps reduce allergens in the home.

5. Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard)
   • Size: Varies
   • Coat Type: Dense, curly
   • Temperament: Highly intelligent, trainable, energetic
   • Grooming Needs: High – regular brushing and professional grooming needed

Poodles are one of the most hypoallergenic breeds due to their dense, curly coats, which trap dander and allergens. They also come in different sizes, making them a great choice for various living environments.

6. Portuguese Water Dog
   • Size: Medium
   • Coat Type: Dense, curly, water-resistant
   • Temperament: Loyal, energetic, intelligent
   • Grooming Needs: High – requires frequent brushing and trimming

The Portuguese Water Dog gained fame when the Obama family adopted one due to Malia Obama’s allergies. Their coats don’t shed much, making them a fantastic choice for allergy sufferers.

7. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
   • Size: Medium
   • Coat Type: Soft, silky, wavy
   • Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, playful
   • Grooming Needs: High – requires frequent grooming

This terrier breed has a single-layer coat that doesn’t shed much, reducing allergens in the home.

8. American Hairless Terrier
   • Size: Small to Medium
   • Coat Type: Hairless or short-coated
   • Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, affectionate
   • Grooming Needs: Low – occasional bathing needed

Being hairless, this breed naturally produces less dander, making it an excellent option for allergy sufferers.

9. Lagotto Romagnolo
   • Size: Medium
   • Coat Type: Thick, curly, woolly
   • Temperament: Friendly, energetic, intelligent
   • Grooming Needs: High – requires frequent trimming and brushing

This Italian breed is known for its low-shedding, curly coat, which helps minimize allergens.

10. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Size: Toy
    • Coat Type: Fine, silky hair (similar to human hair)
    • Temperament: Confident, affectionate, lively
    • Grooming Needs: High – regular brushing and trimming required

Yorkies have hair instead of fur, making them one of the best dogs for people with allergies.

Tips for Reducing Allergens at Home with Pets

Even if you choose a hypoallergenic dog, taking extra steps can help minimize allergy symptoms:

• Frequent Grooming: Regular baths and brushing help remove dander.
• Use HEPA Filters: These filters trap pet allergens in the air.
• Clean Your Home Regularly: Vacuum carpets, furniture, and pet areas often.
• Wash Dog Bedding: Clean your dog’s bed and toys regularly to remove allergens.
• Create Allergy-Free Zones: Keep bedrooms pet-free to reduce exposure.
• Consider Allergy Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines or allergy shots can help.

Worst Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Some breeds shed heavily and produce a significant amount of dander, making them unsuitable for allergy sufferers. These include:

• Labrador Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• Saint Bernards
• Siberian Huskies
• Golden Retrievers

These breeds shed excessively and may cause severe allergic reactions.

Owning a dog as an allergy sufferer is possible with the right breed and proper management. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, the breeds listed above are among the best options for people with allergies. Regular grooming, cleaning, and air filtration can help minimize allergen exposure. If you’re considering adopting a dog, consult with a veterinarian or make an appointment with an allergy specialist at Baz to ensure the dog is the best fit for your health needs.