Hypoallergenic Dogs: Why There Are No Allergenic Dogs

A dog is a friend of man, but in some cases it is also the cause of allergies. For those who are afraid of the appearance of such a reaction of the body or have encountered it before, acquaintances often recommend getting pets of a hypoallergenic breed, generously sharing their own or others’ “success stories”. However, are there really non-allergic dogs? More details in the article.

What is the cause of allergies

Deterioration of well-being in the presence of a four-legged pet is often associated with hairs of wool that fall from it. But in reality, the reaction occurs to the protein contained in saliva, in skin particles, sweat, tear and nasal secretions, in the urine of the animal. This protein is indeed spread around the house mainly through the shedding of wool.

Dogs with hypoallergenic coat – marketing or reality

Completely hypoallergenic dogs do not exist. Many people think that you can buy a hairless pet and the problem will be solved. However, the protein can be distributed in other ways, without the participation of wool. At the same time, finding a dog that does not cause allergies is worth a try.

What are the criteria for choosing a dog for allergies

• Doesn’t salivate. We will have to exclude such cute, but “slobbery” breeds as bulldog, sharpei, English mastiff and others.
• Barks a little. Silent dogs leave less saliva around.
• Has a small size. The smaller the pet, the less allergen its body produces.
• His hair practically does not fall out. Most often, these are long-haired dog breeds that lose their mane only when combing or grooming.

How does allergy manifest itself?

Up to 15% of the world’s population is allergic to protein secreted by animals. Its most common symptoms are: runny nose, cough, hoarseness, conjunctivitis, itching and skin rashes. Atypical reactions of the body and the degree of their manifestation are individual. To make sure that the allergy is caused by contact with the pet, it is necessary to pass a special analysis.

Which dogs do not cause allergies

Allergies can occur to any dog. However, there are a number of breeds whose representatives produce a minimum amount of protein. The reaction to the presence of such pets occurs in children and adults is extremely rare. So, the most hypoallergenic dogs:  

• wire-haired terriers and dachshunds,
• schnauzers,
• poodle,
• shih tzu,
• affenpinscher,
• Maltese,
• bichon frize,
• german Drathaar,
• Brussels Griffon.

A dog in the house is a big responsibility. It is not recommended to have even a conditionally hypoallergenic pet if the future owner or family members have a suspicion of an atypical reaction of the body to the protein secreted by dogs. The first thing to do is get tested for allergies. If it was confirmed, but the desire to have a pet remains, it is better to consider purchasing a dog from the list above. Before buying, it is advisable to find a dog of a similar breed from friends or acquaintances and spend some time with it. This will help to understand in advance how the body reacts to the presence of an animal. For more information on how pet allergies manifest, see Hill’s veterinarians.