Many people think that pet allergies have something to do with the amount and length of animal’s fur, but this is not true. Offending allergens to humans are found in dog’s dander (dead skin that is shed), saliva and urine. Dander is the most significant dog allergen among these allergens. There are some dog breeds that produce less dander and they are called hypoallergenic breeds.

Hypoallergenic DOES NOT mean non-allergenic. Those who are allergic to dogs can still have reactions from hypoallergenic breeds, but because of their coat type, they may have fewer allergic reactions.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds (Listed in alphabetical order):

American Hairless Terrier
Basenji
Bedlington Terrier
Bichion Frise
Chinese Crested (Hairless, Powder Puff)
Coton de Tulear
Irish Water Spaniel
Kerry Blue Terrier
Maltese
Poodles (all sizes)
Portuguese Water Dog
Schnauzers (all sizes)
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

Reactions to dog allergens can include stuffy nose, inflamed eyes, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulties in breathing, asthma, rashes, etc… Healthcare professionals suggest that the best treatment is to avoid contact with dogs, but to many of us, this is not an option. If you are one of those unfortunate ones who are allergic to your own dog, here are some steps you can take to relieve your allergy problems:

• Wash your hands every time after you touch your dog.
• Clean your house frequently and thoroughly, especially carpets and upholstered furniture. Wash walls and baseboards and clean air ducts. Wash draperies and rugs in hot water.
• When vacuuming, wear a dust mask. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Bare floors are better than carpeted floors for allergy sufferers, but if you are unable to remove carpets, steam clean them frequently.
• Replace central heating/cooling air filters frequently.
• Use air cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Do not allow your dog to enter your bedroom. Keep the bedroom door closed at all times.
• Cover central heating/cooling air vents with thin, dense material such as cheesecloth in your bedroom.
• Wash your dog’s bedding and toys frequently in hot water.
• Bathe your dog once a week and brush him/her frequently. Use shampoo that does not dry out your dog’s skin. You may also add a supplement that contains quality essential fatty acids (important building blocks in healthy skin) that helps reduce dry skin and flakes to your dog’s diet.