The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that as many as 50 million people in the U.S. suffer from nasal allergies. One of the most common types of allergies is an allergy to dogs, which can make pet ownership difficult. But don’t worry: there’s hope for animal lovers with dog allergies! You may be able to live comfortably with a hypoallergenic dog, which is a special type of dog less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Keep reading to see our Atlanta pet sitters count down 10 of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for people who suffer from allergies.
Poodle
What Does it Mean to Be a Hypoallergenic Dog?
In medicine, the prefix “hypo-” means under, less than, or low. For example, a person with hypoglycemia has low blood sugar.
As you can probably guess, a hypoallergenic dog is a dog that is less likely than normal to trigger a flare-up of allergies. That’s good news for allergy sufferers – but what exactly is it that makes a dog hypoallergenic?
Believe it or not, the answer isn’t in the dog’s fur – it’s actually in the dog’s mouth, though skin does play an indirect role.
People with dog allergies have their allergic reaction due to a hypersensitivity to Can F1, a type of protein that naturally exists in dog saliva. This protein is also exuded through the dog’s skin, which creates opportunities for exposure whenever a person pets the dog.
Because the protein is released through the skin, choosing a hairless breed won’t necessarily help (unless it happens to be a breed that’s hairless and hypoallergenic, like a Chinese Crested). For people who have severe dog allergies, even sitting in a chair that the dog has recently used can trigger the familiar, unpleasant marathon of sneezing and sniffling.
10 Best Dog Breeds for People with Allergies
Even non allergenic dogs produce Can F1, the culprit behind allergies. However, many people find that their allergies are much less severe and more tolerable around hypoallergenic dogs as compared to “regular” breeds. If you, your spouse, or your child suffers from allergies, but you still want to welcome a puppy or dog into your household, choosing a hypoallergenic pet may be an ideal solution.
Keep reading to see 10 of the best dogs for people who suffer from allergies. They range in size from toy to giant and cover a huge range of personalities, so you’re bound to find the perfect allergy-friendly dog breed for your family.
- Afghan Hound – This ancient, majestic breed was once popular among aristocrats and even royals. Despite its long, flowing coat, the Afghan Hound is a good choice for allergy sufferers – just be ready for lots of grooming.
- Bichon Frise – With its rounded face and fluffy white coat, the Bichon Frise almost resembles a little cloud on legs. Described by the American Kennel Club as “playful, curious, and peppy,” this friendly breed loves just about everyone it encounters.
- Bedlington Terrier – With its curly, egg-shaped muzzle and thick, fluffy legs, the Bedlington Terrier is a visually unique breed. It’s also a great family dog who loves to be social and spend time with people.
- Chinese Crested – The Chinese Crested may not win many beauty contests, but its unique, endearing looks are exactly what’s earned this mostly-hairless breed so may fans across Georgia.
- Irish Water Spaniel – Like another entry on our list below, the Irish Water Spaniel loves to swim and splash about. If you have a pool, this or other water-loving breeds might make an especially good option.
- Maltese – With its trailing, silky coat and hair clipped up with bows, the Maltese looks absolutely precious. It’s also small and has relatively low exercise requirements, which can make it a good apartment dog.
- Poodle – While stereotypes have led many people to think of Poodles as being a bit “fussy” or “snooty,” the Poodle is actually a tough, sturdy, intelligent dog originally bred for hunting. They’re also a healthy breed, which is always a plus.
- Portuguese Water Dog – As the name suggests, this breed was made for splashing. Originally bred to help on fishing expeditions (right down to having webbed paws), today the Portuguese Water Dog is a family favorite for its intelligence and calm demeanor.
- Schnauzer – Both the giant and standard varieties have earned the American Kennel Club’s recommendations as hypoallergenic breeds.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – Visitors will be amazed when you tell them your dog’s lustrous, magnificent coat is actually allergy-friendly! Just be prepared for lots of grooming to keep that famous coat in good condition.
Because hypoallergenic dogs aren’t completely allergen-free, it may be wise to foster a hypoallergenic dog before you decide to adopt from a shelter or buy from a pet shop. That will give you a better idea of how much you or your loved one’s allergies are triggered by the dog, which can help guide your pet ownership decisions in the future.
Living with dogs with allergies is possible for millions of people. With luck, you’ll soon make a new furry friend who doesn’t leave you reaching for the tissues.
Maltese
Atlanta Pet Sitters Available for Dogs and Puppies
We hope you find a hypoallergenic dog that works with your allergies. Once you do, turn to Critter Sitters for all your Atlanta Metro area pet sitting needs.
With over 100 pet sitters, more than 40 years of experience, and recommendations from eight veterinary offices, Critter Sitters is Georgia’s number one source for skilled, trustworthy, and affordable in-home dog sitters. We’re available on short notice and work flexible hours to fit your busy lifestyle, including mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Our team of dedicated pet sitters includes:
- Alpharetta Dog Sitters
- Buckhead Dog Sitters
- Marietta Dog Sitters
- Peachtree City Dog Sitters
- Sandy Springs Dog Sitters
- Smyrna Dog Sitters
- And More
Dogs aren’t the only pets we provide in-home care for, either – we also offer pet sitting services for cats, birds, small pets, exotic pets, and even horses. When you need to hire a dependable dog sitter fast, call Critter Sitters at 404-793-6178.
