What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Are you an animal lover who suffers from allergies? Do you always feel a little bit resentful that you can’t share the same unconditional love and joy that pups bring to their owners? You may be surprised to find out that there are certain breeds of dogs that are considered hypoallergenic – meaning they are much less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
Hypoallergenic dogs don’t completely eliminate the possibility of allergies – however, they can be a great way for people with mild to moderate allergies to enjoy the companionship of a pup. If you’re curious about hypoallergenic dogs, read on to discover some of the best breeds for allergy sufferers.
Types of Hypoallergenic Dogs
Believe it or not, almost all dogs can be considered hypoallergenic to some extent. Every dog will have some type of dander, which is what can trigger allergic reactions in people – however, some breeds shed less than others. Not only that, but some breeds also produce less of the proteins in their saliva and skin oils that can become airborne and end up triggering allergies.
When looking to add a hypoallergenic pet to your family, some of the breeds to consider include Portuguese Water Dog, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Bichon Frise, Bedlington Terrier, Havanese, Schnauzer, Irish Water Spaniel, Coton de Tulear, Poodle, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Shih Tzu. All of these breeds are known for potentially producing fewer allergens than other breeds.
Adopting a Hypoallergenic Dog
Of course, as with any other breed, it is important to research each breed and make sure it is the right fit for you. Consider the size and energy level of the pup you are adopting – depending on your lifestyle and environment, one breed may be better suited for you than another. Additionally, you should also consider other factors such as possible medical issues, the cost of taking care of the pup and the longevity of the breed.
Once you’ve settled on a hypoallergenic pup, be sure to take the necessary precautions to help prevent sensitivities. Ensuring that the pup has a nutritious and balanced diet to help keep their skin and coat healthy and control dander production, as well as regular brushing and grooming are essential steps to keeping your pup as low-allergen as possible.
Conclusion
If you suffer from allergies, you may have resigned yourself to the fact that a furry little companion, a pup of your own, isn’t in your future. However, there are hypoallergenic dog breeds that are much less likely to trigger allergies – so don’t write off that dream just yet. With the right breed and proper care, you can finally open yourself up to the unconditional love and companionship of a pup of your own.