Hypoallergenic Dogs
What are they, and could they be right for you?
Have you been longing for a canine companion but given up on that dream because of allergies?
It’s true; the dander that lurks in a dog’s coat can irritate allergy sufferers, especially if you own a dog who sheds frequently.
Hypoallergenic dogs are one possible solution to the problem.
These are dog breeds that are either hairless or non-shedding. Some hypoallergenic dogs have hair that is so curly, short, or wiry that they shed very little or not at all.
Owning a hypoallergenic dog makes dog ownership possible for many allergy sufferers.
It’s important to keep in mind, though, that no breed of dog is completely hypoallergenic. All dogs produce varying degrees of dander or other irritants. However, hypoallergenic dogs are not as likely as other breeds to aggravate your allergies.
Here are some hypoallergenic dog breeds worth considering.
The Affenpinscher has a wiry coat that is easy to care for and doesn’t shed often.
The Afghan Hound is known for its unique, regal appearance as well as its loyalty.
With no hair (or at least, very little of it), the American Hairless Terrier is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
The Bedlington Terrier has a soft, sheeplike coat of tightly curled hair.
The Bichon Frise is tough, lively, and full of personality. This breed has been around for centuries and remains popular.
The Chinese Crested has no hair except for the noteworthy hairdo on top of its head.
The Coton de Tulear gets its name from its soft, white coat, resembling cotton.
Any variety of Schnauzer (Giant, Standard, or Miniature) is an excellent companion, full of energy.
The Irish Water Spaniel has no undercoat, just a single coat of tight curls.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a perfect family dog and also has a unique blue coat.
The Lagotto Romagnolo, originally bred to hunt for truffles in the woods, resembles a cuddly teddy bear.
The Maltese is an adorable toy breed, a symbol of luxury since ancient times.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a hound dog with a personality similar to greyhounds.
All three varieties of Poodle (Miniature, Standard, or Toy) are known for their athleticism and elegance.
The Portuguese Water Dog has just one coat and just needs regular grooming to minimize dander and allergens.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a silky coat, hypoallergenic, when brushed regularly.
The Xoloitzcuintli (often called a “Xolo”) is a Mexican dog with a wrinkled forehead and a loving personality.
The Basenji is strong, agile, and low shedding, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the AKC spaniels. It has lots of energy and especially loves the water.
The Wire Fox Terrier has thick, curly hair, which minimizes shedding. It’s an adventurous breed designed for hunting.
The Yorkshire Terrier is the ultimate, old-fashioned spirited terrier, beloved since Victorian times.
As you can see, allergies do not have to be a barrier to dog ownership. With so many breeds of hypoallergenic dogs available, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect canine companion.
