Allergy Free Dogs

There are many debates on whether allergy free dogs or hypoallergenic dogs exist. The bottom line is that there aren't any dogs that cause no allergies in humans. It’s true that there are dogs that have shorter hair and shed less hair or dander, but all dogs cause allergies in susceptible people.

Dog Allergens

Most people believe that they are allergic to dog hair. In fact, the allergen in dogs is a protein that is present mostly in the shed dander, urine and saliva.

The dander is made up of dead skin cells and is shed regularly by dogs. All dogs shed dander, so all dogs are potential allergens for sensitive people.  

Low Allergy Breeds

There are some dog breeds that are said to cause fewer allergic reactions in humans. These dogs are either hairless or shed less dander.

The hairless breeds include:

• American hairless terrier
• Peruvian hairless dog
• Peruvian Inca orchids
• Chinese crested
• Xoloitzcuintli, or the miniature version

Dogs that shed less dander include:

• The curly and wire coated breeds (such as Bichon Frise, Poodle and Puli)
• Single coated breeds (such as Maltese or Chihuahua)
• Some terriers (Irish Kerry Blue Terrier)
• Short haired breeds such as Basenji or Italian Greyhounds

The dander shed by your dog is also a matter of diet and how frequently the dog is bathed. There are also some breeds that are said to produce more dander and have more skin problems, such as the Shar Pei, Pugs or Cocker Spaniels.

Managing Allergies

People who are allergic to dogs can manage their allergies and still own pets.

It's important to get an immunization treatment that consists of shots with the protein present in the dog dander. Overexposure to these allergens will make the person immune to them, and in time there will be fewer symptoms of dog allergies.

Antihistamines and steroids can be taken, but are not recommended, because long term treatment causes numerous side effects.

A frequent bathing of the dog will reduce the frequency of dander shedding, and can reduce human allergies by as much as 90%.

Add some supplements to your dog’s diet, including omega 3 fatty acids and biotin, a vitamin from the B complex. These vitamins will give your pet a healthier skin and he will shed less dander.

Clean your home frequently to remove the dog hair and dander. Get some air purifiers.

If you have severe allergies, it would be a good idea to get rid of some extra carpets and pillows from your home, as these gather a lot of dander.

Keep your dog away from your bedroom. If your bedroom is free from dander, you will have fewer allergic reactions and a good night's sleep.

Hypoallergenic dogs don’t exist. Researchers are working on a formula for allergy free cats and dogs, but so far there were no successful cases reported. Sensitive people will be allergic to dogs, whether they're tagged as allergy free or not.