Dogs for those with allergies

Hypoallergenic breeds

Some breeds of dogs are more suitable for allergy sufferers than others, due to the properties of their coats and their natures. We can divide them by size: 

• Smaller breeds suitable for allergy suffers include Bichon, Maltipoo, Yorkshire Terrier, Havanese, Shih Tzu and Chinese Crested Dog.
• Medium breeds for allergy sufferers include Poodle, Basenji and Schnauzer. 
• You can also choose from large breeds, such as Peruvian Hairless Dog, Komondor or Irish Water Spaniel.

Some dogs have been specially bred for allergy sufferers, such as Goldendoodles or Bernedoodles. These dogs are created by crossing larger breeds with Poodles, resulting in dogs with the appearance of a Golden Retriever or a Bernese Mountain Dog, but with a curly coat. This coat does not fall out, but keeps growing, so it needs to be cut.

How do allergies work and how can you prevent them?

An unpleasant reaction is not just caused by dog fur, as many might think. The issue of allergies is complex, but to put it simply, the composition of the dog's saliva, sweat, urine and skin can also be a trigger. Some allergy sufferers are sensitive to the mites that hide in dog fur. Allergic reactions may occur even if the sufferer is not direct contact with the dog. Sometimes symptoms show up if you are in a room where the dog spends time or if you are near the dog’s bed. Talk to your doctor about exactly what you are allergic to and the severity of your allergies. 

If you are not sure if a particular dog will cause an allergic reaction, we recommend that you visit the puppies themselves. It does not always help to test your reactions to the dogs of relatives or friends. Each of them lives in a different environment, where they have different hygiene habits and thus are theoretically carriers of weaker or stronger allergens. It may be different for your own dog. Prevention consists of maintaining a clean environment and regularly caring for your dog. By washing your hands after contact with your dog and using special hygiene products, you can minimize the risk of allergic symptoms.

Special dog care and training can help

An allergy sufferer should follow different dog care habits than other dog owners. These habits may include more frequent bathing, regular grooming, cleaning of paws and ears and last but not least, brushing of teeth, which not only gets rid of excess bacteria in the dog's mouth, but also promotes healthy teeth. 

Training plays an important role for dog owners who suffer from allergies. Train the dog not to lick faces. Although licking faces comes naturally to a dog, this can make your life very difficult. You can also teach your dog the after-walk routine of sitting down and waiting for you to wipe its fur, wash its paws, and so on. 

Just because you're allergic doesn't mean you have to give up living with a dog. You probably won't sleep in bed with your dog, but you can work on that, too. As we know, prolonged exposure to the allergen in moderate doses can strengthen your immune system and thus reduce the symptoms of the allergy itself. And believe me, the dog love is worth it.