The Best & Worst Breeds for those with Allergies
It's one of the worst scenarios any pet lover can imagine... What do you do when you absolutely love dogs, but a family member is allergic? Well, we've got news for you, it doesn't have to all be doom and gloom.
Typically, people tend to lean towards hypoallergenic dogs. They're described to be the best types of dogs for people who suffer with allergies as they tend to shed less than other breeds.
Aside from hair, pet dander can be a cause of allergic rhinitis - a disease which has been known to affect over 600 million people worldwide. More commonly known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis occurs when the body overreacts to something which does not typically cause issues with other people.
Funnily enough, most people are not actually allergic to dog hair. Rather, they are allergic to dander (which are flakes on the dog's skin) or their saliva.
If you already have a dog, here are some tips to prevent allergies from occurring:
- Keeping the dog clean and ensure weekly bathing in lukewarm water. This can help to reduce the amount of dander and saliva throughout the household.
- Wash your dog's bedding and/or blankets at least once a week to remove excess dander and hair.
- As tough as it might be, keeping the dog out of your bedroom and off your bed during sleep can help.
If you are looking at a hypoallergenic breed, the best bet is to do a real-life test run to ensure the pup doesn't trigger an additional allergy.
Let's have a look at the best and worst breeds for people with allergies:
Best:
- Schnauzers. The Schnauzer has been to know to produce less dander than other breeds, which is an important step in creating an allergy-free environment.
- Bichon Frise & Labradoodle. Breeds such as this often recommended for people with dog allergies due to their easy-to-maintain coats.
Worst:
- German Shepherd. The dry skin on a German Shepherd has been known to cause excessive pet dander. To avoid this, bathe and groom regularly, but do not over do it. Too much bathing and grooming can also cause dry skin.
- Pekingese. Some breeds, including Pekingese, can be difficult to house-train than other types of dogs. This can make them a poor choice for someone with allergies.
As we all know, a dog is much more than just a pet. They are family members who bring happiness and love. Finding dogs which suit your allergy will take more time, but it will definitely be worth the effort in the long run.
Thanks for reading.
The Scruffs Team
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