If you have allergies to dogs but love them anyway, you’re in a bit of a pickle. After all, dog hair, dander, and saliva are responsible for many allergic reactions! To find the perfect dog for you, you’d probably have to find one that’s hypoallergenic. Right?
Well, not exactly, mostly because there are no truly hypoallergenic dogs out there. However, there are dog breeds that are less likely to cause allergies that could work for you. Particularly if you’re allergic to dog hair, finding a dog who sheds very little or is completely hairless might do the trick.
What about Dalmatians, then? They aren’t hypoallergenic, of course, but are they better for allergy sufferers? Unfortunately, the answer is probably no. Dalmatians are known for their heavy shedding; in fact, owners have a joke that goes along the lines of “the breed only sheds two times: during the day and at night”. So, they likely won’t be a great pet for those allergic to dog hair and dander.
What Causes Allergies to Dogs
While some people are allergic to a dog’s hair, more often, people are allergic to the dander and saliva coming from a dog, making it harder to find a dog they can be around. That’s why short-haired dogs or dogs who shed less often aren’t always the answer.
And when it comes to the dander or saliva or hair causing an allergic reaction, it happens because the body is interpreting these things as hostile substances that will do harm. The result is the body releasing antibodies that, in turn, result in runny noses, itchy eyes, irritation to the skin, and coughing.
Best Dogs for Allergy Sufferers
Okay, so there are no hypoallergenic dogs, and dogs that shed less often or have less hair might not work for you. So, are there any dogs out there that allergy sufferers might be able to handle? There are! At least according to the AKC who says these breeds are the best for those with allergies:
- Afghan Hound
- American Hairless Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Chinese Crested
- Coton de Tulear
- Giant Schnauzer
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Maltese
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Peruvian Inca Orchid
- Poodle
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Spanish Water Dog
- Standard Schnauzer
- Xoloitzcuintli
These dogs are on the list because they have a coat that produces less dander (the main allergen for those allergic to dogs) and sheds less.
Dogs to Avoid
On the other side are the dogs who are more likely to cause an allergic reaction in those with dog allergies. This list includes, amongst others, the Labrador Retriever—one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. These breeds also include:
- Basset Hound
- Boston Terrier
- Bulldog
- Doberman Pinscher
- German Shepherd
- Pekingese
- Pug
- Saint Bernard
- Siberian Husky
Conclusion
If you’re allergic to dogs but have your heart set on a Dalmatian, we hate being the bearer of bad news, but it’s most likely not going to be a good idea. While Dalmatians aren’t on the list of the worst allergy-causing breeds out there, neither are they on the list of breeds that may cause fewer allergies. Neither are they hypoallergenic since there are no dogs that are 100% hypoallergenic.
However, despite your dog allergies, plenty of dog breeds are available that could work out for you since they produce less hair and dander. We’re sure you can find a suitable breed on the list above, though—one that’s incredibly cute and fun and a perfect match!
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
