Are you thinking about getting a dog, but struggle with allergies? It’s a valid concern. 30% of all allergy sufferers in the US struggle with pet allergies and it can be a challenge to live with if your symptoms are severe. Can you live with a dog? Are there any hypoallergenic dogs? What can you do to prepare for allergic reactions? How will allergies affect your children? These are all valid questions and concerns that we hope to help you address in this post.
Can You Own A Dog If You Have Allergies?
Absolutely. If your symptoms are mild, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the companionship of a cute pup. Some people also claim that the longer they’re exposed to their pet, the less severe their allergies become. This really depends on you and what you’re comfortable with.
A good recommendation is to spend some time with your future pet before purchasing. Do you immediately begin to sneeze and sniff? Does your skin get itchy in the home or only when the dog licks you? Are you able to breathe okay or do you start wheezing? You can also talk with your doctor before buying a dog to see if they have any prescriptions or medication you can take. Depending on your symptoms, there are measures you can take to lessen the frequency of your allergic reactions around your pup.
How To Prevent Allergic Reactions With Your Dog
Dog allergies stem from the proteins found in animal dander (dead skin), saliva, and urine. Dander will cling to your dog’s fur which can fly in the air and attach to anything nearby. When your pup licks you, this can also cause irritation on the skin. If you’re struggling with puffy eyes and a runny nose, here are some measures you can take.
- Wash your hands. Anytime you spend long periods of time with your pooch, make sure to wash your hands after. Avoid touching your face and eyes or you’ll find yourself suffering with a frustrating amount of itchiness and watery eyes.
- Change Your Clothes. If your pup is all over you for a prolonged period of time, you may need to dress in new attire. The dander can really irritate the skin and you may accidentally brush some on your fingers, touching your eyes and… you get the idea.
- Brush Your Pup Weekly. Not only will brushing help your dog have a silky smooth coat, but it will also lessen the damage done by their dander. It might be best if someone who isn’t allergic to your dog does the brushing, but this isn’t always reasonable. You may also want to bathe your pup every two weeks, give or take. Here are some grooming tips next time your pup needs a bath.
- Clean House. Remove any curtains, furniture, and carpeting that attract fur. Bare walls and floors are easier to clean and prevent dander from collecting.You’re also going to want to vacuum frequently. Wearing a mask while cleaning may also help.
- No Pup Zone. Create spaces where your pup can’t enter. Your room is high on that list, but you may also want to keep other areas of the home clear from allergies.
You might also want to consider getting an air filter. All these steps can help you with your allergies, but not always. If you’re still struggling, medication or buying a different kind of pet that doesn’t have fur, may be better for you.
Will Dogs Give Your Children Allergies?
A common misconception about pet allergies is that dogs can make them worse for children if exposed at an early age. According to one study, dogs don’t give children allergies and may in fact lessen their risk for allergic reactions in the future. So, if you have young children in the home and a history of allergies, take heart. Getting a dog may in fact prove to be in their best interest.
Are There Any Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Another common myth when it comes to dog allergies is that there are canines that are hypoallergenic. This is false. However, there are dogs that shed less and have less fur than other canines and may be a good choice for you. These are the dogs that many claim as being hypoallergenic. The truth is, all dogs have dander and all dogs have the protein that causes allergies in their saliva. They simply tend to cause fewer reactions than other breeds, but this isn’t always the case.
If you’re thinking that a “hypoallergenic” dog is the right fit for you, here’s a list of 10 great breeds you can check out!
Affenpinscher
With their wiry hair, these pups tend to shed less than other dogs. Affectionately referred to as “Monkey Dog” (“affen” means “ape/monkey” in German, and “pinscher” means “terrier”) these little pups are loyal, humorous, and confident. Don’t be fooled by their small size, these dogs are classic big dogs in a little body.
Eager to please, they’re readily trainable and do have lots of energy to burn. Affens make great guard dogs and will sound the alarm if any intruders knock on the door. Due to their small size, they’re good apartment dogs, but don’t always make the best companions for children.
Afghan Hound
Elegant, sensitive, and refined, Afghans make wonderful pets to owners who understand their independent nature. These dogs were bred to think on their own during a hunt. This means they are highly intelligent, but also can be mischievous and not the easiest to train.
These dogs love to run and make great competitors in lure coursing. Although they shed less than other breeds, their hair does require constant upkeep and grooming. These are great dogs for one person or a small family and prefer being near their people over interacting with strangers.
Airedale
You’ll find that many terriers make great hypoallergenic companions. Usually at a smaller size, terriers have coats with wiry fur to protect them while hunting. It’s a plus for anyone allergic to dander because they tend to shed less. The same is true of the Airedale.
Larger than other terriers, Airedales make loyal watchdogs and enjoy working. They have lots of energy so need to be exercised every day to satisfy their needs. During World War 1, these pups played major roles as messengers, guards, sentries, and sled dogs. If you’re considering this pup, they make loyal and loving pets.
Basenji
Another intelligent pup with a stubborn streak, Basenjis come from the Congo and are known for being the “barkless dog”. This doesn’t mean they don’t make noise, but it usually comes across as whines, yodels, or even screams.
Very cat like, these dogs tend to have feline grooming habits and personality. It requires a dedicated and patient owner to understand the Basenji’s temperament. Despite this, these little dogs are courageous and loyal to their people. They love to have fun and don’t require a lot of grooming to keep their fur sleek.
Bichon Frise
This pup is a happy-go-lucky pet that loves to please. Bichons make wonderful family dogs and shed very little. They’re highly trainable and gentle animals that make wonderful show and therapy dogs. The downside to their loving nature is they are prone to separation anxiety. Bichons are perfect apartment dogs and do well around children.
Chinese Crested
These unique looking dogs make great family pets. Although the hairless variety does shed less, they do have specific grooming needs and often need to be shaved in order to take care of their skin. Cresteds love children and don’t require a lot of exercise, but they do need mental stimulation.
Because these dogs are devoted to their pack, they tend to be needy and can develop separation anxiety. Also, don’t be fooled by their small size. These dogs are athletic and can climb or jump fences. If you bring this pup home, it will attract all kinds of attention with its elegant and unique style.
Coton De Tulear
Hailing from the island of Madagascar, Cotons love to have a good time with their people. These little dogs were bred to be companions for royalty and make fantastic stay-at-home pets. They love people and will greet strangers and friends alike with happy wiggles and licks.
Cotons don’t require a lot of exercise and they don’t shed often. Their long coats do mat easy, so it’s important to brush them 3-4 times a week. Easy to train with a love for traveling, the Coton De Tulear is a rare delight for the prospective owner.
Irish Water Spaniel
If you’re someone who loves to be outdoors and lives near bodies of water, consider getting an Irish Water Spaniel. These curly haired pups love to play and hunt. They make excellent bird dogs and are highly trainable. They do have a mischievous side, so it may take some convincing to get them to do what you want them to. With lots of energy to burn, these dogs love and need exercise. Overall, they make loving and devoted companions for the outdoor enthusiast.
Poodle
Highly intelligent and easy to train, poodles make great hypoallergenic pets. Originally bred in Germany to be retrieving dogs, poodles gained their unique look and popularity in France. Surprisingly, their style had a functional purpose in hunting water fowl.
A poodle’s mane was cut short in order to free movement while vital areas of the chest, hips, and joints were kept long to protect against the weather. If you’re thinking of getting yourself a poodle, make sure they have lots of training and socialization. Their quick wits can get them into trouble when bored. When trained well and socialized, these pups make excellent pets.
Puli
The Puli is a natural sheep herder. Independent and highly intelligent, it takes an experienced and kind owner to know how to work with them. These dogs love to run outside and don’t do well in apartments. They make good watchdogs, but tend to bark if left untrained. Their dreadlocked hair has specific requirements to manage and you may have to ask a Puli breeder for tips since most people don’t know how to work with it. These dogs thrive with work and do well in competitions.
There are many more “hypoallergenic” dogs you can choose from that suit all kinds of lifestyles. Do some more hunting online to find the right kind of dog for you.
In Conclusion
If you have pet allergies, you don’t have to give up owning a dog. Keeping your house clean, getting a hypoallergenic pup, and knowing how severe your allergies are can go a long way in helping you enjoy owning a canine.
Do you have pet allergies but still own a dog? What advice would you give someone considering getting a dog while they struggle with allergies?