Dogs for Asthmatic People

Breathing disorders, like asthma or allergies, can interfere with a person keeping a canine companion unless the asthmatic person obtains a breed considered hypoallergenic. All breeds of dog still produce some dander from their skin, saliva and urine, but a few breeds shed only small amounts of dander that most people with asthma or allergies can tolerate. A few of the many hypoallergenic breeds are basenji, shih tzu, poodle and lowchen.

  1. Basenji

    • Basenji come from Africa and bear resemblance to African wild dogs, with short hair and a curly tail similar to a pig's. Basenji dogs don't usually bark, but they can make a sound similar to a yodel. This breed is intelligent, active and eager to learn, so training is usually easy, especially if you start with a puppy. It might not be a good choice for a household with smaller children, as the breed responds best to an authoritative demeanor. These dogs have a high energy level and require a lot of daily exercise. The dogs usually are up to 17 inches tall and weigh up to 27 pounds. The lifespan of a basenji is about 12 years, as long as owners proactively monitor the dogs' health for signs of kidney, eye and intestinal problems to which the breed are prone.

    Shih tzu

    • The shih tzu comes from China and is classified as a toy breed, growing no taller than 11 inches and weighing less than 16 pounds. Temperament is usually outgoing, spunky and curious. The dog has long hair and requires a lot of grooming, especially in an asthmatic household. This breed is used to being a pampered house pet, so they adapt well to living in apartments. Many are also heat sensitive. The energy level is moderate, so your shih tzu needs daily exercise but won't be constantly on-the-go. You can expect this breed to live around 15 years or more.

    Poodle

    • Poodles are a popular choice for those with allergies and asthma. The dog has tight, curly hair instead of fur and usually requires grooming only about every six weeks. The breed is intelligent, learns easily and is adaptable, equally comfortable as a hunting dog or a show dog. You can choose from toy, miniature or standard-size poodles. The toy variety usually reaches 10 inches and weighs under eight pounds. Miniature poodles are 11 to 17 inches tall and weigh up to 17 pounds. Standard poodles are taller than 15 inches and weigh up to 70 pounds. All live about 12 to 15 years. Poodles are prone to several health conditions, including cataracts, allergies, hip dysplasia, intestinal bloat and ear infections. Poodles require regular veterinarian checkups, usually more than once per year.

    Lowchen

    • Lowchen appeared at least 400 years ago and were popular among ladies of the Court in pre-Renaissance Europe. The breed is small, usually 13 inches tall and up to 18 pounds. The lowchen is also called the "Little Lion" dog, because it is traditionally groomed to resemble a lion, leaving the fur on the ears, front legs and trunk free flowing, while close clipping hair on the back legs. The breed is lively and friendly, with a tendency to be the alpha dog. Most will live 12 to 14 years. They do need daily walks but can live easily in an apartment or home without a yard.