Dogs for Allergy Sufferers

Dog hair, saliva, urine and dander (flakes of dead skin) are the most common causes of dog allergies in humans. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 10 percent of Americans are allergic to animals. Allergy sufferers who wish to own a dog must become familiar with the breeds of dogs that will adversely affect them, as well as the breeds that are recommended for them.

  1. Hypoallergenic Breeds

    • Some people are allergic to certain breeds of dogs.

      People who suffer from dog allergies often can tolerate hypoallergenic dog breeds. Dozens of breeds fall into this category (Reference 3), but the most popular are the Portuguese Water Dog, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Poodle, Shih-tzu and German Shepherd. Choose from these breeds to find the right fit for your personality and lifestyle. Make sure to frequently groom you pet to prevent dander and other allergens. Bathe your dog regularly; as this also cuts down on allergens.

    Hairless Dog Breeds

    • Hairless dogs are an allergy sufferer's best friend.

      Hairless dogs are less likely to produce allergic reactions. Most hairless dogs are without fur because they have the dominant gene for hairlessness (Reference 5), which means they only have to inherit one copy of the gene for hairlessness to be present. The most popular hairless breeds include the Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier, Manchurian Hairless, Mexican Hairless, and the Peruvian Hairless. The American Hairless Terrier is the only breed that has a recessive gene for hairlessness.

    Hybrid Dogs

    • Most people can own hybrid dogs without the fear of suffering from allergies.

      Hybrid dogs, born with parents of two different breeds, are another option for allergy sufferers, especially if the dog is a mix of two hypoallergenic dogs. Hybrid dogs often have less chance of genetic disorders than purebreds due to the heterosis effect. The heterosis effect is the theory that offspring from two different purebreds are genetically superior than either parent breed (See Reference 4). One of the benefits is a decreased chance of causing an allergic reaction in humans.