Dogs for Kids With Allergies

Kids naturally love dogs, but for the allergic child, dog ownership requires some careful consideration as to which breed is best. There are no 100 percent allergy-free dogs, but there are dog breeds that are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Dog saliva is the primary cause of allergies. Saliva deposits on the dog's skin and coat when he licks; then it releases in the shed hair. Shed-free or low-shed dogs cause the least allergic reactions and make the best dogs for kids with allergies.

  1. Portuguese Water Dog

    • The Portuguese water dog was the choice of the first family, for President Obama's daughter, who suffers from allergies. This kid-friendly dog needs lots of exercise and play time. It is excellent with kids, always ready to play.

    Poodle

    • Poodle owners don't have to settle for one-size-fits-all, because this breed comes in three sizes; toy, miniature and standard. The toys are better suited for older children who do not play roughly. Miniatures can tolerate a bit more roughhousing, and standards are large enough to hold their own during rambunctious kid's games. The poodle requires regular professional grooming.

    Maltese

    • This small dog is playful and loves to interact with kids. It is the most gentle of the smaller breeds. Because it is a tiny dog, this breed is better with older children. It requires regular grooming to maintain its long, silky, white hair.

    Bichon Frise

    • The bichon, with its curious nature, loves kids' games of chase and hide and seek. Regular grooming is necessary to keep her fluffy white or cream-colored hair in top shape.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

    • Regular grooming is required for the wheaten. It is a large, gentle dog, making it ideal for kids of all sizes. Soft coated wheaten terriers have a playful nature and love to spend time with children.

    Irish Water Spaniel

    • Irish water spaniels love to please and are easy to train. They have a sporty nature, requiring regular exercise. They only require brushing about twice a month, making them relatively low-maintenance. The Irish water spaniel is an energetic companion for kids.

    Schnauzer

    • A great watchdog, as well as kid's companion, the schnauzer is intelligent and playful. He comes in three sizes and, according to the American Kennel Club, the miniature is the size most often selected. Professional grooming is occasionally required.

    Kerry Blue Terrier

    • The Kerry blue loves being a member of the family. They require daily exercise and regular grooming. Kerries were originally bred to hunt and may not do well in families who own smaller pets, because they love to chase down small prey.

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • "Yorkies" are fearless, rambunctious, lively and willful. They love to be the center of attention but will gladly share that attention with their kids, as long as the kids remember who the boss is. This tiny dynamo loves to be in charge. The Yorkshire has a silky, blue and tan coat that requires regular brushing to keep it free of tangles.