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Causes
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Asthma associated with exposure to dogs is generally not caused by the animal's hair. Instead, proteins located in the dog's dander (dead skin), saliva and urine create the allergic reaction. People who are allergic to dogs have sensitive immune systems that view these proteins (allergens) as a threat to the body. Their immune systems try to rid the body of this perceived threat by sending out antibodies. The release of too many antibodies can cause allergy symptoms such as asthma.
Although dog hair is typically not the direct cause of asthma, allergens such as dander, pollen, dust and mold can accumulate in the dog's hair. Allergens can even collect in a person's clothing, in carpeting or become airborne when someone pets the dog. The allergens in the air can be transferred to other parts of the home by air ducts.
Symptoms
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Breathing in the allergens can cause an asthma attack. An asthma attack happens when the muscles in the airways (tubes to the lungs) suddenly tighten, causing a decline in the airflow to the lungs. Symptoms of an asthma attack include fast breathing, wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and pressure in the chest. The symptoms will typically go away after several days or a few weeks without contact with the dog and its living space.
Diagnosis
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Removing the dog from the home can determine whether a person has asthma due to dog allergies. It is important to vacuum and clean the home thoroughly to get rid of all the dog hair and dander. Removing all the dog allergens may take several weeks to complete. If the asthma symptoms stop once the dog and all the allergens are removed, the person is probably allergic to dogs. Performing a skin or blood test on the person can also diagnose asthma caused by exposure to dogs.
Controlling Asthma
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Removing the dog from the home is not an easy choice for many owners. If you want to keep your dog, there are ways that you can reduce your asthma symptoms: vacuum and clean your home thoroughly on a regular basis; purchase a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air filter; bathe and brush your dog at least once a week and brush your dog's hair outside the home to prevent the spread of hair and dander; place cheesecloth over your air vents to allow in the air while keeping out the dog dander.
Recommended Dog Breeds
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There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic (will not cause an allergic reaction) dog breed because all dogs will shed dander, urinate and produce saliva. However, certain breeds shed less dander and produce less saliva than others. Keep in mind that some people are not allergic to all dogs, but to just certain breeds. Recommended dog breeds for people with asthma and/or dog allergies include the poodle, Yorkshire terrier, Kerry Blue terrier, Dalmatian, great Dane, Portuguese water dog and any of the schnauzer breeds.
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Dog Hair & Asthma
Many dog owners believe that the phrase "dog is man's best friend" is the absolute truth. Dogs make excellent companions and can even reduce stress and loneliness. Unfortunately, some people are allergic to dogs. People who are allergic to dogs can develop symptoms associated with asthma. Approximately 30 percent of people with asthma are allergic to animals. If you are considering getting a dog or another animal as a pet, make sure no one in your household is allergic to these animals.