Dogs are a human’s best friend, but what about when us humans are allergic to them? If you want to add a furry friend to your family but are allergic to dogs, you should be looking for what is referred to as a hypoallergenic dog.
The Basenji, for example, is a great hypoallergenic dog that some would call “catlike.” They are independent, avid groomers. The hairless Chinese Crested are perfect for dog lovers with allergies, as they shed very little and are incredibly loving dogs.
Make sure you learn a little bit about a dog’s temperament from the breeder before choosing. If you want to know the best hypoallergenic dogs for people with allergies, look no further than this “pawsome” article.
What Exactly Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
You may be considering a dog that will not exacerbate any allergies that you or a family member in the household may have. The hypoallergenic dog is the answer, as they are an excellent choice for people with allergies. While no dog breed is 100 percent hypoallergenic, hypoallergenic pups have a low or non-shedding coat, producing less dander.
These dogs do not shed, or they do not shed as much as their fur-filled counterparts. The allergy-triggering dander that sticks to their fur does not fly as freely in the air or accumulate on furniture or clothes as prevalently. A hypoallergenic breed is less likely to trigger allergies in most people.
It is also important to note that not all dogs produce the same proteins, which means that it sometimes depends on the actual dog rather than the specific breed. Someone could have a reaction to one dog, but it may not affect another person. Ultimately, whether or not someone is allergic depends on both the person and the dog.
How to Combat Dog Allergies
If you suffer from allergies from a current four-legged family member, or are looking into getting a dog that you may be allergic to, there are a variety of things you can do to combat allergies from dogs.
You can get special shampoos that will reduce the frequency of hair shedding. There are other tips you will be able to utilize to reduce pet dander in the home:
- Vacuum your carpets or rugs daily
- Use an air purifier (with no chemicals)
- Try using baking soda on your furniture, rugs, carpets, and hardwood floors
- Brush your dog once a week
- Cover vents with cheesecloth
- Clean your dog’s houses and beds often
You can also wash your pup to limit dander. Be sure to use lukewarm water, because using water that is too hot will make your pup itchy and will ultimately make the matter worse.
The Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for People with Allergies
Certain breeds are better suited for those with allergies. The less fur shed, the less dander produced in the home. There are some adorable hypoallergenic breeds that you need to consider:
American Hairless Terrier
This pup is entirely hairless, except they have eyebrows, whiskers, and guard hair on the muzzle. They are initially born with a delicate hair coat, but they lose it by week eight. They make a great family companion due to their sweet and gentle nature, and are easy to train. The American Hairless Terrier is also good with other children and pets. This breed is:
- Intelligent
- Playful
- Alert
- Affectionate
With the non-shedding coat, they do not produce any dander. The American Hairless Terrier is loyal and devoted to their families and is the perfect hypoallergenic pup.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise is a highly loveable dog that is hypoallergenic with a beautiful snow-white fluffy coat. Their hair typically catches in their undercoat and hides, but does not actually fall from the pup. This means that their dander does not spread throughout the house. These sweet pups have great personalities. They are affectionate, energetic, sociable, and protective.
Bichon Frises are wonderful dogs because they tend to form an instant bond with their families due to their affectionate nature. They also make a perfect lap dog due to their small size, and they enjoy cuddling as well.
Chinese Crested
These dogs have a soft, silky coat that is medium length. This breed comes in two types: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless kind only has hair on their head, tail, and lower legs. The coat is different from other hairy breeds. The undercoat is shorter, and the outercoat lays like a veil, making brushing them a pleasant experience. They also have excellent temperament; they are:
- Playful
- Loving
- Intelligent
- Lively
Chinese Crested is also known for being “Velcro” dogs, which means they can be clingy with their pet parents. When you pick them up, they will sometimes put their arms around your neck and hold on tight like a toddler!
Basenji
Basenji
Basenji is a breed of dog that is originally from Central Africa. Bred as hunting dogs, they are athletic and agile. If you want a dog for your family to play catch and have fun with, the Basenji is your pup. In addition to being fit and spunky, they are curious, loving, intelligent, and energetic.
Basenji’s are interesting because they act like cats in that they groom themselves a lot, and they are quiet and independent. They do not bark; they yodel, which is quite amusing.
Goldendoodle
The adorable Goldendoodle is a hybrid of the golden retriever and the poodle. Because of their inherited poodle gene, they do not shed as much as other dogs. Goldendoodles with curly coats are less likely to trigger allergies than straight-coated pups. They have delightful personalities and are:
- Trustworthy
- Affectionate
- Enthusiastic
- Playful
People often say that the Goldendoodle resembles teddy bears, as they have darling facial features that they never outgrow despite aging. They were initially bred to be therapy dogs for people who have allergies.
Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature Schnauzers are the most popular of all the schnauzers. Miniature schnauzers have a double coat and are known for their distinctive gray “beards.” Their undercoat is soft and dense, and their topcoat is bristly. They have great temperament, and are social, intelligent, alert, and obedient.
Miniature Schnauzers are also inquisitive pups. They tend to be excellent watchdogs that possess good territorial instincts.
Airedale Terrier 
Airedale Terriers are strong and athletic; they shine in all different kinds of sports and activities. They have a very dense, wiry coat that is brown and black. These pups have a low potential to shed and require frequent trimming to keep their coat in shape. They have some exceptional traits that include being:
- Smart
- Independent
- Outgoing
- Energetic
Airedale Terriers are eager to please their doting pet parents and respond well to encouragement and positive reinforcement. They are very protective of the youngsters in their family and are quite affectionate with them.
Conclusion
Hypoallergenic dogs will give you love and companionship without suffering for it. Choosing a hypoallergenic dog can be difficult, but this list has provided you with some ideas concerning the right dog for you.
Do you have any further questions about choosing the right hypoallergenic dog for you and your family? Lake City Animal Hospital in Lake City, FL is here at (386) 755-0236 to help!