Can you be allergic to a dog?
According to statistics, animal allergies are one of the most common types of this disease. There are many factors that trigger a pathogenic reaction in the body, such as contact with fur, saliva or skin particles. When an allergen enters the body, it is perceived by the immune system as an aggressive foreign element, which leads to typical symptoms.
The disease can be either congenital or acquired. But characteristic symptoms do not always arise due to allergies; characteristic symptoms can be caused by other diseases, such as asthma.
How does a dog allergy manifest?
Typical signs of an allergy to dogs, regardless of whether the reaction occurs to the animal’s fur, saliva or sweat:
- respiratory reaction: runny nose, itchy nose, frequent sneezing and stuffy ears;
- the appearance of redness and rashes on the skin, severe itching;
- redness of the whites of the eyes, conjunctivitis.
In severe cases, an allergy to wool can lead to angioedema, which leads to severe swelling of the face and neck and disruption of the breathing process. Severe attacks of allergies to saliva or fur cannot be ignored; without medical help, they can be fatal. It is especially common in dogs with smooth, medium- or short-length coats (beagles, labradors, corgis and huskies).
List of dogs for allergy sufferers
Experts agree that even if you have allergies, you can get a cat or dog. It is important to choose the right breed depending on the cause that triggers the next attack of the disease. There are no hypoallergenic animals, but there are breeds that are less likely than others to cause unpleasant symptoms if the owner has a disease. We have compiled a list of 30 large breeds and toy dogs with hypoallergenic coats.
American Hairless Terrier
A hunting breed bred in the USA in 1970, but not yet recognized by the Canine Federation. The peculiarity of the breed is the absence of hair on the body (it completely falls off by 6-8 weeks), which is suitable for people with allergies. There may be spots on the body that increase in size with age and darken from the sun. As an adult, the Hairless Terrier weighs no more than 7.5 kg and can live up to 16 years. Puppies can be purchased from 25,000 ₽.
Greyhound
This is an energetic and active dog belonging to the greyhound class. They are capable of developing enormous speed when running short distances and can easily catch up with a hare. They have a very short coat of hair that sheds quite rarely. There is no average weight for the breed; males can grow up to 76 cm at the withers. An important plus is adaptation to life in urban conditions. Puppy price: from 10,000 ₽.
Bichon Frize
French breed from the group of lapdogs. The Bichon Frize has long, thick white coat. It has a structure close to human hair, which is why it rarely causes allergies. The average weight is 5 kg, the height of males and females does not exceed 30 cm. Bichons are easy to care for, but have a complex character. Price: from 25,000 ₽.
Shih Tzu
One of the most ancient breeds, until 1920 they were banned everywhere except in the court of the Chinese Emperor. Weighing up to 8 kg and decorative, Shih Tzus have unique courage; they are ready to defend their owner to the last. The multi-colored coat is smooth and requires high-quality care. Average life expectancy is 13 years. Puppies can be purchased for 11,000 ₽.
Chinese Crested Dog
This is a small, active and very inquisitive animal with an unusual appearance. The body is completely naked, with hair only on the head, paws and tail. In addition, the Chinese Crested Dog has no odor at all. They rarely cause allergies and are suitable for children with asthma. Life expectancy is up to 18 years, chronic diseases are rare. Price from 7000 ₽.
Yorkshire Terrier
They are considered the most popular toy dogs in the world. The breed was bred as a hunter, today the instincts are completely lost. A distinctive feature of Yorkies is their long hair, which has a structure similar to human hair. They get along well in a city apartment as a pet and do not require high physical activity. Cost from 10,000 ₽.
Brussels Griffon
The breed belongs to the group of small Belgian dogs, bred only for decorative purposes. This variety has a hard, wiry coat of medium length that does not shed. The Griffon has an interesting muzzle shape and an intelligent expression in its eyes. Weight can vary from 3.5 to 6 kg, height does not exceed 32 cm. Cost starts from 25,000 rubles.
Irish Water Spaniel
This is a rare breed in Russia, bred in Ireland. The coat consists of many dense curls, there is practically no undercoat. The color is red-brown with a pronounced purple tint. Representatives of the breed do not shed, which is typical for many spaniels, which is suitable for owners with allergies. There is not a single kennel in the Russian Federation; you can only buy a puppy in Ireland. Prices start from £400.
Poodle
A decorative and allergenic dog breed, within which there is a division into large, small and dwarf representatives. For allergy sufferers, curly coat type is considered preferable, which is more common among poodles. Requires complex care - regular haircuts and health monitoring. The length of the age directly depends on living conditions, varies from 10 to 18 years. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Hungarian Shepherd
The second name of the breed is Komondor. This is a large dog, but due to the unique lightness of their bones, they weigh almost half as much as other animals of their size (40-50 kg). Representatives of the breed are also notable for their unusual coat - the hair is naturally braided into peculiar cords, the undercoat completely falls out by the age of 2. Komondors require complex care and do not always tolerate apartment life well. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
Irish Terrier
This is a hardy and energetic dog bred for hunting. They are of medium size, highly intelligent, and have a medium-length, wiry coat. Irish Terriers are not subject to shedding, and the undercoat does not form. In addition, dirt does not accumulate on their body, which is important for allergies to street dust or asthma. With proper care, a dog can live up to 18 years. Price from 15,000 ₽.
American Bulldog
This is a large animal with a gentle character, which is perfect for keeping in a private home. Weight varies from 40 to 60 kg, females and males are approximately the same height. Bulldogs have short hair that lies closely to the surface of the body and rarely sheds. Today, representatives of this ancient breed are on the verge of extinction. Cost from 30,000 ₽.
Samoyed husky
One of the oldest breeds in the world, bred in Siberia. Males grow up to 57 cm, but weigh only up to 30 kg. Wool has several layers and is capable of self-cleaning. This is why Samoyeds do not have the characteristic smell of these animals. Plus, they get along well with children and are always loyal to their owner. You can buy a puppy from 15,000 ₽.
Maltese (Maltese)
This is a small dog weighing only up to 4 kg. They are distinguished by their balanced and predictable character and snow-white long hair. There is no undercoat, so the breed does not shed seasonally. Maltese have a predisposition to asthma, it is important to carefully study the pedigree. Price from 45,000 ₽.
Giant Schnauzer
This is a large hypoallergenic dog of the Schnauzer group. Weight – 60-70 cm, weight varies from 35 to 47 kg. Giant Schnauzers have high intelligence, ability to learn and devotion to their owner. The coat is of a hard type, but the undercoat is retained. As part of its care, it needs to be trimmed regularly. The price varies depending on the level of the dog - 10,000-50,000 rubles.
Miniature Schnauzer
This is a miniature or dwarf schnauzer. The dog has a recognizable appearance and is valued for its fearlessness and intelligence. The average weight is 4-8 kg, and height reaches 35 cm at the withers. The coat is very hard and thick. It consists of a dense undercoat, thick hair that fits tightly to the body. The Miniature Schnauzer is suitable for allergy sufferers as there is no seasonal shedding. However, they can exhibit a capricious nature, which is important to consider when training. The average price is 25,000 ₽.
Wire Fox Terrier
The dog is below average in size, but at the same time has enormous physical strength. Their height does not exceed 39 cm, the ideal weight for exhibitions is 8.2 kg. Fox Terriers of this type have a hard, wiry coat that requires trimming. The breed rarely causes allergies, there is no shedding. The cost of this small hypoallergenic dog starts from 25,000 ₽.
Basenji
Representatives of this breed are considered the most hypoallergenic dogs in the world. They have excellent immunity, medium height and short, smooth fur. Basenjis can be both an excellent companion and an assistant in hunting. When choosing this breed, you should remember that the dog needs serious physical activity. Price: 20000-60000 ₽.
Italian Greyhound
The Small Italian Greyhound is a slender and energetic hound whose weight does not exceed 5 kg and height - 38 cm. Despite their compact size, they can reach great speed and demonstrate courage in the hunt. This is a smooth-haired breed, but there is practically no shedding. Cost: 15000-55000 ₽.
Miniature Bull Terrier
This is a variety of traditional bull terriers, the dogs differ only in size - the height of an adult should not exceed 35.5 cm. The miniature bull terrier adapts well to the conditions of a small apartment and gets along well with money. Short hair without undercoat allows people with allergies to own this breed. Price: 20000-60000 ₽.
Papillon
The second name of the breed is continental toy spaniel. The dogs belong to the decorative group, with an average weight of only 2.5 kg. The wool is silky and does not cause allergies in people. All representatives of this breed, unlike the terrier, rarely have diseases; life expectancy can reach 15 years. Price from 13,000 ₽.
Chihuahua
This is the smallest dog in the world, which has gained great popularity as a decorative pet. If you have allergies, it is advisable to purchase Chihuahuas with short hair - they rarely shed and have no undercoat. The disadvantage of the breed is a large number of chronic diseases. Cost from 5000 ₽.
Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintle)
A rare breed of dog in Russia with a very unusual appearance. There is no hair on the body, the skin is very smooth and sensitive to the sun. Height can be different, ranging from 25 to 60 cm. Xoloitzcuintles are real long-livers; with proper care, their age can reach up to 18 years. Price from 40,000 ₽.
Whippet
Dogs of this breed are compact greyhounds. They can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h in a straight line and perform well in hunting or endurance competitions. The coat is short and pleasant to the touch, lying close to the body. Whippets are dogs without undercoat, which is suitable for people with allergies. They feel comfortable in a small apartment and require minimal care. Cost: 5000-35000 ₽.
Border Terrier
The breed was bred in Scotland to hunt badgers and foxes. Today they are kept as a companion. A distinctive feature of this terrier is its thick, coarse coat and light weight, which is convenient even for children with allergies. Dogs have very good health and can easily live up to 15-18 years. Price from 15,000 ₽.
French Bulldog
They are compact and stocky dogs with a characteristic short muzzle. Males and females of the same height – 27-32 cm, average weight – 10 kg. The coat is short and rarely sheds. Bulldogs do not require complex grooming, and their compact size makes them perfect for apartments. Unlike similar pugs, they have fewer chronic diseases and a longer life expectancy. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
Airedale
The largest terrier of all the dogs in this group. Males can reach 61 cm in height and weigh about 30 kg. Six is dense and thick, it is very tough - trimming is required. Airedale Terriers are not allergenic dogs, but it is important to consider that they are a very emotional animal that requires proper training. Price from 25,000 ₽.
Affenpinscher
A German small breed related to the miniature pinschers. Their weight does not exceed 6 kg, and their height is 30 cm. They have an interesting appearance and head shape, as well as short and very stiff hair. Affenpinschers are highly trainable and get along well with children and other dogs. The breed is very rare in Russia, puppies cost from 70,000 ₽.
Maltipoo
A new breed that is still gaining popularity. Unusual dogs were bred by crossing a poodle and a Maltese. They have a beautiful exterior, high intelligence and, importantly, hypoallergenic wool. The breed is not yet recognized by the canine association, and there is no evidence of chronic diseases. Puppies are rare, price from 80,000 ₽.
Jack Russell Terrier
An English breed developed in the early 19th century. Dogs grow only up to 30 cm, the maximum weight allowed is 6 kg. The Jack Russell is still used today as a hunter, for farm work, or as a companion. If you have allergies, it is recommended to purchase puppies of the wire-haired type of this breed. Their cost starts from 15,000 ₽.
Yorkshire Terrier
Dogs of this breed are one of the most popular indoor and decorative pets. They have incredibly smooth, silky fur. They look like little soft toys. In most cases they are black and brown in color. Pets have a harmonious physique. The head is small, the muzzle is slightly elongated. The ears of this pet are miniature and erect.
Dogs of this breed are suitable for allergy sufferers because they do not have undercoat and do not shed. The special structure of the coat is a huge advantage of active and kind Yorkshire Terriers.
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FAQ
Below you can find the most frequently asked questions regarding dog allergies. This may be important if you decide to get your own pet.
How to test for dog allergies?
The only reliable diagnostic method is a special allergy test. It is important that during testing all irritants that can cause an atypical reaction in animals (fur, saliva, sweat, etc.) are used. To undergo diagnostics, you should contact an allergist.
Can a dog allergy go away?
In medical practice, there have been cases where allergies can go away on their own. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. Allergy is a chronic disease that is difficult to treat.
How to cure dog allergies?
Until recently, allergies were considered an incurable disease. Today there are several methods to combat the disease, for example, ASIT - allergen-specific immunotherapy. During treatment, the patient receives the allergen in the form of tablets or an injection, and the body learns to ignore it. It takes 3-5 years to achieve lasting results. Typical symptoms that occur upon contact with an irritant can be easily relieved with antihistamine tablets, the main allergy medications.
Are there hypoallergenic breeds?
It is not realistic to breed a dog breed that is 100% allergen-free. The human defense system reacts to protein.
Immunologists believe that all dog breeds are dangerous for sensitive people.
Allergists are not so categorical in their statements.
They classify animals according to the degree of spread of harmful substances into the environment and state the following:
- Short-haired and hairless dogs are more dangerous: their sebaceous and sweat glands are more active.
- Small breeds are not as harmful to allergy sufferers because they shed less hair and dander compared to large animals.
- “Quiet” dogs can be called hypoallergenic. The louder a pet barks, the more protein particles are distributed into the environment with saliva.
- If an animal has a muzzle with jowls, then saliva accumulates on them. Therefore, close contact with such a dog can cause allergies.
- The structure of the coat is also of great importance. Coarse hairs often break off, scattering around. They can be found on clothing, upholstered furniture, and carpets. But a silky fur coat is devoid of such shortcomings. Therefore, such a dog can be called hypoallergenic. Animals that are characterized by rare molting also fall into this category.
Briefly about the main thing
- People are often allergic to dogs. It can manifest itself in the pet's urine, fur, saliva or sweat.
- There is no simple and effective treatment. However, the severity of the signs can be reduced by choosing a specific breed of dog.
- The least allergenic dogs are considered to be: wire-haired and hairless breeds, as well as animals with short hair that fits tightly to the body and rarely sheds.
Have you ever experienced a dog allergy? Do you think it is safe to have such a pet if you have this unpleasant disease?
Prevention of allergic reactions
Even if you get a dog whose fur does not shed and contains a minimum of irritants, you cannot exclude the possibility of an undesirable reaction in your household. To avoid developing allergies, you must:
- Monitor your pet's health.
- Brush daily.
- Trim long hair regularly.
- Vaccinate according to schedule;
- Prevent the appearance of fleas and worms.
If the dog lives in the house, it is recommended not to cover the carpets, remove excess upholstered furniture in which particles of dust, lint, and saliva accumulate, and install an air purifier.
Wet cleaning should be done not once a week, but at least every 2 or 3 days. The care of the dog is entrusted to a family member who does not suffer from allergies.
When a puppy appears in the house, it is advised to live with him in the same room for at least an hour; the reaction manifests itself quickly, but during this time the person will not have time to become attached to the pet and will survive the separation without any problems.
