Are You Alergic to Your Dog? Get a Bichon Frise

Allergic reactions to pets of all kinds happen to many people. The unfortunate thing is these allergies can strike at any time. Statistics from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology show that about 15% of the population have allergies to either cats or dogs. However, if you're a dog lover, don't fear that you'll never be able to have a dog. There are several breeds of dogs that are great for those who have allergic reactions.

Why are humans allergic to dogs?
Humans are general allergic to animal dander. This is the dead skin cells that continually shed off a dog. People with more severe allergies are known to also have reactions to dog saliva and urine. Some of the most common reactions to these allergies to dogs include runny nose, itchy or red eyes, red blotchy skin, and sometimes a rash. While these mild reactions won't be fatal, they can certainly make a person very uncomfortable. Many people who have suddenly developed allergies have had to give up a long time canine friend. This, however, does not have to happen if you can get the right breed of dog.

Are there any breeds of dogs that don't cause allergic reactions?
Some breeds of dogs seem to cause less reactions to someone who is allergic and some dogs induce no reactions at all. The Bichon Frise, Bedlington Terriers, Irish Water Spaniels, the Maltese, Poodles, and Schnauzers have all been put forth as some of the best dogs for those with allergies. This is probably due to the hair type of the dogs-soft thick undercoat with a coarser topcoat and they are known to shed very little.

Is it true the Bichon Frise doesn't shed?
The Bichon Frise is one that is special and does well with people who are allergic. Because of the dense undercoat, dander is generally not spread throughout your house. The Bichon will never leave its unwanted hair all over your home as it does not shed. Due to this, you must make sure to brush daily to prevent matting and tangling of the hair and to prevent your dog from having any skin irritations.

What can I do to prevent potential allergic reactions?
Even if you do not have allergic reactions to your Bichon Frise, you'll want to make sure you still control your environment so you can control any potential allergic reactions. Brushing and grooming your Bichon is important to your health, as well as theirs. You can also use an allergy-reducing spray to help you when you groom them. Making sure that your Bichon is fed a healthy diet, including a multi-vitamin is going to help keep their skin in good condition. Good condition equals less dander when you groom them.

Just because someone has allergic reactions to dogs doesn't mean they should deprive themselves of having a Bichon Frise. They are a good natured and loving dog and will fit right in as a friend for life. Of course, if you have allergies, it is best to spend some time with a Bichon before you get one of your own. This will allow you to make sure you don't experience any allergic reactions. If you're like the many that love dogs but have allergies, you'll soon find yourself snuggling up to a Bichon Frise!