Hypoallergenic Dogs: Fact or Fallacy?

Aaaa-choo! If you're an allergy sufferer and a pet lover, you're probably looking for a pet who won't affect your allergies. You've probably heard about hypoallergenic dogs, and you may wonder if they truly exist.

What Causes Pet Allergies

Most people who have pet allergies are allergic to the pet dander and protein found in skin cells and in saliva. According to the Mayo Clinic, a person who has an allergy to something either inhales or comes in contact with that allergen. The body creates an immune response, which causes swelling and inflammation at the contact site. Pet dander is often the culprit because it can remain airborne for periods of time, and stick to clothing and furniture.

The Theory Behind Hypoallergenic Breeds

Dogs that have single coats (hair like ours) or do not shed in the way that dogs with more natural coats are often touted as hypoallergenic breeds. These dogs do lose hair, but do not go through a biannual shedding the way many breeds do. Because there is less hair coming out, there's less dander sticking to that hair, and thus technically less dander. This makes dogs with these coats less likely to trigger certain people's allergies.

Are They Really Hypoallergenic?

The answer to the question of whether these dogs are really hypoallergenic or not is complex, at best. If you're an allergy sufferer, you probably already know that certain things will trigger your allergies and certain like things won't. So, the answer is a definite "maybe." Allergies are unpredictable and what may work for your friend, may not work for you. Even if you can tolerate the lack of dander, you may find that the dog's saliva is so toxic to you, you can't help but break out in rashes. Or you may find out that you can tolerate one breed well and not another. Or, you may find that you can't tolerate any of them.

Possible Allergy Friendly Dogs

According to the American Kennel Club, there are several breeds to choose from. From the "hairless" dogs, such as the Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli, to the single coated breeds such as the Kerry Blue Terrier, Bichon Frise, Poodle, Schnauzer and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, there are several potential breeds to consider. Other dogs, such as the "designer dog" mixes such as Labradoodles and Cockapoos may also be "allergy friendly."

How to Determine if You Can Stand an "Allergy-Friendly" Dog

If you want to own a dog, a good idea may be to visit a friend or breeder who has such dogs and spend some time in the house and with the dog. Visit several times to see if the dog affects your allergies (sometimes it takes a while to determine). Talk with your allergist, or find one who is willing to work with you and your allergies, to control your allergies to pets. A change in medications and a dog that is a little easier on allergies may be all that's needed to have the dog of your dreams.

References

The Mayo Clinic: Pet Allergies

AKC Breeds and Varieties Allow Allergy Sufferers to Consider Dog Ownership