Top Ten Interesting Hypo-Allergenic Pet Dogs

Are you allergic to dogs, but just love them? Do you want a pet dog even though the cute dog will make you sneeze and maybe break out into hives just from petting it? You don't have to go through this. There are actually dogs that don't cause the allergy problems that other dogs may cause you.

So what makes a person allergic to some pet dogs and not allergic to other dog breeds? In general, allergens can be found in a dog's dander and a dog's saliva. In some dogs, the amount of dander and saliva production is less than with other dogs. Other factors also come in. If the dog doesn't shed as much, the amount of dander that goes into the air may be lessened. A smaller dog may produce less dander.

No dog is going to be completely allergen free, because all dogs produce dander and saliva to some degree. Even the hypoallergenic dog will produce some allergens. To minimalize this, wash the dog up to two times per week, and keep your house free of any pet fur by frequent vacuuming.

Here is a list of the top ten interesting hypo-allergenic dogs to have as pets.

1. If you want a German hypoallergenic dog, the Affenpinscher is very cute. This dog breed looks kind of like a mutt, because it has long hair covering its face, and then the rest of the hair is not as long. Most of these dogs are black. The Affenpinscher is a small dog, usually about a foot high and about eight pounds. The distinctive traits of this dog are being very playful, affectionate, and protective of its owners. These dogs can be difficult to housetrain, but the other great qualities make it worth it. The life span is about eleven years.

2. Poodles are a great hypoallergenic dog breed choice. This dog breed is believed to be from France, but Germany and Russia have some claims to its origin as well. Poodles are good hunting dogs, and are talented at playing dog sports. All three sizes, toy, miniature and standard, are smart and learn human commands well. What makes a poodle more hypoallergenic is that they actually have hair instead of fur.

3. The Basenji dog breed is low in pet allergens. These dogs are athletic looking, with smooth fur and strong muscular tone. This dog breed is usually black and white. Basenjis train well, and love to please their owners. They are also playful and energetic. The Basenji is a good pet for an owner who can be authoritative, making rules and sticking to them. Basenjis usually weight around 25 pounds and are about 16 inches high. One thing to note, is that this dog does not prefer wet weather. Dryer climates, or keeping the dogs indoors in the rain will bode well.

4. Border Terriers make excellent pet dogs. These hypoallergenic dogs have a thick short coat that is usually red, tan and/or wheat colored. This dog is has a mild manner and is easy to train. Border Terriers like children, and are very playful. These dogs weigh 15 pounds and are about 12 to 14 inches tall. This dog needs to get exercise, so make sure to let it run around and walk this dog frequently.

5. Lhasa Apso dogs are from Tibet. Lhasa Apsos are obedient and intelligent. They love to please their owners, so make good companions. One desirable trait in this breed of dog is that they live long lives, sometimes into their twenties. They are about 11 inches high and weigh around 16 pounds. The Lhasa Apso is a breed that does not shed its coat, helping reduce allergens.

6. Peruvian Hairless Dog. What better dog for an allergy sufferer than one with no hair? This dog is from Peru. These dogs have various sizes, ranging from 10 to 50 pounds and 10 to 25 inches in height. The Peruvian Hairless Dog is for more experiences owners, who will take the time to train them well. This dog is active and protective of its owners.

7. Yorkshire Terrier. This is a cute little dog from England. This dog doesn't shed. These dogs are active, and they carry themselves with distinction. They like attention and are loyal. The Yorkshire Terrier's lifespan is up to 15 years.

8. The Chinese Crested dog is an interesting hypoallergenic dog. These dogs are playful and like affection. This breed of dog is about 12 inches high and weighs about 10 pounds. Some of these dogs are mainly hairless, while others have more hair. The hairless ones have hair on their head, tail and feet. The ones with hair have a longer coat.

9. Irish Water Spaniels are good pets. They have a desire to please their owners, and are very intelligent. They can learn tricks well and how to obey. A bit larger dog, they weigh 50 to 60 pounds and reach heights up to two feet tall. These dogs love being outside, so are better suited for the country or somewhere they can get out often and get plenty of exercise. Irish Water Spaniels are good hunters.

10. Maltese dogs come from the Island of Malta. If you want a tiny dog, this is the choice for you. Maltese dogs weigh only up to 7 pounds! They can get by on short walks and indoor exercise, so make good pets for those who live in the city. They hardly shed, because they don't have an undercoat.

Sources: http://www.dogguide.net/dog-breeds-for-allergies.php; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypoallergenic_dog_breed; http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/allergy.htm.