Adopt these dogs and avoid allergies!
For many people, the thought of having a pet is unappealing–not because they don’t like dogs or cats, but because of the strong allergic reactions caused by contact with pets and pet dander.
But don’t fret! There are a few breeds of dogs less likely to cause allergic reactions. These breeds–known as hypoallergenic–are ideal for those with pet allergies.
Note: No breed of dog is 100% allergen-free.
Here are the breeds of non allergic dogs to consider:
- Bichon Frise — This little dog is ideal for families worried about pet allergies! Its curly, puffy coat is absolutely adorable, but it’s as hypoallergenic as it gets. The dog is cheerful and ideal for small living spaces (such as apartments), as they are small, lightweight dogs that are wonderfully fun for kids. They’re fun to bring on dog friendly honeymoons, too.
- Yorkshire Terrier –– While Yorkies have very long hair, they don’t shed nor leave a lot of dander. They are certainly going to need a lot of grooming to keep them from looking messy and dirty, but they’re an indoor pet that is ideal for people who don’t want a big dog. At 7 inches tall, they’re adorably tiny!
- Chinese Crested –– Chinese crested dogs have very little body hair, but a great big mop on the tops of their heads and around their ears. They look adorably scruffy, and they shed almost no pet hair. There is a bit of pet dander, but if you go for the powderpuff variety, be prepared for some serious grooming time!
- Poodle –– These long-haired dogs require a lot of grooming to keep them looking good, but you don’t have to worry about their shedding. You can find poodles in toy, miniature, or standard size, and they’re a highly intelligent breed.
- Bedlington Terrier –– This is definitely an unusual-looking dog, but great for those who suffer pet allergies. Both short- and long-haired Bedlington Terriers are hypoallergenic, and their woolly, curly coat is less likely to shed and cause allergic reactions than most other pets.
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- Italian Greyhound –– This breed has a very thin coat, so there is almost no risk of shedding. You’ll find that it’s easy to keep the dog free of anything that could cause allergic reactions. They’re a playful breed that is highly loyal, but just remember: they’re VERY sensitive to cold!
- Shih Tzu –– They may have long hair, but they don’t shed much. These dogs are easygoing, kind, and ready to snuggle at a moment’s notice, and you’ll be able to cuddle up to them without worrying about sneezing or having an itchy, runny nose. Just be careful: they can be very territorial and jealous of toddlers and babies.
- Basenji –– They aren’t the cutest of the lot, but they’re some of the best! They don’t bark, they shed almost nothing, and they have let off very little dander. They’re hard to train but incredibly lovable, but they are an outdoors breed.
- Schnauzer –– Schnauzers are far less likely to shed than other breeds, so there’s a much lower risk of your coming into contact with the allergens on pet dander. They’re a cuddly, affectionate breed that will become highly attached to you–the owner. They come in three sizes: miniature, standard, and giant.
- Samoyed — For dog lovers worried about allergies, try the Samoyed. There is no doggy odor, very little pet dander, and they have a wonderful personality. You will have to put up with a good deal of shedding, but they’re one of the most hypoallergenic breeds of dogs!
