Hypoallergenic dogs don’t exist, but these breeds are the most allergy-friendly

For the approx 15 to 30 percent of Americans For example, if you are allergic to cats or dogs, finding a furry friend can be difficult. And while you’re generally twice as likely to be allergic to cats as you are to dogs, allergic reactions to dogs tend to be worse.

If you’re someone with allergies who has at some point thought about getting a dog and made the mistake of mentioning it to others, you’ve probably been told (repeatedly) about hypoallergenic dogs. Or maybe you heard about them back in 2008 when the The Obama family chose a Portuguese water dog as her White House pet due to Malia’s allergies.

Either way, you should know that Hypoallergenic dogs do not exist. However, some races are less likely to activate allergies of one person than another. Here’s what you should know.

What Makes a Dog “Hypoallergenic”?

The labeling of certain dog breeds as “hypoallergenic” is a relatively new phenomenon. according to the American Kennel Club (AKC)and as its popularity grew, so did the myths and misconceptions about the label actually means.

“Eventually, the fact that a dog doesn’t shed became synonymous with the word hypoallergenic.” says dr Tania Elliotan allergist and spokesperson for American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. “While some people can be allergic to dog dander, others can be allergic to dander (skin cells) and even their saliva.”

Indeed acc AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Kleinmost people with dog allergies do not react to the coat itself, but to dogs. dander and certain proteins found in their urine, feces and saliva (which often end up in their bodies). dander).

Because fur carries dander and spreads through shedding, breeds with little or no hair have been labeled “hypoallergenic.” But that doesn’t last under consideration the other ways dander and proteins can spread. For example, the proteins can become airborne if a dog licks itself in the process Personal hygiene. Also, your dog can transfer their dander and proteins directly to you when you pet them or lick you. Klein noticed.

With that in mind, it makes sense that two studies were published in 2011 and 2012 found the same concentrations of the primary canine allergen (Canis familiaris) in all households with dogs – regardless of whether the breeds have been classified as “hypoallergenic” or not.

The best dog breeds for allergy sufferers

As we discussed above, while there are no “hypoallergenic” dogs, those with a decent amount of fur – particularly those who shed a lot – have an additional opportunity for their fur to be transmitted dander and proteins for you. With all of that in mind, these are the races AKC recommends for allergy sufferers:

• Afghan Hound
• American hairless terrier
• Bedlington Terrier
• bichon frize
• Chinese chop
• Cotton from Tulear
• Giant Schnauzer
• Irish water spaniel
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Lagotto Romagnolo
• Maltese
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Peruvian Inca Orchid
• poodle
• Portuguese water dog
• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
• Spanish water dog
• Standard Schnauzer
• Xoloitzcuintli

Last the AKC Notes that different breeds have different types (and levels) of allergens, so even if you’ve had an allergic reaction to one “hypoallergenic” Dog, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they will all be problematic for you.

Before committing to a specific breed, the organization recommends spending 15 to 20 minutes with that type of dog and being aware of any allergy symptoms you develop during that time. Then test other breeds to see which one is easiest with your allergies.