|
Read about "Bo" The First Family's Portugese Water Dog, Selected Because Daughter Malia Has Allergies To Dogs
Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds - Relieve Symptoms and Build Immunity
Dander free dogs. These are dogs that don't shed. And while no dog is perfectly free-of-shedding..there really are Hypoallergenic Dogs for allergy sufferers to consider.
Dander free dogs are dogs with fine coats. They shed little hair or fur. (There is no such thing as a totally dander-free dog). I live with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi who SHEDS a LOT. I also also live with a Bichon who does not seem to shed at all. Dander, by the way, refers to skin particles, which become airborn and hold onto things like fabrics, curtains, rugs, etc. President and First Lady Obama brought the issue of allergies to dogs to the nation's attention. The President promised his family they could get a dog after they moved to The White House. Problem was, the youngest child has allergies. So they selected a Portugese Water Dog to be First Dog. The daughters Malia and Sasha will probably suffer less from dog allergies. Why? Because this breed, like poodles, doesn't shed much and it produces little dander. Many people with allergies start out looking for dogs that don't shed. But there's more good news for you if you are allergic to dogs - research shows that you can actually build immunity to dog allergies - just by living with dogs. That means that growing up with a dog can be extra good for your health. (But not so for some asthma sufferers. If you have health concerns, always consult with your physician before getting a dog). Top 10 Top Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds:1. Poodle and Poodle Hybrids - They shed little, and produce little dander. They come in several sizes from toy to standard. Breeds, like the Bichon Frise, are related to poodles, and are also perfect picks.2. Schnauzer - They come in 3 sizes, miniature, standard and giant, and all are good for those with dog allergies. 3. Portuguese Water Dog - A close relative of the poodle, this high energy dog loves exercise, and sheds very little. 4. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier - There are 4 varieties of this breed, Traditional Irish, Heavy Irish, English and American types. All are good choice for people with dog allergies. 5. Maltese - A dog from the Toy Class, this non-shedding dog is kept even more allergy-free by frequent grooming and bathing. 6. Lhasa Apso - Another small breed that does not shed its coat. 7. Yorkshire Terrier - Yorkies, as they are affectionately known, get their reputation as being hypoallergenic, possibly, because their owners love to bathe and groom them. 8. Shih Tzu - Another small breed that sheds little. Their small size makes it easy to groom and bathe them, which reduces allergy triggers in most people. 9. Irish Water Spaniel - The Irish Water Spaniel, resembles the poodle, and has a similar hypo-allergenic coat. 10. Kerry Blue Terrier - The American Kennel Club recommends this breed as a good choice for people allergic to dogs. Also Think About:You can reduce dog allergy symptoms by keeping your dog well groomed. This includes brushing and bathing. There are sprays on the market that make various claims to reduce allergy symptoms.It's always a good idea to talk with your Vet, Groomer, Pet Products Supplier, and other dog owners, to get wisdom from other people's experiences. Before you get a dog: Try to take a "test run". Thinking of adopting or purchasing a hypoallergenic breed? See if you can "borrow" a dog for a weekend to make certain that the dog will be a good fit for you and your family. (I know this is not always possible, but if you can arrange it, it is a great idea). Before you get a dog: Try to take a "test run".Thinking of adopting or purchasing a hypoallergenic breed? See if you can "borrow" a dog for a weekend to make certain that the dog will be a good fit for you and your family.(I know this is not always possible, but if you can arrange it, it is a great idea). Maybe you could even volunteer to be a "foster home" for dogs awaiting adoption. It would give you a chance to find out which breeds work for you, and which don't. Many mixed-breed dogs can be low-shedding, so adopting from the shelter is an option for you, too.
|
