Hypoallergenic dogs are a total myth - no dog is 100% certain to not irritate allergies. However, there are several dog breeds that are far less likely to cause a reaction in asthma and allergy sufferers.
A Team Dogs reader recently asked what breed would suit him best, so as not to irritate his condition.
He said: “I have had asthma all my life and with all animals, but would love a dog. Are there any breeds that would be better suited, or affect my allergies less?”
Dave Tweedle, clinical director at Natures Vet Group, Bath Vet Group and clinical board vice-chair at the UK’s leading network of veterinary practices, My Family Vets has offered his advice.
He said: “If you suffer from asthma or allergies, then you might have thought that getting a dog just wasn’t possible. Coughing, sneezing and skin irritation can prevent even the biggest dog lovers from welcoming a four-legged friend into their home.
“Thankfully, there are several dog breeds that are really unlikely to cause a reaction in asthma and allergy sufferers. You might have heard that short-haired dogs are better when it comes to preventing allergies, but lots of allergy sufferers are allergic to dead skin flakes (dander), saliva and urine, rather than fur.
“Although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, some have tight curls and no undercoat, which means they cause fewer allergic reactions.”
Here are five breeds that have gained popularity in households where people have asthma and allergies:
Poodle
Intelligent, energetic and graceful, the poodle is a great choice for allergy sufferers. Thanks to their dense, wiry coat the poodle is one of the most hypoallergenic breeds.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus shed very little and are a great choice of canine companion if you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies.
They are small dogs who are comfortable in most housing environments, so they make a good choice if you live in a smaller house or flat.
Bichon Frise
A lively breed known for their fluffy white coat, the Bichon Frise’s curly coat catches shorter hairs as they moult.
They make for great companions and love to learn new tricks, thanks to their history in circus performing.
Maltese
Tiny lap dogs, the Maltese is famed for its silky white coat that reaches all the way to the floor.
You might expect them to be serial shedders, but because Maltese have no undercoat, they shed very little hair.
You can also clip their coats to lower their grooming needs.
Bedlington Terrier
With distinctive poofs of curly hair, Bedlingtons are gentle dogs with low-to-no shed coats.
Their crisp coat is curly, resembling sheep wool, and comes in a host of different colours including, blue, fawn and tan.
