Here is a guide for you on the best dog breeds for allergies and asthma. With this guide, you will know the best dog breeds that is suitable for people with allergies as well as people with asthma.
What Causes an Allergic Reaction to Dogs?
While some people are allergic to the hair, most people are actually allergic to a dog’s dander (dead skin), saliva, and even urine. So if you’ve heard that short-haired dogs are better for allergies, unfortunately, this isn’t entirely true.
Interestingly, experts say that two dogs of the same breed can give off different levels of allergen. This could be the difference between one person responding well to a certain dog breed while another has a reaction.
In someone who is allergic to dog dander or saliva, the immune system interprets the substance as harmful to the body. In response, the immune system produces antibodies that go and release chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. This reaction could look like coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing or skin irritations.
Without much ado, let's quickly take a look at the best dogs for allergies and asthma.
Best Dogs for Asthma and Allergies
Bichon Frise
Dogs that are better for people with allergies can still be super fluffy, and the Bichon Frise is proof of that. These adorable little dogs are gentle, happy, and playful. But most importantly, they have a white hypoallergenic coat that continually grows and doesn't shed, so they're great for people with allergies. They are also still soft and velvety. A Bichon Frise is also very adaptive, and gets along well with children and other pets.
Poodle
Well known as show dogs, poodles make great pets because of their friendly temperament and playfulness. They come from the water dog family, which means their coat forms a water-resistive barrier. Poodles require a lot of upkeep in the form of grooming and exercise.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, which can also be known as the Monkey Terrier, is a terrier-like toy Pinscher breed of dog.
West Highland Terrier
West Highland Terriers, aka Westies, are a Scottish breed that are known for having big and friendly personalities packed into their little bodies, making them an ideal family dog.
They rarely shed, making them ideal for those with asthma or allergies. When they do shed their short, light, white hair is easily vacuumed or removed with a lint brush. Regular brushing will also help keep shedding to a minimum.
If looked after, they can live for between 12 to 16 years. They remain small dogs with an average female weighing between 6–7 kg, while an average male weighs 7–10 kg.
They don't grow taller than 30 cm, making them also the perfect indoor dog.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels and Belgian Griffon is a unique looking bred with almost human characteristics mixed with an Ewok-like appearance.
Many Griffs have their hair clipped except for their distinctive beard. All Griffs exhibit little to no shedding while the Rough-coated Griffons do not shed at all. They are generally classified as a toy breed dog.
Though sturdy, they rarely get over 12 pounds. They are quite affectionate and curious and love just about everyone. The Griffons will either have long wiry coats or short smooth coats.
Portuguese Water Dog
These Portuguese Water Dog became popular after the Obama family brought two as pets into the White House. True to their name, they love water. So they are especially great dogs if you live near a body of water.
Schnauzer
All schnauzers - mini, standard, and giant - are great for people with allergies because they naturally produce less dander than other dogs.
They don't shed or drool as much as some other dogs do either. On top of that, schnauzers have plenty of energy, and they're super smart, devoted, affectionate, and spunky, making them a really fun dog to own and play with. They are easy to train and they make great family dogs.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus malt a lot less than many other dog breeds, while their coat is more like human hair as opposed to typical dog fur, so these small dogs are less prone to igniting allergies.
They are known as clever, affectionate, lively, intelligent and loyal, and can live for between 10 – 16 years.
They remain small their whole lives with average males and females weighing between 4 – 7.2 kg.
Maltese
If you are looking for a dog for your child with allergies or asthma problem, then you can opt for Maltese breed. This breed has almost no shedding because of the fact that it too lacks an undercoat. Grooming it properly can make it a lovely breed for asthmatic children.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier that originated in the valley of the River Aire, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, England. Its the largest out of the Terrier breeds.
Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is a hybrid “designer” breed that has quickly become well known. They were bred to be a hypoallergenic service dog, so they are both intelligent and allergy friendly.
Just like the name suggests, this breed is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Miniature or Standard Poodle breeds. It inherits traits of both breeds, so it is highly intelligent, friendly, and active. takes after both its parent breeds: friendly, intelligent, and usually moderately active.
Their lovable curly coat doesn’t shed but requires routine grooming to stay looking good. Most Labradoodles will need clipped every 10 to 12 weeks.
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