Hypoallergenic Dogs: Most people like to have a dog. They make the atmosphere nice and all the family members are happy with them. Some scientists claim that a pet improves the health of the owner, but more studies are needed to confirm this. However, it is also important for dog owners to know that one in ten people may be allergic to their pet.

Allergic To Dogs

This allergy can be caused by certain proteins released from their urine, skin cells, or their saliva. Dandruff is also one of the biggest causes of allergies. This dandruff is very subtle and mild, due to which it can be present in the air for a long time and it can very easily affect the person through breathing. Similarly, when a dog’s saliva, urine, and feces lie on a surface for a long time, the dust that comes in contact with them can also cause an allergic reaction. Canine dogs have a protein called “can f1”, which causes an allergic reaction.

If a person feels that they experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, trouble sleeping, and severe facial pain from playing with or being around dogs, they may have an allergy problem.

Symptoms of allergies in dogs can be similar to symptoms of colds in humans. Dog allergies can be fatal if someone has asthma or any respiratory problems. People who have a poor immune system or have a weakened immunity due to some problem are more prone to dog allergies, while in some rare cases it can also affect people whose immune system is in good health.

What Causes Hypoallergenic Dogs? 

Dandruff And Hair

Most people believe that dog hair causes allergies this is not true. Often dust and fine particles stick to their hair and when a human comes in contact with these dogs, they are at risk of developing allergies. The dander present on the dog’s skin contains a protein that can cause allergic reactions in humans. This dander gets trapped in the dog’s fur and is also found in the dog’s resting place.

There are also some such breeds whose hair either does not fall or falls very little. The problem of allergies in such animals is very less. Studies have shown that the homes of hypoallergenic dogs and normal animals contain the same amount of allergens.

“Hypoallergenic dogs” are breeds that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. It is being reported on the Internet and from breeders all over the world that some breeds are not allergic at all, but in fact, this is not entirely true.

Urine, Saliva, And Other Things

Some people are sensitive to dog saliva and urine and are more prone to allergies. In one study, it has been taken into account that other things than the breed of the dog can cause allergies. Remember that their immune system can be affected by allergy-causing factors, which can lead to allergies.

Also Read: Dogs With Down Syndrome: Reasons, Signs, Treatment

How To Prevent Allergic Reaction in Dogs? 

Before adopting a dog, keep in mind that smaller breeds are better than larger breeds when it comes to causing allergies as they are less prone to hair fall. Dust and other particles get trapped in the hair and fur, which cause allergies. However, allergy symptoms can vary, so if a person has allergy problems and is looking to adopt a dog, it may be a good decision to meet with your preferred breed before adopting.

Bath your pet dog once or twice a week. It reduces the level of dander in dogs, which also reduces the risk of allergies, but it is worth consulting a doctor about how often they should be bathed.

Some changes need to be made in the house to avoid allergies. In such a situation, those things should be identified and removed from the house, which can absorb the saliva and urine of the dog. It is important to keep it clean even at such a place where his hair can collect. He should limit his visits to his bed and sofa to avoid allergies. Apart from this, there should be a separate place for them to play.

If the person does not see an allergy-causing nature in a dog and wishes to have him, adopt him first. This helps to know whether the person has any kind of allergy. Many people request to keep a good breed dog with them (as a trial) for a few days before adopting it. Let me tell you, this is a good way to detect allergies to dogs.

If one is concerned about dog allergies, then such dogs can be chosen, which have either little hair fall or no shedding at all. Following is the information about such dogs –

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a royal-looking dog, known for its calm and good manners. They tend to shake themselves less than other dogs, which makes them less prone to hair fall or dander, or allergies. Their skin is very beautiful and luxurious, due to which they need special maintenance daily. Since allergens are present in the deeper layers of the fur, daily cleaning can reduce the risk of allergies.

Poodle Dog

Poodles are small-sized dogs and tend to give themselves little naps, which makes them less prone to hair or dander or allergies. Their hair is curly, which is why they are less susceptible to dust, pollen, and other allergenic particles present in the air. Currently, some research is needed to determine whether this breed is “hypoallergenic”.

Peruvian Hairless Dog

This breed got everyone’s attention when former US President Barack Obama while adopting a dog of this breed, said that it might not cause allergies to his daughter. At present, dogs of this breed are quite active and are found in a variety of sizes. They do not have hair so they are popular.

Bichon Frise Dog

The Bichon Frize is a small and very charming family pet, known for its playful and gentle nature. Their specialty is that their hair keeps growing, but they do not twitch themselves without talking, due to which there is no problem of hair fall. They are beautiful and cute in appearance, due to which they are very much liked.

Maltese Dog

Like the Bichon Frize, the Moltees are also small dogs.  Their hair falls very less, due to which the problem of allergies is very less. Maltese are energetic and agile animals, due to which this breed is very much liked.

Standard Schnauzer

Standard Snozzers are large in size and rowdy in nature.  It is necessary to take them for daily walks. They need special care, they do not have the problem of dandruff. Dogs of this breed are known to behave well with children.

Diagnosis And Treatment Of Hypoallergenic Dogs

Diagnosis

• Dog allergies are fairly easy to detect. If being around a dog causes skin allergies or flu-like symptoms, it could mean a dog allergy. In this case, it is necessary to get examined by a doctor.
• The help of skin allergy test can be taken to detect allergies. In this, the lab technician examines the skin of the affected person. If the skin appears red or itchy within 15 to 20 minutes, it may be a sign of allergy.

Treatment

Antihistamines or antibiotics may be taken in case of minor allergies. Sometimes corticosteroids and decongestants are advised, depending on the severity of the condition.

Its treatment also includes immunotherapy. It is a type of treatment, which strengthens the body’s immune system. In this, injections containing small amounts of the allergen are given weekly. However, their dosage can be increased over time. One injection is given every four weeks for five years to strengthen immunity. However, this method is used when other methods do not produce satisfactory results.

Most symptoms may appear mild if you are allergic to dogs. Allergies can have an adverse effect on people who suffer from asthma and sinus problems. If a person suffers from asthma and has trouble breathing due to being around a dog, then it may be a better decision to consult a doctor.

Also Read: How To Clean Dog Teeth Without Brushing?

Tips To Reduce Hypoallergenic Dogs In Home

Most dogs are at risk of spreading allergies. Some measures can limit the harmful effects to some extent:

• The best way to remove dirt and dander from a dog’s hair is to clean them regularly, without the risk of spreading the infection through the air.
• Take care of the cleanliness of the place where the dog mostly sits (carpet, sofa, etc.).
• Bathing and grooming a dog are both important tasks, but if a person is not able to do it due to allergies, then get them cleaned by a member of your family.
• Use a HEPA air purifier. It is a device that purifies the air by filtering it, thereby reducing the allergens immediately.
• Along with bathing regularly, clean your nose as well. By doing this, there is no problem of cold and blocked nose.
• Try to keep your pet away from beds and sofas. In addition, regularly clean the dog’s bed as well.