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Do Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Really Exist

By in Dog Tales

Hypoallergenic Dog BreedsOne really popular question among allergy sufferers who want to own a dog is – are there really any hypoallergenic dog breeds?

To answer the question you first have to understand what hypoallergenic means.

Hypoallergenic – items that cause or are claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions. Source

So, by this definition, there are hypoallergenic dogs that are likely to reduce the occurrence or severity of an allergic reaction among people who suffer from allergies.

However, you should know that hypoallergenic dogs still produce allergens. Although, because of their coat type, they typically produce fewer allergens when compared to other dogs. It is important to note that people with severe allergies and asthma may still be affected by a hypoallergenic dog.

Now, if the question becomes – are there any dog breeds that will cause no allergic reactions? Then the answer is no – there are no such dogs, whether pure breed or mixed breed dogs.

There are a number of breeds and crosses that are usually suggested for allergy sufferers. For example, yesterday I talked about the Schnoodle dog breed. They are usually listed as a hypoallergenic dog. However, no one in my family suffers from allergies to the extent that I can tell you that owning a Schnoodle makes a difference. I can tell you that they shed very little.

So, with that in mind, here is a list you can use as a starting point if you are looking for a potentially hypoallergenic pet.

List of Potentially Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Although there may not be a truly non-allergy causing dog breed, there are some dogs who are more likely to be a hypoallergenic dog breed. So as an allergy sufferer, know that with some effort, it is possible to find a dog that you can live with, and love.

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4 Responses to Do Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Really Exist

  1. Omar January 10, 2010 at 10:56 pm #

    Hi Jeannette,

    We have a Schnoodle and I have found the same thing :) – no shedding and not much of that doggy smell either.

    Thanks for stopping by.

    Omar

    Reply
  2. Jeanette January 10, 2010 at 4:36 pm #

    We have a schnauzer mix that we adopted from AZ Schnauzer Rescue. since my husband has allergies, this was a great choice for us. also – no shedding and that ‘doggy smell’ seems almost non-existent (is that the breed or the food he eats, I wonder. . .)

    Jeanette
    http://www.AnythingGoesGourmet.com

    Reply

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