100% non allergenic dogs don’t exist, but there are some low allergy dogs. If you are likely to develop allergic reactions to canines, but you would still like to have a pet, you should get informed about low allergy dogs and learn about the myths and facts about these types of dogs.
Myth: Canine Hair Causes Allergies
In fact, dander is the main allergen that is responsible for triggering the allergic reaction. The same protein is secreted in saliva and urine, but in much lower concentrations than in dander, so people are more likely to be allergic to dander. In some cases, if dust, pollens or debris are present in the dog’s coat, sensitive people develop allergies to these factors and mistakenly believe they are allergic to dogs. Get some allergy tests to see if you are allergic to canines.
Allergies are due to a response of the immune system and people that have a weaker immune system are typically more at risk of developing allergies. The immune system will react when the body identifies a foreign substance, such as a glycoprotein that is present in the dog dander. The immune system will produce inflammatory cells and histamines, leading to the allergy symptoms.
Myth: Hairless Dogs Are Non Allergenic
In fact, even hairless dogs will cause allergies, as they produce dander, saliva and urine. In fact, some hairless dogs may produce more dander than coated dogs.
Myth: Allergy Free Dogs Exist
In fact, while researchers are making progress in creating pets that cause fewer allergic reactions in humans, dogs that don’t cause any allergic reactions in susceptible people don’t exist. There are a few dogs that are known as low allergy dog dogs and should be more tolerated by sensitive people. These low allergy dog breeds include:
- Basenji
- Bichon Frise
- Chinese Crested
- Havanese
- Maltese
- Poodle
- Puli
- Schnauzer
- Shih Tzu
- Yorkshire Terrier
Also, mixed breeds with one parent that belong to one of the hypoallergenic breeds may be also low allergy dogs.
Myth: Low Allergy Dogs Have the Same Effect in All Allergic People
In fact, the way allergic people respond to low allergy dogs will be different and may vary according to the severity of the allergies and the immune system response. Some people may develop fewer allergy symptoms when in the presence of a low allergy pet, but others will display the same reactions. The best way to establish if you are allergic to a particular dog is to spend a few days with him and notice your allergic reactions.
Myth: All Low Allergy Dogs Are the Same
In fact, while there are certain canine breeds that are considered low allergy dogs, not all dogs from these breeds may be low allergy pets. These dogs are known to produce fewer allergic reactions due to the short hair or the lower amount of dander produced. However, there may be exceptions and some dogs from these breeds may actually cause severe allergies. These dogs may have dry skin and produce more dander.