Hypoallergenic Dogs – Is This Your Dog?

When we talk about hypoallergenic dogs, we mean that they have less or less tendency to cause allergies or allergic reactions among allergic people.

It has been estimated that about 10% of the US population is allergic to animals (American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology). Symptoms of reactions can range from watery eyes to dangerous asthma attacks.

The problem is not in the pet’s hair. It’s dandruff, or microscopic flakes of dead skin (similar to, but much smaller than, dandruff on the human scalp) that pets are constantly shedding the cause. They are so small that they are rarely known to be circulating in the air or on furniture and rugs because they are so small.

Here is a list of hypoallergenic dogs. If I have missed any, I apologize.

  • Hairless american terrier
  • Basenji
  • Border terrier
  • Cairn terrier
  • Chinese crested (hairless)
  • Bullmastiff
  • Kerry Blue Terrier
  • Maltese
  • Miniature schnauzer
  • Portuguese water dog
  • Shih Tzu
  • Soft Coat Wheaten Terrier
  • Spanish Water Dog
  • Standard poodle
  • Standard schnauzer
  • Tibetan terrier
  • Toy poodle
  • West Highland White Terrier
  • Wire-haired Fox Terrier
  • Yorkshire terrier

Remember that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic and that allergy sufferers react differently to each breed of dog. For West Highland Terrier owners like myself, the news is good. They are considered good for allergy sufferers, with relatively low dandruff (number 7). However, you should remind yourself that one person’s allergies can vary greatly from another. It is always advisable to visit the house of the dog that you want to have, before bringing it home. I hope you found this article useful for you.

Good health and happiness

(Disclaimer: Any information on this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice provided by your own veterinarian. Do not use the information contained herein to diagnose the health of any animal. You should always consult and consult with your own veterinarian or veterinarian.)

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