Do you want to adopt a dog, but experience allergy symptoms whenever you are near one? While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, there are breeds that are less allergenic than others. These dogs have non-shedding coats that produce less dander—it is actually dander, and not fur, that causes the majority of people to experience a dog allergy. At Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert, we don’t want to let mild allergies stop you from adopting the furry companion of your dreams. Here is our list of the some of the best hypoallergenic dogs:
1. Poodle
If you have a mild allergy to dogs, a poodle might be a great option. Not only are poodles extremely affectionate and smart, their curly, light-shedding coat holds onto dead hair and dander, lessening allergy symptoms. Your poodle’s coat will need to be maintained with regular professional grooming and at-home brushing.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese water dogs are intelligent, loyal and hard workers. They are highly athletic and need strenuous daily exercise. PWDs have a single coat, meaning they don’t have an undercoat like some breeds do. Because of this, they shed less—but they do still shed, so this breed is a good choice for someone with a mild allergy. Keeping your PWD’s coat professionally groomed will help lessen the severity of allergy symptoms and keep him looking and feeling his best!
3. Bichon Frise
The bichon frise is a gentle, happy, playful breed that would do well with an active family. The bichon’s hair continually grows and doesn’t shed, making it an ideal choice for allergy sufferers. But he will need regular grooming to prevent matting.
4. American Hairless Terrier
The American hairless terrier is lively, friendly, and intelligent. This breed typically gets along well with children and has minimal exercise needs, making it a good choice for city or apartment dwellers. Since they don’t have a coat, American hairless terriers don’t need grooming, but will need regular bathing and nail trimming.
5. Maltese
The Maltese is small, yet mighty! This breed has long, silky white hair that will require regular grooming to prevent mats—but their coats don’t shed, giving them a well-earned spot on our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
Most of us probably think dog breeders are the only option when it comes to pure-bred dogs. However, pure-bred dogs can actually be found at many shelters. In fact, some shelters are devoted to particular breeds. October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. It may require a little more time, research, and patience, but we are confident that you can rescue your furever friend from a shelter near you. And when you do, bring your new addition in to Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert for a check-up and to make sure they are up-to-date on all their vaccinations.
Photo by andrew welch on Unsplash