A Guide to Allergies

It is important to mention that the allergies people get from dogs is actually caused by the proteins and allergens in the dog's dander (dead skin cells) and saliva as opposed to the hair. Consequently non shedding dog breeds and those that drool and slobber to a lesser degree are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. It is also important to remember that each person may have a different reaction to each breed - so just because you don't experience an allergic reaction does not mean that the next person will be allergy free.

Another very important factor to consider when purchasing a hypoallergenic dog breed is to consider how much that dog barks. Yes barking can make a big difference mainly because the saliva contains allergens and when your dog starts barking this causes the allergens to be dispersed into the environment.

Heavy Shedding Breeds

As previously mentioned the dogs that shed more than others are more likely to produce dander (the dead skin cells) which will then be released into the air ready for them to affect you or your family. The allergens in the dander will then stick to you and the family specifically around the eyes, nose and mouth causing the allergy symptoms we so often see such as sniffing, sneezing, watery eyes and cold like symptoms. The worst breeds are those that are heavy shedders - like the Labrador and Golden Retriever and the best are the non shedding dog breeds.

Dogs that are double coated or have very thick coats are also not the best breed for people with allergies as they are much more likely to pick up dust, pollen and grass when out and about. This will the be passed on to you when they shake or enter the House.

Please remember there is no such thing as an 'allergy free' dog breed but some breeds are much better than others. You won't know until you actually take your new pooch home.


If you are taking a new pooch home there are some things that you can do to limit the amount of allergens in your environment i.e. your House - start by...

• Only letting your dog into certain areas thus limiting the amount of dander, hair and allergens being dispersed.
• Bathing your dog on a regular basis can help to limit dander and hair being released outside of the bathroom.
• Small dogs are sometimes better mainly because they are easier to bath on a regular basis.
• Regular hovering, vacuuming and cleaning can get rid of allergens, hair and dander that is on the furniture, carpet or elsewhere.
• Don't allow your dog on the furniture or on the bed.
• Keep your dog's bedding and sleeping area clean.
• Think it through before you take a dog home - don't choose heavy shedders like German Shepherds, Retrievers or Labradors and don't choose dogs that drool or slobber excessively like St Bernards or Mastiffs.

Anyway take a look at our list of hypoallergenic dogs below to get a better idea of which dog to choose.

The above list of hypoallergenic dogs is a great place to start if you are after a low shedding or even non shedding dog breed. If you do suffer from allergies to dogs then the breeds to avoid are, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters and Springer Spaniels. Remember the above list of hypoallergenic dogs is only a guide and each breed is unique and no dog is completely allergy free.