How many times have you heard, “It’s me or the dog?” Don’t worry – many people are allergic to their significant other’s pet, but that doesn’t mean you have to get rid of either love of your life.
Dander is the enemy, not your relationship. If you are thinking of getting a dog, consider these hypoallergenic dog breeds:
Curly-Haired and Corded Breeds
Poodles, Pulik, Komondorak, Irish Water Spaniels, Bichon Frises and Portuguese Water Dogs’ coats shed infrequently. These cute fur balls don’t spread around much dander, allowing you to admire them with clear eyes.
Hairless Breeds
The Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier, Xoloitzcuintli and Peruvian Incan Orchard may be naked, but there’s no shame in it. Because they don’t shed they provoke only a small allergic reaction.
Single-Coated Breeds
Though most dogs have both an under- and overcoat, the Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, Basenjis, Coton du Tuelar and Maltese have only one. This luscious coat makes them the envy of their hairless friends while shedding minimally.
Terrier-Type Breeds
Though hairy or bearded, don’t be intimidated. They produce little dander and are fine for people with mild to moderate allergies.
It is important to remember even hypoallergenic breeds leave some dander. The best way to control allergies is to keep a clean home. Get rid of carpets – they will drive your significant other crazy. Sandra DeFeo, Co-Executive Director of the Humane Society of New York, suggests, “Buy a skin moisturizer for your pet. This is a glycerin solution that will help prevent dander from flying off into the air. It is available at your local veterinarian. It can be applied as much as you need it.” Get filters for your central heating and central air-conditioning systems. It is also important to give your dog regular baths and keep the dog off the bed, no matter how cute it looks while asleep. Otherwise, take antihistamines like Benadryl or Claritin, decongestants like Sudafed, or corticosteroids like Nasonex.
What if you already have a dog that’s not a hypoallergenic breed? Check out the book Sneeze-Free Dog Breeds by Diane Morgan. The book contains detailed information about the hypoallergenic dogs mentioned above, but it also offers a great deal of helpful advice for people who are already committed to a dog. By managing your home, your dog, and yourself, you can control most types of dog allergies, allowing you or your loved one to live comfortably with the dog you already have.
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