January 21, 2021

Are Any Dog Breeds Hypoallergenic?

Find out if the perfect pooch truly exists from an allergist

hypoallergenic dogs maltese

Dogs.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

We love them so much that about 63% of U.S. households have one. And if you don’t currently own one, you’ve probably had a dog at some point in your life. So, you know that while they’re a major source of joy, they’re also a source of fur — and with fur comes dander (dead skin cells) — and with dander comes allergies.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as three in 10 people with allergies in this country have pet allergies. Pet allergies are also quite common with people who have asthma or other allergies and they can be triggered by proteins in a dog’s saliva, urine or dander. While the sneezing, irritated eyes, congestion and other reactions are annoying, some people still can’t fight the urge to be around or even own a dog. For those who live with pet allergies, is it actually possible to get a dog that is “hypoallergenic?”

Keep reading to find out the answer from immunologist Sandra Hong, MD, and to get some helpful tips for managing pet allergies.

What does hypoallergenic mean?

“Hypoallergenic” pretty much refers to something having a small chance of triggering an allergic reaction. If you wear jewelry or use a lot of cosmetics or personal products, you’ve seen this term before. If something has a greater chance of triggering a reaction, it’s simply considered “allergenic.”

Are hypoallergenic dogs even a real thing?

Many people seem to think so. But the American Kennel Club (AKC) says that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. But don’t get bummed out if you’re a dog lover with pet allergies. There are actually dog breeds that are less allergenic. These breeds are considered as such because they have more predictable, non-shedding coats that produce less dander. And less dander could mean that you won’t be a sniffling, sneezing, runny eyed mess on a regular basis.

Advertisement

However, hypoallergenic dogs can still cause problems for allergy sufferers because, according to Dr. Hong, there’s still a chance that your allergies could be triggered.

“Many people believe that exposure to other dogs will trigger their allergy symptoms, while exposure to a hypoallergenic dog will not. However, objective scientific studies don’t support the idea that any dogs are hypoallergenic,” says Dr. Hong.

Dr. Hong adds that a 2012 study measured dog allergens (proteins secreted by oil glands, dander and saliva) concentrations in samples taken from the hair and coats of so-called hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic dogs, and from their respective owners’ homes.

The study found that the allergen levels were actually higher in hair and coat samples from the dogs that were supposedly hypoallergenic. And the home allergen concentrations for both sets of dog owners were about the same for each group.

So, in a nutshell, there is no clear scientific evidence to support a hypoallergenic species of dog.

Advertisement

The best dog breeds for people with pet allergies

If you have pet allergies and still want to get a dog, it’s not a bad idea to talk to your doctor or an allergist to figure out how you can live in harmony with man’s best friend. Once you have that all figured out, you can start to narrow down which breed is right for you.

The AKC considers these breeds to be among the best for allergy sufferers.

  • Afghan Hound.
  • American Hairless Terrier.
  • Bedlington Terrier.
  • Bichon Frise.
  • Chinese Crested.
  • Coton de Tulear.
  • Giant Schnauzer.
  • Irish Water Spaniel.
  • Kerry Blue Terrier.
  • Lagotto Romagnolo.
  • Maltese.
  • Miniature Schnauzer.
  • Peruvian Inca Orchid.
  • Poodle.
  • Portuguese Water Dog
  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
  • Spanish Water Dog.
  • Standard Schnauzer.
  • Xoloitzcuintli.

The worst dog breeds for people with allergies

If you struggle with allergies, you might want to steer clear of the following breeds.

  • Basset Hound.
  • Boston Terrier.
  • Bulldog.
  • Doberman Pinscher.
  • German Shepherd.
  • Labrador Retriever.
  • Pekingese.
  • Pug.
  • Saint Bernard.
  • Siberian Husky.

How to alleviate dog allergies at home

There are some steps that you can take to make life with a dog much easier. Here are some suggestions from Dr. Hong.

  • Keep your dog out of your bedroom. This will help you breathe easier while you’re resting or getting dressed. You can even use a HEPA air cleaner in your bedroom as an extra precaution.
  • If you have carpet and aren’t in a position to remove it, steam clean it frequently. If you have hardwood floors and use throw rugs, wash them in hot water regularly. Use a damp cloth on hard floors to pick up pet allergens.
  • If you’ve been around your dog or other dogs for an extended period of time, change your clothes right after to reduce the occurrence of an allergic reaction.
  • Cover bedroom vents with a dense filtering material like cheesecloth since air conditioning and heating can spread dander and other allergens throughout your home.
  • Use a HEPA filter for central heating and air conditioning units to contain pet allergens that might be floating around.
  • If you haven’t discussed your allergies in-depth with your healthcare provider, talk to them about treatment options like medicine or immunotherapy.
  • Bathe your dog regularly. It’s possible to be allergic to the pollen on your dog’s coat when they go outdoors.

Related Articles

Person holding cup of hot tea, with honey jar floating in background
February 23, 2024
Why Your Throat Tickles — And How To Stop It

Often, a throat tickle is due to a cold, allergies or GERD — but see a doctor if it won’t go away

person blowing their nose outside
May 16, 2023
Allergies Don’t Cause a Fever — At Least, Not Directly

Infections like sinusitis, colds, flu and COVID-19 can cause a fever, but allergies aren’t infections

person holding sore throat with allergens in air
May 14, 2023
Relief When Allergies Give You a Sore Throat

Avoid allergens when you can, and clear up phlegm with home remedies and medications

Illustration pof of person blowing nose in front of background of various plants and weeds
March 14, 2023
How To Tame Your Spring Allergies

Reduce the impact of seasonal sniffles by starting your medications ahead of time

Child snoring during his nap while sleeping on his front.
February 7, 2023
Does Your Child Snore? These Could Be the Reasons Why

Six possible reasons (and solutions) for that nighttime noise

hyperallergenic pillow mattress cover
January 2, 2023
Does Hypoallergenic Bedding Work?

It can help reduce exposure to allergens, but don't expect it to solve allergy or asthma issues

cat sitting on couch cushions
December 19, 2022
How To Reduce Pet Dander To Help With Allergies

Vacuum (a lot), wipe pets down (often) and (always) keep them out of your bed!

Elderly person suffering from allergies while outside.
November 15, 2022
Can You Develop Allergies as an Adult?

Allergies can pop up at any time in your life

Trending Topics

White bowls full of pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate and various kinds of nuts
25 Magnesium-Rich Foods You Should Be Eating

A healthy diet can easily meet your body’s important demands for magnesium

Woman feeling for heart rate in neck on run outside, smartwatch and earbuds
Heart Rate Zones Explained

A super high heart rate means you’re burning more than fat

Spoonful of farro salad with tomato
What To Eat If You’ve Been Diagnosed With Prediabetes

Type 2 diabetes isn’t inevitable with these dietary changes

Ad