Six Tips for Buying or Adopting a Dog if You Have Allergies

If you suffer from allergies but dream of having a dog, choosing the right pet requires extra care and knowledge. Dog allergies are usually triggered by proteins found in saliva and skin, not the hair itself, but hair spreads these allergens around the environment. Thankfully, some breeds and lifestyle adjustments can help those with sensitivities enjoy canine companionship comfortably.

In this comprehensive guide, we share six practical tips to help you buy or adopt a dog suited to allergy sufferers. You'll find breed suggestions, home setup advice, and important considerations to make the best decision for you and your future pet.

1. Select Low-Shedding or Hypoallergenic Breeds

Choosing breeds known for minimal shedding or hypoallergenic qualities can significantly reduce allergen spread. These dogs typically have curly or tightly packed coats that trap dander and saliva proteins instead of releasing them into the air.

Some popular hypoallergenic dog breeds to consider are poodles, Bichon Frises, Portuguese Water Dogs, Bedlington Terriers, and Schnauzer-Poodle mixes like the Schnoodle. Regular grooming and bathing of such breeds further reduce allergens on their coat.

2. Avoid Large and Giant Breeds

Allergen production tends to correlate with a dog's size. Larger breeds have more skin surface area and produce more dander and saliva proteins. Selecting a small to medium-sized dog may help minimise allergic reactions and is generally more manageable in a household environment.

Breeds like the Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, or smaller terriers can be better suited in allergic households rather than giant breeds like Newfoundlands or Great Danes.

3. Adapt Your Home Environment to Reduce Allergens

Creating an allergy-friendly home is crucial beyond choosing a suitable breed. Use hard floors instead of carpets which trap dander and opt for washable blinds rather than curtains to reduce allergen retention. Leather sofas are preferable to fabric ones as they don’t hold pet hair as tightly.

Regular cleaning routines including vacuuming with a HEPA filter, air purifiers, and specifically washing pet bedding will decrease allergen levels.

Consider limiting your dog’s access to your bedroom or other allergy-sensitive areas to keep allergen exposure minimal. Preventing the dog from sleeping on your bed is also highly recommended.

4. Buy or Adopt Locally When Possible

Similar to how local honey can build tolerance to pollen allergens, dogs raised in your local environment may be less likely to trigger allergies than those from distant regions with different allergen exposures. When adopting or purchasing a dog, try to find one raised nearby to increase your chance of compatibility.

5. Spend Time Meeting Potential Dogs Multiple Times

Individual allergic responses vary widely, so do not rush your choice. Meeting any dog you consider adopting or buying several times and in different settings helps gauge your reaction accurately.

This cautious approach helps ensure a good fit, reducing the risk of heartbreak or having to rehome your chosen dog due to allergic reactions discovered later.

6. Balance Allergy Considerations with Other Important Factors

While managing allergies is obviously your priority, remember to consider other critical factors including size, temperament, exercise needs, and health issues associated with the breed or individual dog.

A dog's compatibility with your lifestyle and household is vital to ensure a happy, healthy companionship. Responsible ownership includes long-term planning and understanding all aspects of the breed, not just allergenic potential.

By following these steps, allergy sufferers can successfully find a loving canine friend and enjoy the many joys dogs bring while keeping allergy symptoms under control.