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If you suffer from allergies, you are not alone. Even though most people suffer from some type of allergy, whether it is food, plant, or pet, they can usually find a way to enjoy their lives, which in many cases, includes having a pet. Depending on the severity of your allergies, you will be able to bring a dog into your home as long as you take the time to find the breed that is right for you.

What are hypoallergenic dogs? These are breeds that shed less hair and also have fewer allergens in their saliva and urine. Be realistic by remembering that every dog has some amount of allergens, but the hypoallergenic dog breeds have fewer allergens.

One of the most important steps you can take, even with a hypoallergenic dog breed, is to clean your house often. Pay particular attention to the areas where your dog sleeps, where you will get the biggest concentration of allergens. Also be sure to change your own bedding frequently, so you are not suffering with allergens while you are trying to sleep.

Hypoallergenic breeds tend to be short haired and will shed their skin cells less frequently than other breeds. They also may make less saliva, which means fewer allergens to deal with. Cleaning frequently is still required to prevent a concentration of dander from building up. If you can, try to spend an extended time with the dog or breed that interests you to see if you can tolerate its allergens. You might visit a breeder or offer to watch your friend’s dog. This will give you a better idea whether the dog you like also “likes” you, in terms of your allergies.

Since it is the concentration of allergens that causes problems, if you live in a small house, you are more likely to suffer allergy symptoms. A hypoallergenic dog in this case could be the answer, as you will be collecting less dander and hair. But again, frequent cleaning will still be necessary. Taking your dog outside at least a few times per day can also go a long way toward diminishing the accumulation of dander in your living areas.

Sometimes allergies can worsen initially upon bringing your new pet home. But you should see things stabilize in about a month. If not then you may need to consider a different breed or try more frequent cleaning and more time outside with your dog. If possible, you should replace your carpeting with hardwood flooring. This will keep allergens from piling up and causing an allergy attack. Wipe down the walls once a week and try to keep your new pet off your bed. These precautions will help reduce allergy attacks and help you have a fun, loving relationship with your dog for many years to come.

Tags: Dogs

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