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4 Dog Breeds to Avoid if You Have Allergies

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If you suffer from allergies, it can be difficult to find the right dog for your home. Not only do you have to consider whether or not they will fit into your lifestyle, but you also need to think about the type of dog that won’t trigger your allergies. It would be wise to visit a few well-known dog breeders in the process to get a first hand experience with actual dogs.  While all dogs have the potential to cause allergic reactions, some breeds are more likely than others to aggravate those with a history of allergies. 

There is a misconception that the less hair a dog has, the lower the chances that they’ll cause an allergic reaction. This simply isn’t true, as the dander and saliva that set off allergies is still present even with short-haired dog breeds. All dogs produce the dead skin that makes up dog dander, and there is simply no way around it. This dander tends to stick to shed fur or hair, so dogs that shed more heavily will end up leaving more of the allergy-causing dander around your house. Dog breeds that have a tendency to drool can also be the cause of allergies, since they spread a lot of saliva everywhere they go. 

4 Dog Breeds to Avoid if You Have Allergies

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are double-coated, meaning they have both an undercoat and an outer coat. Both layers trap dander and other allergens like pollen and dust mites, which can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Even regular grooming won’t remove all the dander from a German Shepherd’s coat – so it’s still possible to have an allergic reaction even if you brush your dog regularly.

Another problem with German Shepherds is their shedding. All dogs shed to some extent, but German Shepherds tend to shed more than other breeds. Additionally, the shedding may lead to more frequent vacuuming or sweeping of floors as well as more frequent washing of furniture covers or curtains – something that not everyone has time for on a regular basis.

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Finally, even if you do manage to keep your home clean enough for your allergies and brush your dog regularly enough to minimise shedding – there is still the issue of contact allergies. Contact allergies occur when someone comes into direct contact with either the fur or saliva of a dog, both of which can trigger allergic reactions in some people. This is especially difficult when it comes to German Shepherds because they tend to be very affectionate and love being around people – meaning they will want lots of cuddles. 

Doberman Pinschers


Doberman Pinschers are a popular guard dog, known for their loyalty and intelligence. However, they are not an ideal choice for people with allergies, especially if you have severe allergies or sensitivities to pet dander. Their coats are short and sleek, but do not trap dander at all. Their shedding can also be significant and frequent, which can make it difficult to keep the home free of allergens. 

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance breed, then a Doberman is probably not the right fit either. Dobermans require regular grooming – exposing their owner to even more allergens during brushing – as well as trimming nails every few weeks.

Basset Hound 

While they may be cute and cuddly, these dogs can actually trigger severe allergies in people who are prone to them. Basset hounds have a smooth, short, hard-textured coat. Their fur tends to shed heavily on a regular basis, which releases allergens into the air that can trigger an allergic reaction in people with sensitive noses or skin. In addition, basset hounds produce an oily substance from their skin that can also aggravate allergies in certain individuals. 

The size of Basset Hounds also makes them potentially problematic for allergy sufferers. These dogs are quite large and they usually weigh between 40 to 60 pounds when fully grown. This means they require more space than smaller breeds and as such, tend to shed more dander when moving around inside the house or yard. The dander released by basset hounds can easily become airborne and this can aggravate allergies in those who are already prone to them. 

As if that wasn’t enough, Basset Hounds are prone to drooling and frequently spread it around anywhere they spend a lot of time. 

Labrador Retriever

Labradors are considered one of the most popular dog breeds for families, and are often sought after for their outgoing and loving nature. However, they also have some drawbacks that can make them ill-suited to those with allergies.

Labradors have a thick, water-repellant double coat. This makes them highly efficient at keeping their skin warm in cold weather – but it also makes them more prone to shedding. As their coats shed throughout the year (especially during seasonal changes), they can produce a large amount of dander which is easily inhaled by people who suffer from allergies.

Labradors also have high levels of saliva production which causes them to drool frequently – thus increasing the chance that droplets containing allergens will be spread around your home or yard through licking or panting. Additionally, since Labradors tend to be intense and playful, there is an increased chance that their owner will come into contact with them throughout the day.

Conclusion

Allergies can be extremely debilitating and uncomfortable, so it’s important to take them seriously when considering any type of pet ownership. While these dogs may have many great qualities that make them desirable companions – unfortunately for allergy sufferers they are not necessarily the best breeds if you are prone to sniffles due to dog dander or saliva. 

However, it’s important to consider that people have different sensitivities to different dogs, and some specimens may produce more (or less) of the allergy-causing proteins. Try and spend some time with your future puppy before you commit to any sale, so that you can tell how much of a reaction you may have. 

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