Dog Allergies

How to Interpret Allergy HS Results for a Dog

2011-04-28T22:43:00.000-07:00

Dogs can be allergic to several environmental factors.

Summer is a terrible time for allergies for both humans and animals. Depending on the severity of your pet's scratching and chewing, you may choose to do allergy testing to find out what your pet is allergic to and how strong his allergy is. The process is simple and something to discuss with your veterinarian before taking action.

Difficulty:: Moderate

Instructions

- 1
  Take your dog to the vet and have him test your pet's allergy high sensitivity, or HS. You may notice that your pet has severe responses to items such as food items, grass, trees or mold. There are two main tests are used: skin scraping and blood testing. Allergy HS testing tests for a whole range of allergens such as dander, food ingredients or pollen.
- 2
  Interpret the results. Each test has its own range. For example, the University of Florida's skin scrape has a range of 0 to 4 and VARL Liquid Gold (blood testing) has a range of 0 to 6. If your dog has a severe allergy to lamb and wool, on the skin scrape testing the wool may be a 4 and on the blood testing the lamb may result in a 5. The higher the number, depending on the test range, the more severe the allergy.
- 3
  Treat your pet based on the results. If your pet is highly allergic to lamb, feed it special diets to see if his reactions subside. These foods can include limited ingredient choices like Natural Balance, or a prescription diet from your veterinarian like Hill's. If your pet is highly sensitive to wool change his bedding, or any blankets or rugs he lays on. If you've tried all other solutions and your pet's reactions do not subside, your vet may advise you to administer an allergy serum.

Symptoms That My Dog Is Allergic to Grass

2011-04-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

Untreated allergies may cause a dog to be quite uncomfortable.
Dogs who are allergic to grass are actually allergic to grass pollen. This means that blades of grass will not harm your dog, but inhaling airborne grass pollen like Bremuda grass will cause a reaction if your dog is allergic. Keeping your grass mowed may help a little, but neighbors will have to follow suit to keep the particles at a minimum.

Excessive scratching may be caused by a grass pollen allergy.
Chewing and scratching its skin to the point of hair loss or inflammation of the skin is the most common symptom of a grass pollen allergy. Dogs will experience itching on their feet, under their arms and on their head. Excessive scratching may cause patches of hair to fall out, showing the inflamed skin.

Dogs who have lighter colors of hair may show signs of hair "staining." The color may appear reddish orange or brown. This is most common on the feet. It is caused by the dog's saliva due to excessive licking, scratching and chewing on the skin to relieve the itch.

Sebum is a natural oil produced by a dog's skin. When you brush your dog, this oil is what makes the animal shiny. However, when a dog scratches too much, sebum is produced in excess, causing a musty odor. Although bathing takes away the odor for a moment, sebum production continues so the smell returns within hours if the dog continues to scratch.

If your dog has been more prone to ear infections, it could be due to a grass allergy. As dogs with inhalant allergies are prone to inflammation of the skin, and the skin on a dog extends to its ear canal, then when the skin becomes inflamed, an ear infection occurs as a result.

Medications for Allergic Reactions in Dogs

2011-04-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

Medications are available to bring comfort from allergy reactions.
Dogs are prone to many allergies from foods, dust, chemicals and other airborne elements. Allergies can cause many reactions, misery and discomfort, such as biting, itching, redness, vomiting, diarrhea and difficulty breathing. Fortunately, veterinarians have medications available for the allergic reactions that may affect the health of your dog. Just be cautious in using these medications on pregnant or nursing animals. Most of these medications may cause drowsiness and should only be administered per the advice of your veterinarian.

According to Pethealth101.com and IBAH.com, atopica from Novartis, also known by the generic name cyclosporine, is an immunosuppressant drug that prevents your dog's body from overreacting to allergens. Most reactions are caused by the immune system and can be relieved with atopica. This means your dog will not feel discomfort any longer because of an exposure to the allergen that caused the initial symptoms.
Prednisone also works to treat the symptoms of allergies, a wide range of inflammatory and auto-immune conditions. It reduces redness, itching, swelling and allergic reactions that may affect the eyes.
Medrol is another prescription steroid for the use of allergies and inflammation as well as many other conditions.
Most of these prescription corticosteroids come in the form of injection, pill and sprays. Side effects may include vomiting, swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness and muscle/joint pain. Atopica typically has the least amount of side effects.

Hydroxyzine HCL is a prescription antihistamine used for hives, itching, rashes and other allergic reactions.
Diphenhydramine, known as Benadryl, and Chlorpheniramine, known as Chlor-Trimeton, are both common vet-recommended antihistamine medications also used to treat skin allergies. The antihistamines act as inhibitors for the histamines produced in the body that cause allergic reactions.

Bacterial or yeast skin infections can make the intense itching caused by allergies worse. As a result, your veterinarian may recommend the use of oral antibiotics or anti-yeast medications to treat these infections. Some of the common antibiotics prescribed are Cephalexin, Baytril and Amoxicyllin. Most come in tablet and liquid form. The antibiotics all work to inhibit the growth of bacteria, according to VetInfo.com.

How to Alleviate Dog Allergies

2011-04-28T22:37:00.000-07:00

One out of seven dogs has an allergy.

Food, insects, airborne particles and contact allergens can all cause allergic reactions in dogs. Food allergy symptoms are ear infections and paw licking and may develop suddenly. A flea allergy is a response to flea saliva and is the most common of all canine allergies. It is characterized by itchy, red bumps on your dog's bottom, the base of his tail, his belly and groin areas. Airborne allergens include pollen, mold and grass. Symptoms are usually seasonal and include face rubbing, ear scratching or infection, and paw and belly licking. Contact allergies may begin suddenly affecting the feet, belly and head.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Journal
Flea medication
Medicated shampoo
Non-prescription cortisone cream

- 1
  Identify what is causing your dog's allergic reaction. Ask your veterinarian to do allergy tests.
- 2
  Keep a journal of your dog's symptoms if allergy tests are not an option. Including when and where reactions occur or worsen is important. Record all the food and treats that you give your dog.
- 3
  Start your dog on an elimination diet if you suspect a food allergy but are unsure of the specific culprit. Carefully record your results and make gradual changes.
- 4
  Choose the right flea medication for your dog if you suspect a flea allergy. To stop the flea reproduction cycle, medication must be based on your dog's current size and weight. Treat your home and yard, as well.
- 5
  Keep your lawn cut short if you believe airborne allergens like pollen are causing the problem. Consider removing any high pollen flowers or shrubs in your yard. If your dog is exposed to a suspected allergen, bathe or rinse him quickly.
- 6
  Bathe your dog with a medicated shampoo twice a week if you think she suffers from a contact allergy. You can treat the hot spots with non-prescription cortisone cream. Contact allergies are the least common of canine allergies.

How to Clean Mucus on a Dog

2011-04-11T23:11:00.000-07:00

Maintaining your dog's eyes and nose helps keep him healthy.

You may notice a small amount of mucus in the corners of your dog's eyes when he wakes up as well as occasional mucus buildup in its nose. In most cases, this is normal and no cause for alarm. However, mucus may also appear as a sign that your dog has an illness or allergy. Clearing this mucus from your dog's eyes and nose is an important part of helping him stay comfortable and healthy.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Soft cloth
Infant nasal aspirator
Humidifier

- 1
  Moisten a soft cloth with warm water and use it to wipe your dog's nose gently. Use a different dampened cloth to wipe mucus from around the dog's eyes.
- 2
  Allow your dog to wait in the bathroom while you take a warm shower. The steam helps clear the nose of mucus, which may translate into less wiping for you. Keep the door closed while you shower to help contain the steam.
- 3
  Massage the top of your dog's nose to help relieve irritation and congestion.
- 4
  Remove excess mucus from your dog's nose using an infant nasal aspirator. Insert just the tip of it into your dog's nostrils and use gentle suction to clear the mucus.
- 5
  Use a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps. This may loosen mucus in his nose, so you can easily wipe it away. For safety, choose a cool-mist vaporizer instead of one that creates hot steam.
- 6
  Apply a warm, damp cloth to areas of crusted-on mucus and moisten the mucus rather than initially attempting to wipe it away. By moistening this dried mucus, you make it easier to clear. After moistening it, wipe the mucus away gently.
- 7
  Ask a veterinarian for drops you can use to clear persistent mucus inside your dog's eyes. Eye drops may help to relieve irritation and clear up any infections causing the mucus to build up in the eyes.

Tips & Warnings

You can usually remove clear mucus from your dog's eye area and nose at home. If the mucus is yellowish or greenish, take your dog for a veterinary examination. Likewise, mucus that contains blood warrants a trip to a veterinarian.
In most cases, clear eye mucus is normal for dogs. Excessive or progressively increasing amounts of eye mucus may indicate the presence of an infection, however. In such a case, a dog may need a veterinarian's evaluation.

Which Dog Breed Causes the Fewest Allergic Reactions in Humans?

2011-04-11T23:09:00.000-07:00

Even allergy sufferers can cuddle with a non-shedding dog breed.

For the allergic dog-lover, petting Fido can release an onslaught of sneezing, watery eyes and congestion. The proteins in dog saliva and skin are responsible for this allergic reaction. In a 2008 article in Scientific America Magazine, Dr. Bernadine Cruz of the American Veterinary Association noted that no dog is truly hypoallergenic, but dogs who shed less introduce fewer allergy-causing skin cells into the air, reducing the severity of a human's allergic reactions.

Poodles
- The tightly coiled curls of a poodle rarely shed. Poodles come in a variety of sizes including standard, miniature and toy, each bearing the same allergy-friendly hair. Offspring of poodles such as goldendoodles and cockapoos are also hypoallergenic, but not usually to the same degree as a purebred poodle. But don't confuse non-shedding with low-maintenance, as poodles require grooming every two months or they become matted.
Bichon Frise
- The Bichon Frise sports a fluffy white coat that feels like the inside of a stuffed animal. Bichons do not shed but require monthly grooming to prevent clumps of dirt and food from matting their fur. The average Bichon weighs between seven and 10 lbs and tends to have a friendly, amicable nature.
Schnauzers
- Schnauzers come in both standard and miniature size with sleek gray and white coats. Unlike some other non-shedding breeds, the schnauzer has a double coat of hair. The outer coat is wiry while the undercoat is soft and silky, creating a layered, textured appearance. The schnauzer requires moderate exercise and although sweet, can develop a stubborn streak if you don't establish pack leadership early.
Kerry Blue Terrier
- The Kerry blue terrier weighs between 30 and 40 pounds and has a fluffy, curly coat similar to the Bichon Frise. A rare breed, these dogs require frequent grooming and bathing sessions to prevent tangles and matting. Kerry blue terrier skin won't dry out from baths like other dogs, which is good because you must bathe and brush these dogs once a week to avoid matting. Fortunately, the Kerry blue terrier remains odorless even when wet. This breed requires extensive socialization and training with both other dogs and humans to avoid developing aggression.

Remedies for Ragweed Allergies in a Dog

2011-04-11T23:01:00.000-07:00

Dogs can suffer from ragweed allergy in late summer.

Ragweed allergy is one of the main inhalant type of allergies suffered both by people and dogs. Its hay fever season occurs in August and September when ragweed is in full bloom and the weed pollen is released. While in people, ragweed allergy results in respiratory problems, such as coughing and sneezing, the dog's allergic reactions usually manifest as a severe, generalized itching. Some breeds like Schnauzers, Irish setters and terriers are more commonly affected than other breeds.

Anti-Inflammatory Therapy
- In most cases, treating the affected dog with an anti-inflammatory therapy will block its allergic reaction. Depending on each case, steroids can be administered orally or intravenously. Antihistamines can be of value when administered when combined with steroids because they can decrease the amount of steroids needed to provide itch relief. Furthermore, when these two therapies are combined with fatty acids supplementation, most allergic dogs' symptoms improve significantly.
Shampoo Therapy
- Some allergens are absorbed through the skin. Keeping the dog's skin free of ragweed pollen will help the dog's itchy symptoms. Frequent bathing with a hypoallergenic shampoo will reduce the amount of antigen exposure through the skin. Some hypoallergenic shampoos incorporate fatty acids in their formulas. The fatty acids may be absorbed through the skin and offer anti-inflammatory action. Aztec Animal Clinic states that bathing not only provides temporary relief from itching but it may allow a lower dose of steroids to be administered to the dog.
Hypo-sensitization Treatment
- The use of "allergy shots" is widely used not only when treating ragweed allergy but with a number of other allergies. Once the allergy source has been identified, small amounts of the allergy antigen are injected into the patient weekly. This results in the reprogramming of the body's immune system. As the treatment goes on, the immune system becomes less reactive to the allergens. When the hypo-sensitization proves to be helping the dog, injections may be administered for several years. In some dogs, the itching will completely disappear while in other dogs it will be reduced significantly.
Natural Remedies
- Natural holistic therapies have been proved to offer effective means of controlling ragweed allergy symptoms in dogs.
  Calendula is a flowering herb with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Applying a thin coat of Calendula ointment to the affected areas will relieve the itching while the dog is medically treated.
  Bathing the dog once a week with an oatmeal shampoo and cool water will ease the itchiest skin. With the most severe allergies, use twice a week.
Antibiotics
- Itchy skin means that the dog suffering from the allergy will scratch, lick and chew itself to stop the itching. This response may end in hair loss and inflamed areas of the skin. Damaged skin is susceptible to bacterial infections that need to be treated with antibiotics until the infection is controlled.

How to Treat Dust Mite Allergies in Dogs

2011-04-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

Frequent scratching can be a symptom of dust mite allergies in dogs.

Dust mite allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, are fairly common in dogs and are associated with hypersensitivity to dust. Some common symptoms of dust mite allergies in dogs, which usually would appear by age 2, include frequent itching and scratching. Sometimes dogs scratch so much that they create bald patches in their fur. They also might lick and chew their paws or abdomen frequently. Ears can be red and hot to the touch even though the dog is not running a fever. These symptoms are uncomfortable for the dog and require treatment.

Difficulty:: Moderate

Instructions

- 1
  Give your dog omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Fatty acids contain natural soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent way to treat the redness associated with dust mites. Although they probably are not likely to cure itching, they can certainly aid in calming inflammation. Omega-3 oils are found in fish oils and olive oil. Omega-6 is also known as GLA and is found in evening primrose oil. Some pet supplements contain these oils. A bit of olive oil can be added to your dog's dry kibble.
- 2
  Invest in a high-efficiency particulate air filter. A HEPA filter will help cleanse the household environment of dust mites and other allergens in the environment. Although these air filters can be pricey, there are some affordable options on the market. Not only will a HEPA filter help your dog, it will help you as well because you will be breathing in clean air. Keeping windows closed and using and air conditioner during summer is also effective at reducing allergens within the home.
- 3
  Treat your dog with an antihistamine. The dosage will vary according to weight and breed type. Consulting a veterinarian about the correct dosage for your dog is extremely important. Staying the course with this form of treatment is imperative for it to work. Some common antihistamines include Benadryl, Seldane, and Atarax. They work by getting in the way of histamine receptor sites in the bod, blocking histamine production and keeping it from causing allergic reactions.
- 4
  Consider immunotherapy, also called allergy shots. Your veterinarian would have to administer these shots. These shots are reported to be very effective, but the dog might take months to show improvement. Your veterinarian could require an allergy test before administering any allergy shots. Before the test, the dog's body must be free of steroids.

What Kind of Dog Can a Person Have That Is Allergic to Dog Hair?

2011-04-11T22:58:00.000-07:00

Chihuahuas cause little allergic reaction to those who come in contact with them.

Dog allergies are common in many people and may deter animal lovers from owning them. Though many dogs may cause allergic reactions that make it hard for some people to interact with them, there are many breeds that cause minimal reactions. These breeds include hairless, wirehaired and single-coat breeds.

Hairless Dogs
- There are many hairless breeds of dogs that those allergic to dogs may want to consider. Hairless dogs have minimal to no hair on their bodies. They are good for people who are allergic because they are clean, odorless and do not get fleas. The most common types of hairless dogs are the Mexican hairless, Peruvian hairless and Chinese crested hairless.
Wirehaired Dogs
- Good hypoallergenic wirehaired dogs are the bichon frise, Havanese and Bolognese. These dogs are non-sporting dogs and are good companions. They produce littler dander and are non-shedding and odorless. Their low shedding rate reduces the amount of dander they produce. All of these dogs are relatively small and can be considered lap dogs.
Single-Coat Dogs
- Single-coat dogs such as the Chihuahua are also good dogs for those with allergies. They are considered tea cup dogs and are the smallest breed of dog. They weigh a maximum of six pounds and come in a variety of colors and patterns. The Maltese and the Coton de Tulear are also single-coat dogs that are good for allergy sufferers.
Pet Care
- To ensure the reduction of allergens and dander it is important to brush or comb your pet daily and wash them after each use. Bathing your dog frequently will also help reduce chances of an allergic reaction. Also, do not allow your dog on your furniture or in your bedroom.

Causes of Canine Sense of Smell Loss

2011-04-11T22:56:00.000-07:00

A canine is able to lose its sense of smell.

A canine's sense of smell is one of its most important functions. Smell influences a number of aspects of canine life including feeding behavior, social interaction and reproduction. A dog's sense of smell combined with its intelligence allows it to act as a nose for humans, which is why sniffer dogs are essential to the police force. However, a few key factors can cause a canine to lose its sense of smell.

Inhaling a Foreign Body
- Inhaling grass can cause it to get lodged in its nasal passages
  A foreign body can be inhaled and get lodged in the nasal passage. This often occurs when the animal has been playing outside. Mud, grass and soil are often small enough to enter the respiratory tract but too large to pass beyond that point. While it is less common, a similar problem can occur indoors if a dog inhales loose threads on rugs or small bits of dirt on carpets. A vet is usually able to remove the inhaled object without much difficulty as it is a common occurrence. It only causes short-term difficulty with the canine's sense of smell.
Allergies
- Allergies can cause short-term smell loss. Allergies tend to be seasonal, as the most common are due to pollen grains or other plant fiber. They often cause sneezing and can affect one or both nasal passageways. If an allergy develops, the only sign of distress is sneezing. All other lifestyle factors --- eating, drinking, playfulness --- tend to remain the same.
Infections
- The most common infections develop from the tooth of the canine. However, they can project upward and draw into the nose of the animal. Other infections can occur within membranes of the nose. Dogs that have bacterial, viral or fungal infections of the nose can develop long-term chronic conditions if not treated.
Tumors
- These are more common in older dogs. Signs of an intranasal tumor include bloody discharge from one nasal passageway, and sneezing. The tumor progressively develops over a 6-to-8-week period and sneezing becomes more frequent.
  The most common tumor is nasal passage cancer, predominantly among long- nosed dogs. Early signs include a loss of smell, discharge from one nasal passageway, facial deformity, loose teeth or a facial deformity. Nasal cancer commonly progresses over a three-month period before the animal is diagnosed. The initial symptoms are applicable to other problems with the nasal passage, which makes it difficult to diagnose a dog instantly. Tumors are often difficult to treat --- 68 percent of dogs with nasal cancer are not healed even with the best treatment

What Causes Hot Spots?

2011-04-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

Treating hot spots will get your dog back to feeling his best.

"Hot spot" is the term commonly used to refer to acute moist dermatitis in dogs. This is a condition that causes quite a bit of discomfort and can affect dogs of any age or breed. There are many causes associated with acute moist dermatitis in dogs, a condition that should be treated promptly and efficiently.

Hot Spots Defined
- Hot spots are circular, hairless lesions on dogs that are intensely itchy, raw and moist. These can be very painful and are often found on the chest, hip and head areas of dogs. Hot spots often become very inflamed, and grow very quickly, due to dogs biting, scratching and licking the area. While hot spots can indeed happen to any breed of dog, dogs with dense undercoats and long hair are most often impacted.
Causes
- Flea bites may be a primary cause of hot spots. Bites from mites and other insects can also cause these lesions. According to the ASPCA, dogs who are not groomed regularly or who are groomed poorly and have dirty, matted fur are prone to hot spots. Allergies, such as to foods and laundry detergent, are another common cause of acute moist dermatitis due to the itchiness that often results. Ear and skin infections, as well as boredom and stress, can cause chewing and licking that prompts the formation of hot spots. Dogs with anal sac disease and hip dysplasia are also prone to hot spots due to licking their rear ends.
Treatment
- Pay a visit to your veterinarian to try and determine the cause of the hot spot. Minor hot spots are often treated by shaving the hair from the surrounding area and cleansing the spot with gentle antibacterial soap, lukewarm water and an antiseptic. More severe cases may need to be treated with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medications. Cone-shaped collars are used to prevent dogs from irritating the area further. If allergies are confirmed, the dog may require a change in food or hypoallergenic diet.
Prevention
- Prevent hot spots by keeping your dog properly groomed and clipping long-haired dogs short during the warm months of the year. Follow a flea-control program, most of which are quite simple and are offered through your veterinarian. Provide as stress-free an environment as possible for your dog, as well as plenty of exercise and socialization to avoid licking and chewing spurred on by boredom and anxiety.

How to Heal Dry Dog Ears

2011-04-11T22:49:00.001-07:00

Floppy-eared dogs are especially prone to dry ears and other ear problems.

Most dogs are prone to ear infections and other ear ailments, and dry ears are among the most common earhealth problems vets see. The dark, moist environment of a dog's ears is an excellent place for skin problems to develop. Dry ears can be caused by a number of conditions and lifestyle issues, so it's important to rule out the most common health factors that can contribute to dry ears in dogs.

Difficulty:: Moderate

Instructions

- 1
  Take your dog to the vet for a checkup. Veterinarian Dennis W. Thomas points out that ear mites, bacterial infections and systemic infections can cause scaly spots on the ears, so it's important to rule out major medical conditions before proceeding with home treatment. Your vet will visually inspect your dog's ears, ask about diet, allergies and lifestyle, and will take a culture of your dog's ears.
- 2
  The dark and moist environment in the ears of a dog can cause yeast infections, which lead to itchy, dry ears. Most pet stores sell over-the-counter antifungal shampoos. Wash your dog three times over the course of a week with that shampoo to eliminate any fungal overgrowth. Veterinarian and author Dr. Randy Pitcairn recommends supplementing your dog's diet with plain vanilla yogurt. Yogurt helps your dog to build up resistance to fungi that can cause scaly ear patches.
- 3
  Supplement your dog's diet with fish oil capsules. Give one capsule with each meal. Some dogs simply tend to have dry, flaky skin, and skin problems tend to be the worst around the ears. Fish oil helps to lubricate your dog's skin and prevent scaly patches. Fish oil also has other benefits that can help keep your dog healthy.
- 4
  Eliminate pork and corn from your dog's diet. Scaly patches on the ears can often be caused by an allergic reaction, and pork and corn are among the most common culprits. Check the ingredients on your dog's food and aim for foods without those potential allergens.
- 5
  Change your dog's flea treatment. Your dog may have fleas, which can cause scratching that leads to dry skin and hot spots on the ears. If your dog is not currently on a flea treatment, ask your vet to recommend another brand. If your dog is on a flea treatment, it may not be working. Alternatively, your dog could be allergic to the ingredients. In either case, if your dog's ears are getting dry and your dog has fleas, it's time to re-examine your dog's flea treatment regimen.

Tips & Warnings

Look for any changes in your dog's behavior that can provide clues to allergies or irritation that could be causing the dry patches.
If the dry patches get worse, discontinue any treatment your dog is on and see your vet immediately.
If the dry patches may be caused by itching, consider putting your dog in an Elizabethan collar (or "lampshade" collar) to prevent scratching until the dry patches heal.
Remember not to overuse any treatment. If a treatment doesn't work, don't continue using it or double the dosage.

What Dogs Are Non-Allergic?

2011-04-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

Portuguese water dogs are low shedding and considered hypoallergenic.

As much as we love our dogs, there are times when we are not able to live with them. This is usually the result of allergic reaction to the pets and there are few conditions more irritating than a constant case of hives or permanent "hay fever." One solution is to get a non-allergic dog. Some breeds produce fewer allergens but there is no completely allergen-free dog breed.

Allergic Reaction Reasons
- The main cause of an allergic reaction to a dog is either the dog's saliva or its skin cells, known as dander. However, most sufferers believe it is the dog's hair that causes their symptoms and with dogs that shed excessively there may be some truth to this. You can minimize the effect of hair and dander shedding by regular bathing and grooming, which helps to reduce the quantities of these substances in the air and this alleviates the symptoms.
Top Non-Allergic Breeds
- There are long lists of breeds considered hypoallergenic but the truth is that there are no dogs that are completely lacking in any substance that produces allergy symptoms. However, there are a few breeds that are less likely to do so and these are mostly hairless dogs, low-shedding breeds with single coats, or tightly-curled, wiry haired breeds.
  At the top of the list is the poodle family and the Chinese Crested. The Poodle, whether a toy, miniature, standard or giant, is a dog that has a single coat, tightly curled and low shedding. The Chinese Crested is almost completely hairless, with nothing but a "crest" of hairs on its head, paws and tail. Hybrids or designer dogs that are a Poodle mix, like the Labradoodle, are also popular with allergy sufferers.
Terriers
- Several breeds with similar coats to the Poodle are hypoallergenic. Members of the terrier group considered to be low in allergens are the West Highland white terrier, the soft-coated Wheaten terrier, Tibetan terrier, wire-haired fox terrier, Bedlington terrier and the Yorkshire terrier. The Portuguese water dog, the breed kept by the Obama family, the Basenji and the Bichon Frise are other suitable breeds.
Hairless Dogs
- Although the allergic reactions are caused more often by dander than by hair, hairless breeds produce less dander. This may be because the lack of a coat prevents the dander from building up. Besides the Chinese Crested, hairless breeds good for allergy sufferers include the Peruvian Inca Orchid, the Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican hairless, Peruvian, Ecuadorian and Manchurian hairless dogs and the American Hairless Terrier.
Caring for Hairless Dogs
- Hairless dogs may be low in allergens because they require much care. They need protection from both heat and cold, since they have no coats for insulation. They require regular moisturizing to prevent their skins becoming dry, flaky and sore. Sunscreen in summer is essential, as their delicate skins burn easily. The protection afforded by sunscreen, moisturizer and coats helps to contain the skin cells and reduce their effect on sufferers.

Dog Allergies

How to Interpret Allergy HS Results for a Dog

Instructions

Symptoms That My Dog Is Allergic to Grass

Generalized Itching

Stained Hair

Musty Odor

Ear Infection

Medications for Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Corticosteroids

Antihistamines

Antibiotics

How to Alleviate Dog Allergies

Instructions

How to Clean Mucus on a Dog

Instructions

Tips & Warnings

Which Dog Breed Causes the Fewest Allergic Reactions in Humans?

Poodles

Bichon Frise

Schnauzers

Kerry Blue Terrier

Remedies for Ragweed Allergies in a Dog

Anti-Inflammatory Therapy

Shampoo Therapy

Hypo-sensitization Treatment

Natural Remedies

Antibiotics

How to Treat Dust Mite Allergies in Dogs

Instructions

What Kind of Dog Can a Person Have That Is Allergic to Dog Hair?

Hairless Dogs

Wirehaired Dogs

Single-Coat Dogs

Pet Care

Causes of Canine Sense of Smell Loss

Inhaling a Foreign Body

Allergies

Infections

Tumors

What Causes Hot Spots?

Hot Spots Defined

Causes

Treatment

Prevention

How to Heal Dry Dog Ears

Instructions

Tips & Warnings

What Dogs Are Non-Allergic?

Allergic Reaction Reasons

Top Non-Allergic Breeds

Terriers

Hairless Dogs

Caring for Hairless Dogs