There are also ways to prep your home that will help keep allergens at bay when you have a dog. Be sure to wash your pet‘s bed often, keep up with his grooming, and don‘t let him sleep on your bed. It‘s also helpful to remove heavy carpets and drapes that trap dander.
Best Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
Bedlington Terrier: The gentle, loveable Bedlington Terrier is known for its curly, wooly coat that resembles a lamb. The breed doesn’t need intense exercise – regular playtime and daily walks will do.
Bichon Frise: The Bichon Frise is a naturally gentle, happy, playful dog that loves activity. The Bichon’s hair continually grows and doesn’t shed, so regular grooming is important to prevent mats.
Chinese Crested: The Chinese Crested is an alert, playful dog that thrives on human companionship. They are small and do well in families with gentle children. Cresteds shed little to no hair.
Coton de Tulear: The Coton de Tulear is a small, hardy dog that is happy, eager to please, and loyal. The breed gets along well with other dogs and children. Their long coat requires daily grooming.
Irish Water Spaniel: This strong, intelligent breed is the clown of the spaniel family. Irish Water Spaniels are active and energetic, needing daily exercise. Their water-repellant double coat requires brushing every few weeks.
Kerry Blue Terrier: The Kerry Blue Terrier is energetic and fun-loving. The breed enjoys being part of an active family that can provide daily exercise. Their coats need regular brushing and trimming.
Maltese: Though small, the Maltese is known for being brave, playful, and fearless. They have long, silky white hair that needs to be brushed daily to prevent mats.
Poodle: The Poodle comes in three size varieties – Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The breed is exceptionally smart and active, needing daily exercise. Their trademark coat requires regular professional grooming.
Portuguese Water Dog: An athletic breed, the Portuguese Water Dog needs vigorous daily exercise and would do best with a very active family. PWDs are intelligent, loyal workers. Their waterproof coat requires regular maintenance.
Miniature Schnauzer: The Miniature Schnauzer has a natural protective nature that makes it a great watchdog. The breed is smart and cheerful, and adapts well to different living environments. Their double coat requires clipping.
Standard Schnauzer: The Standard Schnauzer is a sociable, affectionate breed that has a fondness for kids. They are athletic dogs that need daily exercise. They’re beard and leg hair should be brushed often to prevent mats.
Giant Schnauzer: The Giant Schnauzer is intelligent and can be territorial, naturally feeling protective of its family. The breed needs a lot of exercise and loves having a job to do. They require regular grooming.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: This happy dog is active and needs plenty of exercise daily. The breed adapts well to city, country, or suburban living, and does well with children. They have a silky, soft coat that needs regular grooming to prevent mats.
Xoloitzcuintli: The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes – toy, miniature, and standard. They also come in two varieties – hairless and coated. The hairless has a smooth, tough, protective skin and the coated has a short, flat coat. They‘re calm, tranquil, and attentive, and can also be aloof. They have moderate exercise and grooming needs.
