For many animal lovers, allergies can be a frustrating barrier to pet ownership. Sneezing, watery eyes, and respiratory issues are common reactions to pet dander, saliva, and fur. However, there are hypoallergenic dog and cat breeds that produce fewer allergens, making them better choices for allergy sufferers. While no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, these breeds tend to trigger fewer allergic reactions. Here are the top allergy-friendly dog and cat breeds to consider.
Best Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
1. Poodle
The Poodle is one of the most well-known hypoallergenic breeds. Available in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, Poodles have a curly, non-shedding coat that traps dander instead of releasing it into the air. Regular grooming helps keep allergens to a minimum.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise has a soft, curly coat that produces minimal dander. This breed requires frequent brushing and professional grooming to maintain a clean coat, reducing the spread of allergens in the home.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
These energetic and intelligent dogs have a water-resistant, curly coat that sheds very little. The Portuguese Water Dog was even chosen as a pet for the Obama family due to its allergy-friendly qualities.
4. Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)
All sizes of Schnauzers have a wiry coat that doesn’t shed excessively, making them a great option for allergy sufferers. Their coat requires regular trimming to prevent allergens from accumulating.
5. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound has a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming. With little shedding and low dander production, they are a solid choice for people with mild pet allergies.
Best Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
6. Siberian Cat
Surprisingly, Siberian cats are one of the best options for allergy sufferers despite their long fur. They produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 protein, the main allergen found in cat saliva and dander.
7. Balinese
Sometimes called the “long-haired Siamese,” the Balinese cat has a silky coat and produces less Fel d 1 than most other breeds, making them more suitable for allergy-sensitive owners.
8. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex has a short, fine coat that doesn’t shed much, meaning fewer allergens are spread throughout the home. They also require minimal grooming, which reduces allergen exposure.
9. Cornish Rex
Similar to the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex has an extremely short, soft coat with very little shedding. They love to be bathed, which can help further reduce allergens in the home.
10. Oriental Shorthair
With a sleek, short coat, the Oriental Shorthair produces less dander and requires minimal grooming, making them a great option for allergy-sensitive cat lovers.
Tips for Managing Pet Allergies
Even with a hypoallergenic pet, allergy sufferers may need to take extra precautions to minimize symptoms:
- Frequent Grooming: Regular brushing and bathing help reduce dander.
- HEPA Air Purifiers: Using air purifiers can trap allergens before they spread.
- Vacuuming Often: Choose a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove pet hair and dander.
- Creating Allergy-Free Zones: Keep bedrooms and certain areas off-limits to pets to reduce exposure.
Finding the Right Hypoallergenic Pet
While no pet is completely allergy-free, choosing a low-shedding, dander-reducing breed can make pet ownership easier for allergy sufferers. By selecting the right breed and taking extra steps to manage allergens, many people with allergies can still enjoy the companionship of a furry friend.