Hypoallergenic Pets

There are hypoallergenic foods, hypoallergenic cosmetics, hypoallergenic fabrics, but are there hypoallergenic pets?

While it can be argued that some dog breeds, or crossbreeds, are more convenient for allergy sufferers, some experts say this is a predisposition for the person.

If an allergic patient comes to tolerate a certain type of dog, this does not mean that it becomes a general rule and that it will work for everyone.

We must not forget that  the degree of allergy can be different for each individual, so an allergic reaction, even for the same breed of dog, can vary considerably from person to person.

Guide to knowing if my pet is hypoallergenic

The so-called “hypoallergenic” breeds are said to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction and make it possible to live with people who suffer from irritating allergic symptoms, which usually translate into inflammation of the nasal, eye or bronchial mucosa.

The truth is that a dog’s coat, saliva or even dandruff can cause allergic people to have asthma attacks or some kind of allergic reaction that makes it impossible to live with a dog or other pet.

Among the dog breeds regarded as hypoallergenic we can find:

• Peruvian : These are hairless dogs , originating in Peru and usually taken as companion animals.
• Xoloitzcuintle:  Also characterized by being hairless, they have their origins in Mexico and their history is linked to that of the Aztecs.
• Chinese Crested:  They are noteworthy for their lack of hair on most of the body, with the exception of some long streaks on the crest, lower legs and tail.
• Yorkshire terrier : Despite their long hair, they shed almost no fur, as long as they are brushed regularly. Furthermore, its pH coincides with that of a human being.

• Portuguese Water Dog:  Its wool-like fur does not fall out easily.
• Dachshund : The so-called “sausage dogs” don’t lose much hair either.
• Poodle : Its dense, curly coat does not usually fall out if brushed properly.
• Miniature Schnauzer : Whenever he receives proper care, he is unlikely to shed his rough coat all over the house.
• Havanês Bichón: It has two layers of fine and silky hair to adapt to any type of climate and does not lose hair easily.
• The Bedlington Terrier and the Bichón Frisé also have no tendency to lose hair.

cats and other pets

Any animal with fur or feathers can cause allergies in people genetically predisposed to suffer from them.

While cats and dogs are the most frequent cause, for the simple fact that they are very popular pets, allergy cases have also been documented  in relation to other types of animals :

• Horses;
• Rabbits;
• Guinea pigs;
• Hamsters;
• Mice;
• Gerbil (Mongolian squirrel);
• Chinchillas;
• Squirrels;
• Domestic birds;
• Iguanas;
• Other reptiles.

In the case of felines, it becomes difficult to get animals with the “seal” of hypoallergenic.

There are few breeds of hairless cats and they tend to be very expensive :

The Sphinx Cat and Perterbald are some examples. The former does not show hairs as a result of an entirely natural mutation. The second is a breed of naked cats, originated in Russia in 1994.

You can also consider the Devon Rex, due to its short coat , and the Siberian which, in addition to not losing hair, does not produce the so-called Fel d1 hormone  , responsible for 80% of allergies that felines cause in people.

Less common pets such as turtles and fish are unlikely to cause any type of allergy and can be a good option for those who suffer from this inconvenience. However, we are well aware that they are not as fun and friendly as a cat or dog.

Another option when choosing a pet for allergy sufferers can be the ferret , which does not usually provoke reactions of this type.

In any case, if you are one of the 15% of the world’s population that is allergic to pets, we recommend that you consult your trusted doctor before adopting any pet.

Certainly, you will find a solution so that, despite the allergens, you can enjoy the company and love that a pet always gives us.