What are hypoallergenic dogs?

Question

I see questions and answers that claim this dog or that dog is hypoallergenic. Does anyone really know what that means? Are they non-allergenic? Are they OK for everyone to be around? Even those with Asthma? What do we really know about these dogs? How much is fact and how much is fiction?

Opinions anyone?

Answer 1

Hypoallergenic dogs are ones that shed less, have less dander, and possibly have less of a chance to bother people with mild allergies. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A NON-ALLERGENIC DOG!!! Each person is different, so their reactions to dog breeds are different. Almost all puppies seem to be hypoallergenic, but as they grow and mature, this will change!

Most of what we hear is fiction! Here are some websites with facts!

http://www.allergyescape.com/hypoallergenic-dog.html

http://www.allerpet.com/websites/inet2.htm

Answer 2

Hi!!
To be hypoallergenic is to have a decreased tendency to cause allergies. Hypo means less, not none. Hypoallergenic dog breeds will still produce allergens, but because of their coat type, will typically produce less than others.

There is no such thing as a non-allergenic dog.

There are various coat types that are said to produce fewer allergens: single-coated dogs, who do not have a thick undercoat; dogs whose coat continues to grow, like human hair, rather than shedding regularly; and hairless dogs. These breeds usually shed less dander and hair and are, therefore, considered hypoallergenic. However, even hairless dogs can produce enough dander to affect a highly allergic person.

Jason Homan

Answer 3

I don't think any animal is truly hypoallergenic. All animals and humans shed skin...I think what it means is that if you absolutely want a pet but have moderate allergies, then hypoallergenic is the way to go. Most of the hypoallergenic animals have little or no fur, minimal shedding, and skin that doesn't produce dander as much. A lot of people don't like the look of a hairless cat or dog though, but they were bred specifically to be hypoallergenic. In my opinion if someone has really bad allergies, stay away from
pets except maybe fish.

Answer 4

There are no truly hypoallegenic dogs - these come closest: http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=2588 -this is from the AKC, the most reputable registry.

There are many unscrupulous breeders out there to make a buck. They lie about the breeds & mixes they peddle to the general public that does no research before buying. For instance: Labrador Retrievers are one of the worst shedding breeds, and are famous for having a oily coat to protect them in the water when retrieving - yet disreputable people are breeding them with Poodles, marketing them as a potential "new breed" (Labradoodles), and claiming they are shed-free & hypoallergenic. This is genetically impossible, as any reputable breeder or vet would tell a potential buyer - if only they would ask. It is sad people are so gullible, and support these scam artists.

They could get a mixed breed from the shelter, spend less & save a life.

Answer 5

There aren't any such aspect as hypoallergenic canines. There are canines which have a lot less dander and matches extra ideal to those with allergic reactions. notwithstanding the suitable you may do once you've allergic reactions is analyze about the breed you've an pastime and examine how a lot dander they produce and ask your health practitioner earlier getting a canines. is truly uncomfortable to be allergic and characteristic to administration a canines, or perhaps worst you should provide him up because you get truly sick. So imagine it two times in case your allergy is truly undesirable.

Answer 6

Generally they are dogs with hair, not fur, so they are non-shedding thus hypo-allergenic since there is little to no dander flying around. I breed Shih-tzus which are hypo-allergenic - they have hair (like people) which continues to grow unlike most dog breeds fur which grows and sheds. People with dog allergies swear by breeds like Shih-tzus or Lhaso-Apso.
I'm not sure of the link between asthma and dog breeds . . . My sister-in-law has dog allergies and asthma and never has a problem at our house for extended stays and we have 4 Shih-tzus.

Answer 7

A lot of pet allergies are caused by an allergy to components of the animals saliva. This gets spread onto the animals fur as they lick themselves. Unless the dogs have different saliva, they cannot be 'non-allergic'. Maybe the dogs lick themselves less?

Answer 8

They produce less dander (whatever that is!) Usually it is the hairless or breeds that don't shed very much that are called hypoallergenic.
Our mini schnauzer hardly sheds at all, and our affenpinscher / mutt mix is a walking hair factory. I have asthma, and neither one affects me. Almost all dogs either shed or have to have regular hair cuts though.

Answer 9

Well, hypoallergenic means that they are non-allergenic. I heard that poodles are hypoallergenic dogs because they don't shed. I suppose that they could still have the allergies. I'll have to ask my friends mom (She breeds poodles, labradoodles {lab-poodle mix}, and labs.).

Answer 10

i think they are talking about short haired dogs