For people who suffer from allergies, owning a dog is usually not an option. Allergic reactions can create watery eyes, runny nose and itchy skin, which make owning a dog difficult. But what happens in a family when one child wants a dog and another child has allergies? While no dog is completely non-allergenic, some dogs produce fewer allergic reactions. Knowing which breeds are the top hypoallergenic dogs can help families decide which dog is the right choice for them.

What Causes Allergic Reactions?

Allergy sufferers usually have reactions to proteins found in dogs' saliva and dander. Some dog breeds produce more saliva than other breeds. The same is true of dander -- the skin cells, dust and other particles released into the air by a dog's fur.

Typically, the top hypoallergenic dogs have short coats and shed less than non-hypoallergenic dog breeds. Hypoallergenic dog breeds tend to produce less dander and saliva; therefore, reducing the chances of allergic reactions.

Toy Dog Breed Group

Six of the top hypoallergenic dogs are part of the American Kennel Club's (AKC) Toy Group. They are:

The Havanese: Havanese have a non-shedding double coat. The long, soft outer coat requires regular brushing to reduce matting.

The Poodle: Poodles (Miniature, Toy or Standard) are considered non-shedding; however, Poodles have extensive grooming needs.

The Maltese: Has a long, silky, white coat that parts down the center of its back. This breed is known for being playful and thriving on close companionship.

The Yorkshire Terrier:  Commonly called a "Yorkie," these dogs have a long, silky blue and tan coat.  They are a bold, active breed originating in Yorkshire, England.

The Chinese Crested:  They (Hairless or Powderpuff) are hypoallergenic and recommended by the AKC for people with allergies. The Hairless needs special attention for skin problems, such as sunburn while the Powderpuff coat needs frequent brushing.

The Shih Tzu: Is easily recognizable by its long, luxurious coat. Shih Tsu's are a small breed of companion dog with long silky fur that originated in China.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Other top hypoallergenic dogs are spread throughout various AKC groups. They are:

The Bichon Frise: Does not shed and the AKC suggests this dog breed for allergy sufferers; however, this breed requires extensive grooming to control mats in its puffy hair.

The Schnauzer: Includes miniature, standard and giant, has a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat that is very dense. Schnauzers need daily brushing; however, they shed very little.

The Portuguese Water Dog: Has a coat  that is not only non-shedding, but also waterproof. Popular due to the publicity of Bo, the Obama family dog, many people with allergies are now considering a Portuguese Water Dog as a family pet.

The Basenji: Is known as the "barkless" dog; however, Basenjis do make sounds that resemble whining or yodeling. This breed has a short, smooth coat that sheds very little and requires minimal grooming, as the dog will clean its own coat.

After considering the most hypoallergenic dog breeds, a family should discuss whether or not the breed fits with the family’s lifestyle. For example, some hypoallergenic dog breeds have extensive grooming needs, which is time-consuming for the owners. Before bringing home a hypoallergenic dog, a family should spend time with the dog to evaluate possible reactions. Although a particular dog breed might be known to be more hypoallergenic, this does not guarantee a person will be free of allergy symptoms.

Sources:

www.akc.org/breeds/index.cfm?nav_area=br...

www.dogguide.net/dog-breeds-for-allergie...