Being allergic to dogs can make owning one difficult.
However, many dog lovers who struggle with allergies find that having a dog is worth the sneezing and itchy eyes.
If this sounds like you, the good news is that hypoallergenic dog breeds do exist, and you can enjoy their companionship without sacrificing your comfort.
One such breed is the poodle, and here is what you need to know about them.
Hypoallergenic Poodles
Firstly, it’s important to note that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic and that there will always be a chance for allergies to spring up.
That being said, the poodle is considered one of the best breeds for people with allergies for a couple of reasons.
1. Poodles Don’t Shed
Many breeds of dogs and cats shed hair, and it is this hair that can cause a lot of allergy problems.
However, poodles have a different type of hair that continues to grow, rather than shed.
While this does mean that they will need regular trims, it also means that you won’t have to worry about hair getting all over the house and triggering a reaction.
2. Poodles Have Low Dander
A lot of dog breeds have visible dander caused by dirt and other things getting trapped in their fur over time.
However, because of the difference in hair types, poodles are less prone to having a lot of dander.
This can be highly beneficial to people with allergies and it can lead to a lower risk of having a reaction.
3. Poodles Won’t Drool
Some people have reactions when in contact with saliva from a dog, and this can make breeds that drool harder to be around.
Thankfully, poodles don’t drool often and this can help mitigate any reactions that might occur from contact.
While they may still want to lick you, with the proper training they can learn not to. Which leads to the fourth benefit.
4. Poodles Are Intelligent
Poodles are a highly intelligent and loyal breed and, because of this, they are easier to train.
This can come in handy when you are trying to teach your poodle not to lick or to stay when you tell them to.
Although this may not seem like a huge benefit when it comes to tackling allergies, it can be a huge help overall.
Special Precautions
Even with a breed like this, it’s important to take some additional precautions to prevent any bad allergy flare-ups.
While they do have some natural benefits that make them easier to live with when you have allergies, there are additional steps you can take to help keep your allergies under control.
- Always keep a decongestant on hand just in case of an allergy flare-up.
- Bathe your poodle regularly to eliminate dander completely. However, you should bathe your dog once every month to prevent drying out its skin.
- Always wash your hands after petting your poodle to eliminate any dander that may have gotten on them. Doing this before touching your face can help prevent flare-ups.
- Clean and vacuum your home frequently to prevent allergens from accumulating.
- Use an air purifier to help remove allergens from the air. These are great for all types of allergies, not just pet-related ones.
With these tips in mind, you can help lower your risk of suffering an allergy flare-up while living with your poodle.
The Perfect Dog for Allergy Sufferers
If you’re a dog lover struggling with allergies, you don’t have to force yourself to live a dog-free life.
While hypoallergenic doesn’t mean completely allergy-free, poodles are one of the best dog breeds for allergy sufferers.
Their naturally low dander and shed-free hair, coupled with the proper care, can ensure that you won’t be constantly struggling with flare-ups when you add these dogs to your family.