'I'm a vet nurse - one popular dog breed is perfect for people with allergies'
Hypoallergenic dog breeds can be good choices for people with allergies.
If you're allergic to dogs but love furry animals and want to get one, you might have heard of hypoallergenic breeds that make great pets for allergy sufferers. All dogs produce allergens, but hypoallergenic dogs are specifically bred to produce fewer allergens in their hair, so can reduce the symptoms that allergy sufferers face.
It's important to note that no dog is completely allergen-free, and you should always consult a GP before getting a dog if you suspect you have a pet allergy. If you and your GP decide getting a hypoallergenic dog is right for you, then one vet nurse has put together a list of a few breeds you can check out.
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Jade shared a video on TikTok listing four small hypoallergenic dog breeds that she would recommend, one of which is a popular UK breed. The vet nurse didn't give any further information into why the four breeds are good choices, but her top four picks were: Bichon Frise, Chinese crested, Yorkshire terrier, and the miniature poodle.
Pet MD also listed the same four dogs on their top 30 list of hypoallergenic dogs that don't shed a lot, and also offered more insight into the temperament of each breed. For the UK favourite Yorkshire terrier - or Yorkie - it was said that the breed can "adapt well to many different living situations" as long as they have "plenty of attention" wherever they are.
Poodles don't shed much hair, whether you opt for a standard poodle, a miniature one, or a toy poodle. However, all three poodle breeds need "lots of care" regarding their fur, as it can get "tangled and matted".
Bichon Frise dogs are said to be "playful and affectionate", and are "highly intelligent and highly trainable". They can quickly master training basics, and do best with "positive reinforcement". Lastly, Pet MD said that the Chinese crested is hypoallergenic whether you opt for a hairless or powderpuff breed.
Other dogs included on Pet MD's list were the Labradoodle, Schnauzer, Afghan Hound, and Shih Tzu. The website stated that dog owners with allergies must keep up with grooming to ensure an allergen-free environment. They said dogs should be groomed weekly and bathed every four to six weeks. Maintaining a clean house can also help your health, as vacuuming, dusting, and changing your bedsheets regularly can reduce the allergens in your home.
Whenever you think of getting a dog, it's important to do plenty of research into the breed you're considering, as well as research tips and advice on taking care of a pet if it's your first time. You should also consider what training your dog will need and whether you can handle the breed you want, as not all dogs will suit all owners.
Finally, it's always a good idea to consider adopting instead of shopping where possible.
