As a dog owner you can enjoy many benefits, from the entertainment value of having a lively and alert little pet around the home to the companionship of having a loving and reliable dog at your side. However, for many people dog ownership doesn’t seem possible, simply because of allergies that can cause terrible discomfort for the potential dog owner.

Many people suffer from allergies to cats and dogs for various reasons, but if you are an allergy sufferer and feel that you are missing out on the joys of dog ownership, all is not lost. There are a number of dog breeds that are ideal for those that suffer from dog related allergies, and will prove to be loving, loveable, and entertaining pets.

Why do people suffer from allergies to dogs?

People that are allergic to many dog breeds are actually allergic to the dander that is produced. Dander is the dry flakes of skin from the dog that can become airborne, and is known to contribute towards allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and respiratory problems.

Although there is no large or small dog breed that is going to be totally free from dander there are certain breeds that produce far less dander than others, which means fewer allergic symptoms for the owner.

Small dog breeds for allergy sufferers:

Bichon Frise: This is a cute, alert looking, small dog with a beautiful curly coat and lively expression. The curly coat of this breed means that there is less shedding, and this makes the breed suitable for those suffering from mild allergies.

Chinese Crested: This is a unique looking small dog with smooth skin and a crest of hair on its head. Because of its lack of bodily hair, this breed has nothing to shed, and this makes it ideal for allergy sufferers.

Maltese: The cute, small, and lively Maltese is a dog that boasts a beautiful, glamorous white coat. Although you need to groom this breed regularly, the Maltese does not shed a great deal and does not produce much dander.

Toy Poodle: The beautiful Toy Poodle is another breed that will need regular grooming to help make the most of its gorgeous coat, but produces little dander and does not shed much, making this a suitable breed for allergy sufferers.

Miniature Schnauzer: Another breed that sheds little and produces little dander, the Miniature Schnauzer is a lively and loveable small dog that should suit those that suffer from pet allergies.

Why these dogs are suitable for allergy sufferers

As you will see from the descriptions, all of the small dog breeds listed above are ones that do not shed much hair, and produce far less dander than many other dog breeds. Most people that suffer from pet allergies are actually reacting to the effects of the hair or dander and not to the animal itself, which is why these dog breeds could prove ideal for people that are allergic to dogs.