If you suffer from allergies, you are not alone. Even though most people suffer from some type of allergy, whether it is food, plant, or pet, they can usually find a way to enjoy their lives, which in many cases, includes having a pet. Depending on the severity of your allergies, you will be able to bring a dog into your home as long as you take the time to find the breed that is right for you.



Hypoallergenic dogs are specific breeds that shed less hair and dander than other dogs, and produce fewer allergens in their saliva and urine. You should keep in mind that all breeds carry a certain amount of allergens, but hypoallergenic dogs carry less. Allergens can become stuck in carpets, on walls, and in bedding and clothing.

Because the allergens get into carpet, couches and other places in your home, it is important to also take some steps to keep the amount of allergens down, even if you have a hypoallergenic dog. Probably the most important thing you can do is clean often, concentrating on those areas where your pet sleeps, and where you sleep too, so you won't be inhaling the allergens from your pillow.

When looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you should research breeds that have short hair, shed their skin cells (dander) every few weeks rather then every few days, and do not product as much saliva. Since allergies can occur at different times during your life, you should spend some time with the breed of dog you are thinking of adopting. Visiting a dog breeder or a friend who has a dog will give you a better idea of which dog to adopt.

You may be having more severe allergic reactions to dogs if you live in a smaller house or apartment, since you are concentrating the dander in a smaller space. A hypoallergenic dog (or a bigger house) could be your answer. Just remember that you still need to clean on a regular basis to minimize allergy symptoms. Taking your dog outside at least a few times per day can also go a long way toward diminishing the accumulation of dander in your living areas.

Sometimes allergies can worsen initially upon bringing your new pet home. But you should see things stabilize in about a month. If not then you may need to consider a different breed or try more frequent cleaning and more time outside with your dog. If possible, you should replace your carpeting with hardwood flooring. This will keep allergens from piling up and causing an allergy attack. Wipe down the walls once a week and try to keep your new pet off your bed. These precautions will help reduce allergy attacks and help you have a fun, loving relationship with your dog for many years to come.