How to Find a Hypoallergenic Dog

Dog breeds that are known to be hypoallergenic include those that are hairless, shed very little, and belong to the single-coated family of dogs. (A single-coated dog is one that lacks an undercoat, thereby reducing the chance of an allergic reaction in some people.) Read below to find out more on how to find a hypoallergenic dog.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider what type of dog you want. Aside from being hypoallergenic, do you want a dog from a breed that generally requires a lot of exercise and attention? Is happy to be left alone for long periods of time? Is even-tempered or strong-willed? Is big or small? Is an indoor or outdoor dog? Is good with children? Will guard your house? Determine the characteristics that you want in a dog. Remember that, within breeds, an individual dog will have its own personality.

2. Familiarize yourself with so-called hypoallergenic breeds. Different breeds have different features that can lead to those breeds becoming known as "hypoallergenic". These characteristics can include hairlessness, lack of shedding, hair pH, short hair, and having a single coat.

3. Do your research. Find out about dog temperaments, health conditions, and care requirements. Then search for reputable breeders or adoption agencies or services.

4. Do a test. Test the dog breed to make sure that neither you nor a family member is allergic to it. Even if a particular dog breed is reported to be hypoallergenic or single-coated, a person may still be allergic to it. Find out if it is possible to spend time with the dog to test your allergies before you adopt or buy.

5. Adopt or purchase a dog. If you have found a breed that you can introduce into your household, begin the process to adopt or purchase a pet. Dog and kennel associations can be a great resource for finding reputable breeders and adoption agencies. Just do an Internet search for associations related to your dog's breed, and find a new companion to bring home! Article text © 2009 by urbandill. All rights reserved.

Tips & Warnings

• Just because a dog is known to belong to a hypoallergenic breed, this does not mean that the dog will be right for you. People can have specific allergic reactions to different types of dog breeds.
• Continued exposure to allergens can result in worsening allergies.

[Mitestarossa]

on 1/13/2009 Great tips.