Dogs are most favorite pet in UK. Everybody loves the presence of a cute and playful canine friend at home. But, the interaction between dogs and humans may cause serious allergic reactions to some humans. The good news is there are some dogs that even an allergic person can also own. While no dog is completely allergen-free, luckily certain breeds are far less likely to cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, or skin irritation. These are called hypoallergenic dogs, and they produce fewer allergens than others due to their coat type, dander level, or low shedding.
If you're looking for a pet dog that won't make your allergies worse, we are here with a list of top 10 hypoallergenic dogs in UK and how you can make them even safer for you.
What Does "Hypoallergenic Dogs" Really Mean?
The term “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean allergy-free, as it is believed. It simply means the dog is less likely to cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. Many people think a hypoallergenic dog won’t trigger any allergies, but that’s not completely true. They may shed less hair, or have coats that trap dander instead of spreading it, which makes them more suitable for allergy sufferers. So, in simple words, Hypoallergenic dogs means less allergenic, not non-allergenic.
How Dogs Cause Allergies in Humans?
Dogs can cause allergies because they produce proteins that trigger allergic reactions in some people. These proteins are found in a dog’s
- Coat
- Saliva
- Dander (dead skin flakes)
- Urine
- Sweat
When a dog licks its fur or sheds hair and dander, these allergens spread into the air, furniture, carpets, and clothing. So basically, it’s not the dog’s fur itself that causes allergies, it’s the proteins attached to it. Some people have immune systems that overreact to these proteins, they show symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, or skin rashes. Even low-shedding dogs can still carry allergens.
Hypoallergenic Dogs in UK That Shed Very Less
While most of the dogs cause severe allergic issues in some humans, some of the dog breeds produce less of these allergens. Let's learn about them:
1. Poodle
Poodles are extremely intelligent and very easy to train. They come in three sizes named a toy, miniature, and standard. They adapt very well to any lifestyle.
Hypoallergenic Traits:
Poodles have a tight, curly, dense coat that traps dander and hair, instead of releasing it into the air. Their coat shed very little, that’s why they are top most lovable hypoallergenic dogs.
Safety Tip:
To make them safer for the whole family, groom them regularly every 4–6 weeks. It keeps the allergens under control.
2. Bishon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy dog breed. They are known for their cheerful personality and white cotton ball like coat. As a family pet, they are extremely loving with children and other pets.
Hypoallergenic Traits:
Bichons have a soft, fluffy coat that doesn’t shed much. Their hair grows continuously, like human hair and easily manageable. So, less fur means fewer allergens.
Safety Tip:
Daily brushing will further reduce the chance of spreading allergies.
3. Maltese
The Maltese is a tiny dog breed with elegant look and long, silky white coat. Their royal look adds value to your family. Maltese dogs are loyal, love cuddling, and live happily in small spaces like apartments.
Hypoallergenic Traits:
Although they have long hair, they are still considered hypoallergenic because they shed very little.
Safety Tip:
Regular brushing is needed to keep their fine coat tangle-free. If you don’t like handling long hair like many other Maltese owners, give them a short puppy cut for easier care.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized and energetic breed. They are originally bred to assist fishermen in Portugal. This breed is athletic, intelligent, and adventurous, suitable for active households. They love swimming, playing fetch, and learning new tricks. Loyal and affectionate, Portuguese Water Dogs form strong bonds with their families and are good with children.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
They have tight, dense curly coat that’s water-resistant. They shed very little which makes them hypoallergenic and excellent option for allergy sufferers.
Safety Tip:
Their coat needs regular grooming to stay clean and tangle-free.
5. Schnauzer
Schnauzers come in three sizes, Miniature, Standard and Giant but all have the unique beard, bushy eyebrows, and wiry coat. Schnauzers are alert, smart, and loyal in nature. They are great watchdogs and faithful family pets. They’re energetic and need daily walks and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
Schnauzers have a wiry double coat that doesn’t shed much. That’s why they secure a good reputation in hypoallergenic dogs list.
Safety Tip:
Their coat is fine but keep their beards clean because their saliva can trigger allergies too.
6. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare, curly-coated breed from Italy. They are originally bred to hunt truffles. They are medium-sized, active, and highly intelligent, they are known for being both a skilful worker and a loving, loyal family pet. They love digging, playing, and learning new tasks, so they are most suitable for homes where they get plenty of mental and physical exercise.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
They have dense, woolly coat that doesn’t shed much and is considered hypoallergenic.
Safety Tip:
Brush and trim their coat frequently to avoid matting.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a tiny breed with a big personality. They are bold, curious, and full of energy. They love attention, cuddles, and are suitable for people living in apartments. They are confident watchdogs and very loyal to their owners.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
They have fine, silky coat which is more like human hair than dog fur. So they are less likely to shed like other dogs.
Safety Tip:
Their fine coat requires regular brushing and grooming, especially if kept long. If you want to make it more manageable and allergy safe, give them a short haircut.
8. Basenji
The Basenji is a small, elegant hunting dog from Central Africa, they are known as “barkless dog.” Instead of barking, they make unique yodel-like sounds called baroos. Basenjis are independent, curious, and intelligent. They need mental stimulation and space to explore, as they’re quite active.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
Their short, fine coat sheds very little and produces minimal dander. They have some more bonus hypoallergenic traits:
- They drool less
- They have low odor
- They have grooming habits like cats which make them one of the most hypoallergenic breeds
9. Havanese
The Havanese is a small, cheerful dog from Cuba. They are known for its soft, silky coat and friendly, outgoing nature. These dogs are playful, affectionate, and highly social, making them great for families, singles, and seniors equally. Havanese love companionship and don’t like being left alone for long periods.
They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. Their coat requires regular brushing and occasional trims, but many owners keep it in a short, manageable cut.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
Although their coat is long, it sheds very little and is considered hypoallergenic, especially when well-groomed.
Safety Tip:
Brush their hair regularly to get extra safety from allergens.
10. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate dog with a royal history. They were originally bred for Chinese royal families in ancient China. Shih Tzus are loving, calm, and friendly. They enjoy being close to their humans and are great with kids and other pets. They are not overly active, but enjoy short walks and indoor play.
Hypoallergenic Trait:
Shih Tzus have a long, flowing coat that looks fancy but actually sheds very little. This makes them a popular hypoallergenic breed when properly groomed.
Safety Tip:
Cut that long coat if you need easy maintenance dog and they are all good to be with you.
Tips to Reduce Allergens — Even with Hypoallergenic Dogs
As we have said earlier no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Different breeds have different traits that makes them easy to carry with less fear of allergies. There are some important steps to make your hypoallergenic dog safer pet for you. Take care of these things to reduce the chances of getting allergic:
- Change your clothes after cuddling your dog.
- Don’t clean litter boxes or dog bed. Ask a non-allergic family member to do the favor.
- Brush your pet outside the house. Let other family members do it.
- Pet allergens can hang around for months, so keep the dog outside your bedroom.
- If you have wall to wall carpet, it’s better to remove it as the allergens from dogs and cats can stick to it for long.
- Visit a specialist to get your allergy symptoms checked. They may recommend some treatments to make your life easier.
- Wash your hands and clothes after being around a dog.
- Give your dog regular baths with hypoallergenic shampoos.
- Groom your dog regularly.
- Give them a manageable haircut to avoid any reactions.
- If you are highly allergic, it is better to spend time with the breed before bringing one home to see how compatible they are with you.
- Keep a clean environment to reduce allergens further.
Quick Review of Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dogs in UK
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I be allergic to a hypoallergenic dog?
Yes, you may still react to saliva or dander proteins. They will give mil symptoms but its better to make it safe.
Q: Which hypoallergenic dog is best for families?
The Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Havanese are great with kids.
Q: Which dog is 100% hypoallergenic?
There is no dog breed that is 100% hypoallergenic but definitely some breeds are less allergenic.
End Note
If the dream of owning a dog is still a dream for you, as you are allergic, now you can own it too. Choose the right hypoallergenic dogs and make your dream com true. With some precautions, careful grooming, and a clean home, you can enjoy all the joys of dog ownership without getting sick at all. Just give it a try!
Have an hypoallergenic dog at home? Share your experience in the comments.
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