Dog breeds often suggested for allergies

Dog allergens are proteins, and hair is only part of the story. The AAAAI lists six named dog allergens and says they come from saliva, skin dander, urine and the oily secretions of the skin. The main one, Can f 1, is found in dander, hair and saliva, and Can f 5 comes only from male dogs. These particles become airborne and settle on clothes, carpets, furniture and walls, which is why a low shedding coat does not stop them.

Studies that measured allergen in real homes found no clear benefit from so called hypoallergenic breeds. Vredegoor and colleagues (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2012) sampled 196 dogs of breeds sold as hypoallergenic (Labradoodle, Poodle, Spanish Water Dog and Airedale Terrier) and 160 other dogs. The hypoallergenic group had higher Can f 1 levels in hair and coat samples. Airborne allergen was no different between breeds, and floor dust was lower only in homes with Labradoodles. The authors concluded there is no evidence for calling any breed hypoallergenic. Nicholas and colleagues (American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy, 2011) compared dust from homes with hypoallergenic and other dogs under four different ways of classifying breeds, and none showed a difference.

The allergy bodies advise talking to an allergist before you commit. Allergy UK says avoidance is the main recommendation for people who are already allergic. For people who have never had symptoms, it says allergy testing before getting a pet is unhelpful, because allergy can still develop later. For people living with a dog, the ACAAI and AAAAI suggest keeping the dog out of the bedroom, using HEPA air cleaners and vacuums, bathing the dog weekly, washing your hands after contact, and asking about allergy shots (immunotherapy). The AAAAI notes that a female or neutered male dog may suit someone allergic only to Can f 5.