Dogs have a soft fluffy undercoat and a longer, stiffer outercoat of fur.
Roughly 15 to 20 percent of the American population is allergic to animals, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Allergy sufferers who want a dog often look for a non-shedding or hypoallergenic breed because there is a popular misconception that fur causes the allergy. The fur does not cause the allergy -- it's usually the dander.
Allergies
While an allergic reaction to a dog is most commonly caused by its dander, it can also be caused by the dog's saliva or urine. Dander consists of scales of old, dead skin. Dogs, as well as people, constantly shed dander, which is problematic for allergy sufferers. The amount and type of dog fur has no effect on the shedding of dander so having a non-shedding breed provides no relief for an allergy sufferer.
Shedding
Allergy sufferers may benefit in other ways from having a non-shedding dog. Most suffer from multiple allergies in addition to the dog allergy. Other allergies include dust, pollen and mold. When dogs shed, the fur may collect dust, thereby exacerbating the allergies. While there is no such thing as a non-shedding breed, some breeds, such as the greyhound, do shed less than others.
Hypoallergenic Breeds
There are no truly hypoallergenic breeds. There are, however, breeds that appear to have less dander, according to veterinarians Race Foster and Marty Smith. These breeds are poodles, terriers and schnauzers.
Minimizing Allergens
Dog owners can take steps to reduce their exposure to the cause of their dog allergy. For example: bathing the dog at least once a week; keeping one room where the dog is not allowed, such as the bedroom; and regular housecleaning.
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