It’s irresistible.

A dog with fluffy, furry and fine hair is irresistible to touch.

There is good evidence that a simple stroke of your pets coat can help release stress, melt away anxiety and boost your mood.

There can be a downside to this hair however.

With so much hair your house can quickly become covered in it.

Even more importantly hair is one of the biggest reasons people have allergic reactions to dogs.

Unfortunately, many dogs end up being given up because the hair they shed triggers allergies one too many times.

This week we are looking at one of the biggest causal factors of dog allergies, and which dog breeds can be better for those who are susceptible to the allergies caused by a dogs hair shedding.

How Dog Allergies Happen

Dog allergies are caused by many factors such as dander, fur, saliva, and even urine.

A dogs dander are very fine particles that dogs will shed – just like humans shed skin cells.

Dog dander however can contain a particular protein that causes a reaction in some humans. This same protein can be found in saliva or urine.

Now fur doesn’t contain this allogeneic protein but when your dog’s fur sheds it naturally takes the dander and protein with it.

Additionally if your dog has been playing in pollen, grass or outdoor mould this can also stick into the dogs fur to agitate allergies.

You might think that getting a ‘hypoallergenic’ dog might be a fix for this. However as research now reveals, this is a huge misconception with the canine community…

Why Hypoallergenic Dogs Don’t Really Exist

Dogs with very short coats, those who shed small amounts, or those that are completely hairless are viewed as hypoallergenic.

Unfortunately there is no such thing.

This is because it’s not really about the dog’s fur. All canines contain the allergenic protein in their dander if they are low-shedding dogs or non-shedding dog breeds.

It’s just that low-shedding or Hypoallergenic breeds are recorded to emit much smaller volumes of this particles.

Meaning that the chance of them setting off an allergic reaction is much lower.

So if you’re concerned about dog shedding from an allergy standpoint it is probably best that you try and spend some time with the breed you are thinking of getting first before you fully commit.

So without further delay… If you are looking for the dog breeds that are notorious for their low shed for either allergies or if you are just wanting to not have to hoover around so much…

Then here are 8 of the low-shedding top breeds….

Scottish Terrier

Nicknamed the “Scottie,” the Scottish Terrier is a small, sturdy noted for having short legs and a shaggy beard. The playful, spirited Scottish Terrier needs plenty of walks or indoor exercise. 

Maltese

Although deceivingly hairy, Maltese’s are actually a very low shedding dog. The Maltese is named after Malta. This glamorous small dog has been a popular breed many for a long time.

Skye Terrier

Another terrier, this time named after the Isle of Skye. The Skye Terrier lives best as a family companion. An elegant medium-sized dog with short legs and a large head.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a breed native to Spain who used to herd goats, sheep and cattle. Both intelligent and affectionate this dog makes a great pet. With a rustic, natural look, the Spanish Water Dog’s curly, corded coat is easy to maintain.

Yorkshire Terrier

Originating for near our headquarters the Yorkshire terrier is a small yet big hearted breed. Known by it’s luxurious, floor-length coat, this Terrier is a loyal and protective companion. 

Bearded Collie

One of Britain’s oldest breeds a Bearded Collie strong dog with a beard. His name comes from the similarity to a human beard. Although a low-shedder this is a working breed which requires lots of grooming due to their long coat and fine undercoat.

Brussels Griffon

Known for a human-like look, the Brussels Griffon is a charming and curious soul. This sturdy breed is both lively and sensitive. His coat comes in two varieties — rough and smooth. Both need brushing multiple times per week. Although they are active indoors they also need walks often.

American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel are eager to please, a fast thinking hunting dog devoted to their family. This is one of the few breeds originating from the U.S. and is the rarest on our list with only 3,000 registered. This breed needs lots of walks and brushing a few times a week.

What To Do If A Low-Shedding Dog Still Causes Allergies

If you notice new itches, swelling of your nose, or red patches on your skin appearing whenever you are with your dog then that could be a sign that you are having an allergic reaction to them.

First of all don’t panic.

The last thing you should do is jump to giving away your pet without looking at potential solutions.

If you take the time to speak with a veterinarian or pet allergist, as well as your medical doctor so that they can recommend a few best courses of action to look at.