good hypoallergenic pets

15 Most Allergy-Friendly Pets for Sensitive Pet Parents

Hairless rats are another small mammal pet that lacks fur, which reduces the amount of dander they can shed into the environment. Pet hair can be a significant trigger for allergies in sensitive individuals. However, they still produce allergenic proteins in their urine and saliva, which could cause an allergic reaction.

It's all about your individual reaction, so be sure to spend a little time around any pet you're considering. And make sure you do it away from a pet store or location where there are other types of pets around. You need to be in an environment where the only animal that could trigger your allergy is the one you're considering for your home.

Need to Know

Get out the baby oil. These rats need to be lathered daily to maintain their skin health and overall well-being.

Hypoallergenic Pets for People With Allergies

Reviewed for accuracy on December 20, 2019, by Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM

If you have allergies, it can feel like your options are slim to none when trying to find the right pet. You might give up on ever having a pet if every animal youve encountered has caused sneezing, wheezing, coughing and itching.

But all is not lostthere are plenty of pets that are as close to being hypoallergenic as you can get.

Heres a breakdown of which pets are best if you suffer from pet allergies.

Click on a species to skip to that section:

Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. While some non-shedding, short-haired and hairless dog breeds are promoted as such, allergies are more complicated than fur alone.

"Unfortunately, this is a common myth," says Dr. Sonal R. Patel, a California-based allergist who is boardcertified in allergy and clinical immunology. "There are no 'nonallergenic' dog breeds. The protein that causes allergies is found in an animal's saliva, dander and urine." So a specific type of fur alone will not guarantee any hypoallergenic qualities.

But dont lose all hope. Some dog breeds are known to produce fewer allergens.

There are low-allergen dogs, says Dr. Sara Ochoa, a companion animal and exotic veterinarian in Texas and consultant for DogLab. They are not 100% hypoallergenic, but they do not produce as much of the allergens as other dogs.

The following breeds may be more suitable for people with allergies:

Low-allergen dogs:

In addition to being low-allergen, breeds that shed very little dont spread allergy-inducing dander around the home as widely, explains Dr. Ochoa.

Low-allergen and low-shedding dogs:

Keep in mind, however, that even low-allergen dogs can cause reactions. There is no guarantee that picking a dog of a particular breed is a good way to reduce the amount of allergens in your home or to avoid symptoms, says Dr. Patel.

If you suffer from allergies, cats are particularly tricky pets. Cats seem to be more allergenic than dogs, says Dr. Patel. Almost all already allergic people exposed to cats on a regular basis will develop a cat allergy.

The major allergen responsible for cat allergies is Fel d1, explains Dr. Patel. This protein is found primarily in cat saliva, which is spread throughout the animals fur during grooming.

Currently, researchers are working on a novel new way to treat cat allergies. By immunizing cats against Fel d1, a new vaccine could effectively neutralize the protein, according to a promising study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

However, until those options become publicly available, heres what we know about potentially allergy-friendly cat breeds.

A 2017 study suggested that Siberian cats may have Fel d 1 mutations that cause them to elicit less allergy responses, notes Dr. Ochoa, but further research is needed.

Similarly to dogs, lower-shedding cat breeds spread less allergens around the home, says Dr. Ochoa. For people with mild cat allergies, the following hypoallergenic cat breeds may be less problematic.

If you have allergies, you might consider an exotic pet, like a reptile, amphibian or fish. Because these animals lack both dander and fur, theyre essentially allergen-free, says Dr. Ochoa.

Theyre great for people with allergies, says Dr. Ochoa. I have never encountered an owner who is allergic to their reptile, amphibian or fish. I recommend these to people who have severe animal allergies, but still want a pet.

`The only issues that Dr. Ochoa notes is that some people may be allergic to their reptiles lunch. Feeder insects such as crickets, grasshoppers and locusts can exacerbate allergy and asthma symptoms.

Highly sensitive individuals should consider herbivores, such as iguanas, or stick with a fish tank, says Dr. Ochoa.

While our feathered friends dont have fur, they do produce dander. However, birds are generally considered a safe choice for those with allergies. Even people who are very sensitive to cats and dogs rarely have an issue with birds, says Dr. Patel.

For those who are especially sensitive, Dr. Patel recommends the following bird species. In addition to having less dander, their petite size reduces other possible triggers.

• Canaries

• Finches

• Parakeets

Small Animals That Are Less Likely to Set Off Your Allergies

While reptiles have their fans, you may prefer to have a furry friend. Smaller companion animals (or pocket pets) including rats, mice, ferrets, gerbils and hamsters may be suitable for some homes.

Its true that theyre mammals, so they carry similar allergenic potential as cats and dogs, says Dr. Patel. But theyre so much smaller that they produce considerably fewer allergens in their environment.

Small animals with longer hair, including many breeds of rabbits and guinea pigs, should be avoided, says Dr. Ochoa.

Not only are people more allergic to these small pets, but they eat hay, she points out. Many people are very allergic to the hay that rabbits and guinea pigs need to eat to survive.

Before Bringing Home Your Pet

When you adopt a pet, youre making a lifelong commitment to the animal. With this in mind, its important to ensure that allergies wont inhibit your ability to care for your companion.

Fortunately, there are ways to both test for allergies and reduce symptoms.

If you plan to introduce a pet into your home, have an evaluation by aboard-certified allergist, including skin testing, recommends Dr. Patel. This will tell you for certain what you are allergic to.

If youre found to be allergic to dogs or cats, considerimmunotherapy, also known as allergy shots.

These shots will eventuallydesensitize you to these animals, so that you may one day be able to have a family pet without compromising your health or well-being, says Dr. Patel.

By: Monica Weymouth

Featured Image: iStock.com/Maica

Best Dog Breeds for People With Allergies

So, you want a dog but you seem to have an allergy attack whenever youre around one? Youre not alone! Its estimated that 10 and 20% of people are allergic to cats and dogs, causing many prospective puppy owners to wonder which dogs are hypoallergenic. Spoiler alert: none of them are.

Thats right: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. No, really. Well say it one more time for the people in the back: There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. No mixed-breed dog, no purebred dog, and most definitely not any so-called designer dog, is truly hypoallergenic, no matter what people claim or try to sell you.

That said, it is possible to find less-allergenic dog breeds that are better suited for people with allergies. These purebred dogs have a predictable, non-shedding coat that produces less dander. Dander, which clings to pet hair, is what causes most pet allergies in people. Even though dogs that are hypoallergenic dont truly exist, many breeds make it possible to enjoy the companionship of a dog, even if you suffer from allergies. That predictable coat of a purebred dog is key: you know what kind of coat these breeds will have, and there wont be surprises that end up making you sneeze.

There are also ways to prepare your home to help keep allergens at bay when you have a dog. Be sure to launder your pets bed often, keep up with their grooming, and consider not letting your dog sleep on your bed. Its also helpful to remove heavy carpets and drapes that can trap dander. Vacuum cleaners for pet hair and pet air purifiers also help remove allergens, and some can even groom the hair and dander right from your dog.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is known for being aloof and dignified. They require regular exercise and grooming. They should be bathed and brushed twice a week.

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is a lively, friendly, and intelligent companion. The breed does well with children and is also good for city dwellers due to their minimal exercise needsregular walks and indoor playtime will do. They also need regular bathing and nail trimming.

Bedlington Terrier

The gentle, loveable Bedlington Terrier is known for its curly, wooly coat that resembles a lambs. The breed doesnt need intense exerciseregular playtime and daily walks will do.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a naturally gentle, happy, playful dog that loves activity. The Bichons hair continually grows and doesnt shed, so regular grooming is important to prevent mats.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is an alert, playful dog that thrives on human companionship. They are small and do well in families with gentle children. Cresteds shed little to no hair.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small, hardy dog that is happy, eager to please, and loyal. The breed gets along well with other dogs and children. Their long coat requires daily grooming.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is intelligent and can be territorial, naturally feeling protective of their family. The breed needs a lot of exercise and loves having a job to do. They require regular grooming.

Irish Water Spaniel

This strong, intelligent breed is the clown of the spaniel family. Irish Water Spaniels are active and energetic, needing daily exercise. Their water-repellant double coat requires brushing every few weeks.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is energetic and fun-loving. The breed enjoys being part of an active family that can provide daily exercise. Their coats need regular brushing and trimming.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolois a happy dog with tons of energy, needing plenty of activity. They are affectionate and devoted to their owners. Their thick curly coat is similar to that of a Poodle. They require trimming and regular brushing to prevent mats.

Maltese

Though small, the Maltese is known for being brave, playful, and fearless. They have long, silky white hair that needs to be brushed daily to prevent mats.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer has a natural protective nature that makes them a great watchdog. The breed is smart and cheerful. They adapt well to different living environments, and their double coat requires clipping.

Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)

The Peruvian Inca Orchid can be hairless or coated (the hairless variety does well with allergy sufferers). They also come in three different sizes (small, medium, and large). The breed is loyal and protective of its family. They also have a great deal of energy, needing regular activity. They have minimal grooming needs.

Poodle

The Poodle comes in three size varieties (Standard, Miniature, and Toy).The breed is exceptionally smart and active, needing daily exercise. Their trademark coat requires regular professional grooming.

Portuguese Water Dog

An athletic breed, the Portuguese Water Dogneeds vigorous daily exercise and would do best with a very active family. PWDs are intelligent, loyal workers. Their waterproof coat requires regular maintenance.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

This happy dog is active and needs plenty of exercise daily. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier adapts well to city, country, or suburban living, and does well with children. They have a silky, soft coat that needs regular grooming to prevent mats.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a lively, hardworking dog with natural protective instincts. They are a high-energy breed that does best with an active family. They require little grooming for their curly, wooly coat. No brushing is needed, but at least once a year, they should be shaved down.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a sociable, affectionate breed that has a fondness for kids. They are athletic dogs that need daily exercise. Their beard and leg hair should be brushed often to prevent mats.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard). They also come in two varieties, hairless and coated. The hairless has smooth, tough, protective skin and the coated has a short, flat coat. Theyre calm, tranquil, and attentive, and can also be aloof. They have moderate exercise and grooming needs.

Choosing a Purebred Dog for People With Allergies

With all of these purebred dogs with predictable coat types, shedding, and dander levels to choose from, theres no reason for people with allergies to avoid getting a dog that works for their lifestyle (and their immune system). You can learn more about the activity levels, size, sociability, trainability, and types of sports these breeds may excel at by visiting our AKC.org breed pages, or using our Dog Breed Selector to see which of these less-allergenic dog breeds might be the perfect choice for you.