If you’re one of the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies, you may think that owning a dog is out of the question. But the truth is, there are many hypoallergenic breeds that are perfectly safe for people with allergies.

So, what is a hypoallergenic dog? A hypoallergenic breed is one that produces less of the protein that causes allergic reactions in people. This protein is found in a dog’s saliva, skin, and dander (dead skin cells).

While there’s no such thing as a completely allergy-free dog, these hypoallergenic breeds come pretty close:

• Afghan Hound
• Australian Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Cairn Terrier
• Chinese Crested
• Coton de Tulear
• Dandie Dinmont Terrier
• Giant Schnauzer
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Lhasa Apso Maltese
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Standard Poodle
• West Highland White Terrier
• Whippet
• Wire Fox Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier

While these breeds are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, it’s important to remember that every person is different. The best way to find out if you’re allergic to a particular breed is to spend time with one.

If you have your heart set on a non-hypoallergenic breed, there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of an allergic reaction:

1. Have your dog groomed regularly. This will help remove excess hair and dander from your dog’s coat.

2. Brush your dog outside. This will keep pet allergies at bay inside your home.

3. Use an air purifier. An air purifier with a HEPA filter will help remove allergens from the air in your home.

4. See your doctor. If you’re still having trouble managing your allergies, talk to your doctor about allergy shots or other medications that can help.

With a little bit of effort, people with allergies can enjoy the companionship of a furry friend. So, don’t let allergies stand in your way of finding the perfect pup for you!