Pets For The Home That Won’t Cause Allergies

Pets bring all sorts of joy into the home. They are great company, constant entertainment, and are even proven to lower anxiety. While there are many great reasons to bring a pet into the home, all these benefits can be overshadowed when you have a pet allergy. Luckily there are several pets you can bring into your house that are far less likely to cause allergies than others.

While there are no allergy-free cats or dogs, several are far less likely to cause allergic reactions. Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, Portuguese Water Dogs, Bichon Frise, Schnauzer, and Labradoodles are all considered lower-risk dog breeds for those with allergies. Some cat breeds that cause fewer allergies include Siberian, Sphynx, Balinese, and Russian Blue breeds. Some exotic pets that cause very few allergies include turtles, fish, lizards, and parakeets.

Pets are a great addition to the family home for all sorts of reasons, but pet allergies can be horrible. If you or someone in your dwelling has a pet allergy, you may think you must live in a pet-free home. While no two pet allergies are the same, many pets are worth considering if you want to have an animal companion but suffer from a pet allergy.

Five Dog Breeds For People With Allergies

1. Maltese

One popular dog breed for those who are prone to canine allergies is the Maltese. This pooch may be known for its flowing white hair, but don’t let it scare you off. This dog breed sheds very little, and hanging on to most of its coat also prevents dander and allergens from spreading around your home.

These dogs are affectionate and highly trainable. They make good cuddling companions and can also be great guard dogs. 

2. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are playful canines that are a good choice for those who want a dog but are prone to allergies. This breed is a popular choice for allergy sufferers because it has hair, not fur.

This means that while you may need to trim this dog occasionally, it barely sheds. It also releases far less dander than many other dogs. This is an energetic work dog, making it a great option for those who live an active lifestyle and have a big yard for a dog.

3. Bichon Frise

If you are looking for an adorable smaller dog, but suffer from allergies, then consider a Bichon Frise. This dog is known for its thick and wool-like curly white coat. What makes it hypoallergenic is that the hair it sheds stays trapped due its curly thick texture. It also doesn't release dander into the air like many other dogs. The key is to consistently groom this dog to remove its fallen hair and keep the coat clean.

4. Miniature Schnauzer 

The Miniature Schnauzer is another cute small dog that’s great for people with pet allergies. These dogs shed very little, and they also release far less dander than the average dog. 

Miniature Schnauzer’s are very cute and playful, but keep in mind they can be expensive as well.

5. Labradoodle 

Once a rare hybrid, the Labradoodle has quickly become a mainstream dog breed thanks to its loving disposition and hypoallergenic qualities. This dog is a mix between a labrador (which is not a good dog for those with allergies), and a poodle (a good dog for those with allergies).

The result of this mix is a large, playful, adorable, curly-haired animal that produces very little dander and hardly sheds.

Four Cat Breeds That Cause Fewer Allergies

1. Siberian Cat

The main cause of most cat allergies is something that cats produce called the Fel d 1 protein. Siberian cats produce much lower levels of this allergy-causing protein than most other breeds, making them a good option for those allergic to the protein.

They have a thick coat, but they shed slowly throughout the year. Therefore they also shed less cat hair than a normal cat.

2. Sphynx 

Sphynx cats are known for their unique and hairless appearance. It should come as no surprise that hairless cats don’t shed, and produce a bit less of the Fel d 1 protein. 

Keep in mind that while the Sphynx is hair-free, it still isn’t completely allergy-free, as this cat still produces this allergy-inducing protein in its body and saliva.

3. Balinese 

The Balinese cat is another cat that produces far less of the Fel d 1 protein than most cats. This breed is known for its shiny tan coat and dark face. While it is certainly fluffy, this cat doesn’t shed as much as the average cat. This makes it a better option than most cat breeds for allergy sufferers.

4. Russian Blue

One last cat known to produce less of the pesky Fel d 1 protein is the Russian Blue. This cat has piercing eyes, a stunning blueish coat, and it is known for its smarts. It has a thick double coat, and this density of fur prevents it from shedding too much.

Five Exotic Pets For People With Allergies

1. Turtle

Turtles are a fun, unique, and fairly low-maintenance pet option. Some turtles live mostly in water, while others live more on land (and tortoises as well). Regardless of which breed you choose, these cold-blooded animals produce none of the dander or allergy-causing proteins that mammals do.

This makes them a great pet to introduce to the home for those looking for an easy pet that won’t cause any allergies. Ensure you choose a turtle or tortoise wisely, as some of these animals can grow quite large and live more than 50 years.

2. Parakeet 

Birds are another great pet option for those looking to have an animal companion in the home, but suffer from allergies. Parakeets are a particularly good pet for those who suffer from allergies.

Some birds have a lot of dander they release into the air, but parakeets release very little. This is true even when they molt. If you are interested in caring for a bird but have lots of pet allergies, a parakeet may be a good solution.

3. Fish

It should come as no surprise that fish, who live exclusively in water, make great pets for those with allergies. Fish are said to help create a sense of calm, making them a great addition to any home. Owning an aquarium can be a fun and fascinating hobby. If you decide to bring fish into the home, ensure you choose varieties that you can maintain.

Some fish require almost no upkeep, while others, like exotic saltwater fish, take a lot more care. Buying an aquarium can be a fun project for the whole family, and it is sure to liven up the room as well.

4. Lizard And Other Reptiles

Lizards and other smaller reptiles are all cold-blooded creatures, making them ideal pet candidates for those who suffer from extreme allergies. They have no fur to shed and don’t produce the Fel d 1 protein that causes cat allergies.

There are tons of lizards and reptiles to choose from, from small to large, and simple to rare and exotic. Some lizards require specific climates, foods, and conditions, so make sure you choose a reptile you can properly care for.

5. Syrian Hamster

Lastly, if you want to bring some type of furry mammal into the home, but your allergies can’t handle the shedding, consider a small fluffy pet like a hamster. The Syrian hamster is a popular breed that is found in most pet stores. 

While it is certainly possible to be allergic to this pet’s dander, it is much easier to control since they live in a cage. If you properly clean and maintain the cage, you shouldn’t experience many allergies — unless you have a severe rodent allergy. 

Summing Up Pets For Your Home That Won’t Cause Allergies

Pets can add joy and life to your home, and there’s never a dull moment with a cute and energetic animal around. If, however, you suffer from allergies, you may be very apprehensive about bringing an animal into your home. 

While no dog or cat breed is completely allergy-free, some dog and cat breeds produce less dander and allergy-causing proteins than others. Some exotic pets that don’t cause allergies include turtles, lizards, fish, and birds like parakeets.

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• 10 Things To Consider Before Getting A Pet
• What To Do If A Future Houseguest Is Allergic To Your Pet
• Seven Reasons You Have Bad Winter Allergies In Your Home