Canines and humans have bonded for ages. Both creatures have proven very helpful to each other. For instance, canines play a major role in the armed forces of many countries. They also help law enforcement agents in their business.
The point here is that both creatures are great together. However, you need to understand that there are scenarios that could threaten their coexistence. One of such is the fact that some humans are allergic to dogs.
We are not just talking about people that have a sentimental phobia for these canines. We mean people that can have allergic reactions triggered by having a dog close by. You should even know that there are more people with these issues than you know. For more on this subject, you can read this.
Well, there are several things such people can do to coexist with canines without having complications. One of such is being very careful and selective about the canine breed they choose to have around them. This is because there is such a thing as hypoallergenic breeds.
These breeds are very unlikely to trigger allergic reactions in such people. So, they are great options if these people decide to have dogs as pets. We will fill you in on some of these breeds towards the end of this article and advise that you keep reading to learn more.
Why Are Some People Allergic to Dogs?
The canine’s secretion of protein that finds its way into the saliva, urine, and dead skin is what people with dog allergies react negatively to. This is because of the behavioral patterns of the allergic person’s immune system which causes an abnormal reaction to what are meant to be harmless proteins.
Allergic people do not react the same way to every dog because of the differences in how they emit these proteins. This is also because of the differences in the rate at which they do so.
From a general stance, we have gathered that people with this condition are better off with breeds that do not shed much. This is because the chances of coming in contact with the proteins are reduced.
Signs that Show Someone Is Allergic to Dogs
Some signs could indicate you or anyone else is allergic to many of these wonderful creatures. But before we talk about these signs and symptoms, you should know that it is not a rare situation.
As a matter of fact, there are many people (including dog owners) that are allergic. However, it might just be mild. A reliable source even noticed that no less than 15 percent of the American human population is affected.
You should also know that other pets are involved as well. For instance, some people are allergic to cats as well. For more on this subject, you can visit: https://www.aafa.org/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
Now that you know this, some of the things that could prove you or anyone else is allergic to canines include:
Severe Attack for Someone with Asthma
You would think that someone that is asthmatic only needs to stay away from dust and some of the known things that could trigger an attack. Well, such people may need to stay away from certain breeds.
This is if they notice repeated attacks after coming in contact with canines. If they must stay around one, they need to make sure the breed is hypoallergenic.
Skin Redness
You may have this condition if you notice redness in your skin after contact with a dog. This is especially if the pet went as far as licking your body affectionately.
The level of allergic reaction differs as explained above. Some people only react mildly and do not even take notice of the body changes or have any suspicions.
Rash on Some Body Parts
You need to be very observant to know if you have this condition. This is because some of the symptoms are issues that are associated with other things. The development of rashes on certain parts of the body is an example.
The person might think it is caused by heat or something else rather than exposure to certain breeds. People that react in this way would have this unusual development on their neck, chest, and face.
Itching and Swelling
This is one sign you should be quick to look out for. The reason is that other complicated signs come right after this for some people.
The itching and swelling are usually felt around the nose membranes. However, this is not the only area it can be felt. It could also happen in areas close to the eyes.
Coughing, Wheezing, and Difficulty Breathing
You should also make sure you are not showing this sign as it could mean you have dog allergies. This is especially important for people that have asthma or similar health conditions.
Usually, the coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing last no less than 15 minutes. It could go for as long as 30 minutes.
Eczema
People with this condition can also end up with a skin inflammation that is painful. So, you should watch out for this as well.
Recommended Dogs for People with Dog Allergies
Those that have these allergies may be bent on not missing out on the fun that comes with raising a canine. Well, there is hope for them. This is because some dog breeds are hypoallergenic by many standards.
More often than not, these breeds seldom shed, their coats are single-layered and short, and they have very little or no hair. However, some exceptions are still hypoallergenic. Examples of some hypoallergenic canines are:
- Afghan Hound
- Bedlington Terrier
- Chinese Crested
- Bichon Frise
- Affenpinscher
- Basenji
- Maltese
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Poodle
- Xoloitzcuintli
These are just some of the hypoallergenic breeds. We advise that you get yourself acquainted with canine breeds to understand better. You can check holistapet to learn more.
Wrap Up
If you have ever doubted if there is such a condition as being allergic to dogs, you should know that there is. The reasons for this, symptoms to look out for, and canine breeds best suited for such people have been discussed here. We strongly advise those that have these allergies to be very selective about the canines they have around them.
