Allergy Free Dog Too Good to Be True
Pet ownership can be one of the most emotionally difficult issues an allergy sufferer has to confront – especially when trying to implement an allergen avoidance routine. For a while the notion of the hypoallergenic or allergy-free dog seemed to provide the perfect solution for allergic individuals who couldn't give up Fido.
But a new study has shot holes in this concept, as NY Times article The Myth of the Allergy-Free Dog elucidates: "The study found that the quantities of dog allergens in homes with supposedly hypoallergenic breeds are no different from those in homes with dogs widely considered non-hypoallergenic."
Scientists are not even sure where the concept of a low-allergy dog originated. It's likely that the myth began with lists of dogs who shed less than others. The American Kennel Club even went so far as to suggest eleven "hypoallergenic canine candidates," including poodles, soft-coated wheaten terriers, schnauzers, and the Portuguese water dog.
It's possible that some dogs shed less fur and therefore leave less dander around allergic individuals' households – but the difference is hardly enough to make a difference in the amount or severity of allergy sufferers' symptoms. In addition, while previous studies have found that amounts of dander vary by individual animal, they do not show consistent variation by breed; in other words, no breeds consistently have less dander than another.
This study is the first to take a look at the actual dispersal of allergens in the home. The sample studied was scientifically selected to be representative of the nation. Results showed no significant difference in levels of dog allergen between "regular" breeds and those thought of as allergy friendly dogs.
The upshot seems to be that if you do end up with a dog that produces less dander – you're lucky. Implementing other measures to reduce exposure to pet dander are your best bet if allergy sufferers and pets share the same space. Allergy relief bedding, air purifiers, avoiding upholstered furniture, vacuuming frequently, and keeping pets out of the bedroom will drastically reduce exposure to pet dander and can help you breathe much better, even with your furry friends.
But a new study has shot holes in this concept, as NY Times article The Myth of the Allergy-Free Dog elucidates: "The study found that the quantities of dog allergens in homes with supposedly hypoallergenic breeds are no different from those in homes with dogs widely considered non-hypoallergenic."
Scientists are not even sure where the concept of a low-allergy dog originated. It's likely that the myth began with lists of dogs who shed less than others. The American Kennel Club even went so far as to suggest eleven "hypoallergenic canine candidates," including poodles, soft-coated wheaten terriers, schnauzers, and the Portuguese water dog.
It's possible that some dogs shed less fur and therefore leave less dander around allergic individuals' households – but the difference is hardly enough to make a difference in the amount or severity of allergy sufferers' symptoms. In addition, while previous studies have found that amounts of dander vary by individual animal, they do not show consistent variation by breed; in other words, no breeds consistently have less dander than another.
This study is the first to take a look at the actual dispersal of allergens in the home. The sample studied was scientifically selected to be representative of the nation. Results showed no significant difference in levels of dog allergen between "regular" breeds and those thought of as allergy friendly dogs.
The upshot seems to be that if you do end up with a dog that produces less dander – you're lucky. Implementing other measures to reduce exposure to pet dander are your best bet if allergy sufferers and pets share the same space. Allergy relief bedding, air purifiers, avoiding upholstered furniture, vacuuming frequently, and keeping pets out of the bedroom will drastically reduce exposure to pet dander and can help you breathe much better, even with your furry friends.
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