Getting a family pet is an important decision, especially a dog that comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. From a standard Labrador to a not so well known Lhasa Apso, each dog breed comes with it’s own unique needs and features. It can also teach valuable life lessons to growing young children, but there’s another benefit of pet ownership for kids. Having an animal in the house may actually reduce the risk of children developing allergies and according to the ASPCA, the earlier and younger, the better.
Research suggests that infants exposed to animals during their first year of life can lead to the possibility of a child not developing pet allergies. They point to the “hygiene theory,” an idea that early exposure to certain environmental factors, like dust or animal dander, might trigger the immune system to develop a tolerance for common allergens, therefore reducing the likelihood of children from developing these types of sensitivities.
Another Solution
For those of us who already suffer from allergies or children that are sensitive to certain allergens, there may still be another solution – hypoallergenic dog breeds. There are certain dog breeds that shed less much less than others or not at all and therefore they can be better tolerated by some sensitive individuals. Still other things like saliva and skin can still trigger allergic reactions, but one of these breeds may offer relief or at least lessen symptoms of those who suffer:
- A long list of terriers including the Airedale, Bedlington, Border, Cairn, Kerry Blue, Tibetan, Wirehaired, West Highland, Yorkshire and Soft Coated Wheaten.
- A number of other smaller dogs, the Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer and Shih Tzu.
- Bigger breeds like the Giant Schnauzer, Puli, Irish and Portuguese Water Dogs.
- Poodles, both standard and toy along with popular mixes like the Labradoodle.
One might think that shorter-haired breeds like the Dachshund would shed much less than longer, hairy dogs like the Cairn Terrier, but I have had both and I think I still have dog hair from the Dachshund, while the little Cairn doesn’t seem to shed very much at all. Both Labradoodles and Australian Cobberdogs, sharing the trait of a thick, fury or woolly coat, are believed to be hypoallergenic by most cobberdog puppy breeders. They are small in size but have lots of body hair that people assume will shed quickly and in large quantities, while this is not the case. This often makes them a good choice as a family pet, adding on to the fact that they tend to bond quickly with humans. Speaking of size, it’s also suggested that larger breed dogs may pose a bigger threat to allergy sufferers due to their size, but there’s no evidence to support that theory.
More Ways To Lessen Effects
Regular bathing and grooming should also cut down on the occurrence of negative reactions that can come from their skin, hair, dust and mites. Children should also be discouraged from rough housing with dogs to lessen reactions that could come from their nails, saliva and to avoid the possibility of other aggressive behavior that could lead to biting. This includes other canines they may encounter and should be taught to steer clear of lone dogs wandering unattended and ask an owner’s permission before they approach their pets, even when they are on a leash.
Another approach that should happen before you actually purchase, acquire or the best avenue available, adopt a new pet is to experience a trial period first. Any family member who may suffer from allergies should spend some time with the animal to see if they have any negative reactions before committing to taking them home.
This is also another valuable lesson to teach our children, animals are not toys and they shouldn’t be placed into a category that makes them “returnable” simply because we don’t like them, grow weary of them or any other reason that makes them seem disposable. Pets are another member of our family and should be treated as such, with love, caring and respect.
