Choosing an Allergy Friendly Dog
People who suffer from dog allergies tend to have a very tough time being around dogs in general making it miserable for them to have a pet dog. Their allergies flair up and bring about terrible sneezing, stuffy noses, skin rashes and watery/itchy eyes that they develop while in the proximity of dogs. Luckily, there are special types of dog which are considered hypoallergenic dogs that can allow someone with dog allergies to still have a canine pet.
Generally dog allergy symptoms develop because of allergen particles which are given off in the air from dog skin and hair. The allergens mostly come from things the dog hair has come into contact with such as dust and pollen, which trigger allergies. People who have dog allergies have immune systems which tend to be weaker when they are in contact with the various allergens, triggering the various symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing and skin rashes or hives. To further illustrate why dogs can cause allergies for some people, dogs which have more hair tend to pick up more of the allergen particles. Therefore someone who suffers from dog allergies would want to avoid dogs like the German Shepherd, Irish Setter or Afghan Hound.
The alternative to having no dog whatsoever is to choose a dog which will cause less or minimal allergies. Hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that create less allergens in the air due to their physical size and fur lengths. Some of these dogs have very minimal shedding of their hair which helps to reduce the chance for any allergen particles being sent into the air. It’s important to note that no dog is considered truly hypoallergenic, because all dogs give off some degree of allergens, and dog allergies can be different from person to person.
There’s several potential pets that a person with dog allergies can consider. Breeds of dog such as the Pomeranian, Irish Terrier, Samoyed, Portuguese Water Dog and Miniature Schnauzers are considered great pets for those with dog allergies due to minimal shedding or dander. The Incha Orchid, Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier or the Mexican Hairless are also great choices as these dogs are almost all hairless. Also consider the environment or living arrangement when choosing the dog. Dogs such as Irish Terriers and Poodles tend to do better with families while Portuguese Water Dogs and Chihuahuas are better with one person.
When selecting a prospective pet dog, one of the best pieces of advice for the prospective dog owner who has dog allergies is for that person to spend at least 30 minutes around the potential pet dog. This can help the individual gauge whether or not that dog will be right for them, or cause them to suffer from dog allergies. If the dog being considered lives at a breeder far away, sending a piece of clothing is an alternate way to test things. Once the clothing item has been placed near the dog for a day or so it can be sent back for the individual to test by wearing or smelling to see if it causes any allergy problems.
People who enjoy the companionship of having a pet dog yet have allergy complications don’t have to be pet-less. A hypoallergenic dog can provide the perfect solution to allow a dog allergy sufferer to have a pet dog while cutting down on the coughing, sneezing and irritations that come with allergies.
Pet Dog Nation (http://petdognation.com) provides dog owners and animal lovers information about dog allergies, dog grooming, care and presents various dog breeds including the 25 most intelligent breeds of dogs.
Allergy Free Dogs Do They Really Exist?
Is there such a thing as an allergy free dog? To answer this question you first must understand what an allergy is. If you have dog allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies.
The allergy producing proteins called allergens are produced in the dogs skin. When the dog licks himself or herself this sticky protein in the dead skin cells is deposited on the hair. When the dog hair comes into contact with dust, clothing, furniture, curtains, or you, the protein will stick to the surface of the object. Pet hair itself does not product allergic reactions in individual, but the dog dander that sticks to the dog hair will.
So the answer to the question is there such a thing as an allergy free dog is a resounding no. All dogs will produce this type of allergens and it will be found in the dog’s dander, saliva, or urine. The good news is that depending on the severity of the allergy reaction, the care you take in avoiding them, and the type of dog you have you may still own a dog.
When searching for hypoallergenic pets your first stop should be the American Kennel Club (AKC). They listed some dog breeds that they considered to be the most suitable for allergic individuals.
Consider Poodles, Airedales, and Schnauzers because they shed their skin about every 21 days whereas German Shepard and Irish Setters shed their skin about every three days. Less dander means less contact with the allergy producing allergen.
Another considerations are dogs that do not shed their hair very often or have very little hair to shed. Less airborne hair means less chance of you coming into contact with the allergen. You should consider the Poodle, Chinese Crested, Labradoodle (cross between a Labrador and a Poodle), Mexican Hairless, Chihuahua, Greyhound and Basenji.
The only true pet allergy test is for you to come into contact with the dog. Find a breeder or pet shop owner that will allow you to be with the dog for a day or so. If no allergy symptoms show up then you may have found the type of dog best suited to your allergy problems. Allergies Type I can get worst over time so if you have even a slight allergy reaction during your contact with the breed of dog you are considering you will need to look at another breed. Dogs usually live to be over 10 years of age so the decision you make today will affect you for years to come.
Mild cases of Allergies Type 1 can be treated with common products such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, and Quercitin.
Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.
Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy.
Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.
Vitamin C is nature’s protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.
Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system.
Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms.
Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
David Cowley has created numerous articles on allergies. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to allergies and how to treat them. Visit Allergy Treatment
Guide to Allergy Dog Food
When a dog has skin problems, we rarely suspect these as food allergies or sensitivities. As most dogs keep eating the same type of dog food for years, the food usually escapes our radar as the problem. But dogs, like humans, can develop sensitivity to any food or additive at any time. Recent estimates indicate that 10 to 15 percent of all allergic skin diseases in dogs are caused by food allergy. In such cases, they should be given allergy dog food, i.e., food that does not cause allergic reactions.
As dog food is made up of a combination of ingredients, it is difficult to pinpoint exactly which is causing the allergy. The most common ingredients that can cause problems in a dog include beef, chicken, corn, eggs, fish, lamb, milk, preservatives, pork, soy, wheat, and whey.
The primary symptom that appears in a dog having food allergy is itchy skin.
Other symptoms may include anal itching, ear inflammations, hair loss, licking front paws, loss of appetite, face rubbing, and head shaking. Sometimes asthma-like symptoms, behavioral changes, diarrhea, flatulence, seizures, sneezing, and vomiting can also be observed.
When you conclude after consultations with your veterinarian, that food may be the underlying cause of your dog’s allergy, then you can begin an elimination diet. Discard all the foods in the dog’s diet that are included in the list above, and give him/her allergy dog food, which may be a commercial or homemade diet comprising ingredients the dog has never eaten before.
The homemade allergy dog food should comprise two parts starch and one part protein. Duck, salmon, soy, venison, and rabbit may form the protein part, and rice and potatoes the starch, but soy and rice cannot be always called safe substitutes. Some animal medical centers recommend duck and potato based foods as allergy dog food.
You can also choose a special commercial food blends as allergy dog food. As the homemade food is not nutritionally complete, it should not be continued for more than 8 weeks.
Whatever allergy dog food you choose for your pet, it should be the only food the dog ingests during the elimination period. So, say adieu to table scraps, dog biscuits, dog bones, rawhide chews, vitamins, minerals or chewable heartworm pills.
If symptoms improve during the elimination period, you can reintroduce each of the eliminated food items one at a time. Each food should be tested for a week before another is introduced. This will help you to pinpoint which foods may be causing problems if symptoms resurface. And once you detect the offensive food, it will be easier for you to choose the right allergy dog food to keep your pet free from allergy.
Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on allergy dog food, allergy eye and allergy filter.
Hairless Hypoallergenic Dogs – A Unique Alternative For Dog-Loving Allergy Sufferers
Called non-shedding dogs, there are many dog breeds that slough off less dog hair and dander and present less risk to people who have allergies. Many of them have long, silky coats appropriate for the show world. But if you want a dog that is both non-shedding AND unique, you might consider shopping for a hairless hypoallergenic dog.
While it’s common to assume that these dogs are all tiny, barking pests, you’ll find a range of sizes and temperaments in the hairless hypoallergenic dog category. True, there are more small hairless hypoallergenic dogs than larger sizes. But you can find a great medium-sized hairless hypoallergenic dog without too much work.
Four medium-sized hairless hypoallergenic dogs include the Mexican Hairless (also Xoloitzcuintie or Xolo), the American Hairless Terrier, the hairless Chinese Crested, and the Peruvian Inca Orchid (called the PIO). You may find it necessary to do your search for breeders online, as these hairless hypoallergenic dogs are relatively rare.
You may have a harder time finding a Mexican Hairless because there are few breeders worldwide. The Xolo has a short coat that doesn’t need a lot of brushing or combing because its hair is so short. You won’t have to worry about matting either since there’s nothing to matt or tangle. You can find a range of sizes in the Mexican Hairless breed.
The popular American Hairless Terrier is not a true hairless dog, although it does have a short coat requiring little grooming. The first of this breed was an accident! Appearing in 1972 from nowhere in a litter of Rat Terriers, its Louisiana owners were able to reproduce the new hairless variety and have been doing so since the early 1980s. Like its Terrier cousins, the American Hairless is a friendly, outgoing, small husky dog who lives happily in a small apartment or townhome.
The Chinese Crested is available in two distinct varieties: the truly hairless and the Powder Puff. The hairless Chinese Crested still has shocks of hair on its head, tail, and feet that need regular grooming. The Powder Puff variety and has long fine hair resembling human hair. Both classified as hypoallergenic dogs due to their limited shedding.
The Peruvian Hairless, or PIO, is a hairless dog. It is medium-sized, intelligent, and friendly. Being a bit more self-willed than other dogs, the PIO is not for people without experience in training and disciplining dogs. They need to be socialized early and should be trained in obedience.
Hairless hypoallergenic dogs generally need regular exercise, generous attention, and close companionship with their owners and family. Because they don’t have the dog hair that normally protects the skin, they need extra protection outdoors to prevent sunburn and dry skin problems. They are more susceptible to dry skin rashes and acne, so you may find yourself using special skin creams to treat pain and itches associated with skin irritations and diseases.
Due to the limited number of hairless hypoallergenic dog breeders, you’ll probably want to start your search on the internet. Be sure to check your breeder’s credentials and references. Not all breeders of hairless hypoallergenic dogs are created equal. Be sure the breeder you choose has a passion for the dogs, rather than the money he gets.
It’s a good idea to visit the breeder before selecting a dog from them. Inspect their facilities and spend some time with them to learn about their views and attitudes towards their dogs. If you know someone who already has a hairless hypoallergenic dog, you might want to spend some time with their pet to get a feel for what life will be like with this type of pet.
Owning a dog is a commitment of time and energy that repays you with tons of love and companionship. If you have problems with allergies to dog hair, choosing a hairless hypoallergenic dog may be the perfect solution. Take time to do the research to identify the breed that will make a perfect companion for you and your family. Accept the fact that you’ll be grooming and bathing your new hairless hypoallergenic dog, and enjoy your new companion for years to come!
Abhishek is an avid dog lover and he has got some great Dog Health Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 80 Pages Ebook, “How To Take Care Of Your Dog’s Health” from his website http://www.Dog-Tale.com/192/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.
What Are Effective Dog Skin Allergy Treatments?
If you’re the owner of a pooch who suffers one of the many types of dog skin allergy out there, chances are, you’d do just about anything to make sure that he or she still has a great quality of life. The great news is that just as “human” medicine has advanced, new developments in veterinary science also mean your dog has a better chance than ever at a long, happy, healthy life.
If you love your dog, allergies symptoms will probably make you incredibly worried – itching, scratching, biting, hair loss, stomach trouble and more are all common signs of dog skin allergy, whether they be to food, fleas, or items in their environment. Here are a few of the treatments available for dog skin allergy today:
Avoidance
If your pet is allergic to a specific allergen, for instance house dust, or pollen, or maybe a particular type of food, the simple choice is to keep them away from the dog skin allergy triggers – keep them out of the room when you vacuum, keep grass short, or avoid treats or foods that contain the ingredients they are allergic to.
Fatty Acids and Biotin
Interestingly enough, recent research has shown that feeding more Omega 3 and 6 fatty acid rich foods can help reduce the symptoms of dog skin allergy, by reducing the histamine response to allergens. On the other hand, Biotin, a B vitamin, helps reduce the itchy skin associated with dog skin allergy, so adding a supplement containing this, like brewer’s yeast, to your dogs’ diet, should make for an improved coat and skin.
Anti Histamines
Better known in the treatment of human than dog skin allergy, anti histamines none the less have had some good effect on affected dogs. Make sure you find out from your vet which work best, and note that a mild sedative effect is a common side effect of this kind of medication.
Immunotherapy
Basically, in dog skin allergy, as in human allergies, a milder form of the specific allergen is used to build up the tolerance of the dog to that particular allergen. It may take some time for this to be effective, and it can be expensive, so it’s usually only resorted to when all else fails in dog skin allergy treatment!
Steroids
When you think steroids, dog skin allergy treatment is probably the furthest thing from your mind, however, they can be some of the best, fastest acting and most effective treatments for your dog skin allergy problems. Of course, prolonged use is not advisable, unless under the strict supervision of a vet, but they will provide almost immediate relief from dog skin allergy symptoms like extreme itching!
These are by no means the only options as far as treating your pet’s dog skin allergy. There are herbal, homeopathic and many other options you could explore, and topical treatments, shampoos, creams and ointments can all offer welcome respite to your four legged friend from his irritating and painful dog skin allergy symptoms. So if your pooch is looking under the weather, find out if it’s an allergy – and if so, try one of these solutions!
Your dog’s health means a lot to you, as well as your own. Keep yourself informed and learn more about dog allergies at CureDogAllergies.com, where you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your dog, your home and of course yourself free of allergies, and in tip top shape!
Deciding What To Do When You Have A Pet Allergy
Do you suspect that you have a pet allergy? You may have noticed that your eyes would get watery or you would wheeze every time you play with your cat or dog in your room. Your pet may be a new pet or you may already have had it for some years now. Either way, you just do not feel good after being near it.
At the same time, even though you have actually determined that you have a pet allergy, you simply cannot bring yourself to part with it. You have grown so attached to it that it is impossible to give it away.
To help decide if you should keep your pet or not, there are some factors that you need to consider. First, you need to understand what your pet allergy is about. A pet allergy does not mean that you are allergic to your cat or dog per se. It is the animal skin dander that you are allergic to. The dander is what will trigger the itchy, water eyes, sneezing, and affect the nasal passage. You may be just a little affected by your pet allergy or your symptoms can also be extremely severe.
If you wish to keep your pet, a conventional treatment is to use drugs to keep your allergic reactions under control. You may obtain pet allergy medication either over the counter or via a prescription from your doctor. If you are near your pet everyday, you may have to take medications everyday. However, this is hardly a desirable situation as drug medications can bring about side effects. You may not have realized this but taking drug medications on a daily basis for a prolonged period of time would take a toll on your health.
There are other ways to help reduce your pet allergy symptoms. Keeping your cat or dog out of your room and washing your hands after playing with it are some things that you can do.
Developing a pet allergy is pretty common. It is often said that your risk to getting a pet allergy is reduced if you have been exposed to a cat or dog at an early age. However, this is often debated on many forums and stands to be disputed.
If you decide to keep your dog or cat, then consider what you need to do to keep your pet allergy symptoms under control. If you have severe pet allergy symptoms despite taking preventative measures, then you may need to prioritize what you consider as important – your health or your pet.
Evelyn Lim has been an allergy sufferer for many years. She now publishes tips on allergy natural treatment. For more information, please visit http://www.Allergy-Attacks.com.
Low Allergy Dogs – How To Choose The Best Hypoallergenic Dog For You.
Discover How To Choose Your Perfect Hypoallergenic, Non-Shedding Dog, Easily And Quickly! Learn Which 43 Dog Breeds Are Hypoallergenic, And Use Proven, Powerful, Successful Techniques To Choose Your Perfect Hypoallergenic Dog For A Happy, Healthy Home!
Low Allergy Dogs – How To Choose The Best Hypoallergenic Dog For You.
Dogs and Cats with Food Allergies
Help for dogs and cats with food allergies. Dr. Colleen Smith discusses diet and supplements in this educational video from www.HolisticPetInfo.com.
Duration : 0:2:46
Cat or Dog with Itchy Skin? Allergies affect pets too.
There are alternatives to steroid treatments for allergies in pets. Dr. Colleen Smith discusses how natural therapies can help relieve the symptons and lead to a healthier life for your pet with allergies. View other pet health videos at www.holisticpetinfo.com.
Duration : 0:1:50
Skin Allergies in Dogs and Cats Part 2
This is part 2 of the video containing general information about pet allergies. Provided by Dr. Matthew Wheaton from Alicia Pet Care Center.
Duration : 0:3:52