10 Worst Dog Breeds for People With Allergies

People with dog allergy — AndrewLozovyi/Depositphotos

Planning on getting a new canine? A dog may be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean getting one is a no-brainer, especially if you’re atopic.

Around one in three people suffer from allergies in the US, and things can get a bit complicated for the afflicted one way or the other.

So getting a new pet for leisure or security might get tricky for some of us, especially when opting for a breed that sheds or drools a lot.

With that said, here are the 10 worst dog breeds that you should avoid if you’re prone to allergies:

1. Golden Retriever

When it comes to sheer friendliness and energy, few dog breeds rival the Golder Retriever. And that’s all the more reason Golden Retrievers have become one of the most easily identifiable and popular dog breeds.

But don’t let those pleasing eyes and playful sneer fool you, for they are a menace for people with allergies.

Golden Retrievers shed moderately for the most part but come shedding season (Spring and Fall), it’s a whole other story.

Paired with their lustrous double cot and energetic nature, dander is sure to load up your premises in no time, making it a nightmare for those prone to allergies.

2. Labrador Retriever

Another Retriever that’s equally popular and playful as the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever too, shares the same shortcomings as its kin.

Despite being great around the house with kids and other pets, their year-round shedding can be a no-go for people suffering from allergies.

And their eagerness to please and commendable playfulness will disperse dander throughout your premise quite quickly.

3. Boxer

Boxers are fierce and loyal companions and often come out as intimidating thanks to their muscular build.

Their propensity for adventure and games makes them a worthy companion for leisure as well as hunting activities.

But for the atopic, they are a liability. Boxers tend to shed moderately throughout the year but their playful nature will contribute to dander dispersion immensely.

Not to mention, they tend to drool quite a bit, which is a major red flag as well.

4. Pekingese

The Pekingese, often known as the “Lion Dog” is a majestic toy breed known for their short compact build and expressive eyes.

Another standout characteristic of the Pekingese is their long and flowy double coat, which they tend to shed heavily throughout the year.

Not to mention their peculiar flat face and V-shaped wrinkles also make them prone to drool a lot.

In all its essence the Pekingese may catch the attention of many but it does come at a cost, especially for those with allergies.

5. Doberman Pinscher

A mainstay in armed forces and the law and order disciplines, the Doberman Pinscher has garnered a fair bit of traction thanks to the many movies and shows they have been featured in.

They are fierce loyal and well-suited for protection, making them ideal pets for the overall security of their owners.

Their short coat may seem easy to manage but they tend to shed generously, which when coupled with their energetic nature can be a menace for people with allergies.

6. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers affectionately called the ‘American Gentleman’ due to their distinct coat marking are elegant, playful, and at times, funny little canines.

Unlike most other breeds that have made this list, Boston Terriers tend to shed minimally and are relatively easy to manage.

It’s their own likeness to develop skin allergies and allergens that are a part of their urine that make them a no-go for people with allergies.

Once they develop allergies, it’s highly likely for them to increase shedding as a result of increased scratching.

7. Border Collie

Border Collies are elegant, beautiful, and extremely loyal. Their inclination for adventure and physical activity also contribute to their overall desirability.

As with most other dog breeds that feature a dense double coat, Border Collies, too, tend to shed generously throughout the year with heightened shedding during Spring and Fall.

Though people with allergies can manage life with this breed through rigorous grooming practices, it is safe to say that you best avoid this breed if you suffer from allergies.

8. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are gentle giants, known for their calm and friendly nature, making them wonderful companions for families with children and other pets.

Their large stature is complemented by a thick double coat, which provides protection in colder climates but also leads to heavy shedding, especially during seasonal changes.

Due to their substantial shedding and the dander they produce, Saint Bernards are not hypoallergenic, which can be a concern for those with allergies.

9. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for their silky, flowing coats and soulful eyes, paired with a playful and energetic personality that makes them a joy to be around.

While they shed moderately compared to some other breeds, they are not hypoallergenic, which can be an issue for allergy sufferers.

In addition to shedding, their tendency to drool can spread saliva allergens around the home, further affecting those sensitive to allergens.

10. Bulldog

Bulldogs, once bred for more intense purposes, are now beloved for their friendly and calm demeanor, making them one of the most easily recognizable dog breeds. Their short coat sheds moderately throughout the year, but it’s the face wrinkles that can pose challenges for those with allergies.

If not properly cleaned and maintained, these wrinkles can trap moisture, leading to infections. Combined with their moderate shedding and tendency to drool excessively, Bulldogs may not be the best choice for allergy sufferers.

Final Thoughts

While dogs can bring immense joy and companionship, it’s important to consider how their shedding and drooling might affect allergy sufferers.

Breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers can be a real challenge due to their shedding and dander, while droolers like Boxers, with their energetic antics, can make life tough for those with allergies.

Even if most dog breeds aren’t hypoallergic, select few breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises can be tolerated to a certain extent.

A quick piece of advice – always spend time with a dog before bringing it home to see how your allergies react (better safe than sorry)!