I think I have an allergy to my dog.

Many people think that they are allergic to dog hair, but in most cases it is the dander that causes the allergies.

Dander is tiny flakes of dead skin.

You can find it in your dog’s coat, on your clothing, on the furnishings and carpets and even in the air in your home where your dog lives.

People are allergic to this dander which can cause, itchy eyes, a runny nose, coughing and sneezing.

Some breeds of dogs have more dander than others, so if you have allergies consider a hypoallergenic breed.

If you have a dog dander issue, here`s some things you can do to keep the amount down to a minimum.

This is especially helpful for those with allergies or asthma.

First, you should bath your dog on a regular basis as shampooing them keeps their skin healthy while removing the hair your dog has already shed. It depends on the size of your dog, but you may want to use a shower head with a hose extension, so you can get the water where you need it.

If you have a big dog, you may want to give him a bath outdoors. You can always opt to have your pooch professionally groomed. Make sure your vet approves of the shampoo you will be using and also ask your vet what bathing schedule your particular breed of dog should have. You should regularly brush your dog`s coat, outdoors! This will help remove the undercoat and excess hair that would go airborne during normal activities.

It will also lessen scratching of the dead skin and dander because it stimulates circulation. Although brushing your pooch is time consuming, it is worth it as there will be less hair for the dander to cling to and it also makes your dog feel and look great! The one-on-one time is an extremely great time to bond with your pup as well! You can even train your dog to bring you the brush for his brushing regimen. 

You should also add a small amount of oil to your dog`s food. If your dog scratches and shakes more than usual, check with your vet to see if it could be diet related as your pooch could develop an allergy to wheat or some other ingredient and you`re not aware of it! Your regular vet-checks will help determine if there`s a food issue/allergy.

You should also vacuum often and if possible, use one with a HEPA air filter to keep the dander from re-entering the air. You may even want to invest in a home HEPA air purifying system, designed to run 24 hours a day.

Here are some Hypoallergenic dog breeds to consider if you do suffer from Allergies, but most of all, before you get a new pet, any family member that suffers from Allergies spend some time with the pet and see if they are allergic to them, before you commit to them and take them home, better to say no now than to be heartbroken later.

Poodles, Airedale Terrier, Australian Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Basenji, Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Miniature and Giant Schnauzer, Havanese, Samoyed, Portuguese Water Dog, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Italian Greyhound.

For more information about dogs please check out our Pet Selector section.