Many asthmatics suffer from symptoms that can be life-threatening when they are around certain breeds of dogs. I thought it would be useful to share the best breeds of dogs for asthmatics. These breeds may not work for everyone who suffers from asthma, but they have been shown, through research, to be the breeds which invoke the least amount of symptoms in asthmatics. It is important to remember that no breed of dog can be completely hypoallergenic. All dogs do produce a certain amount of dander, which is what triggers most symptoms in asthma sufferers.
Best Dogs for Asthmatics
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu’s are originally from China and are also known as Chinese Lion Dogs. They are great dogs for asthmatics because they have a low amount of dander and shed very little when their coat is properly groomed. Keep in mind that Shih Tzu’s are very sensitive to heat and will need to be kept cool on hot summer days!
Poodle
Many people instantly think of poodles when they are looking for an asthmatic friendly dog. They have coats that shed very little and can be kept cut short, with low maintenance. The poodle is also a great choice because it comes in a variety of sizes. Toy and Teacup Poodles are a great option for anyone who likes the poodle breed but needs a smaller pet or does not enjoy the size of a standard poodle.
Bichon Frisé
Commonly referred to as a Bichon, this French breed is great with children, other animals, and can be a great companion. Their coats do require a certain amount of maintenance to keep them free of tangles and mats. They can be prone to skin problems if they are not properly groomed and maintained. Bichon’s grow to be generally no more than 12 pounds and with proper grooming they rarely shed making them a great addition to the list of great dogs for asthmatics.
Airedale Terrier
If you are someone who prefers a larger dog, the Airedale Terrier may be a great choice for you! They are the second largest of the terrier breeds and come in two sizes weighing up to 100 pounds. Like most large breeds, Airedale Terriers require plenty of exercises to keep them healthy and entertained. They can be difficult to train so keep in mind that you may need to be patient but persistent if you choose an Airedale Terrier. Their coats are low shedding and they produce minimal amounts of dander which makes them a great choice for asthmatics.
I hope this list has been helpful for you in your search for a breed of dog that could join your family without triggering symptoms in asthma sufferers. Remember that it is always a good idea to meet with any dog you are considering before bringing it home; this will ensure you do not have any surprise symptoms!
Do you have any of these pooches? Do you know of any other great dogs for asthmatics that we missed? Share in the comments!
