Dogs are lovable animals; however, some people are allergic to dog hair and dander because their body may not have an immune system that fights pollen, hair dander, and allergens. Sadly, this is a big reason why many people do not adopt dogs from local shelters or add a pet to their family. If you have allergies, it likely seems unfair that the rest of 
the world can celebrate their canine companionship while you’re left sneezing at the thought of it.
While many dogs are said to be “hypo allergenic,” for those suffering from an intolerance to dog hair and dander, there really is no such thing. While these dogs may shed less, the dander they produce is still capable of irritating allergies. For some, even the urine and saliva of dogs can result in a bad reaction to the immune system. In this case, a low dander breed of dog can help somewhat, but there are other things you can do to subdue you allergies if you decide to get a dog.
Frequent Cleaning
As a dog owner with allergies, you will need to clean your house more frequently than before the new addition. Dusting and vacuuming are two things that will need to be done more often so that these irritants can be removed from your living environment frequently. It may even be necessary to purchase a HEPA vacuum in order to clear the air even further. By doing these two things, a dog owner can lessen attacks from allergic reactions.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are vitally important for a person with allergies. A quality air purifier will filter pollen and allergens from the air. An Energy Star air purifier can be left on all day long without worry of it creating an expensive electric bill so this is also a good thing to look for when selecting the right purifier for your home. Some air purifiers have filters that last months, even years, before they need to be changed. Other purifiers have filters that need only to be cleaned. HEPA air purifiers are a good choice also since they are specifically designed for those with breathing difficulties caused by asthma or allergies.
Proper Grooming
Combing, shampooing, and blow drying are all ways that a dog can be groomed and are vitally important for not only their own health and maintenance, but for yours too as an allergy sufferer. There are also special shampoos that reduce the amount of dander that a dog produces that you can buy if you plan on grooming your dog yourself. While this is an option, you may want to have your dog professionally groomed so that you are not exposed more than necessary to their hair and dander. Regularly combing a dog will also reduce the amount of trapped hair caused by shedding.
Feed Your Dog Special Food
There is food that can be purchased that helps prevent dogs from producing dander which can be purchased in local pet stores and are normally sold as probiotics. These type of shampoos are completely harmless for dogs and are actually responsible for promoting improved skin health and coat quality.
Wash Frequently
It is important to frequently wash clothes, dog toys, dog beds, and other fabrics that can collect allergens. Use quality wash detergent to properly clean all of the items. It’s also a great idea to choose a detergent that is meant for people with allergies. Many who suffer from a pet allergy may also be sensitive to scented shampoos, soaps and detergents.
If you take the proper steps to subdue your allergies, life with a canine friend can be healthy and happy for both of you!