Finding the Right Breed for the First Family
“Hypoallergenic” is the latest buzz word concerning Mr.Obama and his quest for the First Family’s dog. His daughter, Malia, has allergies, and so he’ll need to find the right breed for her. Fear not, Mr. Future President! We’re here to help.
There is no such thing as a truly non-allergenic or hypoallergenic dog. Dogs (and cats) produce allergenic proteins that can be found in their dander and saliva, regardless of their breed or the length and color of their hair, or lack thereof. Some may produce more—or less—allergens than others simply because of their individual nature.
But we don’t mean to rain on anyone’s parade. If you’re looking to adopt a dog and have an allergic family member like our President elect does, there is a lengthy list of dog breeds who qualify for the job as First Dog. These include, but are not limited to,
• Basenjis
• Bichons
• Chinese Cresteds
• Greyhounds
• Irish Water Spaniels
• Lhasa Apsos
• Malteses
• Poodles
• Portuguese Water Dogs
• Samoyeds
• Schnauzers
• Terriers such as Airedale, Bedlington, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Fox, Kerry Blue, Scottish, Wheaton, West Highland and Yorkshire
For some folks, a mix of the above breeds may also prove to be "hypoallergenic," so shelters are a very good source. But even if you prefer a purebred, you can still make adoption your first option. An estimated 25 to 30 percent of shelter dogs are purebred.
We hope we have helped to prevent any unfortunate, unnecessary sneezing in the White House and other households throughout the nation. Thus doing our part as good American citizens.
There is no such thing as a truly non-allergenic or hypoallergenic dog. Dogs (and cats) produce allergenic proteins that can be found in their dander and saliva, regardless of their breed or the length and color of their hair, or lack thereof. Some may produce more—or less—allergens than others simply because of their individual nature.
But we don’t mean to rain on anyone’s parade. If you’re looking to adopt a dog and have an allergic family member like our President elect does, there is a lengthy list of dog breeds who qualify for the job as First Dog. These include, but are not limited to,
• Basenjis
• Bichons
• Chinese Cresteds
• Greyhounds
• Irish Water Spaniels
• Lhasa Apsos
• Malteses
• Poodles
• Portuguese Water Dogs
• Samoyeds
• Schnauzers
• Terriers such as Airedale, Bedlington, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Fox, Kerry Blue, Scottish, Wheaton, West Highland and Yorkshire
For some folks, a mix of the above breeds may also prove to be "hypoallergenic," so shelters are a very good source. But even if you prefer a purebred, you can still make adoption your first option. An estimated 25 to 30 percent of shelter dogs are purebred.
We hope we have helped to prevent any unfortunate, unnecessary sneezing in the White House and other households throughout the nation. Thus doing our part as good American citizens.
posted by ASPCA at 2:00 PM PERMALINK
2 Comments:
i think a greyhound would make a perfect pet for the president-elect and his family. thank you linda beliveau-anthony warwick rhode island
I can attest to Lhasa Apsos being good for allergies! I adopted Oliver, a Lhasa Apso mix, from the ASPCA in November because my dad and my brother are allergic and have asthma. Oliver's been all over them and around them with no problems. :)
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