So, you want to have a dog. You go to the nearest pet store and take the one you liked best home. Before the end of the day, you start sneezing nonstop and realize you're allergic to your pet.

It really is unfair how a whopping 10% (yes, this is considered a big part) of the population are allergic to dogs. Some are extremely unfortunate not to be able to stand the allergens while some are a bit more tolerant than the others. Still, many are willing to find ways to own a dog despite the risks of getting allergies. Some resort to finding the right hypoallergenic puppies to purchase or adopt.

But what exactly are hypoallergenic puppies? These are selected breeds of puppies which have less danders in their fur as compared to other breeds. This doesn't necessarily mean that they have absolutely no chance of causing allergies. The word hypoallergenic here means they are less likely to cause allergic reactions among humans.

Danders are tiny scales from a dog's hair and skin which may trigger or aggravate allergic reactions. Contrary to popular belief, the shedding of a dog's hair does not cause allergies per se. The dander allergens which can be found on dog hair are the primary causes of such reactions from by the human body. When dogs shed hair (or fur) dander spreads with it. Therefore, it is recommended that you give your dog a bath at least twice a week to lessen the production of these allergens.

It could also help to choose the breed of dogs which give off less dander allergens. Such hypoallergenic puppies are: Chinese crested, Kerry Blue Terrier, the Chihuahua, Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Irish Terrier, the Poodle, the Portuguese Water Dog or the Mexican Hairless Dog. These puppies have short and smooth hair that does not shed as much as the other breeds.

Self-assessment is helpful in determining the dog breed when purchasing or adopting a pet. Though most of the breeds of puppies listed above are known to be hypoallergenic, allergic reactions from humans still depend on the individual. Not everyone reacts the same way others do. There is the possibility that one could be allergic to a certain dog though it is listed under a hypoallergenic breed.

Consulting a doctor may help you define your tolerance for such animals. At the same time, talking to a veterinarian would also help you find out more about the types of dogs you are considering to purchase or adopt. In addition to this, the vet could also supply you with information on the proper ways to care and raise the puppy you are planning to have.

Remember to keep a balance between you and your family's welfare and that of your pets. Your health and your pet's health are equally important and must not be taken for granted. It always pays to learn things ahead of time. Before you know it, you'll be laughing your way to the pet store then to your home with your new hypoallergenic pet puppy.