According to a recent study, the breed of dog you share your home with has a negligible effect upon allergen levels. Or, to put it more bluntly: there ain't no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. So what does this say of the people who swear by hypoallergenic dogs? Are they scamming us (or themselves)? Are they sneaking their sneezes in private? Are we seeing some sort of massive placebo affect?
Obviously, there are variations within breeds; there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, let alone breed. And the AKC's list of dogs recommended for allergy sufferers carries the following disclaimer:
This list is based on breeds which usually produce less dander. The American Kennel Club does not recommend or endorse any specific breed, nor does it claim that the listed breeds will not affect people with allergies.
But given the consistent, intense reactions (and more importantly, non-reactions) certain people's noses have with certain breeds of dogs, I can't help but suspect this study has overlooked a key factor or two. Of course, anecdotal evidence does not make for reliable research, so for the time being, it's all in our heads.
Hypoallergenic or a placebo? She really doesn't care so long as she gets to sit on his lap.
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