How to Prevent Dog Allergies

A misconception about dog hair is that it causes allergies, but it is not the hair itself that pet owners are allergic to. Dog dander and saliva are the most common culprits as well as allergens, such as pollen, that can adhere to dogs' coats. Since dog hair isn't the source of the allergens, acquiring a dog that doesn't shed will not do very much to alleviate the problem. There are steps that you can take to prevent dog allergies from becoming unbearable, no matter what type of dog you have in your home as a pet.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum cleaner
• HEPA vacuum filter
• Dust mask
• Cheesecloth
• Allergen-trapping duster

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands well after petting your dog or handling its toys and bedding.

• 2

  Prevent your dog from climbing onto couches and chairs. Alternately, you can invest in furniture covers that are easily removed and laundered. If you decide to use covers, wash them often in hot water.

• 3

  Eliminate access to your bedroom. As cozy as it is to snuggle with your pet at night, allowing your dog into the bedroom is a guaranteed way to increase allergy symptoms.

• 4

  Vacuum regularly and thoroughly. Purchase a HEPA filter for your vacuum, which will capture smaller particles than other filters. Wear a dust mask while you vacuum to reduce the chance of inhaling allergens.

• 5

  Cover all vents in your bedroom with cheesecloth. This will allow the air to flow through freely while trapping the allergy-causing irritants.

• 6

  Ask a friend or family member to brush and bathe your dog, or take your pet to a groomer. Frequent grooming goes a long way in reducing allergy symptoms.

• 7

  Wash your dog's bedding at least once each week. Launder curtains and throws a minimum of once each month. Dust furniture, wall hangings and window blinds once every week with an allergen-trapping duster or damp cloth.

• 8

  Schedule regular vet visits. Many health conditions increase the amount of dander that dogs shed, so keeping your pet healthy is an effective way to prevent dog allergies.