Archive for March, 2009

Hunting dogs, though traditionally used for hunting small game including foxes, rabbits, and others, have become household pets to many. Intelligent, graceful, and energetic, these dogs can bring joy and comfort to any home. Hypoallergenic hunting dogs are available for those who have problems with dog allergies. Three popular breeds include the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Afghan Hound, and the Basenji.

The German Shorthaired Pointer still used for hunting purposes today, is also considered a good choice for a family dog. The dog has a short coat that can be brushed easily. A short coat will not shed as much as longer coats and will not hold as much dander either. This is why the German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies. Long and lean, these dogs are very friendly and enjoy getting their exercise. Not much extra care is needed as the dogs do not have to be groomed often and they should only be bathed when they are extremely dirty.

A cross between a German Pointer and an English Pointer, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a good dog to have when on a hunt. The dog responds to noise and movement very quickly and is a loyal companion to have when outdoors.

The Afghan Hound may not look like a hypoallergenic dog with its long hair, but since the hair is similar to human hair, the dogs do not shed as frequently, which cause fewer allergy issues for owners and those who visit. While this dog was once used to hunt foxes, wolves, and deer, it is not longer used today. Instead, it is kept as a pet or for dog showing. With its beautiful brown coat, this dog is a showpiece.

The Afghan hound is a pleasant dog, but it does not take commands as often as it should. Unlike other hypoallergenic breeds, this dog will ignore commands made by its owner on occasion as it tries to maintain its independence. If you are looking for a dog that is easy to control, the Afghan Hound may not be the one for you.

The Basenji is one of the few breeds of hypoallergenic dog that does not bark. It will imitate sounds heard in its environment, but it does not bark on its own. Instead, the dog will yelp once or twice, but otherwise, it is a very quiet breed. If you live in an apartment, this dog is a good choice. Small dogs that originated in Africa, the Basenji is no longer used for hunting. The dog has shorter hair that does not shed as often. This is another reason why it is a popular hypoallergenic breed.

The Basenji, like the Afghan Hound does not take commands too often from owners. The dog is quiet, but likes to explore new places. This dog has been compared to a cat in terms of its behavior and temperament. While you may be able to train the dog to perform certain tasks, many times the Basenji will not want to obey.

Even though many breeds are no longer used just for sporting or hunting, these dogs have become popular favorites among those who need a hypoallergenic dog that has an easy temperament. Sporting dogs are considered intelligent, playful, and obey their owners when given commands. Hypoallergenic sporting dogs include Poodles, Australian Terriers, and Kerry Blue Terriers. Each of these dogs has been used to hunt small and large game and also to hunt for rodents and other pesky animals that carried disease. Now these animals are kept in the home as pets. While still playful and easy going, these dogs are now treated more like friends that as sporting partners.

Each of these breeds has a short coat that is more like human hair because it is soft and thin. Unlike other breeds, these dogs do not shed as often and when they do, it is usually not noticeable. People who want to own a medium sized dog will appreciate any of the breeds mentioned above. Grooming is an essential part of their care as is brushing their coats once or twice a week to prevent matting.

The Poodle comes in a few different varieties that are all hypoallergenic. Poodles have been used a sporting dogs, show dogs, and lap dogs for those who wanted a breed that would sit still on command. The Poodle is a friendly dog that does not make a lot of noise. They are very active and enjoy getting their exercise. People who want are thinking about buying a Poodle should conduct more research to see if this is the dog they truly want. Even though the Poodle can live for many years, they may suffer some health problems as they age.

The Australian Terrier was once used to catch mice and rats, but today it is kept at home because of its pleasant disposition and its long hair that does not shed. You can choose to cut the hair closer to the body if you choose. For those looking for a smaller dog, the Australian Terrier is a good choice. These dogs are considered companion dogs, meaning that they enjoy the company of people.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a relative of the Australian Terrier, but is much larger and has a more pronounced head and chest. Their head is almost square shaped. Their cost is soft and curly. It will not shed and needs to be groomed often to prevent matting. While the dogs are actually gray or black in color, a blue sheen can be found on their coat. This is where they got their name.

Kerry Blue Terriers need daily exercise that can range from long walks to running in the park with other dogs. If you have a backyard, you can let the dog run around and it will tire itself out. People who live in larger homes should consider buying a hypoallergenic dog like this one.

Even though these dogs are no longer used primarily as sporting dogs, this does not mean the dogs prefer to sit around all day long. Exercise is very important for dogs like these because they have been used for generations for sporting parties and long hunts in the woods.