When it comes to being hypoallergenic, Maltese dogs fit the bill pretty well. Their coat is more hair-like than fur, and they don’t have an undercoat.
This means they shed very little, which is music to the ears of allergy sufferers. Less shedding equals less dander floating around, which means fewer allergens in the air.
If you’re tired of sneezing around dogs but dream of having a furry friend, keep reading. This post will show you why Maltese and similar breeds might be your ticket to a sneeze-free companionship.
What you’ll get from reading this post:
- Clear understanding of what “hypoallergenic” means for dog breeds
- Insights into why Maltese dogs are considered hypoallergenic
- Detailed comparison of 8 hypoallergenic breeds similar to Maltese
- Practical tips for grooming and living with a hypoallergenic Maltese
- Important health considerations for Maltese dogs
Overview of the Maltese Breed
Maltese dogs are small, usually weighing in at under 7 pounds. They’re known for their long, silky white coat that can grow all the way to the floor if you let it. But don’t let their dainty appearance fool you – these dogs have big personalities packed into their tiny bodies.
So why are Maltese so popular? For starters, they’re adaptable. Whether you live in a mansion or a studio apartment, a Maltese can make itself at home. They’re also affectionate and love to be around their humans, making them great companion dogs. Plus, let’s face it – they’re cute as a button, and who can resist that?
Why Maltese Dogs Are Considered Hypoallergenic
First off, it’s all about the coat. Maltese dogs have a single layer of hair that grows continuously, much like human hair. This is different from dogs with double coats that shed seasonally. Because Maltese hair grows like ours, it falls out less frequently and in smaller amounts.
But it’s not just about shedding. The Maltese coat also produces less dander. Remember, dander is the real troublemaker when it comes to allergies. Less dander means fewer allergens floating around in the air, which means less sneezing for you.
Another cool thing about the Maltese coat is that it acts like a trap for the small amount of dander they do produce. Instead of the dander floating off into the air, it often gets caught in their long hair. This means you can remove a lot of potential allergens simply by regular grooming.
Now, here’s where we need to bust a myth: No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Even Maltese can trigger allergies in some people. The idea that they’re completely allergy-proof is a misconception. They’re just less likely to cause problems compared to other breeds.
8 Hypoallergenic Dogs Like Maltese
If you love the idea of a Maltese but want to explore other options, you’re in luck. There are several other breeds that share similar hypoallergenic qualities. Let’s take a look at eight of them:
1. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is like a cotton ball with legs. These cheerful little dogs have a lot in common with Maltese when it comes to being hypoallergenic.
Like the Maltese, Bichons have hair instead of fur and don’t shed much. Their coat is dense and curly, which helps trap dander close to their skin. This means less dander floating around in the air, which is great news for your allergies.
One difference is that Bichons tend to be a bit larger than Maltese, usually weighing between 10-20 pounds. They also have a more playful, clownish personality compared to the sometimes-prissy Maltese.
2. Poodle
Poodles come in three sizes – standard, miniature, and toy – but they all share the same hypoallergenic coat.
What makes Poodles a good alternative to Maltese? Like Maltese, they have hair that grows continuously and sheds very little. Their curly coat also traps dander effectively.
One big difference is that Poodles require more exercise than Maltese. They’re also generally considered to be more intelligent and easier to train. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog that’s a bit more athletic, a Poodle might be your perfect match.
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are another small breed that shares some hypoallergenic qualities with the Maltese.
These little “lion dogs” have a long, silky coat that’s similar to the Maltese. They don’t shed much, and their hair-like coat helps reduce the spread of dander.
However, Shih Tzus tend to be a bit sturdier than Maltese, often weighing up to 16 pounds. They’re also known for being a bit more stubborn, which can make training a challenge.
4. Havanese
The Havanese is Cuba’s only native breed, and they’re another excellent hypoallergenic option.
Like Maltese, Havanese have a silky coat that doesn’t shed much. They’re also small, usually weighing between 7-13 pounds.
One difference is that Havanese come in a variety of colors, not just white. They’re also known for being especially playful and social, even more so than the already friendly Maltese.
5. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is another small breed with a long, flowing coat that’s considered hypoallergenic.
These dogs originated in Tibet and were bred to be indoor sentinel dogs. Like Maltese, they have hair instead of fur and don’t shed much.
Lhasa Apsos are a bit larger than Maltese, usually weighing between 12-18 pounds. They’re also known for being more independent and sometimes aloof with strangers.
6. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a larger option for those who want a hypoallergenic dog with a bit more size.
These dogs have a soft, wavy coat that doesn’t shed much. Like Maltese, they produce less dander than many other breeds.
Kerry Blue Terriers are much larger than Maltese, weighing between 30-40 pounds. They’re also more energetic and require more exercise. If you want a hypoallergenic dog that can keep up with an active lifestyle, this might be the breed for you.
7. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs gained fame as the choice of pet for President Obama’s family, partly due to their hypoallergenic qualities.
These dogs have a coat that’s more similar to human hair than fur, much like the Maltese. They don’t shed much and produce less dander than many other breeds.
Portuguese Water Dogs are much larger than Maltese, weighing between 35-60 pounds. They’re also very energetic and were originally bred as working dogs, so they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
8. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Last but not least, we have the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
These dogs have a soft, silky coat that’s similar to human hair, much like the Maltese. They shed very little and are considered a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs, weighing between 30-40 pounds. They’re known for their friendly, energetic personalities and require more exercise than a Maltese.
Care and Grooming of Maltese Dogs for Allergy Management
Alright, so you’ve decided a Maltese is the way to go. Great choice! But don’t think you can just sit back and let the hypoallergenic magic happen. Nope, you’ve got to put in some work to keep those allergies at bay.
First things first: grooming.
It’s not just about keeping your Maltese looking fabulous (although that’s a nice bonus). Regular grooming is crucial for managing allergens.
Here’s the deal: even though Maltese don’t shed much, they still need frequent brushing. We’re talking daily, folks. This isn’t just to prevent tangles (although it does that too). Brushing helps remove any loose hair and dander before it can float off into the air and trigger your allergies.
In other to archive that, you will need this exact brushes below
A Pin Brush – Like this one! It’s perfect for Maltese breeds.
Slicker Brush – Here is one of the best you should get!
Now, let’s talk about bathing.
You might think more is better when it comes to keeping your Maltese clean and allergy-friendly. But hold your horses! Bathing too often can actually dry out their skin, leading to more dander. Aim for a bath every 3-4 weeks, unless your pup gets into something stinky.
When you do bathe your Maltese, use a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo like this one it’s vet approved and perfect for all dogs. This will help keep their coat and skin healthy, which means less dander production.
Don’t forget about those pesky areas that can harbor allergens – like around the eyes and in the ears. Clean these areas gently with a damp cloth daily to prevent buildup.
You can also get this ear cleaner kit here to make the process easier!
And here’s a pro tip: consider keeping your Maltese’s coat short. While that long, flowing coat is beautiful, a shorter cut is easier to maintain and can help reduce the amount of allergens your dog carries around.
Tips for Living with a Hypoallergenic Maltese
So, you’ve got your Maltese, and you’re keeping up with the grooming. But what about the rest of your life? Here are some tips to help you manage allergies when living with your fluffy friend.
First up: your home. Think of it as your allergy-free fortress. Here’s how to keep it that way:
- Invest in a good vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Run it at least twice a week, more if you notice your allergies acting up.
- Consider hard flooring instead of carpet. It’s easier to keep clean and doesn’t trap allergens like carpet does.
- Use allergen-proof covers on your mattress and pillows. Even if you don’t let your Maltese in the bedroom, this can help reduce overall allergens in your home.
- Wash your Maltese’s bedding weekly in hot water. This will help kill any dust mites and remove dander.
- Consider using an air purifier, especially in the rooms where you and your Maltese spend the most time.
Now, let’s talk about some lifestyle tips:
- Wash your hands after petting or playing with your Maltese. This helps prevent you from transferring allergens to your face.
- Designate certain areas of your home as dog-free zones. The bedroom is a good place to start.
- If possible, have someone else handle the grooming and bathing of your Maltese. If you must do it yourself, wear a mask and gloves.
- Keep your Maltese off furniture if possible. If that’s not realistic (we get it, those puppy eyes are hard to resist), use washable slipcovers on your furniture.
- Consider allergy shots or medication. Talk to your doctor about options that might help you manage your symptoms.
Living with allergies and a dog is all about finding the right balance. It might take some trial and error, but with these tips, you should be able to enjoy your Maltese without constantly reaching for the tissues.
Potential Health Considerations for Maltese Dogs
Now, let’s get real for a minute. As much as we love our Maltese friends, they’re not invincible. Like all breeds, they have their own set of health issues to watch out for.
Eye problems
Maltese are prone to eye problems like tear staining and infections. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue – eye problems can affect their overall health and potentially impact their hypoallergenic status if left untreated.
Dental issues.
These little guys often have overcrowded teeth, which can lead to dental disease. Bad teeth aren’t just about doggy breath – dental problems can lead to other health issues and might even increase dander production.
Maltese are also prone to something called “luxating patella.” In plain English, that means their kneecaps can slip out of place. This can affect their mobility and overall quality of life.
Another thing to watch out for is hypoglycemia, especially in puppies. These tiny pups can have trouble regulating their blood sugar, which can be serious if not managed properly.
How this illnesses affect them:
Now, you might be wondering how these health issues could affect their hypoallergenic status. Well, any health problem that causes stress or affects the skin can potentially increase dander production. For example, if your Maltese develops a skin infection, it could lead to more scratching and more dander being released into the air.
That’s why it’s crucial to keep up with regular vet check-ups and address any health issues promptly. A healthy Maltese is more likely to maintain its hypoallergenic qualities.
And here’s something that might surprise you: Maltese can have allergies too! Yep, your hypoallergenic dog could be allergic to things like certain foods or environmental factors. If your Maltese develops allergies, it could lead to skin problems and increased dander production.
The End…
Maltese and similar breeds can be fantastic options for folks who love dogs but don’t love the sneezing, wheezing, and itching that often comes with them.
These breeds produce less dander, shed less, and generally cause fewer allergy symptoms. Plus, they’re adorable, affectionate, and make great companions. It’s like having your cake and eating it too – or in this case, having your dog and breathing easily too.
But here’s the thing: everyone’s different. What works for one person might not work for another. That’s why it’s super important to spend some time around a Maltese (or whichever breed you’re considering) before you commit.
And speaking of committing, here’s a pro tip: talk to an allergist or your vet before bringing any new pet into your home. They can give you personalized advice based on your specific allergy situation.
