Ugly Dogs?

This instantly recognisable pooch is Chinese Crested Hairless, Sam, the once official ‘Ugliest Dog in the World’ and unofficial ‘Ugliest Dog Ever’!

Sadly this role model for dogs across the world died in 2006. Through his celebrity status Sam made better the lives of many rescue dogs. He made people realise that a picture perfect manicured pooch is no better than one who has a few wonky features and the odd battle scar. Numbers of dogs who previously had difficulty finding a home were given a second chance in life.

The title Ugliest Dog might sound a little cruel. And of course Sam is not ugly at all, no dog is ugly! Sam, like all dogs deep down, was fun loving, affectionate and kind.

Sam is a great lesson to us all. A legendary dog showing us that looks don’t matter. With dogs, as with people, it’s what’s on the inside that we really loveJ

Dogs for Allergy Sufferers- Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds, Hairless Dog Breeds…

You may have an allergy but you love dogs. Did you think you could only enjoy them from afar? You can choose a dog breed that will not immediately set you off sneezing or itching!

If you do have asthma or suffer allergies it is important to seek medical advice before thinking about getting a dog! Once you have chosen a dog it is a good idea to spend some time with it first to make sure you don’t suffer a bad reaction.

Some dog breeds are considered to be hypoallergenic and they can be the best dog breeds for allergy sufferers. These dogs lose so little hair that they can be tolerated by people who might sneeze within metres of other dogs.

These aren’t just rare dog breeds that can be tolerated by allergy sufferers. The Bichon Frisé, Cairn Terrier, Greyhound, Fox Terrier, Poodle (and Miniature Poodle) and Whippet are ok for some people who are intolerant of furry animals, but this is not the case for all allergy sufferers. If you think any dander in the air might set off a reaction in you or a loved one, don’t despair! You may not have heard of hairless dog breeds but really, they do exist. Check out the American Hairless Terrier, Mexican Hairless Dog and the Chinese Crested Dog. These are rare dog breeds; harder to find but there are breeders and enthusiasts for all dog breeds.

There is so much to know about dog breeds and which is the perfect one for you. These aren’t special dog breed secrets… so don’t give up if you thought you could never have a dog!

Part Two - Choosing A Hypoallergenic Dog Breed