Dog lovers who are allergy sufferers rejoice! We are blessed with a range of hypoallergenic dogs — no more allergy symptoms: sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or rashes.
Sounds too good to be true?
That’s because it is.
While we’d love to tell long-time allergy sufferers that their plight is over, there is no natural allergy-safe dog.
Before we leave you with that statement, we will cover some general misconceptions about hypoallergenic dogs.
We want to help clear the blurry line between allergy-safe dogs and those generally less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
What does hypoallergenic mean?
The first misconception is about understanding the term hypoallergenic. By definition, it means less likely to cause a reaction for people with allergies. It doesn’t mean no reaction to allergenic proteins.
So, hypoallergenic dogs do exist.
They are simply dogs less likely than others to cause an allergic reaction.
What causes allergies?
The second misconception is that humans are allergic to dog hair. If you don’t have much of it or don’t touch it, you won’t react.
Humans are allergic to a protein found in dogs’ urine and saliva.
When dogs groom themselves, this protein is transferred to their fur, which humans touch. This is why most humans react after touching a dog.
This fur or hair is also shed into the environment, on the sofas we sit on and the beds we sleep in, so the allergy-causing protein finds its way everywhere.
Regular brushing helps reduce the risk of shedding.
Are low-shedding dogs hypoallergenic dogs?
So, if a dog is low-shedding, is it hypoallergenic?
Technically, this idea is somewhat accurate. Again, hypoallergenic means less likely to cause a reaction. If a dog is low-shedding, the environment has less fur or hair, which could cause a reaction.
But dogs still drool and urinate, so they continue to share the allergy-causing protein.
Hypoallergenic dogs tend to have tight, curly coats. The tight curls trap hair and pet dander, limiting their presence in the environment.
Due to the nature of the coat, these dogs are usually groomed more regularly, so frequent bathing and brushing remove the protein from the skin and coat.
This is why most people think breeds mixed with a poodle are allergy-safe, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
We have all sorts of Doodles and Poos. Standard poodles or smaller poodle breeds like toy poodles mixed with golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Australian Shepherds, Irish Setters, and Pomeranians create Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Cockapoos, Aussiedoodles, Irish Doodles, and even Pomapoos.
Improve your odds
Suppose you are mating two low-shedding, curly-coated, technically hypoallergenic dogs to produce a litter. In that case, you can get a puppy with a hypoallergenic, low-shedding curly coat that produces less dander.
Consider the Goldendoodle; however, this dog is the result of mating a Golden Retriever with a Poodle.
The Golden is a renowned shedder.
Most owners have tumbleweeds of hair floating around their homes year-round. With a first-generation Goldendoodle, you have no idea if you’ll end up with more Golden than Doodle or vice versa.
You could have a Goldendoodle with a Poodle coat, but you stand an equal chance of having one with a Golden Retriever coat. The same is true for the labradoodle.
Labradors are excessive shedders, too.
Later-generation puppies are slightly more predictable, so if you need a more hypoallergic dog, it will pay to search for second-generation or later pups.
Popular low-shedding or hypoallergenic dog breeds include the Cairn Terrier, Airedale Terrier, Dachshund, Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Chinese Crested, Bichon Frisé, Poodle, Shih Tzu, Afghan Hound, American Hairless Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, Bedlington Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, and Irish Water Spaniel.
Are dogs with hair safe for allergy sufferers?
The other question often raised is the difference between hairy and furry dogs.
Hair and fur are often used interchangeably when describing dogs. Generally, hair describes a dog with a single coat, without the undercoat. Dog fur is used to describe a breed with a double coat.
With this in mind, allergy sufferers would generally be better with a dog with hair.
That’s because furry breeds shed excessively (think German Shepherd, Malamute, Labrador, etc.). It’s also worth mentioning the Hairless Chinese Crested – despite its name, it still has hair, and, more importantly, it has skin.
Remember, humans are allergic to a protein in dogs’ urine and saliva. When dogs groom themselves, the protein attaches to the skin, causing dead skin cells to fall into the environment.
So, even hairless dogs still pose a threat.
Dog ownership challenges
While hypoallergenic dogs are often sought for their reduced shedding and fewer allergens, there are several challenges and downsides to consider before bringing one into your home:
Varied allergy reactions
Not all hypoallergenic breeds are entirely free of allergens. Some people may still experience reactions, as these dogs can still produce dander, saliva, and urine containing allergens.
Grooming needs
Hypoallergenic dogs often require regular grooming to maintain their coats. This can be time-consuming and involve professional grooming services, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Cost considerations
In addition to grooming, some hypoallergenic breeds may have higher veterinary care costs and need specialized diets, making them more expensive to keep than other breeds.
Temperament and behavior
Like all dogs, hypoallergenic breeds have unique temperaments and behaviors that may not suit every owner. It’s important to research individual breeds to ensure they match your lifestyle and family dynamics.
Availability
Not all hypoallergenic breeds are widely available, which may limit your adoption options. Some breeds can be rare or have lengthy waiting lists from reputable breeders.
Training and socialization
Some hypoallergenic breeds may have specific training needs or challenges. Consistent training and socialization are crucial for all dogs and require additional time and effort.
Space and exercise requirements
Certain hypoallergenic breeds may require more space and exercise than expected. Failing to meet these needs can lead to behavioral issues.
Keep your dog clean
Maintaining proper grooming and care routines is essential for allergy sufferers who own dogs, even hypoallergenic dogs.
Here are some specific practices that can help manage symptoms:
Regular bathing
- Frequency: Aim to bathe your dog every 2-4 weeks. This helps remove dirt, dander, and allergens from their coat. Use hypoallergenic shampoos designed for dogs to minimize irritation.
- Consistent brushing schedule: Brush your dog at least once a week, but ideally more often if your dog has a curly coat. Frequent brushing reduces the amount of loose fur and dander in your home. Consider doing this outside or in a well-ventilated area to limit indoor allergens.
Clean dog bedding
- Routine: Wash your dog’s bedding weekly in hot water to eliminate dander and odors. This also applies to any blankets or furniture your dog uses.
- Vacuuming and dusting: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to effectively capture pet hair and dander. Vacuum the areas where your dog spends time, including carpets, rugs, and furniture, at least weekly.
Air quality management
- Filters: Consider using HEPA air purifiers in your home to filter out allergens and improve indoor air quality. Regularly change HVAC filters to ensure they are effective.
- Designate dog areas: Create pet-free zones in your home, especially in bedrooms, to provide allergy sufferers with spaces free from allergens. Train your dog to stay out of these areas.
Post-interaction routine
Clean yourself: After spending time with your dog, wash your hands and change clothes if necessary. This helps minimize the transfer of allergens to other areas of your home.
Keep your dog healthy
- Get regular vet check-ups: Ensure your dog receives regular veterinary care to manage skin conditions or allergies that may lead to increased dander production.
- Monitor diet: A well-balanced diet may enhance your dog’s skin and coat health, potentially reducing dander production. Consult your vet for dietary recommendations.
Final thoughts on hypoallergenic dogs
Studies have shown no breed-specific difference in allergies — if you’re allergic to dogs, you’re allergic to all dogs.
But if you are an allergy sufferer, you stand a better chance with a hypoallergenic dog as they are less likely to cause a reaction.
It is also essential to keep your home clean and regularly wash bedding, blankets, and any soft furnishings where the dog spends time.
Regular grooming can also help reduce dog allergies by preventing the allergy-causing protein. Investing in air purifiers and vacuums with HEPA filters can also be beneficial.
Above all else, check with your healthcare provider if you suffer from allergies and are considering adopting a dog.
John Woods is the founder and director of All Things Dogs, an animal behavior and welfare graduate, and an Association of Professional Dog Trainers member. He founded All Things Dogs in 2018 to educate 40 million pet parents on how to care for their dogs using force-free positive reinforcement training methods.