The Truth About Hypoallergenic Dogs and Allergen Free Dogs

Would you be surprised to know that a study carried out in 1988 concluded there were no differences in allergens found on different breeds of dogs? In short, if you’re allergic to dogs, you’re allergic to all dogs?

So, have we moved on significantly from 1988 and produced dogs that we’re no longer allergic to? No. We’ve not produced a new type of dog (in that sense), if you’re allergic to dogs. You’re allergic to dogs. So, where does this notion of a hypoallergenic dog come from?

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

They do exist, but in their true definition, Hypo means under or beneath according to the Greeks! It’s synonyms include fewer, or less. Therefore a hypoallergenic dog simply means that it is less likely to cause a reaction. It does not meant that the dog it totally allergy safe. Where the confusion lies, it that many think allergy sufferers are allergic to the hair found on the dog. This is not the case.

Why Are People Allergic to Dogs?

Generally, allergy sufferers are allergic to a protein found in the saliva and urine of the dog. As the dog grooms themselves, they spread the protein to their skin and coat. As new skin cells are produced, old ones are shed, which release into the environment (known as dander). Which is why people are often told they are allergic to dog dander. As hair is shed into the environment, you are exposed to the protein covered hair.

So, a hypoallergenic dog is generally one that sheds less (less hair for you to be exposed to when you’re watching the tv or in bed), they often have curly coats (which traps hair and dander so less is shed into the environment) or have less hair (but these guys still lose dead skin cells which can cause a reaction). They are also more likely to be regularly groomed which removes the protein from the coat and skin.

What About All These Designer Crossbreeds?

Many of the designer cross breeds, were created to be more allergy friendly. Most of them are crossed with a poodle. It makes sense when dog allergies are thought to affect 10-20% of the population worldwide. Alongside that, it is thought that the asthma costs associated with dog allergies in the USA alone racks up a whopping $500 million to $1 billion! Not only do the symptoms cause heartache, but the sheer medical costs do too! So, when these “allergy safe” designer cross breeds appeared, they were the saving grace for many allergy sufferers who wanted to be pet-parents.

Are All Poodles Hypoallergenic?

But the reality is, Poodles may be non-allergenic, but consideration must be given to the other breed in the crossbreed.

Golden Retrievers shed a lot. You only have to touch them. Your first-generation Goldendoodle may be more Golden Retriever than Poodle, in which case you’ll have allergen covered hair in every nook and cranny! Later generations are slightly more predictable, but again, you have to ensure their lines are primarily poodle coats!

Can Allergy Suffers Have Dogs?

There is no allergy safe dog – a 30-year-old study showed us; if you’re allergic to dogs, you’re allergic to dogs. But this doesn’t mean a hypo-allergenic dog isn’t an option.

Those who shed less and have tight curly coats are generally better tolerated. Frequent bathing is also an option to remove the protein from their coat and skin.

But be mindful, excessive bathing can strip coats of its natural condition and harsh shampoos can alter the pH balance of the skin. Unbalanced skin can lead to a range of issues including itching, scratching and dullness! Vacuum regularly and brush your dog outside daily, this helps get rid of the protein from their coat and your environment!

If you truly want a dog, you’re probably best meeting a range of them. That way you can see if any cause less of a reaction than others.