No Pet is Entirely Allergen-Free

What I really want to talk about is hypoallergenic pets. Let's get straight into the science behind the craze. We hear about this topic a lot but does anyone really know how it actually works??

Research has shown that while some dog breeds may produce fewer allergens, no breed is entirely allergen-free. The levels of allergens can vary between individual dogs of the same breed, and other factors like the environment, frequency of grooming, and cleaning practices also play a significant role.

A study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy in 2011 found that homes with hypoallergenic dogs did not have significantly lower levels of dog allergens than homes with other dog breeds. This indicates that while certain breeds may be better suited for allergy sufferers, individual differences and environmental factors also matter.

Most pet allergies are triggered by proteins found in a dog’s skin cells, urine, and saliva. When dogs shed fur, they also shed these proteins along with dander (dead skin flakes), which can become airborne and trigger allergic reactions.

Basically - all you can do is manage your allergies.

Hypoallergenic dog breeds are typically those that shed less dander, primarily because they either shed less fur overall or have hair that catches dander rather than releasing it into the environment. This reduces the amount of allergenic proteins released into the air.

Some breeds may also produce less saliva or have lower skin oil production, which can further reduce the amount of allergens they release. This is another factor contributing to the "hypoallergenic" label.

Breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Schnauzers are often labeled hypoallergenic because they have hair that grows continuously and doesn’t shed as much, requiring regular grooming.