Introduction
Allergies to dogs are a common problem for many pet owners and animal lovers. However, some people mistakenly believe that dogs with hair, rather than fur, are hypoallergenic and won’t cause allergy symptoms. The truth is, the distinction between dog hair and fur is subtle, and all dogs produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions. While some breeds shed less than others, no dogs are 100% non-allergenic.
This article will examine the difference between dog hair and fur, what causes allergies, tips for reducing allergens, hypoallergenic breeds, medications, and lifestyle adjustments to allow dog lovers to live happily with their furry friends.
The Difference Between Dog Hair and Fur
While they may seem similar, dog hair and fur are structurally different. Fur refers to the soft, thick undercoat that lies close to the dog’s skin and provides insulation. The fur protects the dog from both heat and cold. Fur does not continue to grow like hair – it grows to a fixed length and then sheds. Shed fur needs to be removed via brushing or combing so that new fur can grow in.
In contrast, hair refers to the coarser outercoat that provides waterproofing and protection. Hair continues to grow indefinitely and is what makes up the dog’s prominent outer coat. Dog hair grows from follicles in the skin, just as human hair does. The specific hair type, length, and texture varies greatly between dog breeds. Both fur and hair can cause allergic reactions in humans, despite their differences.
What Causes Allergies to Dogs
Allergies to dogs are usually caused by proteins found in the dog’s dander, saliva, and urine. Dander is made up of tiny, flaky skin cells that dogs shed. Dog saliva contains allergenic proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to them. Proteins and glycoproteins in a dog’s urine can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
Of these allergens, proteins in dander are the most common cause of allergies. But proteins in saliva can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. When a dog licks a person, salivary proteins can come into contact with the skin and mucous membranes and trigger an allergic reaction. Symptoms may include red, itchy skin, hives, and swelling where the person was licked. Studies show people can be allergic to dog saliva even if they are not allergic to dander.
For those allergic to dogs, exposure to allergens like dander, saliva, and urine can lead to allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, and asthma. Understanding the allergenic proteins involved is important for diagnosis and treatment.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Certain dog breeds are less likely to trigger allergies in people sensitive to pet dander. This is because they shed less dander than other breeds. The AKC lists the following hypoallergenic breeds suitable for allergy sufferers
- Poodles – Poodles have a single coat that continuously grows. Regular grooming is needed to prevent shedding and buildup of dander.
- Maltese – The long, silky, white coat of the Maltese sheds little.
- Shih Tzu – With a long double coat that requires regular brushing, this little dog is low shedding.
- Bichon Frise – The dense, curly coat of the Bichon sheds minimally with regular grooming.
- Yorkshire Terrier – The Yorkie has a long silky coat that requires brushing to prevent matting and minimize shedding.
Other hypoallergenic breeds include Portuguese Water Dogs, Schnauzers, and Airedale Terriers. Those with wool-like coat textures tend to shed less. Even hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested can be suitable for allergy sufferers.
Tips to Reduce Allergens
There are several things allergy sufferers can do to reduce the amount of allergens in their homes from dogs:
Frequent Bathing
Bathing your dog regularly (at least once a week) will reduce the amount of dander (dead skin cells) and allergens on their fur. Use a mild hypoallergenic shampoo and make sure to thoroughly rinse out all the soap residue.
HEPA Filters
Using a HEPA air purifier in the main rooms your dog spends time in will help filter out allergens from their dander, saliva, and urine. HEPA filters are designed to capture very small particles like pet allergens that regular filters miss.
Vacuuming
Frequently vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and pet beds helps remove allergens before they circulate through the air. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for best results. Immediately empty the vacuum or bag after use so allergens don’t recirculate the next time you vacuum.
Allergy Medications
There are several types of medications that can help relieve allergy symptoms in dogs. Some of the most common include:
Antihistamines
Antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine) block the release of histamines and reduce allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes (Source). They come in pill or liquid form and can provide quick but short-term allergy relief. However, antihistamines tend to cause drowsiness.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids like prednisone help reduce inflammation associated with allergies. They are stronger than antihistamines but have more potential side effects like increased thirst, hunger, and urination. Corticosteroids should not be used long-term (Source).
Immunotherapy
Allergy shots or immunotherapy work by desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. Small doses of the allergen are injected periodically to stimulate the body to produce protective antibodies. Over time, allergy symptoms are reduced. Immunotherapy is extremely effective but can take months to show results (Source).
Lifestyle Changes
One of the most effective lifestyle changes for managing dog allergies is to restrict your dog’s access to certain areas, especially bedrooms. According to one source, it’s advisable to keep dogs out of your bedroom completely if possible (https://buzzsharer.com/2023/07/19/is-it-possible-to-develop-allergies-to-dogs-later-in-life-and-if-so-what-are-the-best-remedies/). Dog dander and hair can collect on bedding and be stirred up while sleeping. By keeping your dog out of areas where you sleep, you can reduce exposure to allergens during times when you are most vulnerable.
You may also want to restrict your dog from upholstered furniture, carpeted areas, and cars. Dander and hair can collect in soft furnishings and fabrics. If possible, keep your dog on easy-to-clean flooring and furniture. Vacuum and mop hard floors frequently to remove allergens. Use covers on couch cushions that can be regularly washed. Also, transport your dog in the back seat or cargo area of vehicles to avoid allergens collecting on seats.
In general, limit your dog’s access to just a few rooms, rather than letting them roam freely throughout the home. By containing them to designated areas on hard, cleanable surfaces, you can more easily control the dander and hair in your living spaces.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers can be very helpful for people with dog allergies. The key is to find a purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which can remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger from the air. HEPA filters are effective at trapping pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and other allergens.
According to AirCleanSy, HEPA filtration should be combined with activated carbon to maximize air cleaning effectiveness. Activated carbon adsorbs odors and gases. This dual filtration system cleans the air of both allergens and smells that can aggravate allergy symptoms.
HEPA air purifiers are recommended for the bedroom and main living areas. Place the units near sources of allergens like pet beds and upholstered furniture. Look for models with a large enough capacity for the room size. Replace HEPA filters every 6-12 months as recommended.
Other Tips for Allergy Sufferers
In addition to medications, air purifiers, and lifestyle changes, there are some other tips that can help allergy sufferers get relief when living with dogs:
Frequently wash your hands after touching dogs. Dog allergens can stick to surfaces like human skin and clothing. Washing your hands after petting or playing with a dog can remove allergens and prevent spreading them around your home. Use soap and warm water and wash for at least 20 seconds.
Bathe dogs regularly using appropriate dog shampoo. Bathing about once a week can reduce the amount of dander and saliva allergens on a dog’s coat. Be careful not to bathe too often, as this can dry out the skin. Focus on bathing areas where allergens accumulate like the fur, paws, and ears.
As recommended by the K-9 Kraving blog, keep dogs off furniture and out of bedrooms, and vacuum and dust frequently using a HEPA filter vacuum. These steps reduce allergen exposure in places where you spend a lot of time.
When to See an Allergist
If your allergy symptoms are severe or not controlled well with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes, it’s a good idea to see a board-certified allergist. An allergist can help determine exactly what you are allergic to through allergy testing and prescribe stronger allergy medications if needed.
According to the Mayo Clinic, you should see an allergist if you experience severe reactions around dogs, such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat tightness or swelling
- Hives
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
An allergist may conduct skin prick testing, where small amounts of suspected allergens are scratched into the skin, or blood tests like RAST (radioallergosorbent testing) to identify specific IgE antibodies against dog proteins, according to VCA Hospitals. Once the allergens are identified, allergy shots or medications can be prescribed to help desensitize your immune system.
Seeing an allergist can help determine the best course of treatment so you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to get specialized allergy care if over-the-counter options aren’t giving you adequate relief.