Although Australian Shepherds are a well-liked dog breed, are they hypoallergenic? This post will explain the solution to this quandary.
Due to the double coat that Australian Shepherds have, some persons with allergies may be able to tolerate them.
This implies that there might be less shedding and dander than other breeds.
However, Australian Shepherds might not be the best for some allergy sufferers. For example, an Aussie Shepherd is not the right dog for you if you are allergic to pet hair.
Are Australian shepherds hypoallergenic?
Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Although it is undoubtedly true that they shed a lot, this isn’t the reason.
There is no such thing as a “hypoallergenic dog.” No dog has been proven scientifically to cause more minor allergy symptoms than another.
In actuality, the reverse is true. According to studies, there are the same allergens in households with “hypoallergenic” dogs as in homes with shedding dogs.
Understanding how dog allergies function is essential to understanding why Australian Shepherds (and other dogs) are not hypoallergenic.
What Is A Hypoallergenic Dog?
The phrase “hypoallergenic” is now widely used in the pet world. Dogs with this coat do not shed as much as most other animals and are less prone to cause allergic reactions in people.
However, it should be understood that there are no hypoallergenic dog breeds, only those “less allergic.”
It can be challenging to answer the question, “Are Australian shepherds hypoallergenic?” First, consult your doctor about the ideal pet for you if you have sensitive skin or asthma.
The critical thing to remember is that many individuals report no symptoms while around an Australian shepherd, and some even report feeling better because the condition is not as widespread as regular coat sheddings, such as that experienced by labradors or cocker spaniels.
Additionally, the Australian Shepherd is a highly amiable dog, which some people find helps them feel more comfortable around animals because they don’t have to worry about the animal being hostile or attempting to harm them.
Aussies may also be gentle with children without endangering them, and if they receive enough exercise, they are content to relax with you and your family on your couch.
Finally, shepherds are usually highly active, so even if you don’t regularly exercise, you can still get your heart rate up by taking your dog for walks or letting him play fetch in the backyard.
What Are Dog Allergies?
It is not the dog’s fur that causes allergies in people who are sensitive to dogs. They are allergic to the proteins the dog makes instead.
Dogs produce a variety of proteins regularly. But most allergy sufferers are only sensitive to one or two things.
The dog’s saliva, urine, hair, and dander contain these proteins.
Therefore, dogs who don’t shed may not leave behind hair, but they still produce the exact amounts of saliva, dander, and urine.
In other words, they continue to produce roughly the same levels of allergens as other dogs.
These proteins are often unharmful. Dogs, however, are perceived as foreign invaders by those with dog allergies because of their immune systems.
As a result, the immune system reacts to the “threat” of canine protein in the same way as it would to any other threat. Histamine is released, which allows it to achieve this.
Dog allergies result in symptoms because of an immunological response, not because the dog’s protein is doing anything wrong.
Unfortunately, the immune system mistakenly believes it must protect itself against dog hair, even though it is safe for several reasons.
Runny noses, asthma episodes, sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and even hives are among the symptoms that are frequently experienced. Typically, the worse your symptoms are, the more you interact with the dog.
Some people can withstand a brief encounter with a dog but experience symptoms if they spend a lot of time with it.
The appearance of the Australian Shepherd
The Aussie can be divided into two groups based on their appearance, including dogs intended for work and those bred for show.
Compared to working dogs, show dogs will have hair that is longer and thicker.
Australian men typically weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, while women usually weigh between 35 and 55 pounds. At the shoulder, people of both sexes stand at roughly 21 inches.
Their four distinct color schemes—merle, totally black, entirely copper, black tri or red tri, or a solid color with white trim—are available on their hypoallergenic coats.
The breed also has different color of eyes, from brown and hazel to blue and green.
Do Australian Shepherds Shed a Lot?
Australian Shepherds do shed, on average, too heavily. As a result, Aussies not only lose weight all year round, but they also experience seasonal blowouts.
They shed heavily as they prepare for the summer by losing their thick winter coats in the spring.
Due to their medium to long hair, Australian Shepherds leave hair throughout the house, including on the rugs, floors, and furniture.
Any dander or allergens from the outdoors stored in their fur are discharged as they shed into your home.
Regular brushing and grooming can help to minimize shedding considerably. However, it won’t be your only option if you have allergies to your Australian Shepherd.
Are Australian Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
The Australian Shepherd breed is not hypoallergenic, but what about a mixed breed?
You should be aware that no dog is entirely hypoallergenic. Some dogs may cause allergies less frequently or with milder symptoms. Many times, these aren’t particularly shedding dogs.
This group includes poodles, the greatest breed for allergy sufferers due to their reputation for little to no shedding.
Because of this, an Australian Shepherd/poodle mix would be a better choice for you.
Naturally, there is no assurance. Before adopting a dog, you should ascertain whether you are allergic to Australian Shepherds or other breeds.
Are Australian Shepherds Bad for Allergies?
Compared to other dog breeds, Australian Shepherds are not much worse for people with allergies.
These canines create the same amount of allergens that other dogs do. This is because they shed a lot, but this does not reduce the allergens they produce overall.
Given their size compared to certain other breeds, Australian Shepherds do, however, create more allergens. For example, they have more skin than other dogs.
They might therefore elicit a worse reaction than certain other dog breeds. But rather than because of how much they shed, it’s their size.
As previously explained, female Australian Shepherds do not generate Can f 5. Therefore, adopting a female Australian Shepherd may be possible for people who are only allergic to the Can f 5 protein.
How to live With an Australian Shepherd When You’re Allergic To Them
Below are the ways to live with an Australian shepherd when allergic to them.
Consult With an Allergist
When in doubt about allergies, always consult a doctor.
Dog saliva or dander can cause watery eyes, hives, or rashes in people who are sensitive to dogs.
However, some people only experience minor symptoms, and they might be able to manage their problems while coexisting with a dog.
Some natural therapies could lessen symptoms. In addition, some over-the-counter remedies might be beneficial.
Train Your Aussie
It is a good idea to train your dog to avoid particular rooms, such as the bedroom, if you suffer from allergies.
This will ensure comfort in certain areas of your home by keeping them entirely free of pet dander.
Treat Any Skin Condition Your Dog Has
Dogs with skin conditions are more likely to trigger allergic reactions in household members with allergies. Contact your veterinarian to keep these illnesses under control.
Choose Hard Surface Flooring
A person with allergies may have terrible nightmares about dogs and carpeting. All manner of yuck will be kept on the carpet.
Dogs do not damage hardwood floors, and they are simple to maintain.
Invest In High-Quality Air Purifier
The technology behind home air purifiers has advanced significantly. As a result, it is simple to locate purifiers created to eliminate pet dander from the area.
For the most significant outcomes, ensure the gadget is of medical quality and has a HEPA filter.
Keep the Dog Off Your Bed
Your exposure to dander and common allergens like dust and pollen that may attach to your dog’s coat increases if you let your Aussie sleep on your bed.
The allergies from your dog may transfer to your bedding if it is on your bed.
Get A Good Vacuum Cleaner
You wouldn’t believe how much your vacuum cleaner can affect your allergies. Purchase a premium vacuum with a HEPA filter.
This ensures that the dander will be confined inside the vacuum and not spread around your house.
To ensure the vacuum cleaner is as effective as possible, clean the bag regularly.
Conclusion
Australian Shepherds produce a lot of hair. However, this is only sometimes why they trigger an immunological reaction.
The leading causes of an immunological reaction in people with dog allergies are the proteins found in a dog’s skin, saliva, and urine.
Because of this, regardless of whether they shed or not, all dogs create an immunological response.
Australian Shepherds have a lot of hair to shave off and need a lot of maintenance.
Before adopting one of these dogs, we advise ensuring you have the time to meet their grooming requirements.
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