Dander Allergies: More Than Meets the Eye

During a leisurely stroll with my dog trainer, we stumbled upon a topic that caught my interest – dander allergies in dogs. It's a subject that many pet owners might not fully comprehend. Dander allergies, I discovered, are not caused by the pets we adore, but by microscopic flakes of dead skin and hair from both humans and animals. Regardless of whether your pet has hair, fur, or feathers, these minuscule particles, though invisible to the naked eye, float in the air and make their way into your dog's respiratory system when inhaled through the mouth and nose.

Misconceptions About Dog Allergies

Contrary to popular belief, allergies triggered by dogs are not primarily attributed to their fur. Instead, it's their mouth and, to some extent, their urine that are the real culprits. When dogs lick their bodies or their owners, they inadvertently transfer allergens. The result? Pet owners may experience various symptoms, including sneezing, a runny nose, throat congestion, and skin issues, among others. It's important to note that a pet allergy is not an allergy to the pet's hair, fur, or feathers; it's an allergy to the proteins found in the pet's dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. The hair, fur, or feathers merely serve as carriers for these allergenic substances, and they can also trap other allergens like dust mites, mold, and pollen.

Does A "Hypoallergenic" Dog Exist?

Some may believe that owning a 'doodle' breed, often described/sold as hypoallergenic dogs, can be the solution to dander allergies. However, this assumption is not entirely accurate. While certain breeds like poodles are less likely to cause dander allergies due to their minimal shedding, it's essential to remember that the term 'hypoallergenic' is a bit misleading. A hypoallergenic dog typically sheds less hair, which means there's less exposure to allergens like dander. Many of these breeds also possess curly coats, which trap hair and dander, reducing their dispersion in the environment. Nevertheless, even these breeds still shed dead skin cells, which can provoke allergic reactions.

Finding the Right Dog for You

Understanding that no dog is genuinely hypoallergenic, it's crucial for allergy sufferers to select a breed that suits their sensitivities. An allergy test can aid in identifying the best dog breed for you. By choosing a breed that aligns with your allergenic profile, you can mitigate allergic reactions and enjoy a life with your new friend- minus the sneezing!

The Lingering Presence of Dander

Once released into the air, pet dander and fur can adhere to various surfaces such as walls, carpets, and clothing. Individuals react differently to these allergens, with responses ranging from mild sniffles and sneezing to severe, life-threatening asthma attacks. Thus, it's crucial to acknowledge the diverse impact dander allergies can have on people.

No Allergen-Free Breeds, But Hope Remains

While all dogs possess proteins in their saliva, groom themselves, and shed fur to varying degrees, some breeds are more accommodating for allergy sufferers than others. While there are no universally allergen-free cat or dog breeds, some individuals can find a specific breed that allows them to manage their allergies effectively.

Regular grooming of your dog plays a pivotal role in managing dander and alleviating allergic reactions. By grooming your dog consistently, you're not only removing excess hair, but also the skin flakes that carry proteins responsible for allergic reactions. Moreover, grooming sessions provide an opportunity to check for any skin issues or infections that might contribute to increased dander production. Check out one of our favourite dog brushes that can help with managing your dogs shedding by clicking here.