Can I get a hypoallergenic dog if I m allergic

Can I Have A Dog If I Have Allergies?

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds are better than others for allergy sufferers. Bytaking an allergy test, you can better determine the best dog for you. There are multiple ways to reduce dog allergens, including grooming and keeping a clean home.

Sharing your life with a dog is a special experience. After all, theyre adorable, perceptive, and provide unconditional love. In fact, having a dog in the home can provide manybenefits to kidsin particular, such as greater compassion and self-esteem.

But how do dogs affect our health? Recent research has shown thatchildren exposed to dogs may have a lower risk of asthma.Andsurprisingly,dog exposure before the age of one might protect against future allergies.But what if you suspect you already have an allergy to dogs? Perhaps you get a runny nose or watery eyes whenever youre around one. Or what if youve already had a dog allergy diagnosed?

Well, having a dog certainly wont relieve your symptoms. Does that mean you can never have a dog, or could a so-called hypoallergenic dog breed be the answer? Is there evensuch a thing as a hypoallergenic dog? Or could there be other options?

Everybodys allergies are different, ranging from mild to severe. And there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure. Depending on your situation, you might be destined to live dog-less. However, if you take the time to do your research, get proper allergy testing, and work on keeping the allergens at bay, dog ownership could be a possibility. Read on to see if owning a dog, even if you have allergies, might be in your future.

What Causes Allergies to Dogs?

Hypoallergenic dog breeds are often defined as those that either dont shed or are hairless. Breeds in the past thought of as being hypoallergenic are really breeds or types of dogs with minimal shedding or whose type of hair (or lack of hair) may cause less possibility to create a reaction due to the type of coat that breed has, affirms Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC.

But does a dogs coat really determine the risk of an allergic reaction?

For most people with dog allergies, the dogs fur isnt the issue. According to Dr. Klein, its not necessarily the fur, but the dander, that causes allergic reactions in people. Dander is the tiny bits of skin that are shed by the dog, much like people shed dandruff. This dander often ends up combined with other allergens, like the proteins found in the dogs urine, feces, and saliva.

In most breeds, shed fur can carry proteins and dander all over your house. So-called hypoallergenic breeds dont have that problem. But of course, they can still cause an allergic reaction. No breed is truly allergy-safe. In fact, hypoallergenic dogs may produce just as many allergens as their shedding, furry cousins. And all those allergy-triggering proteins can become airborne, particularly when your dog licks themself when grooming. Dander and protein can also be directly transferred to you when you pet your dog or if your dog licks you.

So, despite their label,there is no guarantee a hypoallergenic dog breed wont trigger your allergies.

What Is an Allergy Test?

If there isnt a truly hypoallergenic dog, and you believe you may have allergies, does that mean all hope is lost? Not at all. The first step in determining if you can live with a dog is to undergotesting for allergic sensitization. Although whats causing your allergies might seem obvious, dont self-diagnose, because your symptoms could be unrelated to what you suspect. Plus, up to 80% of people with allergies are allergic to more than one thing. And those allergic triggers can add up. So, if you have an issue with pollen and a pet allergy, reducing exposure to the pollen might be enough to keep your dog allergy symptoms at bay.

Plus, allergy tests have come a long way. While skin prick tests and traditional blood tests both help a clinician diagnose allergies to common causes like pets, new blood tests that examine allergens on the molecular level can provide clinicians with even more information. Using a standard blood draw, allergen component testingcan get extremely specific. It can pinpoint the exact allergenic proteins that may be causing your symptoms. And in terms of dog ownership, that can have a huge impact.

For example, some people are only sensitive to a dog protein called Can f 5, which is only produced by male dogs. Up to 30% of people who only have a Can f 5 sensitivity may be able to tolerate a female dog or a male dog that has been neutered. Armed with this detailed information about your allergies, you will be in a much better position to make a responsible decision about dog ownership.

Are There Dog Breeds Suitable for People Allergic to Dogs?

The real issue to consider is the severity of your allergies. If your symptoms are inconvenient but tolerable, then there is likely a place for a dog in your life. And in that case, Dr. Klein says so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds are likely the safer choice. These are the American Kennel Clubs recommended breeds for allergy sufferers:

There is a wide range of less allergenic dog breeds, from the large, intelligent, and protective Giant Schnauzer to the tiny, calm, and hairless toy Xoloitzcuintli. Dr. Klein points out that because smaller breeds have less of everything, they will also create less dander than larger breeds. Research the available breeds and look for one that fits your lifestyle. For example, do you want a high-energy dog to participate indog sportswith, or would you prefer a quiet lap dog? Its essential to find the right match, so in addition to coat care and dander potential, look at size, personality, activity level, trainability, and more.

Dr. Klein emphasizes that the match should be for the dogs entire life, stating, What no one wants is to relinquish a dog because of factors like a change in income, a change in living arrangements, or the development of an allergy by a member of the family.

Although its a difficult decision, on the rare occasion that you cant find the right match, Dr. Klein advises that it might be wiser to not acquire a dog, rather than bring one home only to relinquish it for rescue.

Tips for Choosing a Dog if You Are Allergic to Dogs

Once youve narrowed your choices, your job still isnt done. Just because a breed matches your lifestyle and is considered hypoallergenic doesnt mean its the right one for you. Since every person is an individual, every allergic response will be different.

Where one person may have an allergic reaction to a Poodle, they may not be allergic to an American Hairless Terrier, cautions Dr. Klein. Only one-on-one contact experience will be the defining factor.

Therefore, its important to physically interact with your chosen breed before you acquire apuppy or an adult dog. Only by petting and being near a given breed can you determine how much you will react, if at all. In addition, you might have to try several different hypoallergenic dog breeds as you search for your match, as one breed may produce less of a reaction than another. Dr. Klein advises first narrowing down your choices, then having the allergic person spend time with a member of each breed on the list. He also suggests doing this at different times to see if there is any significant difference in the allergic response.

There may be one breed that stands out, according to Dr. Klein. Or possibly, none will make a difference.

How Can You Reduce Dog Allergens?

Regardless of the breed you choose, once you bring your dog home, there are steps you can take to lessen the severity of your allergy symptoms. Here are a few:

• First, allergy-proof your household. Pet allergens are tiny and lightweight, so they easily stick to curtains, furniture, carpets, and bedding. Minimize those surfaces in your home. For example, use blinds rather than curtains and have hardwood or linoleum floors rather than carpets.
• Second, keep surfaces clean. Dr. Klein suggests frequent vacuuming of your floors and furniture. Consider using a machine with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Also, launder any fabrics your dog comes in contact with, such as their bed, as often as you can. Keep your dog off the furniture and out of your bedroom. A home air filtration system designed to reduce allergens is also an option.
• Third, consider hygiene. Be sure to wash your hands after touching your dog to keep allergens off your skin. Its also important tokeep your dog groomed. Frequent bathing and grooming may reduce the amount of dander that accumulates. If possible, ask somebody else in the family to do the grooming, so you dont suffer a reaction. And consider having your dog brushed outside to minimize getting additional dander in your home. Alternatively, use the services of aprofessional groomer.
• Finally, there are many medications available to ease allergy symptoms like itchy eyes or a stuffy nose. Consult with your doctor about suitable treatments. It may also be helpful to see an allergist for immunotherapy, which is the use of allergy shots to build tolerance to dogs over time.

Even if you have an allergy, with the use of medical intervention and the above recommendations, a dog could still become a beloved new member of your household.

Can You Be Allergic to a Hypoallergenic Dog?

Labrador retrievers, however, can "wreak havoc on your allergies," according to the AKC. That said, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.

"Some people with a dog dander allergy may be less reactive or have less symptoms to dander from certain breeds," Carver says. "Allergy testing cannot determine which breeds may work better for you than others. The only way to determine if you can tolerate being around a certain breed is to have direct, repeated exposure to a dog and see how your body reacts."

While the typical signs of pet allergies may seem obvious sneezing, scratchy throat or itchy eyes several lesser-known symptoms can also appear, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you're doing a test run with a pup, keep an eye out for facial pressure and pain, swollen blue-tinted skin beneath your eyes, and excessive coughing. These symptoms are similar to allergies caused by hay fever; they're caused by the inflammation of nasal passages.

Other allergic reactions can affect the skin, resulting in hives, eczema and itchiness. In the most serious cases, pet allergies can also contribute to asthmatic reactions like chest tightness, wheezing, difficulty breathing and trouble sleeping.

Many pet allergy warning signs resemble symptoms of a regular cold. The Mayo Clinic notes symptoms that last beyond two weeks are likely allergies, and therefore a red flag.

Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic? 15 Tips To Reduce Dog Allergy Around Your Home

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Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic? No, Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic because their double coat blows out seasonally during the fall and spring months. Their double coat naturally sheds from moderate to high levels all year round. Aussies also require regular grooming to control their shedding. Lastly, due to their medium size, they have medium to high levels of dander.

The Australian Shepherd, or Aussie for short, has become one of the more popular dog breeds in recent times due to its intelligence, great energy, and hardworking quality. But, can they be a good fit in a household with allergy sufferers?

In this comprehensive article, we will discuss in detail how the Australian Shepherd fares in causing allergic reactions, and do Australian Shepherds shed as much hair compared to other dog breeds. Well also go over what Aussie owners can do to reduce dog allergy around your home.

Are Aussies Hypoallergenic? Why not?

Aussies are not hypoallergenic because their dander and dried saliva can cause breathing difficulties or allergic skin reactions in some people. Asthma sufferers may have to reconsider having Aussies as canine companions since they are moderate to high shedders that can spread allergens around the house.

Australian Shepherd history

The Australian Shepherd came into being after years of crossbreeding. The Aussie is a result of crossbreeding several herding dog breeds like the Pyrenean Shepherd, the Carea Leones, and the Basque Shepherd Dog.

Basque immigrants first brought these dogs to the Australian Outback in the 1800s to help in cattle herding. It was during this time that they crossed these dogs with the Collie and the Border Collie.

In the succeeding years, these dogs were further refined and developed in California to what we now know as the Australian Shepherd. Some Aussies today are still being used to herd livestock.

The Australian Shepherds have also became popular in rodeo circuits across the western United States. The Australian Shepherd was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the 1990s and became one of the more popular breeds.

What does Hypoallergenic mean?

Hypoallergenic means that a dogs fur is less likely to cause allergic reactions in people. All types of dogs, whether their coat will shed or not, will in some way still cause allergies.

What are dog allergies? How do you know if you have dog allergies?

Dog allergies refer to the reaction some people have from the dander, dried saliva, and urine that adheres to a dogs hair, particularly the loose ones that scatter through the air.

These particles are harmless but some peoples bodies interpret these as foreign objects that the immune system needs to eject from the body by producing histamines.

Histamines are nitrogenous compounds that our human bodys immune system creates in order to protect from invading substances.

This compound dilate the tiny blood vessels in our noses and causes runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, swelling, and itching.

What makes a dog hypoallergenic?

A dog is considered hypoallergenic when he sheds less fur (and as a result, less dander and saliva) making people with allergies less likely to inhale the dander and dried saliva that sticks to a dogs loose fur.

Australian Shepherd drooling and dander levels

People typically have an allergic reaction to the saliva and microscopic dried flecks of skin or dander a dog creates.

Australian Shepherds, because of their medium size, will produce moderate amounts of dander when they shed and these can stick to furniture and fabrics.

Luckily, they do not drool as much as other dog breeds (such as the Mastiff or Saint Bernard), but the dried saliva in their coat can still cause allergic reactions.

Different types of Canine Proteins

Scientists have identified 7 proteins produced by dogs or Canis familiaris allergens that can cause allergies in people. .

Australian Shepherds produce 6 of these proteins which are designated serially as the following:

• Can f 1.
• Can f 2.
• Can f 3.
• Can f 4.
• Can f 5.
• Can f 6.

Can f 1 is produced in the tongue and is the most common protein found in most of our dogs skins.

Can f 2, 4, and 6 are produced in the tongue as well.

Can f 3 is found in the urine.

Can f 5 is produced by the prostate glands, so only intact male Australian Shepherds can produce it.

People will have different allergic reactions to these canine proteins and not everyone can be allergic to every type.

Size of the Aussie can affect dog allergies

The size of an Australian Shepherd does have an effect on the amount of loose furs he sheds. Larger dogs have more skin coverage and thus have more fur. A Toy Australian Shepherd would therefore produce fewer allergens than a standard or mini Aussie.

Is an Australian Shepherd Hypoallergenic to you and your family?

There are three (3) possible reasons why you and your family can be allergic to Australian Shepherd.

First, Australian Shepherds are moderate to heavy shedders all-year-round. Their double coat, both the top coat and the undercoat, sheds continually throughout the year and much more heavily during the fall and spring months when their body is preparing for the upcoming warm or cold months.

Second, Aussies produce dander that is composed of dead skin cells that can trigger an allergic reaction when inhaled.

Third, the Australian Shepherd has medium-length fur which small particles of dander and dried saliva can easily adhere to. Their loose fur can be suspended in the air and can easily attach to fabrics and furniture.

So, are Aussie dogs Hypoallergenic?

As we can see, Aussie dogs are not hypoallergenic because their coat sheds all year round. Shedding brings with it allergens that could spread around your surroundings.

Shedding is part of their normal physical function not just to get rid of old furs but also to regulate their body temperature.

Are Australian Shepherds bad for allergies?

Unfortunately, Australian Shepherds are not good for those who suffer from severe allergies. Those with mild reactions to dog fur may be able to have an Aussie as a pet provided that they take certain measures, like regular brushing and grooming, as well as, daily cleaning of their home in order to minimize any severe episodes of allergy.

15 Tips to reduce dog allergy around your home

1. Invest in an air purifier with HEPA filter

Air purifier with high efficiency particulate air filter, or HEPA filter for short, can trap dander and other small particles in the air including dust, dust mites, pollen, and mold when it passes through the fine mesh.

Some air purifier with HEPA filter also features UV light filters which helps to remove germs and odors.

2. Vacuum frequently with a powerful HEPA filter vacuum cleaner

A powerful vacuum can also remove mostly anything in its path including ticks and fleas that could further contribute to your Aussies skin and shedding problems.

3. Brush your Aussie daily

Regular brushing will reduce the amount of loose furs hanging around your home and will also make their coat cleaner and healthier making him less likely to shed heavily.

4. Use the right tools

Due to their thick double coat, using different tools, like aslicker brush, pin brush, or a de-shedding tool to deal with the different requirements of the topcoat and undercoat is necessary.

5. Buy plenty of lint rollers

Using lint rollers is a quick way to remove furs from your clothing, fabrics, and furniture.

6. Bathe your Aussie, but not too often!

Bathing can also loosen and remove loose fur, but doing so frequently can dry out their skin which could lead to more shedding. They should be bathed only when necessary or every 1 to 2 months.

7. Use the right dog shampoo

When bathing your Aussie, be sure to only use dog shampoos that contain natural ingredients, like aloe vera and oatmeal which will keep their skin and coat in good condition and healthy.

Additionally, the doggy shampoo should be easy to rinse and specially made to reduce shedding.

A good dog shampoo is reduce shedding should be one that is enriched with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to promote heathy coat and skin.

8. Wash your clothes, beddings, and covers regularly

The amount of allergens getting suspended in the air will be reduced greatly if loose fur is washed off from fabrics, your clothing, beddings, sheets, and covers.

9. Be selective with the type of flooring for your home

Be mindful when choosing the right flooring for your home. Flooring like heavy carpets or rugs are magnets for dander and loose fur.

10. Train your Australian Shepherd to stay away from your bed and furniture

Giving your Aussie their own chew proof dog beds will minimize their habit of jumping onto your bed or furniture.

11. Nutritious and high-quality dog food is a must

Having a well-balanced diet is key to ensuring that their health is in optimum state which can be determined by the glow of their skin and coat. Continue reading to find out the best food for your Aussie pup.

12. Taking the right supplements for healthy skin and coat

Vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as, mineral supplements like magnesium and healthy fats such as omega-3 can do great wonders to their overall health.

13. Exercise, exercise, exercise!

Regular exercise prevents canine obesity and other health problems (including shedding) and will keep their body in tiptop shape.

14. Bring your Aussie for his regular vet check-up

Regular visits to the vet can pinpoint why your Aussie may be shedding excessively as well as other diseases that could otherwise affect your Aussies coat health.

15. Visit your allergist

Allergens can be hard to avoid, so having a medical prescription can help alleviate some of your allergic attacks.

Australian Shepherd grooming requirements

Having the right tools to maintain your Aussie dogs coat will help reduce the amount of loose furs around your home.

Use an appropriate dog shampoo, specifically with natural ingredients and those formulated for thick coats, that can deeply wash and clean their coat.

Avoid using human shampoos on your K9 friends because they may contain detergents or other harmful ingredients that can irritate your pups skin.

For removing knots and tangles, use a slicker brush which have angled pins that can penetrate the undercoat. It has the added benefit of stimulating their skin and distributing the natural oils throughout their coat.

A pin and bristle combination brush is another useful tool which can be used for light brushing or a touch up. Bristle brush is ideal for removing dirt and debris from their top coat especially after some physical activity, while a pin brush with rounded ends can untangle minor knots and also circulate air around their coat.

A steel comb is useful in grooming their mane and feathered areas around the neck. It also helps in teasing out mats and tangles when used in conjunction with a slicker brush.

Finally, a de-shedding tool is perfect to use during the heavier shedding season when they are blowing their coat. It can remove more loose hairs in one sweep compared to a slicker brush.

Australian Shepherd coat care

An Australian Shepherds coat should be brushed 2 to 3 times weekly for at least 5 to 10 minutes depending on the condition of the coat.

You can start by using a slicker brush to remove any tangles with the help of a steel comb. Then finish it off with a pin or bristle brush to further distribute the natural oils. A bristle brush can also be used to remove any dirt after some physical activity.

During the spring or fall seasons when they blow out their fur, you can use a de-shedding tool instead of a slicker brush to better remove the dead loose furs.

However, be aware not to use it for more than two times weekly for this can remove even the healthy and undamaged furs. When brushing, youll want to be careful not to apply too much pressure because this can hurt your dogs skin.

When it comes to bathing, it should preferably be done only when their coat becomes too dirty or start to become smelly. Washing their coat once a month or even every two (2) months is recommended. Frequent washing can rob their coat of their natural oils and even cause skin dryness and more shedding.

How do you know if dogs have allergies?

To know if your Australian Shepherd has allergies or something else, the common signs are non-stop itching, corn chip smell from his feet as a result of bacterial infections, and, for some, coughing.

Plus, if you notice that your Australian Shepherd is constantly plagued with ear infections, he may be allergic to something.

Australian Shepherd allergies

Unfortunately, Australian Shepherds are prone to allergies, with most of them starting to develop skin allergies at about 1 to 2 years of age.

What are Australian Shepherds allergic to?

Australian Shepherds can be allergic to certain food like chicken or soy products.

Environmental factors like pollen and molds can also trigger allergic reactions in dogs.

Not to forget that heavy flea infestations can also cause allergy dermatitis because of flea saliva.

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Australian Shepherd food allergies

To find out what foods are Australian Shepherds allergic to, it requires a trial-and-error process. For most dogs with food allergies, the culprit is poultry like turkey and chicken.

To learn what your Australian Shepherd sensitive stomach is allergic to, we suggest that you feed him chicken and observe if there are reactions like itching and skin redness.

If none, then you can stick to that protein source. However, if he reacts to it, then, try another protein source like pork, beef, or lamb and observe again.

In short, solving food allergies may take a while and require patience on your part to discover which food protein will not result in skin allergies.

Good food for Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is an active dog breed that needs a significant amount of protein and fats for healthy muscles and skin, and for a glossy coat.

Below, we have two food products your Australian Shepherd can try because these two food options have a good balance of nutrients which is perfect for energetic dog breeds.

The first dog food product we highly recommend is the Victor Super Premium Dog Food Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food because it is gluten-free, packed full of protein, and contains healthy ingredients for healthy skin and coat.

Gluten-free means that the dog food only contains a minimum amount of grains that may trigger allergic reactions.

The Victor Super Premium dog food is highly-packed with protein. 80% of the food comes from meat sources like beef and pork. It is made with other ingredients that support healthy digestion, improve skin and coat conditions, and strengthen the immune system of active dogs like an Australian Shepherd.

Best dog food for Australian Shepherd with allergies

Another dog food brand we highly recommend if your Aussie has sensitive stomach is the Hills Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach Skin Dry Dog Food.

Thats because this dog food comes with prebiotic fiber which is an ingredient for a healthy gut. Digestive or gut health is important because it affects overall nutrient absorption.

Plus, this dog food contains vitamin E and omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.

Supplements for Australian Shepherds

Does your Australian Shepherd need supplements?

As mentioned a while ago, this dog breed tends to suffer from skin allergies. Though dog food may contain a good amount of fatty omega acid for skin and coat, it may not be enough to combat skin inflammations.

Therefore, we highly suggest that you pick a supplement that is proven to address the problem of skin sensitivity issues of Australian Shepherds.

We highly recommend the Zesty Paws Omega Bites because it is made with Alaskan Pollock which is a great source for fatty omega acids that improve the skin and coat conditions of dogs with allergies.

Plus, dogs love the delicious taste of each soft chew, making it convenient to add this supplement to your dogs daily diet.

Fish Oil Supplements For Dogs

Zesty Paws Omega Bites

A grain-free supplement that is rich in Omega-3 with EPA and DHA, vitamins, and nutrients, the Omega Bites features AlaskOmega which comes from Wild Alaskan Pollock. Made in the US, this soft bacon-flavored chewable supplement helps with hot spots and dry, irritated, itching, flaky, and sensitive skin. In due time, your dog will have soft, shiny, and healthy skin and coat.

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Essential ingredients to combat Australian Shepherd food allergies

To fight skin allergies, you need to be very careful about what to feed your Australian Shepherd. Essential vitamins and minerals are crucial and they play a huge role in reducing skin inflammation and itchiness.

Health Condition	Dietary requirements and Adjustments
Dermatitis and chronic itching	Increased vitamin E intake and biotin.
Crustiness and dandruff	Omega fatty-acids.
Scaling and dull coat	Vitamin E and A.
Change in coat color	Omega fatty acids and oatmeal bath.
Gastrointestinal signs	Vitamin B12, fiber, and prebiotic supplement.

Australian Shepherd itching and losing hair

All Australian Shepherds have long and thick hair, so in case you see a hairless Australian Shepherd, it is highly probable that the dog has skin problems.

Skin allergies, be it caused by food or triggered by the environment like pollens, constant scratching and licking may later lead to patches of hair loss.

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The other reason why you see a hairless Australian Shepherd is because of mange infestation.

Australian Shepherd skin problems

Australian Shepherd itchy skin may be caused by different factors.

Did you just change the diet of your dog? If yes, the reason for itchy skin is food allergies.

Or, perhaps a change in weather is the one causing Australian Shepherd dry skin which is referred to as seasonal allergies.

Factors like pollens, mildew, or grass may lead to intense scratching and dry and flaky skin.

Australian Shepherd coat types and colors

Australian Shepherds are double-coated with medium-length hair that can either be straight or wavy. The coat may come in the following colors and combinations:

• Solid black.
• Solid red.
• Blue merle.
• Red merle.
• Bicolor.
• Tricolor.

RELATED: Blue Merle Australian Shepherd (Complete Guide)

Is the Blue Merle Australian Shepherd hypoallergenic?

No, blue merle Australian Shepherd is not hypoallergenic. Regardless of coat color, be it a Blue Merle or not, all Australian Shepherds are double-coated, hence, they are not hypoallergenic.

Location of the skin allergies in Australian Shepherds

The common body parts that are itchy in dogs with skin allergies are the ears, tails, underarms, and paws. This is why Australian Shepherd paws may appear reddish or inflamed if he has skin allergies. It is common for Australian Shepherds to bite their paws as a way to relieve itchiness.

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Causes of Australian Shepherd skin allergies

Weve listed below the causes of skin allergies in Australian Shepherds that lead to Australian Shepherd skin scabs and Australian Shepherd hot spots.

1. Contact dermatitis can be due to environmental factors including pollens or household products like fabric softeners used in washing doggie blankets.
2. Food allergies from meat protein and dairy products.
3. Flea allergy from flea bites.
4. Pyoderma is a type of bacterial infection that causes Australian Shepherd skin scabs.
5. Yeast dermatitis is caused by a fungal infection and commonly affects the ears.

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Why is my Aussie so itchy?

Also referred to as pruritus, if your Aussie is itchy, then it may be coming from any of the causes that weve identified above.

If you fail to address this problem, it may lead to excessive licking, biting, and hair loss.

In some cases, the skin may even get infected and your furry friends may have to be prescribed antibiotics to stop the infections.

CHECK OUT: Why Is My Dog Licking The Floor?

Treatment options to fight skin problems in Aussies

Fortunately, there are treatment options and remedies that you can do to fight skin infections in dogs. Some of these do not require veterinarian intervention while some have to be under their guidance and observations.

3 Short-term treatments:

1. Give your Aussie an oatmeal bath to relieve itchiness.
2. Wash your dogs paws and wipe his coat with doggie wipes to get rid of allergens that he came in contact with outside.
3. Application of topical medicines as prescribed by a veterinarian.

3 Long-term treatments:

1. Change to a different source of animal protein. For instance, from turkey to lamb.
2. Use medicated dog shampoos that have antiseptic properties.
3. The use of medications like antihistamines or steroids as prescribed by your dogs vet.

Are Mini Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?

If youre wondering, Are mini Aussies hypoallergenic? the answer is no, mini Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic.

A mini Australian Shepherd hypoallergenic is simply impossible because he has a double layer of coat that shed all year long. The dander and the protein from his saliva are also other factors that make it impossible for a mini Aussie hypoallergenic.

Mini Aussie shedding

Same as the standard-sized Aussies, the mini Aussies also shed moderately to high all year round, more so during the changing of the season.

Mini Aussie grooming requirements

Grooming mini Australian Shepherd is one of the best ways to reduce the level of shedding.

Mini Australian Shepherd grooming should include frequent brushing using de-shedding tools like FURminator or a slicker brush.

Grooming mini Aussie also involves at least once a month bathing. If your mini Aussie has skin problems, choose medicated dog shampoo and conditioner when grooming miniature Australian Shepherd.

Plus, grooming a mini Aussie includes nail trimming, ear and eye cleaning, and teeth brushing for a well-groomed mini Aussie.

Mini Aussie haircuts

Its best to go to a certified dog groomer to style a mini Aussie. The most common haircuts are:

• Teddy cut.
• Simba style.
• Rounded cut.
• Minimal cut.

Mini Australian Shepherd allergies

The allergies of a Mini Australian Shepherd is the same as the standard-sized Aussies. The mini Aussies can also be plagued with skin allergies brought about by food, seasons or weather, and flea infestations.

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Are toy Aussies Hypoallergenic?

How about toy Aussies? Are toy Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?

The answer is no, toy Aussies are not hypoallergenic. While they may be smaller in size, they still sport the two layers of coat which sheds moderately to heavy all throughout the year and sheds heavily at least twice a year.

Australian Shepherd Hypoallergenic mix

Are you looking for a hypoallergenic Australian Shepherd mix? These three non shedding Australian Shepherd mixed dogs may be what youre looking for:

• Australian Shepherd mixes with a Poodle because Poodles are considered hypoallergenic.
• A giant Schnauzer mixed with an Australian Shepherd could be a hypoallergenic dog, provided that the dominant gene is the Giant Schnauzer.
• Mixing an Irish Water Spaniel with an Aussie may significantly reduce the amount of shedding and dander.

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Are Australian Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

Yes, an Australian Labradoodle is developed by mixing Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Curly Coated Retrievers, and Irish Water Spaniels to produce dogs that shed minimally.

Best dog breeds for Aussie-loving allergy sufferers

If youre looking for hypoallergenic dog breeds, weve listed some of them for you. Just the same, these hypoallergenic dogs need to be groomed, otherwise, their coats will tangle and may form heavy matting and tangles.

American Hairless Terrier

Available in two sizes, this dog breed is almost hairless except for his eyebrows and whiskers. This dog breed is perfect for allergy sufferers but he requires special care to avoid sunburns. Be sure to apply dog-safe sunscreen if youre heading out for some fun.

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Irish Water Spaniel

A dog breed with a double layer of coat, the inner coat is soft while the outer coat is water- repellant. This is a hypoallergenic dog breed that sheds very minimally. But he needs to be brushed frequently to prevent mats and tangles from forming.

Poodle

A Poodle does not shed but its coat is very prone to heavy matting. It needs to be brushed 3 to 4 times a week using a slicker brush. If you see some mats starting to form, take your pooch to the groomer as soon as you can.

Portuguese Water Dog

If you love water sports, this dog breed would be your perfect companion. The coat can either be wavy or curly and comes in various shades like brown and white. It is a single-coated coat that sheds very minimally.

Schnauzer

Schnauzers hardly sheds, hence they are good for allergy sufferers. Plus, this breed does not drool a lot. The coat can be trimmed at least once every 2 months to get rid of mats.

Miniature Schnauzer

Same as the standard-sized Schnauzer, this little fellow is also hypoallergenic. Shedding wont be a problem if you decide to bring home a mini Schnauzer.

Since she does not shed much, you will not many fur around your home but do give her a bath at least once every 6 weeks.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

A people-oriented and kid-friendly dog, the soft coated Wheaten Terrier is another hypoallergenic dog breed we recommend. Though they have tons of hair, they do not shed much. They are single-coated and do not produce as much dander.

Are Sheepdogs Hypoallergenic?

No, sheepdogs including Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic.

So, Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?

If you are hoping to care for an Australian Shepherd dog but worry if he is hypoallergenic or not, well, sorry to disappoint you but this dog breed is a moderate to heavy shedder.

Allergens like dander will attach to his fur which he sheds on a daily basis. If youre sensitive, you may suffer from sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery eyes to name a few.

Related Questions

What is bad about Australian Shepherd?

Apart from being a very energetic dogs, Australian Shepherds shed a lot all throughout the year.

Are Australian Shepherds OK for people with allergies?

No because Australian Shepherds are moderate to heavy-shedding dog breeds that sheds year round and sheds heavily during the spring and fall.

What is the #1 hypoallergenic dog?

Labradoodles are considered to be the best hypoallergenic dog breed.

Why am I not allergic to Australian Shepherds?

You may not be sensitive to dog dander and the protein particles that cause allergic reactions. Or maybe its because you brush your dog regularly and you use air purifiers at home which all helps in reducing allergic reactions to Australian Shepherds.

What is the calmest hypoallergenic dog breed?

Bichon Frise is one of the calmest hypoallergenic dogs. This breed is friendly and very affectionate.

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Resources:

https://australianshepherds.org/programs/usasa-health-genetics-program/

https://www.ashgi.org/home-page/genetics-info/testing-screening-programs

With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.