As a dog lover, few things are more exciting than the prospect of bringing home a new furry family member. But for those who suffer from dog allergies, that excitement is often tempered by apprehension. Will this new companion make you sneeze, wheeze, or break out in hives? Many allergy sufferers hope to find a "hypoallergenic" dog that won‘t trigger their symptoms. But what does hypoallergenic really mean? And are Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, considered a hypoallergenic breed?
Understanding Dog Allergies
First, let‘s look at some statistics. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as much as 10% of the U.S. population is allergic to dogs. Of course, the severity of these allergies varies. Some people may experience mild sniffling or watery eyes, while others develop hives, severe asthma attacks, or even anaphylaxis.
So what causes these allergic reactions? The main culprits are proteins found in a dog‘s dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. These proteins are tiny and lightweight, allowing them to remain suspended in the air or cling to furniture, clothing, and other surfaces. When an allergic person breathes in these particles or comes into contact with them, their immune system goes into overdrive, leading to those miserable symptoms.
What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?
You may have heard certain dog breeds touted as "hypoallergenic" and assumed they must not produce any allergens. However, the term hypoallergenic is a bit of a misnomer when it comes to dogs. In reality, no dog is truly allergen-free. All dogs produce the proteins that can trigger allergies, just in varying amounts.
The main difference is in how much dander a dog spreads around their environment. This is where coat type and shedding come into play. Dogs that shed less, like Poodles, Maltese, and Bichon Frises, tend to spread less dander than heavy shedders. It‘s not that their dander itself is less allergenic, but less of it ends up airborne or clinging to surfaces.
Some other factors, like the amount a dog drools or licks, can also impact allergen spread. Breeds known for excessive drooling, like Mastiffs and Saint Bernards, may leave more allergy-triggering saliva around the house. In contrast, a relatively drool-free breed may pose less of a saliva-based allergy risk.
Shelties and Shedding
So where do Shelties fall on the hypoallergenic spectrum? Unfortunately, Shetland Sheepdogs are about as far from hypoallergenic as a dog can get. They are, in fact, notorious for their prolific shedding.
Shelties boast a gorgeous double coat – a soft, dense undercoat topped by a long, straight outer coat. This combination evolved to protect the dogs from the harsh, wet climate of their native Shetland Islands. But while it may be great for the dog, it‘s a veritable allergen factory.
Twice a year, typically in spring and fall, Shelties "blow coat," shedding their undercoat in large clumps to make way for new growth. During these periods, it‘s not unusual to find tumbleweeds of fluff drifting through the home, no matter how often you sweep or vacuum. Even between these dramatic sheds, Shelties are moderate year-round shedders, leaving a constant dusting of hair and dander in their wake.
All this shedding means Shelties are constantly releasing allergen-laden dander into their environment. The double coat traps and then spreads the dander far and wide as the dog sheds. For allergy sufferers, this continual exposure can lead to persistent symptoms that are difficult to control.
Grooming and Coat Care
While no amount of grooming will turn a Sheltie into a hypoallergenic dog, a regular grooming routine can help minimize the spread of dander in the home. The key is to remove the loose hair before it has a chance to waft through the house, carrying its allergenic payload with it.
Experts recommend brushing a Sheltie at least two to three times per week, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. A thorough brushing session should include combing through the thick undercoat with a rake or shedding tool to remove the loose fuzz before it ends up on your couch. Misting the coat lightly with water or detangler can help prevent breakage and reduce flyaways during brushing.
Occasional baths, using a gentle dog shampoo, can also help wash away accumulated dander from the skin and coat. However, bathing too often can dry out the skin and lead to even more dander production. Most Shelties do well with a bath every 6-8 weeks, unless they‘ve gotten into something particularly messy.
It‘s also important to note that a Sheltie‘s diet plays a role in their coat health and shedding. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein can help promote a healthy, lustrous coat that sheds less. Consult with your veterinarian about the best diet for your individual dog‘s needs.
Creating an Allergy-Friendly Home
In addition to staying on top of your Sheltie‘s grooming, there are steps you can take to create a more allergy-friendly home environment. The goal is to reduce the overall level of dog allergens in the air and on surfaces.
First and foremost, invest in a quality vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap even the tiniest particles, including dog dander. Regular vacuuming of carpets, rugs, and upholstery can dramatically cut down on the allergen load in your home. For hard floors, opt for a damp mop or electrostatic cloth that will grab the dander instead of sending it flying.
Washing any bedding, blankets, or soft toys your Sheltie uses on a weekly basis can also make a big difference. Use hot water to effectively neutralize the allergens. If your dog rides in the car with you, don‘t forget to vacuum and clean any vehicle upholstery as well.
Running a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter in the rooms where your Sheltie spends the most time can also help capture airborne dander before it has a chance to settle. Look for a purifier appropriately sized for the square footage of the space.
You may also want to consider restricting your Sheltie‘s access to certain rooms, like bedrooms or a designated "allergy-free" zone. Keeping the dog off human beds and furniture can further limit your exposure to their dander. Bare floors are easier to clean than carpet, so you may want to consider replacing Wall-to-wall carpeting, especially in bedrooms.
Of course, good old-fashioned handwashing remains one of your best defenses. Wash your hands thoroughly after petting or playing with your Sheltie, and avoid touching your face in the meantime. Changing clothes after extended snuggle sessions can also help keep that dander from following you around.
Hypoallergenic Breed Alternatives
For some allergy sufferers, even the most stringent management strategies may not be enough to comfortably live with a Sheltie. In these cases, it may be worth considering a dog breed that‘s more compatible with your allergies. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, several breeds come close.
Poodles and Poodle Mixes: Poodles are often the first breed that comes to mind when people think hypoallergenic. Their tightly curled coat sheds minimally, and they tend to produce less dander than many other breeds. Poodles come in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, ensuring there‘s an option for nearly any lifestyle. Poodle mixes like Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Sheepadoodles aim to combine the Poodle‘s coat with the personality of another breed, though shedding can vary.
Bichon Frise: These cheerful little white fluffballs have a soft, plush coat that continually grows and sheds very minimally. They do require regular trips to the groomer to prevent matting, but many allergy sufferers find the trade-off worthwhile.
Maltese: Another small breed, the Maltese has a long, silky white coat that sheds very little. Like the Bichon, they need regular haircuts to keep their coat manageable, but they tend to be a good choice for those with allergies.
Schnauzer: Schnauzers come in miniature, standard, and giant sizes, all with a wiry double coat that sheds minimally. They do need regular grooming to maintain their distinctive bearded look, but they generally don‘t leave a trail of allergens in their wake.
It‘s important to note that individual dogs within a breed can vary in their dander and shedding levels. One Poodle may trigger your allergies more than another Poodle. Whenever possible, spend plenty of time with a specific dog before committing to make sure your allergies can handle it.
Making the Decision
As a dog lover with allergies, the decision to bring a particular breed into your home is not one to be made lightly. It‘s crucial to weigh the severity of your allergies, your lifestyle, and the level of grooming and cleaning commitment you‘re willing to make.
If your allergies are severe, even a "hypoallergenic" breed may be too much of a risk. No amount of vacuuming and air purifying will create a completely dander-free environment. In these cases, it may be best to admire dogs from afar or look into alternative pets.
On the other hand, if your allergies are mild to moderate and well-controlled with medication, you may be able to live comfortably with a low-shedding breed like a Poodle or Bichon Frise. Just be prepared to put in the work to keep your home as allergen-free as possible.
For those set on a Sheltie, the key is to spend plenty of time with the breed before bringing one home. Visit a breeder or spend time in a home with Shelties to gauge your reaction. If you find your eyes watering and your nose running within minutes, a Sheltie is probably not the right fit. But if your reaction is mild and manageable, you may be able to make it work with careful grooming and home management.
Consulting the Experts
Ultimately, the best course of action is to consult with both your doctor and a veterinarian. Your allergist can assess the severity of your dog allergy and recommend the best management strategies, including medication and immunotherapy options. They may even be able to provide guidance on which breeds are most compatible with your specific allergies.
A knowledgeable veterinarian can advise you on the grooming and dietary needs of different breeds, as well as recommend products and strategies for reducing allergens in your home. They can also guide you on what to look for in a reputable breeder or shelter dog to ensure you‘re getting a healthy pup with a predictable coat type.
Living with Dog Allergies
Living with dog allergies is undoubtedly a challenge, but for many dog lovers, it‘s a challenge worth tackling. With the right breed, a consistent grooming and cleaning routine, and guidance from medical professionals, it‘s often possible to keep allergies under control and enjoy the unparalleled companionship of a canine friend.
That said, it‘s important to be realistic about the level of allergies you‘re willing to live with. Even with the most diligent management, you may still experience some symptoms. For some allergy sufferers, a completely dander-free life is worth the sacrifice of not having a dog. For others, the joy and love of a furry companion outweigh the occasional sniffle or sneeze.
As a dog lover, only you can decide where that balance lies for you. But by understanding what makes a dog hypoallergenic, the specific needs of breeds like Shelties, and the management strategies available, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes both your health and your happiness. With commitment, flexibility, and maybe a little extra vacuuming, it‘s possible to find a dog that fits your allergies and your life.
