As a lifelong dog lover who also suffers from allergies, I know firsthand the struggle of wanting to share your life with a furry friend while also trying to manage allergy symptoms. When I first started researching hypoallergenic dog breeds, the Shih Tzu was one that consistently came up as a good option for allergy sufferers. But are Shih Tzus truly hypoallergenic? Let‘s take a closer look at what causes pet allergies and where Shih Tzus fall on the allergen scale.
What Causes Pet Allergies?
Many people think it‘s a dog‘s fur that causes allergies, but the main culprit is actually a protein found in dog saliva, dander (dead skin cells), and urine. The most common of these proteins is Can f 1, which is present in all dogs but at varying levels. When a dog grooms itself, the saliva-covered hair and dander becomes airborne and spreads throughout the environment. It then gets inhaled by humans or comes into contact with our eyes and skin, triggering an allergic reaction in sensitized individuals.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, dog allergies affect up to 20% of the population. Symptoms can range from mild (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) to severe (difficulty breathing, rash, asthma attacks). Some people are more sensitive than others and reactions can vary from dog to dog.
What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?
While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, breeds that are considered hypoallergenic have a few traits in common:
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They produce less dander than other dogs. This is often because they have a single coat (no undercoat) or a coat that grows continuously and sheds minimally.
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They tend to be smaller breeds. Smaller dogs = less surface area for dander and allergen production.
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They require frequent grooming. Regular brushing and bathing helps remove loose hair and dander before it has a chance to spread.
Some of the most popular hypoallergenic breeds are Poodles, Bichon Frises, Malteses, and Yorkshire Terriers. These dogs have single coats that shed very little and produce less dander compared to double-coated breeds like German Shepherds or Huskies.
Shih Tzu Allergen Level
So where do Shih Tzus fit into the hypoallergenic spectrum? Shih Tzus have a double coat, but it‘s different from the double coats of shedding breeds. Their undercoat is short and sparse, while their topcoat is long and fine. The topcoat grows continuously and doesn‘t shed in the same way as breeds with seasonal shedding.
In a 2011 study of allergen levels in different dog breeds, Shih Tzus had lower levels of Can f 1 compared to other brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Boston Terriers. They fell into the "moderate" allergen level category along with Poodles and Bichon Frises.
| Breed | Can f 1 Level |
|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | High |
| Golden Retriever | High |
| German Shepherd | High |
| Pug | Moderate-High |
| Boston Terrier | Moderate-High |
| Shih Tzu | Moderate |
| Poodle | Moderate |
| Bichon Frise | Moderate |
| Maltese | Low |
Source: Vredegoor DW, Willemse T, et al. Can f 1 levels in hair and homes of different dog breeds: Lack of evidence to describe any dog breed as hypoallergenic. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012.
However, that doesn‘t mean Shih Tzus won‘t trigger allergies at all. As veterinarian Dr. Cheryl Yuill points out, "There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce allergens, some just produce fewer allergens than others." The amount of allergens an individual dog produces can also vary based on size, sex, and age. Intact males tend to produce more allergens than females or neutered males.
As a Shih Tzu owner myself, I can attest that my allergies are less severe with my Shih Tzu compared to when I‘m around my sister‘s Golden Retriever. But I still experience symptoms if I slack on brushing and bathing him regularly. Keeping up with grooming is key to minimizing allergens with this breed.
Living with a Shih Tzu When You Have Allergies
If you‘re an allergy sufferer considering a Shih Tzu, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:
1. Create an allergy-free zone
Designate your bedroom as a dog-free area and use a HEPA air purifier to filter out any dander or allergens. Use allergen-proof covers on your bedding and consider keeping doors closed to prevent your dog from entering.
2. Brush and bathe regularly
Aim to brush your Shih Tzu at least a few times a week to remove loose hair and dander. Bathe every 3-4 weeks with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo. Wipe them down with a damp cloth or pet wipes after being outside. Consider having them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks.
3. Clean frequently
Vacuum carpets and upholstery at least once a week using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Mop hardwood or tile floors regularly. Wash your dog‘s bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water weekly. Use allergen-reducing sprays on furniture and carpets.
4. Improve air quality
In addition to a HEPA air purifier, consider using an air filter in your HVAC system to trap dander and allergens circulating through your home. Avoid using scented candles, air fresheners, or perfumes that can irritate your allergies.
5. Talk to your doctor
Consult with an allergist about your treatment options, such as over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops. Some people with severe dog allergies may benefit from immunotherapy (allergy shots) to reduce their sensitivity over time.
6. Spend time with a Shih Tzu before adopting
If possible, visit a Shih Tzu breeder or spend time around the breed before bringing one home to see how your allergies react. Even better, foster a Shih Tzu for a rescue group to have a trial run living with the breed.
The Benefits of Shih Tzu Ownership
While it may seem daunting to live with a dog when you have allergies, the benefits of having a furry companion often outweigh the challenges. Studies have shown that dog ownership can:
- Lower stress and anxiety
- Reduce feelings of loneliness and depression
- Encourage physical activity and socialization
- Boost your immune system over time
- Provide unconditional love and affection
As someone who has lived with both allergies and a Shih Tzu for several years, I can say it‘s 100% worth the extra effort to make it work. My Shih Tzu brings me so much joy and laughter, and has been a constant source of comfort during difficult times. With proper management and treatment of my allergies, I‘m able to enjoy all the benefits of dog ownership without suffering too much.
Conclusion
So, are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic? While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus can be a good choice for allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coat and moderate allergen production. However, individual allergies and sensitivities vary, so it‘s important to spend time with the breed before committing to adoption.
If you do decide to bring a Shih Tzu into your life, be prepared to put in some extra work to manage your allergies. Regular brushing, bathing, and cleaning are a must to keep dander and allergens at bay. Creating an allergy-free sanctuary in your bedroom and investing in air purifiers can also make a big difference.
At the end of the day, only you can decide if the rewards of Shih Tzu ownership are worth the challenges of living with allergies. In my experience, the unconditional love and companionship of my Shih Tzu far outweighs any sniffles or sneezes. With proper management and a little extra effort, it‘s entirely possible to share your life with this wonderful breed.
