Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic, Do you have allergies? Do you want a hypoallergenic dog, but aren’t sure if an Australian Shepherd would be the right choice? This guide will help you learn about what makes Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic, and also what doesn’t make them hypoallergenic. You’ll also find out how to best care for an Australian Shepherd while keeping your allergies in check!
Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?
No, Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They are actually considered to be one of the worst breeds for people with allergies. This is because they shed a lot. Their coat is made up of two layers – a dense undercoat and a coarser outer coat. And when they shed, they lose both the undercoat and the outer coat. So if you’re allergic to dogs, it’s best to steer clear of Australian Shepherds. But there are other breeds that may work better for you. In fact, there are some breeds that can’t even produce dander in their saliva!
Finnish Lapphunds do not produce dander in their saliva. There also happens to be a specific allergy testing procedure called the intradermal skin test which detects how your body reacts to allergens on your skin as opposed to being sniffed or ingested. If this sounds like something you would want done before adopting a dog, ask your veterinarian about this!
The Myth About Australian Shepherds
For some reason, there’s a misconception that Australian Shepherds are hypoallergenic. Maybe it’s because they don’t shed as much as other breeds or maybe it’s because they’re such cute, cuddly dogs. Whatever the reason, it’s simply not true. Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. In fact, this breed sheds a lot of hair and skin cells! If you have asthma or any other respiratory condition and live with pets in your home, you’ll need to be prepared for more frequent dusting and vacuuming. You should also be mindful of carpets and upholstery because all of those hairs will get stuck in these fabrics! You’ll need to clean these areas more often too if you have an Australian Shepherd at home!
What Makes People Think They Shed A Lot
There are a few reasons why people think that Australian Shepherds shed a lot. For one, they have a double coat of fur. This means that they have an outer layer of fur (the guard hairs) and an inner layer of fur (the undercoat). When the seasons change, they shed their undercoats in order to regulate their body temperature. Additionally, because they were originally bred as working dogs, they have a lot of energy and tend to be very active. This can cause them to shed more than other breeds of dogs.
Fact: They Don’t Shed A Lot
For starters, it’s important to know that the amount a dog sheds is not necessarily related to how allergic someone might be to them. In fact, Australian Shepherds don’t shed a lot. This is because their coat is made up of two layers: an outer layer of straight hair and an undercoat of soft, downy hair. The outer layer protects the undercoat from the elements and keeps shedding to a minimum. That said, they still do shed on occasion which may cause some irritation in those with allergies. But as you will see below, there are other reasons why they aren’t hypoallergenic.
Why Dogs That Don’t Shed Still Need Grooming
Just because a dog doesn’t shed doesn’t mean they don’t need to be groomed. In fact, some dogs that don’t shed, like the Australian Shepherd, need to be groomed more often than dogs that do shed. This is because the coat of a non-shedding dog can become matted and tangled if not brushed regularly. And if you don’t brush your Aussie’s coat, it can lead to all sorts of problems like hot spots, skin infections, and an overall unkempt appearance. It also makes them susceptible to fleas and ticks, which in turn causes their coats to get matted again even faster.
Understanding Dog Hair and How It Works
Dogs have two types of hair on their bodies: primary and secondary. The primary hairs are the thick, coarse hairs that make up the dog’s outer coat. The secondary hairs are the fine, downy hairs that grow in between the primary hairs. These two types of hair work together to provide insulation and protection for the dog. Secondary hairs also help regulate body temperature by trapping air close to the skin. So while they may not be hypoallergenic, they serve a very important function!
How To Groom Your Dog At Home
Although professional grooming is always an option, it’s not necessary with this breed. You can keep your Aussie’s coat healthy and looking great with just a few simple steps at home. First, brush your dog’s coat regularly – at least once a week – to remove any dirt, debris or tangles. You should also give them a bath every month or so using a mild dog shampoo. Be sure to rinse their coat thoroughly to remove all traces of soap. And finally, don’t forget to trim their nails as needed – typically every two to three weeks. By following these simple tips, you can keep your Aussie looking and feeling their best!
Conclusion
No, Australian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They are, however, one of the breeds that produces less dander and saliva, which are two main causes of allergies in people. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But if you’re willing to take the risk with an Aussie, you may be pleasantly surprised!