Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic? Yes or No?

Discover if a hypoallergenic Australian Shepherd is a myth or reality. Uncover the truth now and make an informed decision!

Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?

Australian Shepherds, despite their many admirable qualities, are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately and produce dander, which can trigger allergies. However, regular grooming can help manage this issue. 

Understanding your allergy triggers and tolerance levels is essential before bringing an Aussie into your home. Always consult with a healthcare professional or allergist for personalized advice.

Australian Shepherd dog

Is Aussies Bad for Human Allergies?

While a hairless Australian Shepherd is virtually non-existent, it’s important to note that Aussies, with their double coat, can indeed exacerbate human allergies. They shed and produce dander, common allergens for many people. However, regular grooming and cleaning can manage the impact on allergies.

Are Mini Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic?

When it comes to Australian Shepherd allergies, it’s crucial to understand that Mini Australian Shepherds, like their standard counterparts, are not hypoallergenic. They also own a shedding double coat that produces dander, which can trigger allergic reactions. 

Regular grooming can help manage this, but it’s crucial to check with your GP to understand your specific allergy triggers before bringing a Mini Aussie into your home.

Are Some Dog Breeds More Hypoallergenic Than Others?

While the term hypoallergenic Australian Shepherd may be misleading, some dog breeds are indeed more hypoallergenic than others. Hypoallergenic breeds produce fewer allergens, making them a better choice for people with allergies. However, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, including the Australian Shepherd. 

Some dog breeds that constitute as being more hypoallergenic include the

  • Afghan Hound
  • Airedale Terrier
  • Basenji
  • Bichon Frise
  • Bolognese
  • Chinese Crested
  • Coton de Tulear
  • German Shorthaired Pointer
  • Goldendoodle
  • Havanese
  • Irish Water Spaniel
  • Kerry Blue Terrier
  • Labradoodle
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Maltese
  • Miniature Schnauzer
  • Portuguese Water Dog
  • Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
  • Puli
  • Scottish Terrier
  • Shih Tzu
  • Xoloitzcuintli
  • Yorkshire Terrier
Australian Shepherd on yellow background

Our Top Tips for Living With an Aussie and Their Shedding

Dealing with Australian Shepherd allergies can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can live comfortably with an Aussie and manage their shedding. Here are our top tips:

  1. Regular Grooming: Brush your Aussie several times weekly to remove loose hair and reduce dander. This can significantly decrease the amount of allergens in your home.
  2. High-Quality Diet: Feed your Aussie a high-quality diet to develop a healthy coat and skin, which can reduce shedding and dander.
  3. Bathing Routine: Regular baths can help remove allergens from your Aussie’s coat. However, avoid over-bathing as it can dry their skin and increase dander.
  4. Air Purifiers: Use air purifiers in your home to filter out allergens and improve air quality.
  5. Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your home, especially areas where your Aussie spends most of their time. This includes washing their bedding frequently.
  6. Allergy Medication: If you’re allergic, consider taking over-the-counter allergy medication or consult a medical practitioner for prescription options.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Non-Hypoallergenic Dog

While a hairless Australian Shepherd is not a reality, there are several factors to consider before bringing a non-hypoallergenic dog like an Aussie into your home:

  1. Spend Time with the Breed: Spend time with the breed you’re considering to see if you have any allergic reactions. This can give you a good idea of whether you can comfortably live with this breed.
  2. Grooming Commitment: Non-hypoallergenic dogs often require regular grooming to manage shedding and dander. Be prepared for this commitment.
  3. Home Cleaning: Homes with non-hypoallergenic dogs need frequent cleaning to reduce allergens. Consider if you’re ready to take on this extra work.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: You may need to change your lifestyle, such as keeping your dog out of your bedroom or investing in air purifiers.

Remember, making an informed decision considering your health and the dog’s well-being is crucial.

Australian Shepherd in the yard

We’ve Got You Covered

In conclusion, while the term hypoallergenic Australian Shepherd may be a bit of a misnomer, it’s clear that managing Australian Shepherd allergies is possible with the right strategies. Whether it’s regular grooming, maintaining a high-quality diet, establishing a bathing routine, using air purifiers, or keeping a clean home, these measures can help reduce allergens.

However, it’s important to remember that Aussies, like all dogs, produce dander and shed, which can trigger allergies. Before bringing a non-hypoallergenic dog into your home, consider factors such as allergy testing, spending time with the breed, and potential lifestyle changes. 

Always consult a healthcare professional to understand your allergy triggers and find the best solutions for you and your Aussie.

Read other article for more info on Australian Shepherd shedding.

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