Do you wonder if the Samoyed is hypoallergenic? For some people, being in the same room with a man’s best friend can cause a shedload of misery including watery eyes, runny nose, shortness of breath, or a nasty rash – in general, it’s not pleasant! Looking at the statistics, 10% of Americans are suffering from pet allergies. Is there any wonder hypoallergenic dogs are becoming more popular?
Now, the first things that came to our mind are Poodles and Schnauzers as allergy-friendly dogs. However, the Samoyed with its dense white coat wouldn’t necessarily spring to mind. Do Samoyed dogs shed? Yes, and they do that a lot! Since a dog’s hair isn’t usually the trigger of a reaction, can these fur balls really coexist with asthma and allergy sufferers, let’s find out?
Is It True, Are Samoyed Dogs Hypoallergenic?
You should know that Samoyeds have no doggy odor and produce little dander which is why they often appear in lists of hypoallergenic dog breeds. So for you to know, Dander is one of the main causes of allergic reactions these small flakes of dead skin cause a lot of problems, and due to the thick coat of this breed, they are prevented from becoming airborne hence the hypoallergenic tag. However, as we mentioned above, this dog sheds – a lot (Usually, they blow their coat once or twice a year) and all that hair will likely have dander attached as well as lots of other allergens the fluffy coat attracts like pollen, saliva, dust, etc.
Samoyed: What does hypoallergenic actually mean?
Now, we’ll get to know better what does hypoallergenic means. Shall we? Firstly, to be clear, Hypoallergenic does not mean totally allergy-free, if it did, there would be no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog breed as even the hairless ones harbor proteins in their skin, saliva, and urine that can make someone break out in hives. However, the word’s definition is “less likely or reduced chance of causing an allergic reaction” so in theory the Samoyed could be classed as a hypoallergenic dog breed. But in practice, these beautiful smiley dogs are unlikely to be allergy-friendly to the majority of pet allergy sufferers.
Reasons Why the Samoyed Is a Choice Breed Among Allergy Sufferers
After a short introduction, we can state the reasons ‘Why the Samoyed Is a Choice Breed Among Allergy Sufferers’. Let’s be clear, people mistakenly think a dog’s hair is the problem for allergy sufferers, however, dander is the biggest problem and the Samoyed has less dander than many breeds. Also, Samoyed dander has another big advantage for allergy sufferers. The protein in dander, saliva, and urine that causes the typical symptoms in pet-sensitive folk is the KNF-1 protein, choosing a breed that has low levels of KNF-1 can help build a tolerance – and that is the key!. So, step forward to the Samoyed which has very low protein chains. However, like many allergy-friendly dogs, the Samoyed produces no doggy odor. Be sure that owning one of these adorable dogs will not have your home smelling like a kennel.
Samoyeds and allergies – What should I do?
Before you get yourself a Samoyed, be sure that you are well informed. So, if anyone in your home has asthma or pet allergies and you decide the hypoallergenic Samoyed is the breed for you; the key word is caution. Please do not rush out and impulsively purchase a Samoyed for sale, before doing extensive research and spending time with the breed.
The problem of allergy is the reason for a growing percentage of dogs in rescues and shelters. As you may know, it is important to choose the right dog and even better have some form of back-up in a sales contract in case a reaction occurs down the line. However, buying any dog when you suffer from allergies is a risk and one that should not be undertaken lightly. Here are some things you could try before bringing a Samoyed into your home:
- Contacting a breed specific Samoyed rescue;
- Join online forums and groups;
- Talk to other owners, breeders and find local events or fun days you could attend;
- Spending time with a number of Samoyeds
5 Ways to Reduce the Risk of An Allergic Reaction from Your Pooch
The first way, as we said earlier, is the long hair of the Samoyed. That will attract other allergens like pollen and dust so keeping this under control will help.
The second way is to have someone (not yourself, unless wearing a mask) groom your pooch daily outside away from any open windows.
The third way is to avoid soft furnishings, any hair shed around the home will cling to things like cushions, curtains, rugs, etc.
The fourth one is having hard floors and wipeable surfaces are a lot easier to clean and keep allergen levels down
And last, the fifth way is to feed your dog a diet rich in fatty acids and omega