Goldendoodles are an adorable mix between the Golden Retriever and Poodle. They are known as loving dogs that are good with kids and make excellent family pets. But what if a family member is allergic to dogs and other companion animals? Some claim that certain breeds of dogs don’t shed hair, which may be perfect for those with allergies.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
Hypoallergenic refers to dog breeds that are less likely to trigger an allergic response in the body.
There is a myth that suggests pet allergies are caused by animal hair. However, it’s actually a protein found in pet skin (or dander), saliva, and urine that causes the allergy. Pet dander can remain airborne for extended periods and eventually find its way to your eyes and lungs.
Do Goldendoodles Shed?
Many may wonder, are Goldendoodle puppies hypoallergenic?
A study from the American Kennel Club’s article on hypoallergenic dogs claims that there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs, dog breeds, or mixed breeds. Still, many dog breeds are less allergenic for people with dog allergies.
Golden Doodles may not be 100 percent hypoallergenic, but they don’t shed or induce allergies in susceptible people. In a survey of 76 Goldendoodle owners with dog allergies, 83% of people said they don’t experience any symptoms due to their pet.
What Environment is Best for a Goldendoodle?
Golden doodles thrive in urban and rural environments but do best when they have a backyard to roam around in. They are highly social animals, easy to train, and have agreeable personalities.
If you are allergic to dogs and have a Goldendoodle at home, you can reduce your risk of allergy reactions by implementing some of the following tips:
Bathe and Brush Often
Bathe your dog using a good shed control shampoo and brush them regularly to control and minimize your allergic reactions. Brushing their hair helps extract dirt, loose hairs, and dander from the hair.
Proper Haircut Schedule
Goldendoodle has fast-growing and lengthy hair, making it possible for allergens to lurk around no matter how frequently you bathe or brush their hair. If grooming is too costly, you can also invest in grooming tools!
Vacuum Regularly
Regular vacuuming helps to eliminate pet hair and dander and ensures a safer and cleaner environment. You can research which vacuum cleaners are designed specifically for owners of dogs prone to shedding. There is also high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers available to reduce airborne allergens in the home.
Symptoms of Dog Allergies
Symptoms may not appear for several days after exposure in people with low sensitivity but here are some of the common symptoms of dog allergies:
- Swelling and itching in the membranes of the nose or around the eyes
- Redness of the skin after being licked by a dog
- Coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing within 15 to 30 minutes of exposure to allergens
- Rash on the face, neck, or chest
- A severe asthma attack for asthmatic people
What Are Some Ways to Help with Allergies
Do you have golden doodles hypoallergenic dogs at home? Goldendoodles may not be 100% hypoallergenic, but it’s still better to take preventative measures to avoid allergies.
Here are some medications and treatments that can help you manage allergies.
Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra, and Clarinex OTC, can help relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
Natural Remedies
Try saline (salt water) rinse to clear nasal passages from allergens. There are also OTC saline sprays and nasal lavage kits available. To make your saline, mix 1/8 teaspoon of table salt with distilled water.
Change in Lifestyle
Set up dog-free zones or rooms at home, clean carpets and furniture that may attract dander, look into hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as F1, F1b, and F1bb Goldendoodles, and use pet-friendly shampoo when bathing your dogs, among other things.
At Oodles of Doodles, we specialize in the most hypoallergenic of all the doodle generations! Contact us today to learn more.
