Dog Grooming & Clean Up Doodle Health & Wellness
Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic? How to Manage Allergies Around Your Doodle
Rocky Kanaka
|
Do you find yourself sneezing around your Bernedoodle? Or maybe you know someone who can’t stop rubbing their eyes around your sweet puppy. Chances are, you’ve got a dog allergy on your hands. But what does this mean for your Bernedoodle? Are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic in the first place?
To learn everything you need to know about dog allergies and your Bernedoodle, read on:
Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic?
First, let’s go over the big question: are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic?
While Bernese Mountain Dogs are not typically considered to be hypoallergenic, Bernedoodles may have a lower chance of triggering allergies in some people. This is because Bernedoodles are a crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, which are known to be hypoallergenic.
Poodles have a single layer of curly hair that sheds minimally, which reduces the amount of dander and allergens in the air. When bred with a Bernese Mountain Dog, which has a longer, thicker coat that sheds more, the resulting hybrid may inherit the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat.
However, it’s important to note that not all Bernedoodles will be hypoallergenic, as their coat type can vary depending on which parent breed they take after more. Some Bernedoodles may still shed and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in some people. It’s always best to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your home to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction.
What does Hypoallergenic Mean?
But what does hypoallergenic really mean? The dictionary defines something as “hypoallergenic when it has a low likelihood of triggering allergic reactions. However, this usually goes for fabrics, lotions, and self-care products. You don’t usually end up rubbing your dog all over your face.
Is Hypoallergenic Really Even a Thing?
The “low likelihood” part of the definition comes into effect with animals, and some animals produce less common allergens than others, making them hypoallergenic.
What Causes Dog Allergies in Humans?
In dogs, protein compounds found in saliva, feces, urine, and dander are the leading cause of dog allergies. While we can’t control how much spit our dogs have or whether or not they go to the bathroom, we can maintain their coats to ensure they don’t shed as much dander into the air. That’s where the term “hypoallergenic” comes in.
What Dog Breeds are the Most Hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic dog breeds are less likely to shed dander into the air. So, dogs with curly or wiry fur, no fur, or hair instead of fur are your most likely options for a hypoallergenic dog. Small breeds like Bichon-Frise, Yorkshire Terrier, and Shih-Tzu are popular hypoallergenic dogs. Poodles and Poodle mixes of all sizes are also great hypoallergenic dogs because their loose fur gets stuck among their fluffy curls.
What Dog Breeds are the Least Hypoallergenic?
Regarding least hypoallergenic breeds, dogs that shed a lot are your biggest culprits for the sniffles. Dogs with double coats like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers are all considered heavy shedders and aren’t hypoallergenic whatsoever– you’ll instead be surrounded by a cloud of fluff!
Dog Allergy Symptoms
So, how do we know what dog allergies look like? When our bodies are exposed to the allergy-triggering proteins in doggy dander, our immune systems treat these proteins like a malicious virus. They release immunoglobulins to flag and attack the protein compounds as a contaminant; that’s why your allergy symptoms are similar to a cold. If you have dog allergies, you may experience:
- Sniffling and sneezing
- Coughing
- A runny nose
- Red, itchy eyes
- Itchy skin or hives
- Watery eyes
How Can I Reduce My Allergy Triggers to Bernedoodles?
If you’re a Bernedoodle lover and want to give puppy parenting a shot despite the allergies, there are a few things you can do to make your life easier:
Clean Often
For starters, cleaning your living space often is the best way to remove dander from the floors and high-contact surfaces. Vacuuming and dusting weekly and using a machine-washable couch cover can make a world of difference when it comes to removing pet hair lying around your home!
Consider an Air Filter
Air or HVAC filters are also great for reducing the amount of loose dander and fur floating around in your home. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends using HEPA filters for smaller living spaces and single rooms and HVAC filters with a MERV between 11 and 13 for larger homes.
Talk to Your Doctor
Another tip for people with dog allergies is to speak with your doctor before you adopt a dog. Your doctor can help you make a plan for tackling your allergies: if they’re mild, you might only need the occasional over-the-counter medication. If you’ve got more serious allergies, you may need allergy shots.
Top Tips for Dog Owners With Allergies
Pupper parents with allergies, this one’s for you: if you’re struggling with allergy symptoms despite the cleaning, there are still some things you can do.
Maintain a Grooming Routine
Maintaining a grooming routine will help keep your Labradoodle’s coat nice and healthy. Daily brushing, weekly baths with a gentle shampoo, and watching for matted fur is one of the best ways to ensure your doodle doesn’t shed too much.
Stay Up-to-Date With the Vet
In addition to grooming, staying in touch with your veterinarian will also help inadvertently manage your Labradoodle’s coat health. Overshedding is often a symptom of an underlying condition. If your doodle is shedding a lot, they might be struggling with their own allergies. Plus, having a medical baseline set for your doggo is always good!
FAQ
Are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic?
Bernedoodles are not completely hypoallergenic. However, they are considered to be a low-shedding breed, which can make them more suitable for people with allergies.
What is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.
What makes Bernedoodles hypoallergenic?
Bernedoodles have a low-shedding coat that produces less dander than other breeds. This can make them more tolerable for people with allergies.
What size do Bernedoodles come in?
Bernedoodles can come in a variety of sizes, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. They can be toy, mini, or standard-sized.
Are Bernedoodles good with children?
Yes, Bernedoodles are known for being great family dogs and are typically good with children.
Are Bernedoodles good with other pets?
Bernedoodles can be good with other pets if they are socialized properly from a young age.
How much exercise do Bernedoodles need?
Bernedoodles require moderate exercise, such as daily walks and playtime.
What is the temperament of a Bernedoodle?
Bernedoodles are typically friendly, affectionate, and intelligent dogs.
How much grooming do Bernedoodles require?
Bernedoodles require regular grooming, including brushing and occasional trims.
Do Bernedoodles shed?
Bernedoodles do shed, but their low-shedding coat produces less dander, which can make them more tolerable for people with allergies.
How much do Bernedoodles weigh?
Bernedoodles can weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds, depending on their size.
How long do Bernedoodles live?
Bernedoodles typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
What are the health concerns associated with Bernedoodles?
Bernedoodles may be prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
How much do Bernedoodles cost?
Bernedoodles can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on their size and breeder.
Are Bernedoodles easy to train?
Yes, Bernedoodles are intelligent and eager to please, which can make them easy to train.
Do Bernedoodles bark a lot?
Bernedoodles can be vocal dogs, but excessive barking can be prevented with proper training and socialization.
Are Bernedoodles good apartment dogs?
Bernedoodles can adapt well to apartment living as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Are Bernedoodles good for first-time dog owners?
Bernedoodles can be good for first-time dog owners as long as they are willing to put in the time and effort to train and care for them properly.
Can Bernedoodles be left alone?
Bernedoodles can be left alone for short periods of time, but they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Are Bernedoodles good guard dogs?
Bernedoodles are not typically used as guard dogs, as they tend to be friendly and sociable with strangers.
Related Articles:
- A Giant Breed Mixed With A Tiny Breed = A Mini Bernedoodle!
- 67 Shades of Doodles: Discovering the Charm of These Popular Designer Dogs
- Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? How to Manage Allergies Around Your Doodle
