Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? How to Manage Allergies Around Your Doodle

Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

Do you find yourself sneezing around your doodle? 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 Labradoodle? Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic in the first place?

To learn everything you need to know about dog allergies and your Labradoodle, read on:

Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

First, let’s go over the big question: are Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

labradoodle

Source: Matthew Foulds on Unsplash

In short, yes! Labradoodles are considered hypoallergenic dogs because of their poodle parents. As naturally hypoallergenic dogs, poodles pass this trait down to their puppies.

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.

dog allergy

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 the Bichon-Friese, 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 Shiba Inus, Corgis, and Huskies are all considered heavy shedders and aren’t hypoallergenic whatsoever– you’ll instead be surrounded by a cloud of fluff!

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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 Labradoodles?

If you’re a doodle 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!

dusting

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.

air filter
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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.

dog getting bath

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! 

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dog in vet

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? We have answers! Check out our FAQ:

Are all Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

All Labradoodles are considered hypoallergenic.

Are mini Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

Yes! Mini Labradoodles are hypoallergenic.

Are F1 Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

Yes they are! As you breed future generations of Labradoodle with non-hypoallergenic dogs, they will lose their hypoallergenic quality.

Are Labradoodles more hypoallergenic than Goldendoodles?

They’re about the same.

Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

Yes! This is because Labradoodles inherit their curly coats from a poodle parent.

Do Labradoodles shed a lot?

Labradoodles shed a moderate amount.

What causes pet allergies?

Proteins found in pet dander, saliva, urine, and feces cause pet allergies.

Can people with allergies keep Labradoodles as pets?

Yep! They’ll just have to take some extra precautions to prevent allergy flare-ups.

What are the symptoms of pet allergies?

The most common symptoms of pet allergies are a runny nose, red or itchy eyes, and a sore throat.

How can I reduce my exposure to pet allergens?

Cleaning frequently is the best way to reduce your exposure to pet allergens. You can also invest in an air-purifier for allergies to remove dander and pollen from the air.

What are some hypoallergenic dog breeds?

Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Xoloitzcuintlis are all hypoallergenic breeds. They have curly fur, hair instead of fur, and no fur respectively.

Can regular grooming help reduce pet allergens?

Yes it can! Just make sure that you use a moisturizing shampoo without parabens to avoid your dog developing dry, flaky skin.

What are some common allergens found in pet dander?

Pet dander can also contain mold spores, pollen, and dust mites with it.

Are there any medications or treatments that can help alleviate pet allergies?

Yep! Over-the-counter allergy medications like Benadryl are great for mild pet allergies. Doctor-prescribed allergy shots are also a nice alternative for people with more severe allergies.

Do hypoallergenic dog breeds exist?

Yes, they do! Hypoallergenic dog breeds usually have curly or wiry coats, hair instead of fur and are low-shedders. 

How do I know if I’m allergic to Labradoodles?

You might have an allergy if you experience allergy symptoms like a runny nose or itchy eyes when around Labradoodles.

Can children with allergies keep Labradoodles as pets?

Yes, they can! Just make sure to keep your living area clean and groom your doodle frequently.

How can I prepare my home for Labradoodles if I have allergies?

One of the best things you can do to prep for allergens in your home is to create an allergen-free zone. For dogs, this means creating an off-limits space just for you.

What are some non-allergenic pets?

Reptiles and amphibians make great non-allergenic pets!

Can allergy shots help with pet allergies?

Allergy shots can help with pet allergies but require a doctor’s prescription.

What are some common allergens found in dog saliva?

Dog saliva contains the same proteins that are also found in pet dander, which is why dog spit might make your skin itchy.

How often do I need to groom my Goldendoodle?

Try to brush your doodle once a day, and give them a nice bath once a week.

Are Goldendoodles suitable for people with allergies?

Goldendoodles are great dogs for people with allergies!


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