Are American Eskimo Dogs Hypoallergenic? Tips for Allergy Sufferers

Understanding Whether American Eskimos are Hypoallergenic

When it comes to choosing a dog breed, those with allergies face an extra challenge. However, some breeds tend to be better for allergy sufferers due to being hypoallergenic. The term literally means "low allergen" and refers to dogs who shed little hair or dander. For the over 50 million Americans with dog allergies, a hypoallergenic breed could mean finally owning their dream pup.

Do American Eskimos Shed?

To understand if the American Eskimo qualifies as hypoallergenic, we first have to look at the reasons why dogs trigger allergies in some people. Contrary to popular belief, dog allergies are not caused by their fur, but by dander. Dander refers to microscopic skin flakes shed by dogs. These skin cells contain allergy-inducing proteins.

All dogs shed dander to some degree, but some more than others. Dogs with thick double coats or who frequently blow their coats tend to release more dander into the environment. So do American Eskimos fall into this category? Let's take a closer look at their coat.

The American Eskimo Coat

The American Eskimo sports a thick double-layered coat that enables it to handle cold weather. The undercoat is soft and dense while the outer coat consists of long, straight guard hairs. So yes, this breed has the type of coat that could result in increased shedding and dander production.

These petite pups also blow their coats once or twice a year, depending on climate. During shedding season they release all that dead hair and skin built up in their thick coats. For allergy sufferers, this seasonal shedding can aggravate symptoms.

Minimizing Allergens in the Home

While no dog is completely non-allergenic, some practical steps can be taken to minimize dander and allergens shed by American Eskimos at home. These include:

• Brushing the coat frequently using a specially designed shedding tool
• Bathing once every 1-2 weeks using gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner
• Cleaner air filters, vacuums with HEPA filters, and air purifiers for capturing allergens
• Washing bedding, fabrics, and surfaces where dander collects every few days

In addition, keeping the American Eskimo out of the bedroom can give allergy sufferers a respite while sleeping. Medications may also help manage symptoms flare-ups triggered by shedding.

The Importance of Grooming

Frequent grooming is key when it comes to minimizing shedding and dander. American Eskimos require daily brushing year-round with weekly bathing. During seasonal shedding more frequent brushing and bathing is needed. Pay special attention to body areas closest to the skin, where dead hair and dander collects.

It's also vital to keep the coat trimmed neatly around the feet, ears, eyes and rear end. Long hair here easily collects allergens. Using a non-drowsy allergy medication prior to grooming helps mitigate exposure to allergens released.

Final Thoughts

So are American Eskimos hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, their thick double coats mean they do shed more than some other breeds. However, with proper grooming, sanitization measures, and air purification systems at home, allergy sufferers can still potentially own these furry companions.

Of course, individual sensitivity levels vary. Consulting an allergist and scheduling skin/blood tests can determine if exposure to American Eskimos would pose major issues. For moderate to severe dog allergies though, there may be better suited breeds to choose from.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.