Are Chow Chows Hypoallergenic? Tips For Living With Dogs If You Have Allergies

Are Chow Chows Hypoallergenic? Tips for Allergy Sufferers

For those with pet allergies looking to welcome a dog into their home, the hypoallergenic qualities of certain breeds like the Chow Chow can help make that possible. Let's examine if Chows are truly hypoallergenic, what causes allergies to dogs, and how to manage living with pets when you have allergies.

The Causes of Pet Allergies

Allergies to dogs and cats are common, affecting around 30% of people worldwide. But what exactly causes the sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and other allergy symptoms?

People are not actually allergic to dog or cat hair itself. Rather, the allergen is a protein found in pet dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. This protein sticks to the animal's hair and skin and becomes airborne when shed, allowing it to enter the nose and lungs to trigger an allergic reaction.

Certain environmental and genetic factors can make someone more prone to reacting to these allergens. Exposure amount also plays a role, with increased shedding and close contact escalating symptoms.

The Myth of the Completely Hypoallergenic Dog

No dog is 100% non-allergenic, as all dogs produce dander, saliva, and urine that contains the Can f 1 allergen protein. However, some breeds are considered relatively "hypoallergenic" because they tend to produce fewer allergens and shed less fur.

Chow Chows make many hypoallergenic breed lists because they have a unique double coat. The fluffy, dense fur traps dander and prevents it from becoming airborne. Drool and urine allergens are also minimal with Chows due to their cat-like habits of self-grooming and tidy potty behavior.

While Chows shed only once or twice annually, no breed is completely non-shedding. But their minimal shedding makes them hypoallergenic compared to heavy shedders like Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds.

Tips for Living with Chow Chows If You Have Allergies

Those with dog allergies can still often tolerate living with hypoallergenic breeds like Chow Chows by taking certain precautions. Here are some tips to minimize allergy triggers when owning a Chow Chow:

• Brush and bathe your Chow Chow weekly to control loose fur and dander.
• Use HEPA air filters throughout the home to reduce airborne allergens.
• Vacuum frequently using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove pet dander from surfaces.
• Wash bedding and fabrics regularly in hot water to eliminate allergens.
• Limit your Chow Chows access to rooms like bedrooms to keep allergens contained.
• Use allergen-proof covers on mattresses, pillows, and furniture to reduce exposure.
• Bathe and groom your Chow Chow right before leaving town to minimize dander shedding.
• Keep your Chow Chow off of upholstered furniture to prevent dander buildup.
• Have someone without allergies brush and play with your Chow Chow right before interacting.

While no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, Chow Chows produce fewer allergy triggers than most dogs. Taking proactive steps to control dander, fur, and other allergens can allow most allergy sufferers to successfully share their home with this breed.

Other Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

In addition to the Chow Chow, these breeds also produce relatively low amounts of allergens and may be easier for allergy sufferers to live with:

• Poodle - Curly coat traps dander; light shedder
• Maltese - Long hair with minimal shedding
• Schnauzer - Wiry coat catches dander; low saliva
• Bichon Frise - Tight curls trap allergens; infrequent shedding
• Portuguese Water Dog - Thick, waterproof coat inhibits shedding
• Airedale Terrier - Low-shedding wirey fur
• Irish Water Spaniel - Tight ringleted coat minimizes dander
• Kerry Blue Terrier - Curly, sparse shedding coat
• Standard Poodle - Minimal shedding from curly fur
• Samoyed - Long thick fur with seasonal shedding

While not completely non-allergenic, these breeds have coated and behavioral traits that limit the amount of allergens released into the home compared to heavy shedders. Combining a hypoallergenic breed with diligent cleaning routines allows most pet allergy sufferers to still enjoy owning a dog.

Pet Allergy Management Through Lifestyle Choices

In addition to choosing a hypoallergenic breed like the Chow Chow, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can further reduce allergy symptoms. Recommendations include:

• Obtaining allergy shots to decrease immune system reaction to allergens over time
• Taking antihistamines like Zyrtec or Claritin to control symptoms
• Using nasal sprays for symptom relief when allergen exposure occurs
• Keeping the dog outdoors or in just certain rooms to limit contact
• Bathing your Chow Chow weekly or shaving its fur to decrease dander
• Having air ducts professionally cleaned to eliminate pet dander buildup
• Changing air conditioning and heating filters monthly
• Visiting an allergist to test specific allergen reactions

An integrative approach combining lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and choosing a hypoallergenic breed like the Chow Chow can allow most allergy sufferers to welcome a furry friend into their home.

Living with Chow Chows If You Have Pet Allergies

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Chow Chows produce minimal dander and shedding, making them one of the more tolerable breeds for people with pet allergies. Using HEPA filters, frequent cleaning, allergen covers, and other methods can further reduce allergen levels. Combined with medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and proper training, allergy sufferers can often successfully share their lives with Chow Chows.

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.