Choosing the right dog breed for your family might sound challenging, especially if you or one of your family members is an allergy sufferer. Are French bulldogs hypoallergenic is probably one of the most common questions we hear lately, much because of their popularity. Frenchies currently take a high 2nd place on the AKC’s list of the most popular dogs in the world.
Can You Be Allergic To French Bulldogs?
According to studies, over 20 % of the human population shows an allergy to environmental elements. Besides seasonal pollen, dust, mold, and insect bites, many people show allergic reactions when they come in close contact with dogs or cats. If you start to sneeze, cough, your eyes stream, or your skin becomes itchy, then you’ve probably developed an allergy to a dog’s dander. That’s right! You’re not allergic to a dog’s hair but to a dog’s dander, and it’s a huge difference.
What is a Dog Dander Allergy?
People often think that they can be allergic to a dog’s hair. However, the truth is that the dog’s dander represents the main trigger of an allergy. The dog’s dander is actually dead skin cells, and they can linger in the air for a longer time than other allergens. Proteins found in a dog’s saliva, urine, and feces, can also trigger an allergic reaction.
Hairless animals do not shed dander and they have less chance of triggering an allergic reaction. When we talk about Frenchies, and other dogs in general, they can be a bad choice for immunocompromised people. It’s because pet dander is jagged in shape, so it easily sticks to furniture, clothes, and other items.
Is A Frenchie Hypoallergenic
French bulldogs belong to moderate shedders and they’re not hypoallergenic. In fact, you won’t find any hypoallergenic dog breed in the world. Frenchies have short hair and owning them can be a quite bad decision.
Some studies have shown that dog breeds such as Poodles and Lagotto Romagnolo might be a better choice for people with allergies. It’s because the great part of their dander stays beneath their curly coats. On the other hand, some people can also show allergy when they come in contact with a dog’s urine and saliva. The proteins from these two body fluids are actually the main triggers, so after all, no dog will be a completely safe option.
’’I bought a Frenchie and then I realized I’m allergic to a dog’s dander. What should I do?’’
Well, situations like this can happen and it’s probably one of the most heartbreaking moments you’ll ever face. We are all aware of the fact that every human loves his/her dog like it’s his/her own kid. So, once you bring a puppy home, you make a contract for life. And…the contract says you’re the only person your pet can count on. So, abandoning the dog or leaving it in a shelter is definitely not an option.
French Bulldogs Are not Hypoallergenic, Now What?
One of the most important things you can do if you suffer from allergies is to create a plan. First of all, you have to boost your immunity because people with weak immunity are on a higher tendency to suffer from allergies.
The best way to manage a dog dander allergy is to clean furniture regularly, remove carpets, regularly brush your dog, and keep it in a separate room. Well, the last tip might sound cruel, however, it’s the only way to ease the symptoms of an allergy. We also have to note that leaving a French bulldog alone for a lot of time may lead to separation anxiety. These pooches are very affectionate toward their owners, so the practice of teaching them to spend time alone can last up to several months.
Other tips include regularly washing your sheets, and feeding your Frenchie with a quality diet because it can help him/her shed less.
Taking oral anti-histamine therapy could be one of the options because it will block allergic reactions and make you feel more relaxed in your Frenchie’s vicinity. People who suffer from severe allergies often need to take corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers, however, they’re not good for long-term use. To determine the best therapy, we recommend you talk to an allergist.
You might find yourself desperate by fact that Frenchies are not hypoallergenic. However, if you want to own a French bulldog so badly, there is only one address you have to go to. Living with an allergy isn’t easy, so taking the right therapy and trying to boost your immunity is the rule of thumb.
Frenchies do slobber a lot and shed moderately, so they won’t be a good pick for allergy sufferers. If you can live with moderate symptoms, owning a French bulldog will become your friend for life.