If you want a cuddly companion but can’t tolerate the sniffles that come with burying your face in soft, luscious fur, hypoallergenic dogs may be the answer. These dogs that do not shed are an excellent alternative for prospective puppy owners looking for a sneeze-free companion.
This answer will upset Otterhound dog lovers, but are Otterhounds Hypoallergenic? Answer: they are not a hypoallergenic breed. If you are allergic and wanted an Otterhound as a pet hoping that they would be hypoallergenic, they are not, owing to the amount of shedding they generate.
What exactly is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
People frequently misunderstand what makes a dog hypoallergenic. This is due to the frequent misunderstanding that allergy patients react to a dog’s fur, which is not the case.
The most common cause of an allergic response in dogs is a protein in their saliva or urine. This protein will bind to the dander in your pet’s fur, which can then spread throughout your home and cause a response.
The reality is that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog breed. There are, however, a few breeds that are less prone to induce an allergic reaction.
This is because they are hairless, do not shed, or shed far less than other breeds. Less fur in your home means less dander on the floors and in the air, giving you better control over your allergies.
Is Otterhounds Hypoallergenic? : Otterhound Facts You Should Know
❕Origin
There are references to “otter dogges” in England as early as the 1100s, but the breed did not become what it is now until the late 18th century. Otterhounds were originally bred to hunt in packs. The Otterhound of today is descended from the Bloodhound and numerous rough-coated French hound breeds.
❕Smell Sensitivity
Otterhounds have a highly developed sense of smell. Therefore, like other scenthounds in the Hound Group, Otterhounds should be kept on a leash or in a fenced yard when outside. Their natural urge to chase down any fascinating odor may outweigh their willingness to listen to their people.
❕Pursuing Instinct
Although otterhounds are seldom employed for hunting, specific individuals retain strong tendencies to chase and catch fleeing animals, including cats.
❕Appearance
The Otterhound is a big hunting dog with a haughty demeanor. It has a big head, deep-set black eyes, a broad nose with flaring nostrils, a snout of intermediate length and square form, low-set ears that are long and folded towards the end, and thin lips with teeth that meet in a scissors bite. In addition, this breed has a long, high-set tail with a bit of bend towards the end.
❕Outspoken Breed
Otterhounds are highly loud canines noted for their deep bay that can travel vast distances. Some Otterhounds appear to like hearing themselves “speak,” muttering, groaning, grunting, and sighing. Others will enjoy “singing” with you or other dogs.
❕Coat
The Otterhound’s coat is distinguished by a short, woolly, and somewhat oily undercoat that is water-resistant and may be scanty in the summer months. The thick outer layer is rough, gritty, and crisp, with a shattered look.
❕Grooming
Otterhound becomes a matted mess if not brushed and combed regularly. If you cannot commit to brushing, you must commit to frequent cutting to keep the coat short and clean. However, be mindful that Otterhounds shed part of the hair that gets trapped in their long, disheveled coat rather than landing on the floor.
Tips for Living With Dogs and Allergies
✔️Allergy-Free Zone
Make one place in your house an “allergy-free zone” or a room that is off-limits to your pet. This will provide you with a haven if and when your allergies flare up. Removing oneself from the allergen is critical for your response to diminishing.
✔️Vacuum Regularly
Carpets and rugs accumulate a significant amount of dander and hair. Therefore, vacuuming these surfaces regularly can dramatically minimize the quantity of anger that ends up dragging throughout your home.
✔️Don’t Blame Everything on the Dog
It is more common than most people think to misidentify the source of an allergic response. So before you blame the dog for your sniffles and sore eyes, be sure there isn’t another irritation causing the reaction. Allergy testing can help you identify all of the many allergens to which your body responds and can help you avoid blaming your dog.
✔️HEPA Filter or Humidifier
HEPA filters purify the air and can help minimize dander residues that persist even after a thorough cleaning. Avoiding dust-gathering things such as fabric drapes and carpeted flooring is also a brilliant idea.
✔️Bathe your Pet Regularly
Bathing your pet once a week can make a significant impact in decreasing dander. However, it is critical to select a shampoo that will not dry up your pet’s fur and skin, causing discomfort or itching.
Do you have a Dog Allergy?
People who are allergic to pets have various symptoms, some of which are so minor that you may not even realize your pets are the source of the problem. However, others who are less fortunate can’t even be near dogs without experiencing the repercussions.
If you’re wondering, “Am I allergic to dogs?” you probably haven’t had a severe response yet, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take steps to protect yourself and make wise and responsible decisions if you want to adopt a dog.
If you suffer any of the following symptoms after coming into touch with a dog, you most certainly have an allergy.
- Eyes that are watery or bloodshot
- Runny Nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Rashes or hives at the place of touch
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Dizziness or disequilibrium
If you cease interacting with the dog, the symptoms will go away in time, but an antihistamine may be necessary to manage the response. Antihistamines can be helpful in a pinch, but they are not a long-term cure. Consult your doctor to ensure that any over-the-counter drugs you are taking are safe.
Having a pet allergy may not automatically exclude you from owning one. Many dog owners put up with the symptoms and pain because the benefits of owning a beloved pet exceed the minor inconvenience of a runny nose.
Many allergy sufferers look for hypoallergenic dog breeds to achieve a happy medium. Unfortunately, most people believe that hypoallergenic dogs do not shed allergies, leading to individuals purchasing pets they cannot maintain.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
If you still desire a hypoallergenic dog in the future, we can assist you. Here’s a list of hypoallergenic canines that might be ideal for your home.
🐕 Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan terriers are proof that being hypoallergenic does not mean that there will be no hair. These are some of the most excellent hypoallergenic dogs, particularly for tiny dog breeds that don’t shed. These hypoallergenic small dogs top the list because they shed very little, but bear in mind that this bushy breed still needs a lot of maintenance.
🐕 Maltese Terrier
Is the Maltese breed hypoallergenic? Maltese Terriers are recognized for their beautiful white silky coats, yet they will not shed on your furniture or clothes. These brave tiny dogs are vibrant, lively, and highly affectionate while being one of the least shedding canines available. They are excellent apartment dogs and are a great companion for first-time pet owners.
🐕 Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu dogs are loyal and affectionate, and they are one of the few little dogs who do not shed. The Shih Tzu coat is non-shedding, with hair falling out only when stroked or damaged. They may resemble lions, but they are far from ferocious. These loving dogs, who are 9 to 10 inches tall and weigh 9 to 16 pounds, are content to live in small quarters as long as they can spend time with their owners.
🐕 Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon dogs are well-known for their watchdog qualities as well as their amicable demeanor. On the other hand, Brussels Griffons are hypoallergenic dogs since they are one of the least shed breeds. As a result, Brussels Griffon dogs make excellent companions for families with children, despite preferring to bond with one person more than others.
🐕 Portuguese Water Dog
The muscular Portuguese Water Canine is a devoted and lively large dog that doesn’t shed. Although their coat sheds very little and is considered a hypoallergenic breed, the Portuguese Water Dog still has to be groomed regularly. The Portuguese, as the name implies, enjoy the water. They’re the ideal companion if you want a dog who loves the beach as much as you do. However, they must engage in strenuous daily activities to stay in peak condition.
Care Instructions for Your Hypoallergenic Dog
Caring for a hypoallergenic dog requires some extra effort on the owner’s part, but the benefits of having a happier and more comfortable companion are well worth it.
👍Separate the Allergen
The first step in caring for a dog diagnosed with allergies is establishing what is causing your dog’s discomfort. Begin with any recent changes that coincided with the onset of the allergic responses, such as a geographical relocation or a new diet, or a kind of dog treat.
👍Grain-Free Eating Plans
When looking into whether your dog’s food contributes to their allergies, grains are typically an excellent place to start. Grain is a popular culprit in the quest for ailing dogs since their digestive systems are not well suited to digesting it. Fortunately, due to the prevalence of this condition, several dog food companies now provide grain-free diets for these dogs.
👍Allergens in the Environment
If your hypoallergenic dog hasn’t benefited from allergen-restricted diets, it’s time to look at potential environmental allergens or irritants. These are tough to test for on your own, but some exposure limitations can be used here as well. Your veterinarian may also provide an allergy exposure test, which may be a valuable tool in complex instances. Still, it is costly and comes with no assurances of success in determining allergies. Where feasible, it is worth exploring diet and environmental limitations first.
Is Otterhounds Hypoallergenic: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Otterhounds have a shedding problem?
A: To avoid matting, the shaggy Otterhound coat must be combed at least once a week. Some Otterhounds have softer coats that need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent matting.
Q: Which dog is the most hypoallergenic?
A: Both the Bichon Frise and the Labradoodle are excellent hypoallergenic dogs.
Q: Can I have a dog even if I’m allergic to them?
A: While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, some breeds are healthier for allergy sufferers than others. You can choose the ideal dog for you by undergoing an allergy test.
Q: What is the most frequent dog allergy?
A: Proteins, particularly those derived from dairy products, beef, lamb, chicken, chicken eggs, soy, or gluten, are the most frequent dietary allergies in dogs.
Q: Why am I becoming allergic to my dog all of a sudden?
A: The most common cause of pet allergy is exposure to the dead flakes of skin that a pet sheds.
Q: How can I alleviate my dog’s allergies?
A: Wash goods such as sofa coverings and cushions, drapes, and pet beds regularly and thoroughly to eliminate dust and dander.
Are Otterhounds Hypoallergenic: Conclusion
It is critical to note that no dog is entirely hypoallergenic. While the phrase used to refer to dogs with non-shedding coats who expose you to fewer allergies, it is now recognized to refer to dogs with non-shedding coats who tell you to fewer allergens.
If you are allergic to dogs, you may attempt to keep your house as allergen-free as possible, but whether or not you will be impacted ultimately depends on your sensitivity to the dog you adopt.
If you are not allergic to dogs and are planning to have an Otterhound in the future, here is a guide to help you. But if you are looking for a different dog breed to get as a pet, check here.
