Do you suffer from allergies? Are you considering getting a miniature or standard dachshund but are scared that your allergies will flare up? Well, you’re not alone, being that dachshunds shed a moderate amount. You may be wondering if miniature dachshunds are hypoallergenic.
Both standard and miniature dachshunds are not hypoallergenic dogs. These dogs shed, albeit moderately, and their small size reduces the amount of fur shed compared to bigger dogs. Even then, if you are sensitive to different allergens such as fur, a dachshund may not be a good option for you.
You have to understand that dachshunds come in different varieties, and there are three main coat categories. You may find a long-haired dachshund or one that is smooth and short-haired. Additionally, some dachshunds are wire-haired, which is a medium length of fur. Therefore, depending on the variety of dogs you have, your allergies may or may not be made worse by dachshunds.
For example, my two dachshunds, Teagan and Duncan are long-haired dachshunds. I have mild allergies, and as long as they are bathed and groomed regularly I don’t have issues with allergies despite the fact they are not hypoallergenic.
What Does It Mean For A Dog To Be Hypoallergenic?
A dog is said to be hypoallergenic if it doesn’t cause your allergies to flare up. In general, dogs shed a lot of fur and dander. It is rare for a dog that sheds a lot to be hypoallergenic.
Fur and dander are common allergens, which is why some people say they are allergic to dogs. Such people are not allergic to dogs; they are allergic to the fur and dander on the dog’s skin.
Your pet sheds dander which comprises tiny flakes of skin, together with some fur. A lot of dog lovers are allergic to these substances. Such people would rather stay away from dogs for fear of having an allergic reaction. For a dog to be termed hypoallergenic, it needs to have minimal to no effect on its owner in terms of allergies.
Does Hypoallergenic Mean A Dog Is Allergy Friendly?
When we say a dog is hypoallergenic, we mean that you can safely be close to and cuddle with the dog with little to no adverse reactions as a person with allergies.
For instance, if I am going to be close to my dachshunds for a prolonged period of time I may need to take an allergy pill to prevent my nose from becoming congested and my eyes from itching.
Side note: miniature dachshunds LOVE to cuddle and be close with their owners.
If you are very sensitive and prone to allergic reactions, whether a dog is hypoallergenic or not doesn’t matter to you since, at some point, you will react to the dander the dog sheds. However minimal, this dander is likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Before getting a mini dachshund or any other dog, regardless of whether it has been termed hypoallergenic or not, it is best to consult with both your vet and doctor if this particular dog is safe for you. Even then, if you suffer from severe allergies, a little shedding will likely cause a reaction.
If I Don’t Suffer From Dog Dander Allergies, Can A Dachshund Be A Good Choice For Me?
To answer this, you have to keep in mind that dog dander isn’t the only cause of allergic reactions. In addition to dander, a dog’s saliva and even urine can cause severe allergic reactions.
Without getting too technical, the IgE-binding protein in dog saliva is an allergen and can cause a reaction. However, this protein varies from one dog to another. Dachshunds have a tendency to lick…a lot, as they are some of the most affectionate hounds around.
Coming into contact with this saliva can cause a reaction. Sometimes, you don’t have to touch your dog’s saliva directly. Dogs transfer some of this saliva to their coats when they are licking themselves. Be careful if you are allergic, and definitely avoid letting your dachshund lick your face.
Likewise, if you have asthma and allergic rhinitis, you will be affected more than a person who doesn’t have these medical conditions.
Ensure you groom your dog on a daily basis. Additionally, consult with your vet and doctor in case you notice any symptoms of a reaction.
How Can I See If I Am Allergic To A Dachshund Or Another Dog Breed?
A visit to the allergist for further consultation will do you good. Trained medical personnel will be able to tell you if you have any dog allergies and how severe they are. Nonetheless, some certain signs and symptoms show when you are allergic to dogs.
Signs and symptoms of dog allergies include:
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Cough
- Sneezing that doesn’t stop
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy roof of mouth and throat
If you are asthmatic, a dog allergy may make you have the following symptoms:
- Pain and tightness in the chest area
- Wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing
- Difficulty in breathing
Most allergic reactions are respiratory in nature. Nevertheless, sometimes your skin also reacts. If you have sensitive skin, coming into contact with dachshund dander may make you react. In such cases, the following symptoms may present:
- Mild to severe eczema
- Hives, red patches on the skin
- Itchy skin
These signs are a way to tell if you are allergic to dogs. It helps if you have a good understanding of your medical background before you get a dachshund so you can adequately prepare for bringing it home.
If you really want a dachshund as a pet (I highly recommend them), yet you have allergies, do your best to keep them regularly bathed and groomed. Keep its fur trimmed, cleaned, and brushed at all times. This way, you minimize the amount of shedding.
Both standard and miniature dachshunds are adorable dogs, but unfortunately, they are not hypoallergenic. If you have allergy issues, be sure to consult your doctor before getting a dachshund as a pet.
However, if you don’t have allergy issues I highly suggest getting a dachshund, especially a miniature dachshund, as a pet. You won’t regret it!
People Also Ask:
Do mini dachshunds shed a lot?
Miniature dachshunds do shed, but not nearly as much as larger dogs or other dog breeds. While there are several factors that may determine how much they shed, the type of fur your mini dachshunds has will play a role. Mini dachshunds come in long hair, short hair and wire hair.
