No one can resist the cute droopy eyes and long floppy ears of a basset hound, especially when paired with its friendly and loyal nature. You may have your heart set on this cutie and wonder if they are a suitable pet for your allergies.
Certain dog breeds can often trigger allergies, and the dogs’ fur could be a good reason for choosing not to have a canine friend, but are basset hounds one of them?
The answer is no. Basset hounds are not hypoallergenic. Even though they have short coats, they still shed, but they can still be great companions if your allergies aren’t too severe.
Are Basset Hounds Good for Allergy Sufferers?
No breed is 100% hypoallergenic. Basset hounds have incredibly short fur, making it possible for an allergy sufferer with minor symptoms to own one. Grooming is critical, and regular brushing and bathing to eliminate dander and dirt will be helpful in keeping allergies under control.
How Much Do Basset Hounds Shed?
Shedding helps your dog regulate their temperature through the changes of the seasons, and it is a normal process for your dog. Basset hounds will shed in spring so that they can develop their new coat, and this is when you will experience the most shedding. The new fur will be thinner to keep them cool in summer, and in autumn, they need to prepare for the cold, so they will shed again to develop a thicker coat that will keep them warm through winter.
Basset hounds do not shed a lot of fur, and if you are noticing a lot of hair loss from your pet, it could mean there is potentially something wrong. Some of the reasons your dog could be excessively shedding include:
Stress: A significant change in your dog’s environment can cause an increase in shedding, and stressful situations like a visit to the vet or anxiety can cause your dog to shed.
Allergies: Allergies can cause excessive shedding: certain foods or medications, flea allergies, and environmental or seasonal allergies.
Skin Issues: An infestation of fleas or mites may cause shedding and bald patches, as well as fungal infections such as ringworm. Severe disease is a more serious cause of hair loss.
It is always wise to consult your vet if you suspect your dog’s shedding is a health concern.
Tips for Families with Allergies
There are a few things you can do to help minimize or prevent an allergy trigger from your basset hound.
- Regular grooming is beneficial even though the coat of a basset hound is low maintenance. It will help control the dander and shedding, and at least once a day will be enough. You can also take your pet to a professional groomer once a month. They will take care of deep washing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing.
- Bathing is a helpful way to control shedding, but bathing your pet too much can dry out their skin and cause irritation. You can bathe your dog once a month with a good quality shampoo that will not irritate the skin.
- If you have been playing with your basset hound, be sure to wash your hands soon after since the dander collects on your hands. Washing your hands every time you touch your dog may seem excessive, but baby wipes are also a suitable option.
- A sad but important tip is to keep your dog out of your room and off your bed. As much as you love the cuddles, the hair and dander will collect on your pillows and blankets, and you can’t change the bedding every day, so it’s best to keep your pet away from your bedroom.
- The previous tip applies to the couch as well. You can designate one chair for your pup to sit and relax on.
- Daily brushing with a rubber brush will gently remove loose hair and minimize shedding.
- Vacuum your home regularly, and don’t forget to take your antihistamines.
Conclusion
Although basset hounds are not hypoallergenic, their short fur makes it easier to control allergy triggers. If you clean your home regularly and restrict your pet’s access to certain rooms, you’ll have less dander and fur to contend with. Regular grooming is also important for minimizing symptoms and will keep your basset hound clean and healthy.
Featured Image Credit: Billion Photos, Shutterstock
