Beagles are a popular breed of dog, and for a good reason—they’re friendly, outgoing, and make great pets. But are they hypoallergenic?
Nope!
Most people who are allergic to dogs are actually allergic to the proteins in their saliva and fur. Beagles are moderate shedders who produce both dander and saliva.
However, Beagles tend to shed less than other breeds of dogs due to their short, smooth coats.
So, if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog, a Beagle is probably not the best choice. But if you’re willing to take some precautions (like brushing them regularly and keeping their fur short), they can make great pets for mild allergy sufferers.
What Does Hypoallergenic Really Mean?
The term “hypoallergenic” is used a lot when it comes to dogs, but what does it really mean?
In general, hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that produce less of the proteins that cause allergies. These proteins are found in a dog’s saliva, skin, and urine, and they can be transferred to a person through contact or exposure to the dog’s fur.
So, a hypoallergenic dog is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in someone who is allergic to dogs.
However, it’s important to note that there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce some of the proteins that cause allergies, so even the “hypoallergenic” breeds can cause reactions in some people.
Also, not all allergies are caused by the same proteins. Some people may be allergic to the proteins in a dog’s fur, while others may be allergic to the proteins in their saliva.
So, even if a dog is considered hypoallergenic, it’s still possible for that dog to cause an allergic reaction in someone sensitive to the proteins in their saliva or fur.
A Beagles Coat and Shedding
Beagles have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for. They are moderate shedders, which means they shed an average amount of fur.
They have a double coat that thickens to protect them during the colder months. While this is great for them, it does mean when spring rolls back around, they must shed the extra fur.
Seasonal shedding is triggered by biological cues such as day length and temperature.
When the days get shorter and the temperature starts to drop, the Beagle’s body will start to grow a thicker coat in preparation for winter. Then, when spring comes and the days start getting longer and warmer, their body will cue them to shed that thick winter coat.
Their shedding can be increased by factors such as stress, heat, and humidity. So, if you live in an area with hot summers or high humidity, you may find that your Beagle sheds more than usual.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog, there are a few breeds that are better choices for people with allergies.
Some of the most popular hypoallergenic breeds include:
- Poodle
- Afghan Hound
- Bichon Frise
- Chinese Crested
- Cocker Spaniel
- Shih Tzu
- Lhasa Apso
- Maltese
Tips for Dealing with Dog Allergies
If you’re allergic to dogs but still want to live with one, there are a few things you can do to make it easier.
Here are some tips for dealing with dog allergies:
- Wash your hands after petting a dog
- Brush your dog outside to avoid spreading allergens through your home
- Vacuum and dust regularly to remove allergens from your home
- Use an air purifier to remove allergens from the air
- Avoid kissing or sleeping with your dog
- See an allergist for help managing your allergies via medication
Conclusion
Even though Beagles are not hypoallergenic, they are still a great breed for people with very mild allergies.
While they do shed an average amount of fur, their short coat is easy to care for. And, with some proper grooming and nutrition, you can help reduce the amount of shedding and minimize the chances of an allergic reaction.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
