The Cavachon is a playful and adorable designer breed, and it is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles spaniel and the Bichon Frise. As one of the most popular hybrid dogs, they typically make excellent family pets. But what if your family includes one or more allergy sufferers? Is the Cavachon hypoallergenic?
While no dog is considered completely hypoallergenic, the Cavachon is among several breeds considered allergy-friendly and less likely to cause allergy symptoms. In this article, we’ll talk about why there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog and learn why some breeds make better choices for people with allergies. We’ll also give you some tips on reducing the allergens in your house while living with a Cavachon.
What Causes Dog Allergies?
Dog allergies are caused when a person’s immune system reacts to proteins found in a dog’s saliva and dander. While it’s commonly thought that the shedding of dog hair is the culprit behind allergy symptoms, it’s actually the saliva and dander that’s present on the hair that causes the trouble.
Because of this, people can have allergic reactions even to hairless dogs like the Chinese crested because they still produce dander and saliva.
Why Is the Cavachon Allergy-Friendly?
Generally, dogs that shed less will be more allergy-friendly. When less hair (and dander and saliva) spread throughout the house, an allergy-sufferer will have fewer problems managing symptoms. Most allergy-friendly breeds are those with longer hair that require regular grooming visits.
Cavachons are usually allergy-friendly because of their Bichon Frise parentage. Bichons are a minimally-shedding breed, and they generally pass that trait on to the Cavachon.
However, because a hybrid dog is not always an equal mix between the two breeds, there’s a chance the Cavachon could inherit a coat more like a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, which is not an allergy-friendly breed.
Dog allergies are not always consistent either, partially because every dog produces different amounts of allergens. A person may react to an individual Cavachon but may not experience symptoms with another.
How To Reduce Allergens At Home
Because no dog is completely hypoallergenic, allergy-suffering dog lovers need to take precautions to decrease the allergens in their environment.
Bathing your dog can reduce the allergens on their coat, and frequent brushing can also help control any shedding, however minimal. You may want to pass the brushing chore onto someone without allergies or wear protective gear.
Another good option is to maintain at least one area of your home, ideally your bedroom, as a dog-free zone to keep allergens out. Keep up with changing the air filters in your house, or consider buying a portable air filtration system.
Keep your house clean, including frequent vacuuming to remove dog hair or other potential allergens such as dust mites. Tile or hardwood floors are easier to maintain and control allergens, so consider confining your dog to only those areas of the house or removing your carpet if that’s an option.
Finally, talk to your doctor about your options for allergy treatments or request a referral to an allergy specialist.
Conclusion
Living with allergies can be miserable, but for dog lovers, the agony is compounded. Thankfully, breeds like the Cavachon can make it possible for allergy sufferers to enjoy life with a dog. If you have allergies caused by canines, try to spend time around a new pet before you commit to bringing them home to see how your body reacts. Unfortunately, family members with allergies are a common reason dogs are surrendered to animal shelters. Try to be proactive to prevent your pup from becoming a statistic.
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