Pomeranians are a Spitz-type breed with a thick, luxurious coat and a lot of shedding. Because of how much hair these dogs can throw, many wonder if they are hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly.
Unfortunately, Pomeranians are not hypoallergenic dogs. In fact, these dogs have thick coats that shed nearly year-round, so they can cause problems for people who suffer from dog allergies.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
Hypoallergenic is a term that was used originally by the cosmetic industry, not for pets. This was used to denote a product that was less likely to trigger an allergic reaction compared to other products.
It’s important to note that hypoallergenic means an allergic reaction was less likely, not impossible. In fact, “hypo” means “beneath,” “below,” or “low” as a prefix. So low allergy potential, but not without allergy potential.
What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Around 15% of Americans have an allergy to dogs. Allergies to dogs have less to do with hair and more to do with dander, which are tiny pieces of dead skin that are secreted by dogs. They’re not detectable with the human eye, but they trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people.
For people with dog allergies, they may experience symptoms like:
- Watery, red, or itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Facial pain from nasal congestion
- Coughing and shortness of breath
- Skin rash or hives
Naturally, these people seek out dogs that are hypoallergenic, but there’s no guarantee that any dog won’t trigger an allergy.
There are breeds that are more beneficial for allergy sufferers; however, the Pomeranian is not among them.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
According to the American Kennel Club, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but there are dog breeds that are less likely to trigger allergies. These include:
- Affenpinscher
- Afghan Hound
- American Hairless Terrier
- Barbado da Terceira
- Bedlington Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Bolognese
- Chinese Crested
- Coton de Tulear
- Giant Schnauzer
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Lowchen
- Maltese
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Peruvian Inca Orchid
- Poodle
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Standard Schnauzer
- Xoloitzcuintli
- Yorkshire Terrier
How to Help Dog Allergies
If you suffer from dog allergies, that doesn’t mean you have to give up hope of having a dog or seek out only hypoallergenic breeds. There are solutions to manage your allergies.
Here are some tips:
- Create an allergy-free zone that your dog isn’t allowed to visit
- Use HEPA air cleaners to remove pet dander
- Wash bedding, clothing, couch covers, pillows, curtains, and other cloth surfaces routinely
- Bathe your dog weekly with a dog-safe shampoo
- Groom your dog regularly, especially with long- or double-coated breeds
- Get an allergy test to see if it’s truly the dog and not pollen or other common allergens
- Try allergy treatments like immunotherapy, antihistamine nasal sprays, and steroidal nasal sprays
Conclusion
Pomeranians aren’t hypoallergenic dogs. In fact, these thick-coated dogs may be harder on allergy sufferers. If you struggle with dog allergies and want a Pomeranian or another breed, you have options to manage your allergies and live in harmony with your four-legged companions.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
