Allergy to Belgian Malinois 101: Factors & Overview

Discover if Belgian Malinois are hypoallergenic, key symptoms, medical emergencies, bathing tips, and alternative hypoallergenic dog breeds in our detailed guide on Curex.

Is Belgian Malinois hypoallergenic?

Belgian Malinois are not hypoallergenic. Despite their short coat, they shed year-round, especially during seasonal changes, which can aggravate allergies.

The Belgian Malinois is a highly skilled working dog renowned for its intelligence, agility, and high energy levels. Originating from Belgium, this breed is commonly used in police work, search and rescue, and as a loyal companion for active families.

Factors that make Belgian Malinois more allergenic include:

  • Frequent shedding: This can release dander, a common allergen.
  • Saliva: Proteins in their saliva may induce allergic reactions when they groom themselves.
  • Activity Level: Their high energy means they are often in motion, spreading allergens more widely.

Want a pet to cuddle without any worries? Try immunotherapy with Curex!

Take a Quiz

Common Symptoms of Belgian Malinois Allergies

  • Sneezing: Frequent sneezing episodes may occur soon after coming into contact with a Belgian Malinois.
  • Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion or a constant runny nose can be a common issue.
  • Itchy or Watery Eyes: Eyes may become red, itchy, or watery.
  • Coughing: Persistent coughing or a tickle in the throat is possible.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or wheezing, especially in people with asthma.
  • Rashes or Hives: Skin reactions such as rashes, hives, or itchiness after petting or touching the dog.
  • Facial Pain: Sinus congestion can lead to pain or pressure in the face.
  • Swelling: Swelling around the eyes or other areas of the face.
  • Itchy Skin: Generalized itching might occur without a visible rash.

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs Like Belgian Malinois

  • Poodle
    The Poodle, available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, is a highly intelligent and trainable breed. Their curly, hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming but is less likely to cause allergic reactions.

  • Portuguese Water Dog
    Known for their wavy or curly coat, the Portuguese Water Dog is energetic and loves water activities. Their allergy-friendly coat benefits those with sensitivities.

  • Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a curly topcoat. They are cheerful, playful, and maintain a hypoallergenic coat that necessitates regular grooming.

  • Schnauzer
    Schnauzers come in Miniature, Standard, and Giant sizes. Known for their distinctive beard and eyebrows, their wiry coat sheds minimally, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.

  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
    The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, with its silky, wavy coat, is friendly and energetic. They shed less dander compared to many other breeds, offering an allergy-friendly option.

How to Relieve Belgian Malinois Allergy Symptoms

If you're experiencing allergic reactions to a Belgian Malinois, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms:

  • Keep Your Home Clean: Regularly vacuum and dust your home to reduce allergens. Use a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner to capture more pet dander.
  • Create Pet-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of your home, such as your bedroom, as pet-free zones to minimize exposure.
  • Wash Hands and Clothes: Wash your hands after petting your dog and change clothes if you've been in close contact with them to remove allergens.
  • Air Purifiers: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to help capture dander and other allergens from the air.
  • Regular Cleaning of Pet: Bathe and groom your Belgian Malinois regularly to reduce the amount of dander they shed.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays can help relieve allergy symptoms.
  • Curex - Immunotherapy: Consider Curex immunotherapy, which gradually introduces small doses of the allergen to build up your immune system's tolerance over time. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate allergic reactions.

Employing these strategies can help you manage and reduce your allergy symptoms effectively.

Schedule Now - $49

Review your allergy test results with a Curex allergist.

How Often Should I Bathe my Belgian Malinois to Reduce Allergens?

To reduce allergens on your Belgian Malinois, consider the following bathing and grooming tips:

  • Weekly Bathing: Aim to bathe your Belgian Malinois once a week. This frequency helps in removing dirt, pollen, and dander from their coat effectively.

  • Hypoallergenic Shampoos: Use shampoos specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies. Hypoallergenic shampoos contain fewer irritants and are gentle on your dog's skin.

  • Brushing: Brush your dog daily. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and dander, preventing them from spreading throughout your home.

  • Wipe-Downs: Between baths, use hypoallergenic pet wipes to clean your dog's coat. This can help in reducing allergens without overbathing.

  • Environment Maintenance: Maintain a clean living environment. Regularly wash your dog's bedding and vacuum areas where your dog frequently lounges to minimize allergen buildup.

How to Recognize a Medical Emergency in Case of Belgian Malinois Allergy?

To recognize a medical emergency in the case of an allergy to a Belgian Malinois dog, keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms:

  • Difficulty Breathing: This can include rapid, shallow breathing, gasping for air, or a choking sensation.

  • Swelling: Look for swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue. This can lead to airway obstruction, making it difficult to breathe.

  • Skin Reactions: Severe hives, itching, or rash that spread quickly could indicate a serious allergic reaction.

  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can also be symptoms of an allergic reaction, particularly if they occur suddenly after exposure.

  • Dizziness or Fainting: Feeling lightheaded or fainting might signal a drop in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening.

  • Tachycardia: A rapid heartbeat can be a sign of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.

  • Confusion: Any sign of mental disorientation or the inability to concentrate may indicate a medical emergency.

Steps to Take

  • Seek Emergency Medical Help Immediately: Call emergency services if you notice any of the severe symptoms mentioned above.

  • Administer Epinephrine If Available: If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), administer it as soon as possible. This can be a lifesaving measure.

  • Keep the Person Calm and Comfortable: Try to keep them in a comfortable position, usually sitting up to help with breathing.

  • Avoid Further Exposure: Remove the person from the vicinity of the dog to prevent further allergic reactions.

Taking these steps quickly can significantly impact the outcome during a medical emergency related to an allergy to a Belgian Malinois.

Reunite with your furry friend!

(Or your roommate’s cat that knocks your coffee over every morning)

With Curex:

woman hugging cat
check icon

Spend time around pets without the symptoms.

check icon

Become less dependent on allergy meds.

check icon

Treat outdoor & indoor allergies along with pet allergies.

Without Curex:

curex allergy triggers

Practice avoidance around pets.

Frequent use of meds, drops and sprays.

Risk of developing chronic health problems.

Curex is the most convenient way to treat allergies.

No In-Person Visits

Apply treatment in seconds without wasting time in waiting rooms.

5-30x higher cumulative dose vs allergy shots

Sublingual immunotherapy delivers a higher dose of allergens over the course of treatment.

Superior safety profile

Even people suffering from severe reactions choose sublingual treatment over allergy shots!

No painful injections

Treatment is applied under-the-tongue daily, no needles or painful injections involved.

FAQs

Made in Webflow