Allergy to Flat-Coated Retriever 101: Factors & Overview

Discover if Flat-Coated Retrievers are hypoallergenic, learn about allergy factors, symptoms, care tips, and alternative breeds. Find out more in this Curex article.

Is Flat-Coated Retriever hypoallergenic?

Flat-Coated Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic. These dogs shed moderately throughout the year and more heavily during the spring and fall, leading to the dissemination of dander, a common allergen. Additionally, their active nature may result in more frequent dispersal of allergens throughout the home.

Overview: Flat-Coated Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, making them great family pets. They possess a dense, medium-length coat that provides some protection in outdoor activities but requires regular grooming. Unfortunately, this breed is not an ideal choice for individuals with allergies, due to their propensity to shed and produce dander.

Factors making them more allergenic:

  • Moderate to heavy shedding
  • Production of dander
  • Active and playful nature causing allergen spread
  • Require regular grooming which can release allergens

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Common Symptoms of Flat-Coated Retriever Allergies

  • Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is a common reaction to allergens from Flat-Coated Retrievers.
  • Runny or Stuffy Nose: Exposure to the dog can lead to nasal congestion or a constant need to blow your nose.
  • Watery or Itchy Eyes: Allergens can cause the eyes to become irritated, leading to excess tearing or a persistent itchy feeling.
  • Skin Rash or Hives: Direct contact with the dog's fur or saliva might result in red, itchy patches on the skin.
  • Coughing or Wheezing: Inhalation of dander can affect the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
  • Itchy Throat or Mouth: Some individuals experience itchiness in the throat or the roof of the mouth after being around the dog.
  • Postnasal Drip: Excess mucus production can cause discomfort in the back of the throat.
  • Facial Pressure or Pain: Sinus congestion from allergens can lead to a feeling of pressure or pain around the face.
  • Fatigue: Constant exposure to allergens can leave you feeling tired or sluggish.

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs Like Flat-Coated Retriever

  • Portuguese Water Dog

  • Coat: Curly or wavy, low-shedding

  • Personality: Energetic, intelligent, and friendly

  • Size: Medium

  • Care: Regular grooming to prevent matting

  • Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)

  • Coat: Curly, non-shedding

  • Personality: Intelligent, active, and trainable

  • Size: Varies by type

  • Care: Routine grooming and clipping

  • Labradoodle

  • Coat: Wavy or curly, low-shedding

  • Personality: Friendly, intelligent, and gentle

  • Size: Varies by crossbreed generation

  • Care: Regular grooming

  • Goldendoodle

  • Coat: Curly or wavy, low-shedding

  • Personality: Friendly, intelligent, affectionate

  • Size: Varies

  • Care: Regular grooming needed

  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

  • Coat: Silky, wavy, low-shedding

  • Personality: Lively, friendly, and playful

  • Size: Medium

  • Care: Regular brushing and grooming

  • Bichon Frise

  • Coat: Curly, non-shedding

  • Personality: Playful, affectionate, and cheerful

  • Size: Small

  • Care: Frequent grooming

  • Shih Tzu

  • Coat: Long and silky, low-shedding

  • Personality: Affectionate, lively, and outgoing

  • Size: Small

  • Care: Regular grooming and maintenance

  • Havanese

  • Coat: Silky, low-shedding

  • Personality: Friendly, intelligent, and playful

  • Size: Small

  • Care: Regular brushing and grooming

  • Maltese
  • Coat: Long, flowing, low-shedding
  • Personality: Gentle, playful, and affectionate
  • Size: Small
  • Care: Frequent grooming and maintenance

How to Relieve Flat-Coated Retriever Allergy Symptoms

Options to Relieve Flat-Coated Retriever Allergy Symptoms

Experiencing allergic reactions to a Flat-Coated Retriever can be challenging. Below are some actionable options to alleviate your symptoms:

  • Regular Cleaning

  • Vacuum frequently using a vacuum with a HEPA filter.

  • Use an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens.

  • Wash your dog’s bedding and toys regularly.

  • Grooming and Bathing

  • Brush your dog often to remove loose fur and dander.

  • Bathe your dog with hypoallergenic shampoo to minimize dander.

  • Barrier and Evasion Strategies

  • Create dog-free zones in your home, such as the bedroom.

  • Use allergen-resistant mattress and pillow covers.

  • Avoid contact with your face after handling your dog and wash your hands thoroughly.

  • Medication

  • Over-the-counter antihistamines can relieve mild symptoms.

  • Nasal corticosteroids may help reduce nasal inflammation.

  • Consult your doctor for prescription medications if necessary.

  • Curex - Immunotherapy
  • Consider Curex, a form of immunotherapy that gradually desensitizes your immune system to pet allergens.
  • Consult an allergist to discuss whether Curex is a suitable option for you.

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How Often Should I Bathe my Flat-Coated Retriever to Reduce Allergens?

  • Bathing Frequency: Bathing your Flat-Coated Retriever once every 4-6 weeks is generally sufficient to help reduce allergens. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils, leading to dry skin and potentially more shedding, which might exacerbate allergen issues.

  • Utilize Hypoallergenic Shampoo: Using a hypoallergenic shampoo can further reduce allergens. These shampoos are designed to be gentle on the dog's skin while effectively removing dander, a common allergen.

  • Brush Regularly: Regular brushing, ideally 2-3 times a week, can minimize shedding and spread of dander. A good grooming routine can help remove loose fur and debris that contribute to allergens.

  • Clean Ears and Paws: Regularly wipe down your dog’s ears and paws with pet-safe wipes. This helps remove potential allergens that your dog might pick up from the environment.

  • Dry Thoroughly: After bathing, make sure to thoroughly dry your dog. Wet fur can lead to mold growth, which can increase allergens in your home.

  • Maintain Bedding Hygiene: Regularly wash your dog’s bedding and any blankets or toys they frequently use. This helps keep the allergen levels in your home as low as possible.

How to Recognize a Medical Emergency in Case of Flat-Coated Retriever Allergy?

If someone is experiencing an allergy to a Flat-Coated Retriever, recognizing a medical emergency is crucial. Look out for the following symptoms:

Difficulty Breathing

  • Shortness of Breath: Struggling to inhale properly or feeling that they can't catch their breath.
  • Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when exhaling or inhaling.
  • Chest Tightness: A feeling of pressure or constriction in the chest area.

Swelling

  • Facial Swelling: Puffiness or swelling around the eyes, lips, or face.
  • Swollen Throat or Tongue: Any indication of an enlarging tongue or throat can impede breathing and is a sign of a severe allergic reaction.

Skin Reactions

  • Hives: Raised, itchy welts that might indicate a severe allergic reaction.
  • Severe Rash: Extensive or rapidly spreading rash, often accompanied by itching and redness.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

  • Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach or vomiting can be part of a severe allergic reaction.
  • Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools that may occur suddenly and intensely.

Cardiovascular Symptoms

  • Rapid Heartbeat: An unusually fast heartbeat, not attributed to physical activity or excitement.
  • Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms might include dizziness, fainting, or lack of consciousness.

Behavioral Changes

  • Restlessness or Anxiety: Sudden changes in mood or behavior that may accompany physical symptoms.
  • Confusion: Inability to think clearly, disorientation, or incoherence.

Anaphylaxis Signs

  • Combination of Symptoms: A medical emergency might present as a combination of any two or more of the above symptoms.
  • Collapse: Sudden loss of consciousness or collapse signifies an immediate need for medical attention.

What to Do

  • Immediate Action: If any of these symptoms are observed, especially difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, or signs of anaphylaxis, it's critical to seek emergency medical help immediately.
  • Use of Epinephrine: If the person carries an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), use it right away according to the instructions provided.
  • Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services number right after using an epinephrine auto-injector or if symptoms are severe.

Recognizing these symptoms early can make a substantial difference in managing a severe allergic reaction timely and effectively.

Reunite with your furry friend!

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

With Curex:

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Spend time around pets without the symptoms.

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Become less dependent on allergy meds.

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Treat outdoor & indoor allergies along with pet allergies.

Without Curex:

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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.

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