Is St. Bernard hypoallergenic?
St. Bernard dogs are not considered hypoallergenic. They shed a significant amount of fur and dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Their thick double coat, which protects them in harsh weather, is a primary source of allergens.
St. Bernards are a large, gentle breed known for their friendly disposition and rescue history in the Swiss Alps. Despite their amiable nature, they produce a considerable amount of saliva, which can spread allergens. Factors that make them more allergenic include their heavy shedding, dander production, and drooling. Regular grooming and cleaning can mitigate, but not eliminate, allergic reactions.
Want a pet to cuddle without any worries? Try immunotherapy with Curex!
Take a QuizCommon Symptoms of St. Bernard Allergies
- Sneezing: Frequent sneezing can be a result of exposure to allergens from St. Bernard dogs.
- Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion or a persistent runny nose is common.
- Itchy, Watery Eyes: Eyes may become red, itchy, and watery when exposed to dog allergens.
- Coughing: An irritating cough can develop due to inhaling allergens.
- Shortness of Breath: Some people may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Skin Rash: Contact with a St. Bernard can cause skin reactions, such as redness, bumps, or hives.
- Fatigue: Constant exposure to allergens may lead to a feeling of tiredness or fatigue.
- Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing, especially noticeable in people with asthma.
- Swelling: In severe cases, exposure to dog allergens can cause swelling of the face or other areas.
Best Hypoallergenic Dogs Like St. Bernard
Poodle
Poodles are renowned for their hypoallergenic coats that produce minimal dander.
They come in various sizes, from toy to standard, making them versatile for different living environments.
Portuguese Water Dog
Known for their curly, hypoallergenic coats, these dogs are great for allergy sufferers.
They have a history of assisting sailors, highlighting their intelligence and trainability.
Schnauzer
Available in miniature, standard, and giant sizes, Schnauzers have wiry, hypoallergenic fur.
Their double coat requires regular grooming but greatly reduces the amount of shedding and dander.
Bichon Frise
These small, fluffy dogs have hair instead of fur, which decreases allergens.
Their soft and curly coat needs regular grooming to maintain its hypoallergenic properties.
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Yorkies have fine, silky hair that doesn't shed much, making them suitable for those with allergies.
- Despite their small size, they are energetic and have a big personality.
How to Relieve St. Bernard Allergy Symptoms
For those who suffer from an allergy to St. Bernards, managing the symptoms can significantly improve your quality of life. Here are some practical steps to help you get relief:
Identify and Minimize Exposure
- Limit direct contact: Try to avoid spending extended periods of time with the dog.
- Create pet-free zones: Ensure that certain areas of your home, such as your bedroom, remain dog-free.
- Maintain hygiene: Regularly wash your hands and face after touching the dog. Use air purifiers to reduce allergens in your living space.
Medications
- Antihistamines: Over-the-counter options like cetirizine or loratadine can help alleviate symptoms such as sneezing and itching.
- Decongestants: These can provide quick relief from nasal congestion.
- Nasal corticosteroids: Sprays like fluticasone or mometasone can reduce inflammation and treat nasal symptoms effectively.
Home Remedies
- Saline Nasal Rinse: Using a saline solution can help flush out allergens and relieve nasal congestion.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can open up nasal passages and ease breathing.
Immunotherapy
- Curex - Immunotherapy: This is a treatment option that gradually desensitizes your immune system to allergens. Curex provides sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) that involves taking small doses of allergens under your tongue. Over time, this can significantly reduce or even eliminate allergic reactions.
By implementing these measures, you can better manage your allergies and enjoy a more comfortable life.
