hypoallergenic dogs that look like german shepherds
Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic? Facts & Allergy Care Tips
Hypoallergenic dogs are supposed to be suitable for allergy sufferers. Usually, dogs that do not shed much are described as hypoallergenic. By this definition,German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. However, the term hypoallergenic is quite misleading, as we will discuss in this article.
German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic by any means, but you cant say that any breed is completely hypoallergenic.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
Many people assume that since some dogs do not shed much hair, the hair will not bother those with allergies. However, it is not the hair that affects those with allergies.
Instead, theyre bothered by the saliva and skin of the dog. Since there is no saliva- and skin-less dog, there is no hypoallergenic dog either. All dogs with saliva and skin will bother those with allergies. Its the proteins of the dog, not the dogs hair.
Therefore, getting any dog labeled as hypoallergenic wont work for someone with a severe allergy. However, dogs that shed a lot release more saliva and skin cells into the air. The loose hair works as a transport for all the proteins that cause allergies, like those on dead skin cells.
Therefore, heavy shedders can be harder to tolerate for allergy sufferers. However, that doesnt mean that low-shedding dogs will not cause allergies.
The Type of Allergy Matters
Even if youre allergic to dogs, you may be able to own a German Shepherd with little to no reaction. Research has shown that the type of dog allergy you have matters. Some dogs do not have the same proteins as others. Therefore, if youre only allergic to a specific protein, you may be able to get a dog that doesnt have that protein.
Recent research shows that only intact male dogs create the protein called Can f 5. Therefore, if you are allergic to it, you can get a female German Shepherd. Six different proteins can cause reactions in people with dog allergies. Can f 5 is only made in a males prostate gland.
However, the allergy affects only 30% of those with dog allergies.
The 7 Ways to Manage Allergies
Suppose you are still set on keeping a German Shepherd even though you have dog allergies. There are a few things you can do to prevent an allergic reaction.
1. Use Air Cleaners
A high-efficiency particulate air cleaner can remove allergens from the air, which can significantly reduce your allergic response. While any air filter will likely work, a HEPA filter usually works the best. You can find vacuums with HEPA filters, which can reduce the amount of dander that has built-up around your home.
Usually, those with allergies react to the dander in the air. Because a HEPA filter reduces the dander, it can also reduce the number of reactions.
2. Have Pet-Free Areas
The dogs dander will accumulate in the places where your pet spends the most time. Therefore, if you restrict your dog to certain areas, you can also control where the dander is to some extent. For instance, we recommend keeping your dog out of your bedroom.
You spend a lot of time in your bedroom, so reducing the number of allergens in your bedroom can significantly limit the number of allergic reactions you experience.Furthermore, if there is little to no dander in your room, youll be able to sleep much better.
You wont have allergic reactions in the middle of the night when youre trying to sleep.You should also keep your dog off the furniture. Instead, limit your dogs sleeping to a specific pet area, like the dog bed.
German Shepherds are a very trainable breed, so it should be easy to train them to avoid specific areas.
3. Regular Grooming
When it comes to a German Shepherd, you will need someone else to take over the grooming. It is essential to brush the German Shepherd every day. Awell-groomed dog wont have as much dander to lose, which can further reduce the number of reactions you have.
For monthly baths, use a good shampoo that is designed to moisturize their skin. Dry skin will result in more dander, which can cause more reactions. A well-groomed dog will leave much less dander and fur lying around.
4. Medication
There are also several medications you can take to reduce your allergy response.
Here is a list of some of the most common dog allergy medications:
- These medications block the production of histamines, which is the chemical response that causes allergic reactions. For example, histamines cause itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
- These medications shrink swollen nasal passages, which may swell when interacting with dog hair. However, they are not safe for everyone. Those with underlying conditions should not take it.
- These are steroids that reduce some allergy symptoms, like inflammation.
- Leukotriene modifiers. This medication will need to be prescribed by your doctor. It affects your immune response at its source, blocking your immune system from attacking the dog protein.
In some cases, immunotherapy may be an option. However, it usually takes quite a while and is very time-consuming. It is a permanent fix to the allergy, however. Depending on how badly you want a German Shepherd, it may be worth it.
Usually, it involves having an injection every 2 to 4 weeks for a few years. Each injection contains a small amount of the allergen. The point is to slowly get your body used to the allergen, eventually lessening or even getting rid of your allergies altogether.
5. Get Rid of the Carpet
Carpets absorb dirt, debris, and pet dander. Therefore, you may want to remove the carpet in your home since it can increase the number of allergens in your air. Installing hardwood floors can reduce the number of allergens, especially if youre using HEPA filters and high-quality vacuums. When cleaning your floors, wear a mask to prevent air particles from flying up into your face and causing problems.
Pet dander can also stick to blankets and rugs, so be sure to clean them often. Everything should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week to reduce the pet dander.
6. Have Pet-Specific Clothing
When you interact with your pet, wear pet-specific clothing. It can be as simple as something you put on over your clothes, which will prevent them from getting dirty and covered with pet dander.
Be careful when washing your pets clothes. You dont want to end up with dander all over your clothes, so be sure to wash your pets clothes separately.
7. Wash Your Hands Often
Its best to wash your hands whenever you touch something with a pet-dander on it. Allergic reactions usually arent apparent until you get dander on your face, which can occur by touching your face with a dander-infected hand. If you wash your hands frequently, you can avoid it. Also, avoid touching your face when you havent washed your hands.
If youve rolled around on the ground with your dog, you may want to take a quick shower. It isnt always necessary for every interaction, but it can be helpful whenever you have been heavily exposed to dander.
Are German Shepherds the right choice for those with allergies?
While there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, German Shepherds are not particularly good pets for those with allergies. They have a double coat, which means they shed far more than most dogs. They also produce a lot of dander.
Can German Shepherd hybrids be hypoallergenic?
Some German Shepherd hybrids may not shed as much as a purebred German Shepherd. For instance, a German Shepherd-Poodle mix may not produce as much loose hair, helping those with allergens. However, they will still produce proteins, which is the real source of the allergic reaction. Therefore, they will still cause reactions in those with allergies.
However, the major problem with mixes is that you never know exactly what you will get. Sometimes, you may get a dog that doesnt shed at all, but other mixes shed just as much as a German Shepherd. Since you cant predict how a mixed breed will turn out, they usually dont make excellent dogs for those with allergies.
Pet breeders or websites that promote hypoallergenic German Shepherd mixes are misleading. Yes, some dogs from a particular mixed breed may shed less. However, they will all still produce dander, and there is no way a breeder can predict which puppies will shed and which wont.
Furthermore, dogs shed according to the seasons and their hormones. A dog that sheds very little may suddenly shed a lot when the seasons change.The last thing you want is for your beloved dog to become dangerous for you suddenly. Therefore, it is usually best not to purchase a mixed breed with the assumption that they wont shed. You never know when the dog may start shedding.
Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic?
German Shepherds shed a lot, but they produce about the same amount of dander as similar breeds. Though low-shedding breeds are often labeled as hypoallergenic, all dogs have dander, and they will all cause an allergic reaction.
However, the high-shedding breeds like the German Shepherd tend to spread their dander further. The hair acts as a vehicle for the dander to move around, which can cause severe reactions in allergy sufferers.
Featured Image: New Africa, Shutterstock
Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic?
Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic Dogs?
No! Unfortunately, German Shepherds arent considered a hypoallergenic dog breed, meaning that they are unsuitable for those who suffer from pet allergies.
The German Shepherd
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The German Shepherd, as suggested in the name, is of German origin and falls into the medium to large-sized canine category. Its quite a modern breed of dog, originating around 1899. German Shepherds are known for shedding, and twice a year they blow their coats. This can lead to weeks of intense shedding, making them an unsuitable pick for those with pet allergies.
This breed is intelligent, obedient, and confident, with a stubborn streak, but also fiercely loyal. Their intelligence and obedience mean theyre easily trained, making an ideal family pet.
Did You Know
After the First World War, the German Shepherd breed name was changed to Alsatian. This was down to people not wanting the association with Germany and their part in the war.
However, in 1977, opinion changed, and the breed reverted from Alsatian to the original name of German Shepherd.
For a synopsis of the details below, skip to our German Shepherd dog breed summary further down the page.
German Shepherd Quick Facts
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| Hypoallergenic Dog: | No |
| Shedding: | High |
| Drooling: | Low |
| Size: | Medium Large |
| Breed Group: | Pastoral (Herding) |
| Lifespan: | 9-13 years |
| Energy Level: | High |
| Trainability: | Easy |
| Family Dog: | Yes! |
Whats Coming up on This Page?
The German Shepherds Physical Characteristics German Shepherds Coat German Shepherds Temperament German Shepherds Grooming Exercise & Training German Shepherds Health Issues and Care German Shepherd Hypoallergenic Alternatives Conclusion
If you have specific questions about the German Shepherd dog breed, check out our FAQ section.
About the Breed
The German Shepherds Physical Characteristics
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The handsome Golden Retriever varies in size, mainly dependent on sex.
| Size Variety | Height | Weight |
| Male | 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) | 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg) |
| Female | 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) | 49-71 pounds (22-32 kg) |
German Shepherd dogs are extremely intelligent and capable, making them a great choice for a family dog and, of course, a working dog. Its breed trademarks are a square head, pointed ears, and a long muzzle. They also have slightly angled hind legs and a bushy tail.
German Shepherds Coat
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German Shepherds have a thick double coat, made up of:
- Soft undercoat: this acts as insulation in the colder months
- Long outer coat: the part that you can touch
The double coat is a form of protection in their traditionally cold habitats. German Shepherds are known for shedding and will blow their coats twice a year in anticipation of the changing seasons. When this happens, they shed intensely for several weeks.
Whats more, the long coat is a magnet for dander. If you couple that with the constant shedding, you can understand why the breed is unsuitable for someone with pet allergies.
German Shepherds Temperament
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German Shepherds are loyal and fearless dogs. They are very affectionate towards their loved ones but are wary of strangers, so they are great guard dogs. If you want your German Shepherd to get on with guests, its a good idea to ensure they receive plenty of interaction with children and other dogs from an early age.
German Shepherd dogs shouldnt be left alone for more than 4 hours, as they can suffer from separation anxiety or distress.
Exercise & Training
Encouraging Good Behavior in Your German Shepherd
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German Shepherds are an exceptionally energetic breed of dog. Hence, they must receive the level of exercise necessary to burn off all that energy. This will also ensure you have a well-behaved pet. You should expect to spend 2-3 hours a day focusing on exercise to cater to their physical and mental needs.
One of the most intelligent working dogs, German Shepherds can understand new commands in less than five repetitions, and obey the first command given around 95 percent of the time. They are also people-pleasers, which means many owners are able to train them by themselves.
German Shepherds are a high-energy dog breed, so are best suited to those that lead an active lifestyle to take them out for regular walks or one that has a specific job to give them.
German Shepherd Grooming
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With such beautifully thick coats, German Shepherds must be regularly groomed. As a double-coated breed, they have double the layers to care for. The undercoat is a thick, plush layer of fur, while the outer layer is rougher to keep them protected from the weather.
German Shepherd coats require plenty of grooming and should be brushed 3-4 times a week. This will keep the fur soft and shiny by eradicating any loose, dead hairs.
However, they shouldnt be bathed too often, this can cause dry, irritated skin, which could lead to other health issues. It can also strip their double coat of its natural oils, making it dry and rough. For a dog with a healthy coat and skin, a bath may only be necessary every few months.
German Shepherds are super active, and long nails pose a huge risk so its important to care for them properly. Failure to do so could lead to tearing and an unpleasant infection or ingrown nails.
Long nails also change the alignment of the foot, which can lead to issues regarding weight distribution and postural problems, and the chance of splayed toes. Thus, by keeping their nails short the dog will walk better and maintain a healthy posture to aid good exercise levels.
The regularity of nail trimming will vary depending on the type of floors you have and the ground that they walk/run on every day. If theyre used to soft ground, you will find that their nails will grow a lot quicker.
Ears should be checked at least once a week and cleaned when necessary. German Shepherds are less prone to ear problems than other breeds, but its still important to check them regularly. You should also avoid getting their ears wet when bathing, the excess moisture within the ear canal can lead to infection.
Find out what equipment you will need for grooming your dog.
German Shepherds Health Issues and Care
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This breed is susceptible to certain medical issues, including:
- Hip dysplasia.
- Elbow dysplasia.
- Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy this causes weakness to back legs leading to paralysis.
- Anal furunculosis a painful disease that causes ulceration around a dogs bottom.
- Inherited eye diseases including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia.
- Epilepsy.
German Shepherd Hypoallergenic Alternatives
German Shepherds are amazing dogs, intelligent, loyal, loving, and trainable. Sadly, due to their thick double coat and excessive shedding, for those with canine-related allergies, this breed isnt suitable.
If you have your heart set on this type of dog, there may be other compatible tail-wagger companions.
The Shepadoodle is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Standard Poodle. This is one of the most common hypoallergenic German Shepherd mixes and one that will maintain the breeds large size.
Other German Shepherd hybrids with hypoallergenic traits include the Sheptese a cross between a German Shepherd and a Maltese. Although, do remember that a mixed breed may not look or have the characteristics of the original breed.
The following breeds may not have all the characteristics of a German Shepherd, but theyre hypoallergenic with some similarities.
A Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. Although they look absolutely nothing like a German Shepherd, they are high energy, love to please their humans, and are amazing around children. Theyre also super easy to train, and shedding is minimal.
Another alternative could be the Giant Schnauzer. This breed is super trainable, loves being part of a family, and doesnt shed. However, they arent as energetic as a German Shepherd, but that wont stop them from wanting to be involved in every part of your life.
Irish Water Spaniel is a friendly, sociable, and perfect family dog. Like a German Shepherd, theyre loyal to their family and also easily trainable. Yet these pooches are a low-shedding breed, so shouldnt irritate allergies an amazing hypoallergenic dog choice.
Conclusion
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If you do suffer from pet allergies, a German Shepherd isnt an ideal choice for you due to their double coat and intense shedding. That said, there are several hypoallergenic mixes that may offer you some of the appealing German Shepherd characteristics.
From the likes of the Shepadoodle, the Giant Schnauzer, and the Irish Water Spaniel, any one of these could be the perfect choice if youre allergic to pet fur or dander.
Make sure you do some thorough research on the breed you are interested in before settling, and that you find a reputable breeder or shelter to find your companion.
So, in conclusion, are German Shepherds hypoallergenic? No, they arent. But they are amazing family dogs that show immense loyalty and guardianship.
German Shepherds FAQ
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Are German Shepherds Bad for Allergies?
German Shepherds are intelligent, intensely loyal, and brave. However, their double coat, thick fur, and intense shedding make them a poor fit for someone who suffers from pet allergies. If youre still interested in a German Shepherd, consider checking out some of the hypoallergenic German Shepherd mixes, such as the Shepadoodle.
Do Hypoallergenic German Shepherds Exist?
You wont find a purebred hypoallergenic German Shepherd. One of the characteristics of this particular breed is a thick coat. This coat sheds to the extreme twice per year, and it also constantly loses fur.
How Hypoallergenic Are German Shepherds?
Zero percent. German Shepherds have a thick fur coat that tends to shed all year round. Even short-haired German Shepherds arent hypoallergenic. Most dogs that are hypoallergenic have hair rather than fur, which doesnt cause the same allergic reaction as fur and dander.
Is There A Type Of German Shepherd That Doesnt Shed?
There is no purebred German Shepherd dog that does not shed. The only way to create this type of dog would be to crossbreed them with a hypoallergenic dog such as a poodle. Even then, you could not guarantee it would have the same hypoallergenic properties as a pure poodle.
What Are the Worst Dogs for Allergies?
These are the worst dogs for those with allergies
- Basset Hound.
- Doberman Pinscher.
- German Shepherd.
- Labrador Retriever.
What Is the Biggest Hypoallergenic Dog?
There are a few large hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as:
- Giant Schnauzer.
- Standard Poodles.
- Afghan Hound.
- Irish Water Spaniel.
- German Shepherd hypoallergenic mix breeds.
German Shepherds Facts Summary
| Breed | German Shepherd |
| Hypoallergenic? | No |
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Height | 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 cm) |
| Weight | 49 to 88 pounds (22 to 40 kg) |
| Lifespan | 9 to 13 years |
| Temperament | Alert, curious, intelligent, loyal, stubborn. |
| Colors | Black, black & tan, sable, black & silver, red & black, grey. |
| Coat | Double-coated |
| How much grooming? | Moderate |
| How much shedding | Excessive shedding |
| Dander levels | High |
| SalivaDrooling and licking frequency? | Low |
| Energy levels | High |
| How much exercise do they need? | A lot! |
| Health problems | Yes health and genetic conditions. |
| Suitable for kids? | Yes. |
| How much do they bark? | Regularly, but can be trained. |
| Can they be left alone? | Not for longer than 4 hours. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. |
| Intelligent? | Yes. |
| Trainable? | Yes. Highly trainable. |
| How popular as a pet? | Very popular in the UK and US. |
