Affectionate, loyal, and known for their stocky physique and wrinkly snout, the Bulldog has long since been a favorite for dog-lovers around the world. These breeds have a reputation for being great family pups, whether you’re referring to the stocky, muscular English Bulldog or the more petite French Bulldog. But as friendly as these canines are, are they good for allergy-suffering dog lovers? The answer is, no, Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic.
Are Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?
Based on the Bulldog’s appearance, you might assume that they are hypoallergenic because of their short hair. Dogs with short hair are often assumed to be hypoallergenic because of the simple notion that less hair means fewer allergens. The reality is that not only hair, but dander, dead skin flakes, are the main culprit that harbors dog allergens in dogs.
Why Aren’t Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?
While short-haired dogs are commonly preferred by allergy sufferers, it is not the hair that produces the allergic response. Proteins in the skin, saliva, urine, and feces act as antigens, the cell markers that trigger an immune response, or in this case, allergies. They are very sticky and spread in the environment mainly through hair, saliva, and dander (microscopic dead skin cells).
Compared to other dog breeds, the Bulldog is not a heavy shedder. However, they shed constantly throughout the year, meaning dog hair will be floating around and spread all over the house year-round.
The Bulldog is also a master drooler, and their liberal distribution of allergen-producing saliva puts the Bulldog in the same ballpark as the St. Bernard when it comes to shedding allergens through their saliva.
How to Reduce Allergy Triggers If You Have a Bulldog
Bulldogs are high-maintenance dogs in terms of coat and hygiene. Grooming can help reduce the spread of allergens by keeping the dog’s fur coat, mouth, and teeth clean, but it will never eliminate them completely. Wiping their wrinkles and folds once or twice daily can help reduce the buildup of dirt on their face and reduce the risk of skin infections.
Keeping the house clean and vacuuming out dog hairs, ideally by the non-allergy sufferers, are good practices. It is also recommended that allergy sufferers implement “no dog zones” in certain areas of the house to avoid allergy triggers.
What Dog Breeds Are Considered the Most Hypoallergenic?
No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens, even hairless breeds. Here are breeds that are considered low-shedders and are typically labelled by some sources as hypoallergenic:
Breeds to Avoid If You Are Allergic to Dogs
Here are breeds that are considered to be heavy shedders and capable to trigger more allergies:
Final Thoughts
French and English Bulldogs can be great family dogs. They are friendly with kids and have unique and confident personalities. However, the Bulldog may not be the best dog breed if you are an allergy sufferer. As friendly as these dogs may be, they are not so friendly when it comes to allergy triggers.
- See also: Blue French Bulldog
Featured Image Credit: Lukas Maverick Greyson, Shutterstock
Are Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?
