Dr. Rubin's Take: There's No Such Thing as a Hypoallergenic Dog

I cannot tell you how many times I have seen a patient who is found to be allergic to their dog tell me, “well, I was told my dog is hypoallergenic.”

I hate to tell you this, but that is a myth.

In fact, the term “hypoallergenic” is quite misleading! It often refers to a substance that is less likely to produce an allergic reaction. You may have been told that some breeds of dogs shed less, so they release less allergens. However, that is not necessarily the main source of the substances that you are allergic to.

All dogs produce allergens that are found in their dander (dead skin flakes), saliva, and urine. The protein that most people are allergic to when they are allergic to dogs is called Can f 1, which is shorthand for the Latin name for Canis familiaris allergen 1.

This was the first dog protein discovered by scientists to cause allergic reactions in humans. Over 90% of humans that are allergic to dogs are allergic to this protein.

Studies have shown that Can f 1 levels do not significantly differ among breeds that are marketed as “hypoallergenic.” In fact, Vredegoor et al. found that “hypoallergenic” dogs had higher Can f 1 levels in their hair and coat samples compared to “non-hypoallergenic” breeds.

However, these differences did not actually translate to lower exposures to Can f 1 in the environment. The team of Nicholas et al. also demonstrated that there is no classification scheme to reliably predict which dog breed is considered hypoallergenic.

Is There a Hypoallergenic Cat?

In the same vein, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat breed. The major cat allergen protein is called Fel d 1, and it is found in a cat’s saliva, skin and the sebaceous glands, which secrete oil onto the hair follicles.

What is more challenging from an allergy perspective about cats is that Fel d 1 protein is very light and sticky. It can remain airborne and sick to surfaces for a long time, even when there are no cats present. People who own cats often have cat proteins stuck to their clothes that can deposit into public spaces, leading to increased symptoms for people who are sensitive to cat allergens.

I want to make sure that as many people know about this myth as possible because it not only has consequences for people living with pet allergies, but it also has potentially significant consequences for their pets. Over 3 million dogs and 3 million cats enter American animal shelters each year.

Pet allergies are a significant reason why this happens. If you know you are allergic to an animal, it is best not to get one unless you work with an allergist on how to properly manage symptoms.

Reducing Pet Dander Exposure

There are several ways to reduce environmental exposure to pet dander. This includes bathing cats and dogs frequently, but this can be challenging. Your pet should not be sleeping in your bedroom because that will make your symptoms worse.

Dusting and vacuuming regularly while wearing a mask and eye protection helps as well. There are various over the counter medications to treat allergies and prescription strength medications that may be needed. Allergen immunotherapy in the form of shots or drops can help treat the underlying problem.

Please share this post with your friends and family!

Dr. Zachary Rubin, a prolific communicator on allergy and medical topics, is double board-certified in allergy/immunology and pediatrics. Follow his widely read reports on his Substack account and see his videos on Instagram or TikTok.