Are Samoyeds Hypoallergenic?

You’ve always dreamed of owning a Samoyed. But the second you come close to any dog, it’s nothing but runny noses and itchy eyes. But as a dedicated dog lover, you’re probably wondering are Samoyeds hypoallergenic? The short answer is yes.

When it comes to being a pet owner, allergy sufferers do have some options. And they don’t all involve regularly swallowing Benadryl, either. 

Hypoallergenic dogs like the Samoyed, may not eliminate your allergies altogether, but they can certainly alleviate the symptoms. 

So if you’re looking for a canine companion that doesn’t leave you puffy-eyed and snotty, then this article is for you. 

We will explore what hypoallergenic really means, and why Samoyeds are labeled as such. We will also dive into whether or not any breed of dog is truly hypoallergenic.

What does hypoallergenic mean?

By the Oxford definition, hypoallergenic refers to an object that is “relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.” 

Dogs that don’t shed or shed rarely are often considered hypoallergenic. But does that mean they won’t irritate your allergies at all? No. However, they might not irritate them quite as much as other breeds. So, let’s find out why that is. 

Can dogs actually be hypoallergenic? 

There are a number of dog breeds that are considered hypoallergenic. But according to the Mayo Clinic, there’s no such thing as a dog who’s 100% hypoallergenic. However, some dogs may cause fewer allergic reactions than others. But why?

Well, many of us blame dog-related allergies on the dog’s fur and shedding tendencies. But that’s not really the whole story. 

The Mayo Clinic found the main cause of pet-related allergies is actually a protein found in your pet’s urine and saliva. This protein attaches itself to your dog’s fur and dander (flakes of dead skin.) Then, when your dog pees, sheds, or drools, that protein is dispersed through the air.  So, your dog’s fur is really just the vehicle that delivers the allergens into the air.

By this logic, dogs who don’t shed as much are less likely to spread this protein. And therefore, may be easier to live with for someone who has a dog allergy. 

But remember, even hairless dogs have the protein that causes your allergies to flare up, so shedding alone is not does not determine the degree of an allergic reaction.

Are outdoor dogs more likely to cause allergies?

Outdoor dogs, especially those with longer fur like the hypoallergenic Samoyed, may trap additional allergens in their coats. Things like mold, pollen, and dust are a few common allergens that can be trapped in your Samoyed’s fur. Whether or not outdoor dogs are more likely to cause allergies is up for debate, but it’s important to remember that the environment your dog lives in is a factor.

What makes Samoyeds Hypoallergenic?

Now, we know what you’re thinking. Samoyeds shed a lot, so they must be bad for my allergies. Right? Well, not necessarily. And there are a number of reasons why.

Instead of having an oil-coated fur like the similar American Eskimo Dog, Samoyeds coats are actually oil-free. So if you’re particularly allergic to the naturally-occurring oils in dog coats, the Samoyed should be a welcomed change.

And because of their origins in freezing cold climates, Samoyeds don’t drool much, if at all. In fact, their lips naturally curl upward to prevent drool icicles from forming on their faces.

Because of this, when you ask, “are Samoyeds hypoallergenic?” The answer is usually yes, even though a fully hypoallergenic dog doesn’t truly exist.  

What breeds of dogs are considered hypoallergenic?

Although they may be easier on your allergies, we know Samoyeds aren’t the dog for everyone. You may not have the space, or the capacity to keep up with this highly energetic breed.

So, if samoyed’s don’t fit into your lifestyle, don’t worry. There are a number of dog breeds that are considered hypoallergenic that may be less likely to cause an allergy flare-up.

Smaller dogs like the American Hairless Terrier, are said to be hypoallergenic. This breed has no fur to shed, which is a good starting point for anyone with allergies.  And, according to the American Kennel Club, this breed has minimal exercise needs as well. So if you’re looking for a dog that’s a little easier to handle than a Samoyed, the American Hairless Terrier is a great option.

Poodles, Irish Water Spaniels, and Giant Schnauzers are also among the long list of dogs labeled as hypoallergenic.

How do I know if I’m allergic to dogs?

The best way to know what allergies you have is to speak with your doctor. However, there are a few common signs that suggest you’re allergic to your pet.

Sneezing, coughing, facial pain, and watery eyes are just a few of the common allergy symptoms you might experience if you’re allergic to dogs.

To know for sure, you’ll probably have to have a skin-prick test. But having the allergy doesn’t mean you can’t add a furry friend to your family. 

How can I live with a Samoyed if I’m allergic to dogs?

Even though the hypoallergenic Samoyeds are less likely to spread the protein that causes allergic reactions, there are still some extra precautions you can take. Frequently washing areas of your home that may have dog saliva on them is a good idea. We also suggest investing in a high-quality vacuum to manage the shedding. 

Of course, you should always meet and interact with a dog before you’re ready to adopt them. Not only to see how you both get along but to see how your allergies hold up as well. 

An interview posted in Scientific America confirms that every person will have different levels of reactivity to the dog protein that causes allergies to flare up. So meeting your furry friend in person is the only sure way to tell how bad your allergies will react. 

So, should people with allergies get a Samoyed? Hypoallergenic dogs may be a bit of a myth, but the happy-go-lucky Samoyed has many features that suggest it could be a good fit.

After all, who cares about a runny nose when you’ve got a dog as beautiful as the Samoyed?

Are you a dog lover with allergies? Let us know how you cope in the comments below!