Having a dog allergy doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t own a dog. You don’t want to risk bringing a dog into your home if you or someone in your family has severe allergies, but it’s possible to own a dog if you have mild pet allergies. Here are a few tips to help manage pet allergies.
Choose the right dog
Some dog breeds are better for people who are allergic to dogs than others. Hypoallergenic dogs don’t exist in the sense that there’s a dog that will not cause an allergic response; all dogs produce allergens. Some dogs produce fewer allergens than others, however.
Goldendoodles have low-shedding to non-shedding coats, and are considered hypoallergenic dogs because they are less likely to trigger allergic reactions than other dog breeds. This helps reduce the amount of allergens that build up in your home.
But all dogs, even non-shedding and hairless dogs, produce dander and allergens that cause allergic reactions. It’s not just dog hair that causes pet allergies. Skin cells (dander), urine, and saliva produce the protein that causes pet allergies.
Keep off the furniture
Make sure that your dog understands from the get-go that he is not allowed on the furniture. This includes on chairs, beds, and couches. Don’t make exceptions. Dogs like Goldendoodles are very smart, but they still might find it confusing why some furniture is OK, and other furniture is off limits.
No dog zones
Keep indoor dogs out of bedrooms. This significantly reduces the amount of allergens that are in your room, and helps promote good quality rest.
Keep a tidy house
Since all dogs produce allergens, it’s important to keep your home spick and span. You can’t prevent allergens from entering your home if you own a dog, but you can remove them as much as possible. Vacuum, sweep, dust, and wash your linens on a regular basis. Wash dog beds, too.
Change your air filters
How often you should change your home air filters depends on a number of factors, including how many people live in your home, the type of filter that you buy, and whether or not you own pets. It’s recommended that you change your air filters at least once every 60 days if you own an indoor pet.
Consider an extra air filter
Many people are surprised to learn that indoor air quality is far lower than the quality of air outdoors. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters improve indoor air quality and reduce the amount of allergens in your home.
Wash your hands often
Washing your hands helps prevent the spread of cold and flu, and it also helps to remove allergens that can trigger allergic reactions. Make a point to wash your hands after petting and playing with your dog.
Practice good doggie hygiene
Brush your dog outside and give him regular baths to help remove excess dander and allergens.
One more tip — don’t kiss your dog. We know your pooch is super cute, but people have gotten infections as well as allergic reactions from a big wet doggy kiss.
Talk to a doctor
Depending on how severe your allergies are, your doctor may recommend allergy shots or medication that can help you manage your pet allergies.
Goldendoodles make great dogs for people who have pet allergies. Take a look at our Goldendoodle puppies ready for their new forever homes! Call 501-514-1026, or contact Platinum Goldies online, to talk about our current and upcoming Goldendoodle litters!