Labradoodles are a popular dog breed that are often touted as being hypoallergenic. This means that they are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic to dogs. However, it is important to remember that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Even Labradoodles can be allergic to certain things, including:
Dander: Dander is the dead skin cells that are shed by all dogs. It is the most common cause of allergic reactions in people who are allergic to dogs. Labradoodles shed less dander than some other breeds, but they still shed some dander.
Saliva: Dog saliva also contains allergens. Labradoodles produce less saliva than some other breeds, but they still produce some saliva.
Urine: Dog urine can also contain allergens. Labradoodles are not as likely to track urine around as some other breeds, but they still can.
Food: Some Labradoodles can be allergic to certain foods. The most common food allergies in dogs are allergies to beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, lamb, and wheat.
Environmental allergens: Labradoodles can also be allergic to environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, and mold.
Symptoms of Allergies in Labradoodles
The symptoms of allergies in Labradoodles can vary depending on the type of allergy. However, some common symptoms include:
Itchy skin: Labradoodles with allergies may scratch excessively, causing their skin to become red and inflamed.
Sneezing: Labradoodles with allergies may sneeze frequently, especially when they are exposed to allergens.
Runny nose: Labradoodles with allergies may have a runny nose, which can be clear or mucus-like.
Wheezing: Labradoodles with allergies may wheeze, which is a whistling sound that is made when they breathe.
Eye discharge: Labradoodles with allergies may have eye discharge, which can be clear or mucus-like.
Diarrhea: Labradoodles with food allergies may have diarrhea.
Vomiting: Labradoodles with food allergies may vomit.
Diagnosing Allergies in Labradoodles
If you think that your Labradoodle may be allergic to something, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for diagnosis. The veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and ask you about your dog’s symptoms. They may also recommend allergy testing, which can help to identify the specific allergens that are causing your dog’s reaction.
Treating Allergies in Labradoodles
The treatment for allergies in Labradoodles will depend on the type of allergy. For example, if your dog is allergic to dander, you may need to bathe them more often and use a hypoallergenic shampoo. If your dog is allergic to food, you may need to change their diet. If your dog is allergic to environmental allergens, you may need to keep them out of the environment where they are exposed to the allergens.
Preventing Allergies in Labradoodles
There is no sure way to prevent allergies in Labradoodles. However, there are some things that you can do to reduce the risk of your dog developing allergies. These include:
Bathing your dog regularly: Bathing your dog regularly can help to remove dander and other allergens from their coat.
Using a hypoallergenic shampoo: Using a hypoallergenic shampoo can help to reduce the risk of your dog developing an allergic reaction to their shampoo.
Keeping your dog’s coat trimmed: Keeping your dog’s coat trimmed can help to reduce the amount of dander that they shed.
Avoiding exposure to known allergens: If you know that your dog is allergic to something, try to avoid exposing them to that allergen.
Conclusion
Labradoodles are not truly hypoallergenic. However, they are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic to dogs than some other breeds. If you are considering getting a Labradoodle and you have allergies, it is important to talk to your veterinarian about the risks and benefits.
