Hypoallergenic dogs are ones that are less likely to trigger allergies or allergic reactions in pet parents and other humans who have allergies to urine, saliva, or dander from pets – but are English bulldogs hypoallergenic dogs? That’s something that we’re going to take a closer look at today.
Are you sitting comfortably? If so, I shall dive right in!
What makes a hypoallergenic dog hypoallergenic?
According to research, as many as 35% of pet parents in the UK are allergic to their four-legged friends. Some will find that their symptoms get better (reduce) over time as their immune system becomes accustomed to the new allergen, but others will experience pet allergy symptoms for the rest of their lives.
Hypoallergenic dogs have distinct traits that make them more suitable for allergy suffering pet parents, including:
- Less drooling
- Less saliva production
- Wiry hair
- Curly hair
- Low-shedding breeds
As a result, there are fewer triggers to set off human allergies – and if they are set off, the reactions will be lesser than with a non-hypoallergenic breed. Less shedding means less dander and hair, and wiry and curly hair types actually trap dander. Less drooling and/or saliva production means less of the substance to agitate an allergy.
Now, to clear things up: no dog breed is actually 100% hypoallergenic. These breeds have just been specifically bred for the purpose of reducing allergen production.
Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH for PetMD states:
“Even dogs that don’t produce a lot of dander still contain allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine, which can trigger an allergic response such as coughing, itching, or wheezing.”
Are English bulldogs hypoallergenic?
No, English bulldogs are not hypoallergenic.
In fact, they are quite far from it. They’re also known to suffer from a fair few allergies and other health issues of their own.
English bulldogs shed more than you’d believe, but not the most of all breeds – and it gets everywhere. They also shed with the seasons, which means that you could have multiple allergy flare-ups in a year.
Usually bulldogs shed twice per year – late winter/early spring, and late autumn/early winter.
Bulldogs drool a lot, especially when you have food in your hands. When you combine increased saliva or drooling, with shedding with the seasons, you do not have a great hypoallergenic mix. (I’m sorry!)
Top Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
According to experts, the most hypoallergenic dog breeds for those with allergies are:
- Poodles – standard, miniature, and toy
- Yorkshire terriers
- Shih tzus
- Schnauzers – miniature and standard
- Bichon frise
- Chinese crested
- Portuguese water dogs
- Labradoodles and goldendoodles
How to make an English bulldog more hypoallergenic
Although you can’t technically make your English bulldog more hypoallergenic, there are steps you can take to minimise the effects that your doggo’s allergens have on your allergy.
These will help to make your bulldog more hypoallergenic:
- Brush their coat regularly to remove dander and loose hairs
- Properly clean their paws after they’ve been outside
- Use hypoallergenic, dog-friendly shampoos
- Give your bulldog a bath at least once per week
- Feed your bulldog hypoallergenic food (to reduce allergens)
- Use HEPA filters around the home
- Regularly wash dog bedding, blankets, etc.
- Vacuum the home regularly
- Antihistamines can reduce bulldog pet allergy symptoms in humans
Conclusion: Are English bulldogs hypoallergenic?
No, unfortunately, English bulldogs are not hypoallergenic – but they’re definitely not the worst dog breed you can invite into your home with a pet protein allergy.
There are active steps you can take to reduce the severity an allergy towards dogs and other pets, but it might be best to reconsider getting a pet that will deliberately agitate your symptoms to reduce the chances of having to rehome them, later down the line.
If you’re worried about an allergy towards your pet, have a chat with your doctor or a nurse. They might be able to recommend stronger meds that will reduce symptoms or give you more tips on how to make life easier… and more comfortable!
