Are French Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Published: April 29, 2023
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Are you considering adopting a French bulldog, but you have stubborn allergies? Unfortunately, this breed is not hypoallergenic. In fact, French bulldogs are known to be heavy shedders, requiring allergy sufferers to take precautions when adopting this breed as a pet. 

How French Bulldogs Trigger Allergies

Red tan and Blue Isabella Frenchies looking up

Frenchie’s typically release loose, dead hair in addition to dander, or little skin flakes.

©iStock.com/yhelfman

Did you know that pet allergies are not due to the animal’s feathers, hair, or fur? People are allergic to a protein that is present in the animal’s saliva, urine, and dead skin cells. 

The dander is gathered by the hair, fur, or feathers. Additional allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pollen may also be carried by a pet. Allergy symptoms are brought on when such proteins enter your respiratory system, nostrils, eyes, mouth, or skin.

Frenchie’s typically release loose, dead hair in addition to dander, or little skin flakes. In a way, this serves as an allergen delivery system. A person who is allergic to these substances may have sneezing fits, itchy skin, rashes, or watery eyes after coming into proximity to these allergens.

Symptoms of Dog Allergies

Various degrees of susceptibility to pet allergens exist in people with allergies to pets. Although some individuals experience serious symptoms, others only experience minimal symptoms. If the allergen concentration is reasonable, symptoms could develop several days after coming into contact with the animal.

Airborne animal allergens may cause reactions. A lot of allergens in the air are small enough to enter your lungs. Certain individuals may find it exceedingly difficult to breathe as a result of this exposure. You may feel fine at first, but it can take 15 to 30 minutes after breathing in allergens for an asthma attack to start.

If an allergic person pets a Frenchie and then touches his face, he might experience itchy eyes. An itchy, red area of skin might develop if a pet licks or scratches you. Hives could eventually appear. If you have asthma, a pet allergy could result in an asthma attack.

Should Someone with Allergies Own a French Bulldog?

French bulldog puppy

Inflammation of the skin is a prevalent disorder in French bulldogs. As a result of their skin folds, they have delicate skin that is prone to irritation. 

©iStock.com/Lisa Covalero

Even though they have short hair, French bulldogs do shed. At least two times a year, they shed their fur extensively. Both the end of spring and the end of fall are prime times for undercoat shedding. Furthermore, when our four-legged friends live in unclean environments, receive insufficient hygienic care, or eat insufficient amounts of nutrients, they shed a greater amount of hair.

Inflammation of the skin is a prevalent disorder in French bulldogs. Particularly as a result of their skin folds, they have delicate skin that is prone to irritation. 

This breed is more prone to having dander become trapped in their short, coarse locks. Additionally, they are capable of spreading hair that is laced with allergens that can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals. 

There’s no denying how much this dog breed loves attention from its owners. The French bulldog is not afraid to slobber either. Certain proteins are present in dog dander, urine, fur, and saliva. 

Anyone who has hypersensitivity may become allergic to Frenchies as a consequence of touching or just being around one. The amount of dander that they produce may change with the season, but their drooling is usually quite consistent.

Minimizing Pet Allergies

Anybody that has a French bulldog can assure you that these dogs are among the most adorable, cuddliest, funniest, and smartest breeds. Here are some easy guidelines to adhere to if you want to live with a French bulldog, even if you’re allergic. Who can blame you? These pooches really are some of the best! 

Cloth Your Pet

chocolate french bulldog

Having your Frenchie wear a T-shirt that’s designed for them can help capture any dander. Hipster button downs work too.

©iStock.com/jantanee boonkhaw

There are varying opinions on if it’s okay to allow pets to wear clothes. Jackson Galaxy, a popular cat expert, has stated that clothing can be harmful to felines. However, dogs are a different story. 

Having your Frenchie wear a T-shirt or any other canine clothing that’s designed for them can help capture any dander. Plus, who can deny how cute animals are when they’re all dressed up?

Regular Grooming

You ought to bathe your beloved pets once or twice a week, preferably. If you feel that’s too frequent, be sure to wash your hands and face anytime you touch your pet. Additionally, certain individuals swear by dander-reducing shampoo, so you might want to give it a try when you do give him or her a bath. 

Request advice from your veterinarian if needed. Try to entrust this grooming duty to a person who is not allergic to pets. Use a dust mask if you’re the only one available to get the job done. If you have the option to wash your pet outside, this can help reduce any possible reaction.   

Clean Your Home

Create rigid habits for living a life with allergies. The more frequently you clean up after yourself, vacuum, dust, and wipe surfaces like walls, the fewer opportunities that stubborn dander has to accumulate. Use an electrostatic bag or a vacuum with a HEPA filter to effectively catch allergens rather than just stirring them up. 

Do you let your canine friend sleep in your bed? If you can’t get them to break the habit, wash your bedding at least once a week. Additionally, the AAFA advises steam cleaning carpets frequently. 

Get an Air Filter

Dander can be filtered out of the air with the use of high-efficiency HEPA air filters in your home. You must regularly clean the filters as well as the covers on your furniture, your Frenchie’s bed, and his or her bedding to get the best results. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/icebergpicture

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About the Author

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

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