Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?

Pomeranians are considered hypoallergenic. However, knowing that they can still trigger your symptoms is important. While they shed very little, they still have dander and saliva. Dander is what most people with dog allergies are allergic to, rather than fur.

In this article, we’ll discuss whether hypoallergenic dog breeds exist, what triggers dog allergies, and whether Pomeranians are hypoallergenic. I’ll also give you some tips for adopting a dog if you have allergies.

Do Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Exist?

Hypoallergenic breeds are typically defined as dogs that shed very little because they have human-like hair. This hair grows continuously and can get very long, sometimes even trailing on the ground if left uncut. While you might find that some breeds trigger your allergies less than others, there are no truly hypoallergenic dog breeds.

Different people are allergic to different parts of dogs–you may be triggered by their fur, dander, saliva, or urine. In addition, there are various proteins that people are allergic to, which all dogs have, no matter how much or little they shed. With all these variations, everyone is going to react differently when it comes to dog allergies. For example, some people find so-called “hypoallergenic” breeds just as, or even more, triggering, while others find it helps.

To make things just a little bit more confusing, there is also something called an irritate response, which isn’t actually an allergic reaction. This is helped by non-shedding breeds.

All of that to say, adopting a non-shedding or “hypoallergenic” breed might work for you. But, it’s important to spend time around the breed and even the specific dog of your choice before committing to adoption, as you may find your allergy symptoms are still unbearable.

Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?

Pomeranians are considered hypoallergenic in as far as hypoallergenic dogs exist. They have long coats that shed very little, which may help those with fur allergies or who suffer from an irritant response when exposed to dog hair, but it won’t help if you’re allergic to dog dander or saliva.

Controlling Dog Allergies

There are several ways to lessen the impact of dog allergies if you have mild symptoms and want to adopt a dog despite them. However, these aren’t going to make your symptoms disappear. Please don’t adopt a dog if you cannot handle your allergy symptoms, as this will end in the dog being rehomed and isn’t fair to them!

1. Meet the Pomeranian Before Adoption

Spend time running your hands through their coat, touching the skin beneath, and giving them some good butt rubs (this will allow you to come into contact with the fur and dander). Touch your face after petting the dog, let them lick you, etc. This will all help you to judge how intense your symptoms are around this particular dog, and if you can handle living with them every day.

2. Consider Keeping Your Pomeranian Out of Your Bed

I love sleeping with my pets — and actually suffer from my own cat allergies to do so. However, keeping them out of bed can decrease your symptoms and keep their fur and dander from touching your face as you sleep. Consider covering your pillows and sheets with the comforter to keep them from getting laid on during the day. Train your Pom to sleep at the end of the bed at night so they aren’t touching your pillows or sheets, which come into contact with you more than the top of the comforter.

3. Wash Your Hands After Handling Your Pomeranian

I’ve always had trouble following this advice since I spend so much time interacting with my pets! But if you can, try to at least wash your hands before touching your face or after doing things most likely to trigger symptoms, such as brushing your Pom or if they’ve licked your hands. Also, don’t touch your face after petting your pup. Often, allergy symptoms are centered around the sinuses, and touching your face will increase your symptoms. You might also choose not to hug your dog or bury your face in their fur.

4. Keep Up With Your Pomeranian’s Grooming

Bathe your Pomeranian regularly to remove loose fur and dander. If you end up adopting a higher-shedding dog, brushing out the dead undercoat also helps with allergies.

5. House Improvements

Purchase an air purifier. HEPA air filters are the best for keeping the air in your home clean and allergy-free. Vacuum your floors and furniture. You likely won’t be able to see your Pom’s dander around the house, but trust that it exists! Vacuuming regularly will help cut down on the amount of dander you come into contact with.

6. See a Doctor

I’ve left this for last because it’s so obvious–but if you haven’t yet seen a doctor for your allergies, they might be able to help with medication or other treatments. There are also many over-the-counter allergy relief medications that you can try.

Final Thoughts

Pomeranians are a great addition to the family, but it’s important to know that you can commit before adoption. I hope this article has helped you learn more about managing your allergy symptoms when owning a dog since not even Pomeranians are guaranteed not to trigger your allergies.

Remember to spend time with your dog before adoption, keep your home as clean as possible, and wash your hands after handling your pup to reduce allergy symptoms.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Dulova Olga/Shutterstock.com