Are Schnauzers Hypoallergenic?

schnauzer
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Written by Kirstin Harrington

Published: May 4, 2023

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There are three types of Schnauzers. This includes standard, miniature, and giant schnauzers. This breed originated in Germany and was given its name for its unique “mustache.” 

Schnauzers are intelligent, energetic dogs that can also be a bit demanding and territorial. This breed might be right for you if you’re a seasoned dog owner searching for your protector and closest buddy to accompany you on your travels!

Even if you have pet allergies, you’re in luck. Schnauzers are considered a hypoallergenic dog breed! Below we’ll discuss everything there is to know about having one of these dogs, living with pet allergies, and what you can do to keep symptoms minimal. 

Three Giant Schnauzer puppies sitting on the lawn

Schnauzers are intelligent, energetic dogs that can also be a bit demanding and territorial.

What Causes Pet Allergies?

Let’s discuss the widespread misconception that Schnauzers are hypoallergenic dogs before we can explore this specific breed. A lot more people than one may imagine have allergies to pets. 

However, not all people have allergies to dogs. Instead, they are allergic to certain dog-produced allergens. Typically, the saliva and dander of the dog contain these allergens. In actuality, even animals that are thought to be hypoallergenic have saliva and dander. This implies that every dog produces allergies. 

You are going to have pet allergens in your home if you own a dog of any breed, whether it’s hypoallergenic or not. In actuality, pet allergy levels can be detected in even non-pet households. 

Certain breeds appear to have less of an impact on people who have pet allergies, even though they continue to generate saliva and dander that contain pet allergens. Most frequently, this is because they don’t drool or shed.

Allergy Test

An allergist can help you determine exactly what you are allergic to and develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs.

Signs of Pet Allergies

Pet allergies can look different for everyone. Pet allergies are quite typical. Yet, if asthma or allergic reactions run in your family, you run a higher risk of developing a pet allergy. Early pet exposure could help you prevent getting pet allergies. 

According to a lot of research and multiple studies, infants that reside with a dog may have a stronger immunity to upper respiratory infections than newborns who do not have a pet in their home.

Below we’re going to talk about some of the most common signs and symptoms you may want to be aware of. There are also allergy test kits available to determine whether you are indeed allergic to our furry friends! 

Common reactions include:

  • Sneezing
  • Running nose
  • Watery eyes
  • Coughing 
  • Nasal congestion
  • Facial Pain

More serious reactions are: 

  • Chest tightness
  • Difficulting breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Trouble sleeping

In addition, we need to take a look at concerning skin reactions that come with pet allergies. 

Skin Reactions

As part of an allergic dermatitis pattern, certain individuals with pet allergies may also develop skin problems. This kind of dermatitis results from an immunological response that inflames the skin. Being in contact with a pet that causes allergies can result in allergic dermatitis, which can manifest as eczema, raised skin, patches, or itching. 

Seeking Medical Attention

Runny nose and sneezing are two symptoms of pet allergies that are comparable to the common cold. It can often be challenging to distinguish between allergies and colds. You may have an allergy if your symptoms last longer than two weeks.

Contact your physician if the symptoms you are experiencing are severe, including totally blocked nasal passages, trouble falling asleep, or wheezing. If your wheezing or shortness of breath worsens quickly or if you experience it even after light activity, get emergency attention.

Do Schnauzers Make Good Pets for People With Allergies?

Believe it or not, many people claim that Schnauzers are the best breed for allergy sufferers. Some of the most common dog breeds for people with pet allergies include:

The fact that these cuties don’t shed is a plus for allergy sufferers! Opting for a breed that has hair instead of fur can be majorly helpful! When pets shed, the hair they produce is frequently coated in dander and saliva. 

As a result, it circulates in the air and settles on the floor of your home, ready to irritate your allergies and trigger a reaction. However, there will be significantly fewer allergens in the house if your pooch doesn’t shed.

The fact that Schnauzers drool relatively little is another factor in why they have less of an effect on allergies. Once a dog drools a lot, the saliva only leaves the allergen that it includes around after it dries. Schnauzers don’t drool as much, therefore they don’t bring as many allergies into your house.

The truth is that no dog is beneficial to you if you suffer from pet allergies. Yet, how severe your allergies are will play a big role in this. You might not even experience an allergic reaction to a Schnauzer if you simply have minimal allergies. 

However, if you have serious reactions to dogs, you might not be able to handle any breed of dog without experiencing an allergic response. Spending time with a Schnauzer before bringing one into your household is the greatest approach to determine how you’ll respond to it.

A miniature schnauzer on a dog grooming table next to cosmetics and grooming tools is out of focus.

Baths are necessary no less than once a month, but more frequently if your dog has skin issues or simply enjoys playing in the dirt while you’re out for your regular walks.

Grooming to Reduce Allergens

Although hypoallergenic Schnauzers are excellent for people with allergies, new owners should be aware that they do require some grooming. It’s crucial to give your Schnauzer a daily brushing. 

Baths are necessary no less than once a month, but more frequently if your dog has skin issues or simply enjoys playing in the dirt while you’re out for your regular walks. In addition, you must maintain your Schnauzer’s skin, ears, nails, and teeth to catch any minor issues before they worsen.

Think of it this way, the cleaner and more well-groomed your dog is, the less likely you are to have an allergic reaction. 

Schnauzer Personality

Schnauzers are exceptionally intelligent canines. Their intellect is well-known. Despite some dogs in this breed having a rebellious bent and needing a little more firmness during training, their intelligence makes them reasonably simple to teach basic commands.  

Schnauzers are devoted, courageous, outgoing, energetic, lively, intelligent, and very trainable dogs. They are amiable and faithful to their family, and because of their pleasant dispositions, they get along well with young children. 

They become devoted family companions and competent watchdogs thanks to their innate instinct for protection. While the temperaments of different schnauzer sizes share a lot of traits, their size also has an impact on their personalities.

Before adding a Schnauzer to the mix, there are a few different considerations that you should make. First, although being independent dogs in general, Schnauzers occasionally struggle with separation anxiety. 

Before bringing a dog home, it’s essential to think about how much time you can give this dog. Schnauzers have a natural need for protection, which makes them excellent watchdogs but also causes them to bark frequently.

Giant Schnauzer dog running in the water

Schnauzers are devoted, courageous, outgoing, energetic, lively, intelligent, and very trainable dogs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed that comes in multiple different sizes, the Schnauzer is a fantastic option. It’s a lovable, family-friendly pooch that will give you plenty of love in return. 

The Schnauzer is a great choice for families or single people who want a lively breed to be loyal friends. Although they may bark at anything that passes by, they’re just trying to protect you and show other people and animals who’s the boss! 

Check your local shelter today if a Schnauzer sounds like the right fit for you! Remember to keep a clean home, invest in an air filter, and maintain a regular grooming schedule to keep allergies at bay! 


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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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