Suppose you want to add a Pug to your family because you crave their goofy face and lively energy. You might even take them over breeds with longer coats or ones that require elaborate grooming regimens. While this experience might be exciting for some people, those with dog allergies might have a few issues adapting to this new change in their lives. Are pugs hypoallergenic? Here’s what you need to know.
Some people typically recommend getting a hypoallergenic dog breed to reduce allergic reactions when they start shedding. However, this begs the question for some avid dog lovers: are Pugs hypoallergenic?
Many dog breeds aren’t hypoallergenic, and Pugs are a part of that list. However, your allergies might not be as severe as others. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can adapt to this situation before reconsidering if a Pug is suitable for you.
What Does “Hypoallergenic” Mean?
If you’re ever wondered, “Are Pugs hypoallergenic?” you’d be pretty surprised to know the truth. “Hypoallergenic” is a term used by dog owners to indicate that their dog sheds less than other dog breeds, making it less likely to experience pet allergies. Some people assume this means a dog won’t shed any fur. Unfortunately, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, including Pugs.
It’s a common misconception that dog fur is the leading cause of pet allergies. However, pet dander from their skin can stick to their fur, and when that fur sheds, these allergens linger in the air when a dog shakes it off, making it more likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
Are Pugs a Hypoallergenic Breed?
Most people also assume only long-coated dog breeds shed the most. However, Pugs shed year-round, despite having a shorter coat than Golden Retrievers or Huskies. This makes it easier for pet dander to spread across your home.
Can You Live with a Pug and Have Allergies?
Suppose you’re still interested in bringing a bubbly Pug to your home, despite feeling stuffy and itchy whenever you’re around them. So, can you live with a Pug and have allergies? If your allergies aren’t as severe as others, it’s possible to raise a Pug by incorporating a routine that keeps your home allergen-free and your Pug’s shedding under control.
How to Live with a Pug When You’re Allergic
If someone asks you, “are Pugs hypoallergenic?” and you tell them “no,” they might start wondering how you handle this responsibility when you’re allergic. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to reduce your Pug’s allergens and make your life with them a little more comfortable.
Groom Your Pug
One way you can manage your allergies around your Pug is to groom them. Not only does it keep them smelling fresh and looking tidy, it also keeps their dander production under control for an extended period.
Brushing
Brushing your Pug is an excellent solution for reducing their fur’s dander and removing loose hairs. Ideally, it would help to brush your Pug about three times a week. You can find plenty of deshedding brushes to simplify this process.
Are you concerned about it getting stuck on furniture? Then, consider doing these brushing sessions outdoors to minimize the spread of fur and dander. After that, you can wipe your Pug down with dander-reducing wipes.
Bathing
Every few months, you should bathe your dog in deshedding shampoo. However, bathing them too often will dry out their sensitive skin and make them produce more dander. If you don’t want to lose track of when you last gave your Pug a bath, mark it down on a calendar.
Cleaning Their Folds
Sometimes, pet dander gets into hard-to-reach places, so it’s essential to clean your pug’s folds with a fragrance-free pet wipe. It’s also excellent for combatting bacterial buildup.
Give You and Your Pug Some Space
One solution you can implement to your daily routine if someone asks you, “can you live with a Pug and have allergies?” is by limiting your time around your dog. You can create a designated room for them to hang out in if you need some privacy. Supervising them at a safe distance outdoors is another way to keep them active and leave allergens out of your home.
Keep Your House Clean
Another way to manage your allergies when living with a Pug is by cleaning your home. You should vacuum your carpets frequently to keep any shed Pug fur and dander from getting stuck. Allergens are also present in dog urine, so it would be wise to mop and disinfect floors if your Pug relieves itself indoors.
If you’re worried about any microscopic allergens lingering in the air, consider placing several air filters or purifiers in rooms where your Pug is most active.
Clean Your Dog’s Belongings
Your Pug’s bed and blankets are bound to be hotspots for hair and pet dander to drop. Therefore, you should consider washing them every few days to reduce the spread of allergens. Don’t forget to wash their toys, too, since the proteins in their saliva can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Wash Your Clothes
Whenever someone asks you, “are Pugs hypoallergenic?” show them any sweater you own that’s covered in shedded fur. Placing your clothes in a washing machine is an excellent way to remove dander and fur from your clothes that you might miss with a lint roller.
After placing your clothes in a washing machine, don’t forget to wash your hands to remove any allergen tracings you can’t detect. That way, you can prevent any reactions when you accidentally rub your eyes.
Conclusion – Are Pugs Hypoallergenic?
So, if you’re interested in owning a lively dog who sheds plenty of fur and pet dander throughout the year, can you live with a Pug and have allergies? There are several solutions for minimizing your Pug’s shedding and dander spread, so it’s possible to live with and love a Pug without letting your allergies get in the way.
Do you have a friend who’s wondering, “are Pugs hypoallergenic?” Unfortunately, they aren’t, but some people’s allergies aren’t as severe as others, so it’s up to you to decide whether or not you’re ready to adapt your home for this type of dog breed.
