The papillons, also known as butterfly dogs get their distinct butterfly wing-looking ears with fringed hair. They are delicate, quirky-looking dogs with abundant, silky flowing coats. They do not have an undercoat and their hair is quite long. Although they are not as sensitive as other toy dogs when it comes to papillon allergies, papillons can still suffer from it and even cause it to their owners. Are papillons hypoallergenic? Owners should always be on the lookout for any allergic symptoms their pets may exhibit.
Are papillons hypoallergenic?
Papillon dog allergies are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. They have a single coat but still shed lightly throughout the year. Their shedding and dander can trigger papillon allergies in sensitive individuals. While they produce less dander compared to heavy shedders, they are not a safe choice for people with severe dog allergies. Regular brushing can help control shedding, and frequent cleaning can minimize allergens in the home. If you have allergies, it’s best to spend time with a Papillon first to see how you react before bringing one home.
Common Allergy Symptoms in Papillons
Symptoms that your papillon is having an allergic reaction could include excessive scratching, itching and licking of the ears, muzzle, paws or other parts of the body. Other symptoms could also include hair loss, recurring ear infections as well as changes in bowel movements. A pap experiencing an allergic reaction could also salivate and start licking his body, orange or red tinged hair is a sure sign of papillon allergies. Difficulty breathing is a symptom mostly experienced by humans rather than dogs.
Causes of Allergies in Papillons
Papillon dog allergies do not always begin from birth some papillons get them even well into maturity. Allergic reactions can come from food, parasites, insects, molds, pollen, changes in the weather, rage weed and fall seasons. Knowing what your dog is allergic to does not have to be a trial and error experience, just like with humans there is a test available to determine elements or food that dogs can be allergic to. Knowing is winning half the battle by helping papillons avoid such allergens. There are a few basic allergens that dogs can be susceptible to, these inlcude;
Flea and Bacterial Allergies
This is most common especially to hairy dogs. Papillon dog allergies can suffer from extreme itching on the bite area, causing redness, hair loss and sometimes even sores. The flea is actually not as dangerous as its saliva which passes through your pet and causes the allergic reaction. Flea bites are harmful to both dogs and humans an can be addressed by proper grooming, cleaning and a medicated shampoo if necessary. Garlic added to the dogs food is known to repel fleas and other bugs. You can also spray vinegar water on the dogs’ outdoor living space to get rid of the bugs. Bacteria can also affect dogs, normally it would also cause severe itching and lesions, this could be a Staph infection; if this is the case immediate medical attention is needed for both dog and owner.
Inhalants
Are papillons hypoallergenic? Well, these are also called atopy or hypersensitivity allergens in the environment. Symptoms would include scratching, itching and salivating that cause orange or reddish fur, This would include those that can be inhaled, it may come as a surprise for new dog owners, but they can be allergic to pollen too. Other inhalants include cigarette smoke, molds, mildew, dust, and dust mites. This is usually treated with antibiotics, shampoos and antihistamines. Hypersensitation or exposing your pet to the allergen little by little to get the papillons immune system going is often used as the last resort.
Food Allergies
This type of allergy is often easy to spot, and it can cause an immediate reaction. Food allergy can be differentiated from intolerance judging by the symptoms. Intolerance often causes diarrhea or an upset stomach while papillon allergies can show similar symptoms as atopy. Dogs can often be allergic to specific foods such as beef, dairy, eggs, chicken, lamb and fish.
With allergies, prevention is always better than the cure and it is important to know what your pap is allergic to. Although papillons are generally healthy dogs, they are fragile and severe allergic reactions can be fatal to them.
Can Papillons Trigger Allergies in People?
Yes, papillon dog allergies can cause allergies in humans. While they’re not as sensitive as some other small dog breeds, they can still trigger allergic reactions in their owners. People who are allergic to dogs may experience symptoms like sneezing, itching, or watery eyes when around Papillons.
Specific Allergens Papillons May React To
Papillons, like many dogs, can develop allergies to various things. Common allergens include:
- Pollen: Grass, trees, and flowers can trigger seasonal papillon allergies.
- Dust and Dust Mites: These are found in carpets, furniture, and bedding.
- Mold: Damp areas in the home can lead to mold growth, which some dogs are allergic to.
- Fleas: Flea bites can cause itchy skin and irritation.
- Certain Foods: Ingredients like chicken, beef, wheat, or soy might cause reactions.
- Cleaning Products: Harsh chemicals used in cleaning may irritate their skin or nose.
DIY Remedies and Preventative Care for Allergic Reactions
If your dogs have papillon allergies, here are simple things you can try at home:
- Regular Baths: Use hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoos to soothe their skin.
- Clean Their Living Area: Wash their bedding often and vacuum regularly to reduce dust and pollen.
- Wipe Them Down: After outdoor walks, use a damp cloth to wipe their paws and fur to remove pollen or grass.
- Control Fleas: Use vet-approved flea prevention treatments.
- Adjust Their Diet: If you suspect a food allergy, try switching to a grain-free or limited-ingredient diet (with your vet’s advice).
- Use Air Purifiers: These can help reduce allergens like dust and pollen in your home.
- Coconut Oil: Adding a small amount to their diet may improve skin health and reduce itching (consult your vet).
How to Avoid Papillon Allergies in Texas
- Keep them indoors during peak pollen seasons.
- Bathe regularly to wash off dust and allergens.
- Use flea and tick prevention treatments.
- Consider an air purifier to fight mold and dust.
- Limit outdoor exposure on super hot days.
Do Papillons shed?
Yes, Papillons shed, but not excessively. They have a fine, single-layer coat that sheds lightly throughout the year. Regular brushing can help manage the shedding and keep their coat healthy.
What makes a dog hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic dogs produce less dander and shed less fur, which reduces allergens in the air. However, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, as all dogs produce some dander and saliva, which can trigger allergies.
Are Papillons good for people with allergies?
Papillons are not hypoallergenic and may not be the best choice for severe allergy sufferers. They produce some dander and shed lightly. Spending time with a Papillon before adoption can help you see if they trigger your allergies.
Can Papillons develop allergies?
Yes, Papillons can have allergies. They may react to pollen, dust, mold, fleas, or certain foods. Allergies can show up as itching, redness, or sneezing.
How can I reduce allergy symptoms in my Papillon?
Regular grooming, a healthy diet, and keeping their environment clean can help. For persistent allergies, consult a vet for appropriate treatments or tests.
