Are Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic

Not many pup lovers take their allergy seriously despite their dog not being a hypoallergic one. But failing to take the right actions can cause a lot of trouble later, and that is why it is important to consider a dog breed that can help alleviate the allergies. But if you are wondering whether there are any such dogs, then the answer is clearly NO!

You first need to know that every dog in some or another way may have an allergen that could trigger allergies amongst people, and that is why taking preventive measures are important.

If you are wondering whether buying a cocker spaniel can work, well, this breed is not a hypoallergenic one. Let us understand more about it.

Those looking forward to having a hypoallergenic dog must understand that there are no such dogs that we can say are hypoallergenic entirely. Rather every dog creates fur, dander, and allergens in its manner. Besides, the cocker spaniel is one such dog that has a double coating. It often sheds. In the season of shedding, they can shed quite a lot.

Though they are the most playful and beautiful breed, the cocker spaniel is not even close to it when looking for the hypoallergenic one. But yes, it is always better to learn more about this breed so that in the future, if you ever consider having one of these as a pet, you will be well aware of what could be the best way to take precautionary measures if you are diagnosed with allergy due to such a breed.

Hypoallergenic Cocker Spaniels

The breed of a cocker spaniel is known to be a hunting one. It could stand out around 15 inches tall up to the shoulder’s height and weigh around 30 pounds, especially for an adult. They are very adorable just as they are, but they do have some lovely coating and features, making them more in demand to be a family pet.

Now focusing on the coating, this breed has got more of a feathery yet flowing coat. The coat is usually available in black, silver, tan, white, and a mix of all four. If you are considering whether to have a hypoallergenic breed or not, it is important to know that this breed has been used for studying allergen research in some projects.

As per the research, it has been found that their saliva is likely to cause a more allergic reaction than the dander. When it comes to finding the right hypoallergenic dogs, more so dealing with the dander problem, the cocker spaniel dog doesn’t have many proteins in its dander.

This means that dander on such a dog may not cause an allergic reaction in many people. To be precise, this breed is not counted as hypoallergenic, but people who have some allergies to dogs can still consider keeping it as a pet.

Understanding the concept of hypoallergenic

Before you understand what the term hypoallergenic is used for, you need to know what the allergy is. It usually occurs when the immunity system tries to fight off against the pathogen, which is unknown.

The allergies in the dog may cause a reaction against the protein found in the skin cells and canine saliva. It can be found in the dander of the coating as well. The dander would then shake loose since the dog would move, which is the primary reason that results in contactless allergic reactions.

On the other hand, if you consider the hypoallergenic breed, this breed is for those with some serious allergies. Such type of breed could be less shedder. This means there would be fewer dander and hair problems which would then be released into the environment. It again would even aggravate the allergies. But it is also important to understand that no dog is completely a Hypoallergenic breed.

Are Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

This is one of the most common questions that often pet owners are worried about before considering getting this lovely breed at home. But to be precise, if you have been thinking of getting this breed and you are allergic already, you need to understand that cocker spaniel is not the perfect hypoallergenic pup to consider. Rather it is a breed that has a flowing coat which makes it a popular one.

Due to its flat yet silky coating, this breed is somewhat in more demand than others. Besides, it comes in different colors, and the gorgeous fur makes this breed quite in demand. But certainly, this breed needs grooming to be done frequently to stay fit and healthy.

Other Hypoallergenic Breeds

There are many breeds from which the choice can be made if you look forward to getting a Hypoallergenic breed as the companion. To name some:

• American Hairless Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Afghan Hound
• Bedlington Terrier
• Chinese Crested
• Giant Schnauzer
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Poodle
• Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Spanish Water Dog
• Standard Schnauzer
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Lagotto Romagnolo
• Coton de Tulear
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Maltese
• Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)
• Portuguese Water Dog

Some preventative measures can be used to reduce the effects of the allergen that a dog would create. However, you need to make sure that your dog is being washed regularly. The blankets and bed of the pet where they lay must also be cleaned often.

You need to clean your home regularly, and if you want to make things less risky, it is better even to remove those heavy curtains and rugs that would trap down the dander.

Along with all of this, grooming your pet is very important, too, be it a hypoallergenic breed or the regular one. At least this way, dander would be reduced to a great extent. It may sound tempting but never let your furry baby be sleeping with you in the bed. Because in no time, your bedding will be covered with lots of dander, primarily the root cause of allergies.

It is quite understood that living with a dog that may cause possible allergies can be heart-breaking, but it is good always to take precautionary measures so that you don’t have to stay away from your furry friend.

It is also true that a hypoallergenic breed would usually help in reducing the allergic reaction. Still, if the dog allergy is mild, you can have your preferred breed, which would be a non-hypoallergenic one. This can be done by simply following the right care tips for both pup and home too.

Shedding of cocker spaniels

There are different types of cocker spaniels, such as English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniels. In the case of the American Cocker Spaniels, they are moderate shedders. Just like Giant Schnauzer, the Irish Water Spaniel is a hypoallergenic breed too.

There will not be heavy shedding if you maintain them well and protect their tangling with long hair. But like other dogs, this breed doesn’t have dander with high proteins, so the chances of these dogs’ creating allergens are quite less.

Grooming your Cocker Spaniel

When considering grooming your cocker spaniel, the first thing is to make sure it is done intensively. The decision is entirely yours on whether you want to let the coating grow to floor-length or choose for the cut; the right grooming technique is important.

You can always consider regular brushing to ensure the coating will not get tangled. It is important, so the risk of dander also reduces to a great extent. Since it has a long coating over other breeds, regular brushing is the right thing to do.

If the coat has been trimmed, it is always better to opt for the grooming sessions every three days. That too, if the dog has not got in a mess or if there is a shedding season.

Using the right tools is extremely important. The slicker brush to get rid of hair can be useful. It is always better to visit the store and ask the expert for the right set of needed tools. Other than this, you can also seek a professional salon where dogs are groomed—this way, the use of the right tools will be done on your furry baby.

In case you notice any kind of tangles or snarls, then make use of your fingers. It would be the wisest and smartest option to pick it apart. Since the dog’s ears are quite delicate as the skin at the edge is quite thin, make sure you take extra precautions while cleaning them.

Bathing the Cocker Spaniel

Cocker spaniel is one of those breeds that require regular bathing. It is always wise to choose a good quality, moisturizing shampoo as re-rinsing thoroughly can be helpful too. You must also make sure that the soap residue does not come near the eyes or delicate skin parts as it would cause irritation and affect the silky coating.

Once the bathing is done, dry the dog carefully using a blow dryer at a low setting. Of all, make sure the ears are dried carefully post bathing as this breed is quite prone to infections in this area. It is always better to check whether there is an inflamed spot after bathing as the breed has delicate skin.

Other Options to consider

In case you are severely allergic, then you can consider the option of professional grooming. Some dog owners prefer professional groomers to make sure the coating of the cocker spaniel looks good and shiny. You can consider doing it yourself, but if you are allergic, you must avoid it.

Even though regular bathing and grooming are the best ways by which the allergens from the dog will not get easily released in the environment, don’t ignore other things as well. This includes the things mentioned below.

The washing of dog beds is to be done regularly. Be it plush toys or blankets; you must clean them with hot water too. Try avoiding your pets sleeping on your bed. There are high chances that your bed might have the residue of your dog’s coat along with the dander, hair, and saliva.

You can always focus on dusting the hard surfaces regularly. You must also clean the carpets so that the risk of airborne allergens will be reduced at home. Consider taking your dog out for a walk often or play with him outside. This would help them stay energetic, and their hair fall and dander problems will be reduced.

If you have any heavy curtains around the house, wash them regularly. Lastly, make sure the air filters that have highly efficient particulate arresting solutions are installed. They are known to have quite a good significance in reducing airborne allergens with dogs at home.

Conclusion

Remember one thing, irrespective of the breed you wish to have at home, if you are allergic to dander, then in some or another way, you will face issues. But yes, when it comes to cocker spaniels, since they are not hypoallergenic, you might want to reconsider the option of getting them at home.

You can think of getting such a pet at home only if you follow some allergic medications for yourself and all of the above precautions. They can be the best family dog you can have if you are willing to do all the hard work it takes. So, try grooming them often and brushing them regularly, so that hair fall is reduced.

Reference links:

• https://canna-pet.com/are-cocker-spaniels-hypoallergenic/
• https://www.pupvine.com/are-cocker-spaniels-hypoallergenic/
• https://www.dogvills.com/are-cocker-spaniels-hypoallergenic-dogs/