Are Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?

Affectionate, loyal, and known for their stocky physique and wrinkly snout, the bulldog has long since been a favorite for dog-lovers around the world. Bulldogs have a reputation for being great family dogs, be it the stocky, muscular English Bulldog, or the smaller, more petite French Bulldog. But as friendly as these dogs come, are bulldogs friendly to allergy-suffering dog lovers?

Are Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?

Based on the bulldog’s appearance, you might assume that the bulldog is hypoallergenic because of their short hair. The reality is, no, they are not hypoallergenic. Dogs with shorter hair are often assumed to be hypoallergenic because of the simple notion that less hair means less allergens. The reality is that hair is only one of the few culprits that produces allergens in dogs, especially in the bulldog’s case.

So, what is it that makes the bulldog far from allergenic?

While short-haired dogs are commonly preferred by allergy-sufferers, it is not the hair that usually produces the allergens of a dog. Bulldogs produce various proteins that trigger allergies and are spread through hair, saliva, mucous, urine, and dead skin cells.

Compared to other dog breeds, the bulldog is not a heavy shedder. However, bulldogs shed constantly throughout the year, meaning dog hair will be floating around and spread all over the house year-round.

Bulldogs are also known for their drooping facial expression caused by their excessive wrinkles and folds. Unfortunately, this is also the biggest factor that causes bulldogs to be high-allergen producing dogs. These folds can trap all kinds of nasty things and constantly require cleaning to avoid any skin complications.

The bulldog’s saliva is also heavy in producing allergens due to the bulldogs’ excessive drooling, which puts the bulldog in the same ballpark as the St. Bernard when it comes to producing allergens through their saliva.

I already have a bulldog; how can I reduce allergy triggers?

Bulldogs are high-maintenance dogs and good overall dog hygiene can help reduce allergy triggers. Constant grooming and can help reduce the spread of allergens by keeping their fur coat, mouth, and teeth clean. Wiping their wrinkles and folds once or twice daily can help reduce the buildup of dirt on their face and reduce the risk of skin infections.

Keeping the house clean and sweeping out dog hairs are good practice. It is also recommended that allergy sufferers implement “no dog zones” in certain areas of the house to avoid allergy triggers.

What dog breeds are the most hypoallergenic?

No dog breed is purely hypoallergenic. In fact, all dogs produce allergens of their own, just some more than others. Hypoallergenic dogs may be considered less-allergenic due to the less amount of dander in their hair, or because they do not shed as often as other dogs. Here are some breeds that fall in the hypoallergenic side of the spectrum:

What dog breeds should I avoid?

Like the bulldog, some dogs produce more allergens for different reasons. From the coat of their fur to the high amount of shedding, or maybe the excessiveness of their drooling just like the bulldog. Here are some breeds that are considered high allergen producing dogs that can cause allergy triggers:

Bulldogs: Are They Hypoallergenic?

French and English bulldogs are both great family dogs. They are friendly, great with kids, and have a unique and confident personality. However, the bulldog may not be the best dog breed for you if you are an allergy sufferer. As friendly the bulldog may be, they are not so friendly when it comes to allergy triggers. The afghan hounds or the hairless terrier may be better, friendlier hypoallergenic alternatives.

Featured Image Credit: Lukas Maverick Greyson, Shutterstock