Are Jindos Hypoallergenic? Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQ
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If you have allergies to dogs but are still fond of them, you may want to get a hypoallergenic breed that shouldn’t cause significant allergic reactions.
Although there are no true hypoallergenic dogs, the Jindo breed is considered to be hypoallergenic due to its short coat and low shedding. This breed is native to South Korea, and their appearance resembles that of a wolf, which is how they got their name. It comes from the Korean word, “Gin-do,” which means wolf.
But are Jindos actually hypoallergenic? These dogs do have short coats and are low shedding for most of the year, so they could be suitable for people suffering from mild allergies.
Read on to learn more about this fantastic breed, discover what makes a dog hypoallergenic, and how Jindos compare to other hypoallergenic dogs.
What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?
Before we can determine whether Jindos are hypoallergenic, we need to know what that term actually means. Many people refer to specific animal breeds as hypoallergenic, thinking that that means they are entirely safe for people with allergies to own. However, there’s no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog.1
Regardless of the dog breed that you own, if you are allergic to dogs, there’s a chance that you may have an allergic reaction to them. However, if you really want to get a dog, there are breeds that are considered to be better suited for people who suffer from allergies.
Popular dog breeds that are frequently referred to as hypoallergenic include:
- Maltese
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Schnauzers
- Poodles
- Bichon Frise
Most breeds categorized as hypoallergenic are short haired, low maintenance, and low shedding.
While these breeds are considered to be ideal for allergy sufferers, remember that it still doesn’t guarantee that you won’t experience any problems. The protein that triggers allergies is also present in saliva and skin oils, so even if you get a low-shedding, hairless dog, you could still have a reaction.
Are Jindos Hypoallergenic?
There’s nothing to suggest that Jindos are truly what we consider to be hypoallergenic.
Generally speaking, though, and compared to most other dog breeds, Jindos are somewhat hypoallergenic. These dogs have short coats and are low shedding most of the time, which is why they could be suitable for people suffering from allergies.
However, Jindos tend to shed excessively during the shedding seasons, which is something to keep in mind before getting one as a pet (especially if you suffer from allergies!).
Although no pet is completely hypoallergenic, regular bathing can help reduce the amount of dander and other allergens in their fur and the air. We highly recommend Hepper's Oatmeal Pet Shampoo for this job!
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Jindo Dog Traits, Personality, and Characteristics
| Height: | 17–21 inches |
| Weight: | 33–50 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11–13 years2 |
| Colors: | Yellow, white, black, tan, gray, brindle, solid black |
| Personality: | Loyal, devoted, protective |
| Trainability: | Intelligent, quick learners |
Jindo dogs, also known as just Jindos, are wolf-like dogs originating from South Korea. They are a spitz breed, with athletic bodies, thick tails, and pointy ears. Their double coats are short but dense, which is another trait that makes these dogs look wolf-like. You can find Jindos throughout Asia, though most Jindo owners live in South Korea.
Jindos are highly intelligent and independent, which makes them quick learners. However, training them can often be challenging, which is why some Jindos may need a professional trainer.
These dogs are protective, devoted, and loyal to their owners, making good pets for families with kids. They are not aggressive but are calm, careful, and not that interested in people and animals outside their family. However, if you socialize your Jindo from an early age, they may even like to interact with people whom you also like.
Jindo dogs are active and have a high prey drive, so they need to have enough exercise in their daily routine. Inside the home, these dogs love to follow you around the house and ensure that you are safe and sound under their guard.
Are Jindos High-Maintenance Dogs?
Jindos are not too high maintenance, but they do have moderate needs. These dogs have short double coats that don’t require much washing. Even with only occasional baths, a Jindo’s fur will typically look clean and smell good.
Due to their double coats, Jindos only require weekly brushing because they don’t shed much outside of the shedding seasons. However, during spring and fall, these dogs shed quite heavily, which is when their maintenance needs increase. They will need daily brushing to eliminate the undercoat, and you’ll likely need to vacuum and air out your home more frequently than usual.
The 5 Ideal Dog Breeds for People With Dog Allergies
If you suffer from allergies but want to have a dog, Jindos could be a good pet choice for you. However, some other dog breeds are technically more hypoallergenic, so be sure to consider them before deciding on getting a Jindo.
1. American Hairless Terrier
A popular hypoallergenic dog is the American Hairless Terrier. These dogs are great companions for people suffering from allergies because they are hairless.
Due to the lack of coat, these dogs don’t shed much, if at all, which is why people with allergies can live comfortably around them. American Hairless Terriers have playful personalities and make great family dogs ds.
2. Basenji
An excellent hypoallergenic breed that may be a better pet option for people with allergies than Jindos is the Basenji.
This dog breed is native to Congo and has short fur and limited grooming needs and seldom sheds. These dogs smell good too, even without taking baths, which is another benefit for people who are sensitive to dogs and dog fur.
These dogs are generally affectionate, playful, and social, so they can make good pets for people who are allergic to dogs.
3. Bichon Frise
If you want a hypoallergenic dog that is small in size but has a big personality, consider getting a Bichon Frise. These dogs are more hypoallergenic than Jindos because they shed less frequently.
These canines are active, loving, and caring, which makes them great pets for families with small kids and other pets. Bichons will need weekly brushing but overall have moderate grooming needs.
4. Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dogs are truly unique due to their fun, playful appearance. These dogs are considered hypoallergenic because they are typically hairless, though some varieties may grow hair around their head and ears.
5. Maltese
Similar to the Bichon Frise, the Maltese is a toy dog breed that is considered hypoallergenic. These small, white dogs have playful personalities and love being around people.
They can have short or long fur, but either way, they don’t shed much, so they can ideal for people allergic to dogs.
What Can You Do to Reduce Reactions If You Are Allergic to Dogs?
If you’re a true dog lover but suffer from allergies, it can be frustrating to be unable to spend time with your furry companion without feeling allergy symptoms. Fortunately, there are a few different things that can help you reduce the reactions that you’re experiencing:
- Keep your dog out of your bedroom.
- Invest in a high-quality air filter.
- Vacuum your home regularly.
- Remove unnecessary carpets.
- Use nasal sprays or antihistamines or get an allergy shot.
- Limit the time that you spend with your dog.
Final Thoughts
Some people consider Jindos to be hypoallergenic, though there’s no evidence to support that claim. While there’s no such thing as an entirely hypoallergenic dog, there are dog breeds that are more hypoallergenic than Jindos and therefore, are more suitable for people who suffer from allergies.
Although Jindos can be considered somewhat hypoallergenic, they tend to shed excessively during the shedding season. Therefore, it may be best to look for a breed that sheds less if you’re allergic to dogs.
See also: Jindo Dog Price: How Much Do They Cost This Year
Featured Image Credit: jamongcreator, Shutterstock
