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Are Samoyeds Hypoallergenic? Facts & FAQ

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By Nicole Cosgrove

samoyed

Although no dog is truly hypoallergenic, the fluffy-haired Samoyed is often described as being a hypoallergenic breed. They are considered to be good for those with allergies because, while they are a long-haired dog and shed twice a year, they are known to produce less dander than many other breeds.

Dander is only one potential source of allergens from a dog, though, and although Samoyeds produce less dander than other dogs, they do still produce a fair amount. For these reasons, their status as a hypoallergenic breed is disputed by many groups.

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About Samoyeds

samoyed
Photo Credit: 今晓纲, Pixabay

The Samoyed is a Siberian sledding dog. Their thick, bushy white coat can protect them at temperatures as low as -60°F. The breed does not do well in confinement or when left alone, will require a great deal of physical and mental stimulation, and does not fare well in warmer climates. That said, they are intelligent, and with a firm but fair handler, the Samoyed can be trained to perform a wide range of tasks and jobs. They do have boundless energy, however, and require a large amount of exercise.

The double coat of the Samoyed consists of a long outer coat and a thick, wooly undercoat. They shed frequently throughout the year and have two shedding seasons, during which time they will shed even more profusely. Daily brushing does help remove dirt and loose hairs, preventing the latter from landing and settling on furniture and other surfaces in the home.

What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?

A hypoallergenic dog does not cause severe allergic reactions. People are allergic to one or more proteins that are secreted by a dog. These can be present in their saliva, urine, dander, and hair.

No dog is truly hypoallergenic because they all produce these proteins, but some are known to produce fewer allergens than others. Since loose hair is known to be the biggest cause of allergic reactions in people, the term “hypoallergenic dog” is typically used to refer to dogs that do not shed or shed less than other breeds.

What Makes Samoyeds Hypoallergenic?

Although the term “hypoallergenic dog” usually means a dog that sheds minimally, the Samoyed is considered a heavy shedder. They shed throughout the year and have two blowout seasons, when they shed even more loose hair.

So, why are they described as being hypoallergenic?

The Samoyed does not produce as much dander as most other breeds, and dander is known to contain one of the proteins that causes allergic reactions. If you have a dog allergy to the dander of dogs, a Samoyed could cause less reaction.

The Samoyed also drools less than other dogs because heavy drooling could be dangerous for dogs in sub-zero temperatures, and drool is another known allergen.

samoyed husky mix
Photo Credit: Xiao Zhou, Shutterstock

Is a Samoyed Husky Mix Hypoallergenic?

The Husky is not considered hypoallergenic, while the Samoyed is. The introduction of the Samoyed breed to the Husky means that the resulting hybrid dog will be less likely to cause severe allergic reactions.

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Top 3 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

The Samoyed is considered hypoallergenic because they do not produce much dander and rarely drool. Other popular breeds that are also suitable with allergy sufferers include the following.

1. Poodle

Akita Poodle mix aki poo
Photo Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock

The Poodle is the original hypoallergenic dog. They come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. They are all low-shedding breeds, and the Poodle is often crossed with other breeds in a bid to introduce this hypoallergenic nature into them. The Poodle is also loving, smart, intelligent, and a good companion dog.


2. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise dog lying on the grass
Image Credit: Carlos Amarillo, Shutterstock

The Bichon Frise is quite prone to allergies themselves, especially to fleas, chemicals, and pollen. But they are considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed. You will need to have their coat trimmed regularly to ensure that they remain healthy and comfortable, however.


3. Portuguese Water Dog

portuguese water dog
Image By: Zadranka, Shutterstock

The Portuguese Water Dog has a single-layer coat, which means that they shed only minimally, like the Poodle. They are a medium-sized dog, have oodles of energy, and are incredibly playful and laidback members of the family.

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Final Thoughts

Samoyeds come from Siberia, where they live in subzero climates. While they are considered moderate to heavy shedders, they produce little dander and barely slobber, which means that yes, Samoyeds are considered hypoallergenic dogs. If you suffer from allergic reactions to dogs, then the Samoyed could be a suitable breed for you.

Alternatively, consider breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, or the Portuguese Water Dog, all of which are breeds that are better suited to allergy sufferers.

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Featured Image Credit: Grisha Bruev, Shutterstock

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