Shiba Inus are some of the best-known buddies for people who love clean and smart dogs. Unfortunately, in every 7 people in America, one is allergic to cats and (or) dogs. Most likely, you’re one of the many Shiba lovers but are allergic to a dog’s saliva, urine, or dander.
But is a Shiba Inus hypoallergenic?
Shibas are heavy shedders. Since they have a double coat, Shibas are hypo. As a result, a Shiba Inu is bad for allergies. Nonetheless, Shibas are not the worst dogs for allergies. The worst dogs for allergies include; Boxer, Chow Chow, Akita, German shepherd, Saint Bernard, and Siberian husky.
But…
What Causes The Allergic Reaction?
Like we’ve mentioned previously, dander is the reason most people become allergic to dogs. Wondering what dander is? It’s the dead skin that dogs shed several times each year, depending on the breed.
Since it is microscopic (tiny), it gets embedded in the furniture, clothes, carpets, and sofas easily. If you have allergies, once you inhale the air around surfaces that has dander, you get allergic reactions.
Is it always about dander? Not really. Dog saliva, too, is a culprit. It’s the protein in a dog’s saliva that causes allergic reactions. Dog’s urine also contains a lower amount of allergy-causing proteins.
Is A Shiba Inu A Hypo?
Dog breeds that have a double coat release a lot of dander in the air. Shiba Inus are a good example.
So, are Shiba Inus heavy shedders, too? Definitely, Shibas shed hugely. They shed all year!
Twice every year, they blow their coat. Be ready to deal with the shedding as it can go up to 30 days!
This happens to make it possible for him to layer up due to season changes. They need to be able to tolerate temperature changes, just like the German shepherd dog (GSD). Thus, the need to layer up.
As a result, it’s challenging for people with allergies or asthma to comfortably leave with Shibas. Simply put, Shiba Inu is not hypo!
This doesn’t mean you should avoid them. Remember, they’re protective and intelligent dogs, just like the GS dogs are. Besides, they’re very friendly and playful. Though they tend to dominate, with good training, they live and associate well even with cats.
Are Shiba Inus Bad For Allergies?
Shibas are a great source of joy for some people as they can be great acquaintances, especially for people living in apartments.
They can also be great service dogs. Hence, more people are buying or adopting Shibas. Unfortunately, Shibas have lots of fur on them, which sheds.
Consequently, Shibas are not suitable for people who are highly allergic.
If, however, you don’t spend much time with him or you’re not so allergic, you could still own a Shiba then look for measures to reduce allergic reactions.
Which, therefore, are the best ways of reducing allergic reactions?
Uphold Grooming
Good grooming is a sure bet of keeping Shiba Inu-related allergens away. Therefore, always ensure your Shiba’s bed, as well as the bedding, is clean. Where possible, brush him once or twice a week. This is an effective way of getting rid of any stray hair as well as dander.
Daily brushing is a must during the molting seasons. It would be better to ask someone else to do it if non-allergic persons are living with you.
If none, ensure you wear a mask when doing so.
Unless the weather is unfavorable, avoid brushing him indoors as dander and fur embed on surfaces. If the weather is unfavorable, take him to a vacant room and brush him there. Whether indoor or outdoor, let him stand on a piece of cloth so that all fur may fall on it. Brushing a Shiba while he is on the sofas, carpet or bed only causes more harm than good.
You’ll have another task of vacuum cleaning every surface dander embeds on.
Otherwise, you’ll have serious allergic reactions.
It doesn’t matter how often you’re grooming your Shiba, just don’t have him on your bed.
Give Him a Good Diet
A poorly fed dog is likely to shed more than one that is well taken care of. This is why. A bad diet irritates your Shiba's skin since it gets dry. Besides, it looks dull. Your Shiba gets an irritation. As a result, Shibas bite or scratch themselves due to irritation.
In return, he sheds hugely. Avoid this by giving him a balanced diet. So, incorporate animals and plants into a Shiba’s diet.
It would be vital to engage your vet to know what the proper diet is to give your Shiba Inus. To give you an idea, though, here’s what you should give him every day.
- Omega (3 and 6)
- Copper
- Biotin
- Folic Acid
- Vitamin E
Again, your vet should recommend the right proportion depending on the age and size of your dog. Plus, how many activities he engages in during the day.
Regularly Vacuum Your Carpet
Carpets trap a lot of dander within a short time; thus, the need to vacuum your carpet often. If you’re hardly at home or have limited time to vacuum the carpet often, you’re better off without it.
Dander never embeds on wooden and tiled floors. They’re a good alternative.
Shower Your Dog
Regular showering of the dog can tremendously lower the amount of dander in your home. However, always use pet-approved mild soap.
It helps avoid tampering with the dog’s skin ph.
While at it, remember that too many showers could make his skin dry. Consequently, he could release more dander.
Use Air Purifiers in Your Home
Allergens happen because the air has been contaminated either by dust, scents, dander. Air purifiers clean the air, thereby eliminating allergen causes.
Installing air purifiers, therefore, in your home and office is a sure way of preventing allergens.
Embrace Personal Hygiene
Living with Shiba Inu while you’re allergic to them calls for high hygienic measures. For instance, clean your hands immediately after touching or playing with him. Otherwise, use gloves when handling your Shiba Inu instead of using your bare hands.
Better still, take a shower when you get home and wear clean clothes.
Be sure to keep the dirty clothes away from the clean ones.
Restrict Movement
Your dog must not play in all the rooms. Some rooms will cause more allergic issues to you if your Shiba accesses them. For example, the bedroom! The same case applies to the laundry room.
Also, allowing him to sleep on the coach leaves lots of dander behind. It’s, therefore, paramount to restrict the movement of your Shiba Inu.
Keep Your Clothes in the Drawer
Your dog doesn’t know the trouble he is causing you when he plays with everything he likes. Therefore, he’ll have fun anywhere he wishes, including where you’ve stored the clean clothes-the drawer.
To avoid such cases, lock the dirty clothes in the laundry room and the new ones in the drawer.
What Are The Worst Dogs For Allergies?
Understanding what causes the allergic reaction would be necessary in avoiding some breeds. Here’s why:
While some people are allergic to the dog’s fur, others are allergic to dander. Still, others are allergic to the dog’s urine.
A simple test would help tell the exact thing you’re allergic to and avoid the worst dogs for allergies.
They include:
- Boxer
- Chow Chow
- Dachshund
- Akita
- Pomeranian
- German Shepherd
- Boston Terrier
- Saint Bernard
- Labrador Retriever
- Siberian Husky
- Labrador Retriever
Most Common Allergy Symptoms You Should Look Out For
So, how do you know you’re allergic to the Shiba Inus or any other dog breed?
Unless you have other complications such as COVID-19, here are some of the red flags that denote you’re allergic to the Shiba Inu.
- A runny nose
- Skin inflammation or rashes
- Consistent sneezing
- A sore throat
- Coughing
- Red, watery eyes
It’s paramount to note that extended exposure to an allergy-causing Shiba Inu doesn’t make the situation any better.
You’re likely to get worst with time.
It’s best to give him away for adaptation or sell him and then bring in the best dogs for allergies.
What Are The Best Dogs For Allergies?
Now that you’re allergic to the Shiba Inu, is it the end of the road?
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says that most people in the US (30% of the population) that have allergy issues similarly have dog and cat allergies.
You probably are among that percentage and wondering which breed fits you best.
Here’s the sad truth. There’s no single breed that is 100 percent hypoallergenic.
Why? Every dog has dander. Whenever a dog leaves dander on a surface, you get allergic reactions. This is because dander triggers the immune system.
Some breeds, though, shed less dander, thereby making them the best for people with allergies.
Such includes:
Chinese Crested
Though Chinese crested shed some fur, it’s not much to cause alarm to allergic pet owners. Since they shed once in a while, it’s best to give them a good groom on a regular basis.
They’re also gentle and love playing with calm kids, too.
Since they have a small body, your kids can walk them around the park using a leash.
American Hairless Terrier
Do you have kids who love pets? American Hairless Terrier is your best breed. These dogs are welcoming and intellectual. Besides, they don’t need much exercise. Indoor pet games and few minutes of exercise are just enough for them.
Now that they love playing with kids, it’s vital to groom them regularly. Brush them whenever necessary. Also, trim their nails often to ensure they don’t hurt your little angels accidentally.
Coton De Tulear
If you have enough time to do your pet grooming every day, don’t hesitate to buy Coton De Tuleat dog. This pleasant breed is not only easy to play with but also friendly.
Moreover, if you have other pets such as cats, they’ll get a great companion in this breed, unlike the regular fights, as is the case with the Shiba Inu.
Coton De Tulear is a resilient breed that is also loyal to its owners.
Giant Schnauzer
With their regular need for grooming and exercising, Giant Schnauzer needs pet owners who have enough time to care for them. Like the GS dogs, they’re active dogs and can play or exercise for long hours.
Interestingly, they love guarding their owners against any potential dangers. That’s why they’re considered to be defensive and intellectual.
Reward them by grooming them regularly to keep them clean and feeling fresh.
Bedlington Terrier
Resembling lambs due to their wooly skin, Bedlinton Terrier is a perfect match for Shiba Inu allergic people. Their curly fur needs brushing and excellent grooming, though.
If you’re a busy person, buy this dog breed. This is because it doesn’t need intense exercise.
Bichon Frise
Do you live alone and want to get a playmate? Or is it that you want a gentle companion for your children? Adapt or buy the Bichon Frise. Besides, he loves activities and happily enjoys every exercising moment you spend with him.
They’re hypoallergenic, as they never shed.
Maltese
Chose by many due to their brevity and courage, Maltese are easy to associate with. They’re also playful. To ensure you don’t become allergic to them, brush them every daily.
Why?
They have white, silky fur that is also long; thus, they need good grooming.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Quite active like most other breeds, Lagotto Romagnolo is committed to safeguarding their owners.
They’re friendly and enjoy doing lots of exercises every day.
Dogs that love exercising require good grooming, too.
Hairless Peruvian Inca Orchid
Being hairless makes Peruvian Inca Orchid a good breed for allergic individuals. They’re the best selection for dog owners with tight schedules as they don’t need frequent grooming.
They are good guarding dogs as they are intelligent and sharp. Frequent exercise is essential as they are super active, too.
Kerry Blue Terrier
If you love keeping fit and need a companion to walk with you every day in the evening, let that be Kerry Blue Terrier.
Since they’re energetic and active, daily exercise does them good.
Nonetheless, you must groom them often to prevent allergen reactions.
Portuguese Water Dog
Like their name suggest, this is a water dog. He can spend hours in water as he possesses waterproof skin.
Needless to say, with this kind of coat, you need to groom them professionally as need be. Being a part of the intelligent dog breeds, they diligently protect their owners.
They’re loyal and super active dogs.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound is considered an unfriendly breed. Nevertheless, most people admit that they are noble; thus worth buying. Though they are hypoallergenic, they, too, need good grooming.
Otherwise, you’ll still have allergic reactions.
Also, ensure they get regular exercise every week. Keep them clean by washing and brushing them bi-weekly.
The Editor’s Verdict
What do we say; is a Shiba Inu hypoallergenic? No!
We have seen that this breed possesses a double coat that sheds a lot, especially during the blowing season.
So, if you have allergic issues towards pets, there are two options for you; buy one of the hypoallergenic breeds or commit yourself to apply the tips we’ve discussed in this write-up.
