So the question today is: are Basset Hounds hypoallergenic? No, Basset Hounds are not hypoallergenic.
But, if you groom them properly a Basset Hound may not bother your allergies. They typically do not shed as much as some breeds.
Let’s take a closer look at what hypoallergenic means and some steps you can take to reduce allergic reactions.
Table of Contents
Are Basset Hounds Hypoallergenic?
A Quick Look at the Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are low-key, patient, and charming.
These dogs require a daily walk at a moderate pace. They can be quite playful and enjoy playing or walking with other dogs. They are great for scent trials.
Basset Hounds can be challenging to train. They were originally bred to track a scent on their own without the need for human direction.
They often seem uninterested in following human commands. However, you can train them, especially if you use positive training methods and start early.
This breed requires little grooming. A weekly brushing to remove loose fur is a good idea. If you suffer from allergies a daily brushing might be a good plan.
Also, an occasional bath is a good idea. Basset Hounds are considered medium shedding dogs.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
People often assume that hypoallergenic means it will not cause an allergic reaction.
However, hypoallergenic actually means that the dog is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Some people will even have allergic reactions to hairless dogs.
Here is a full list of several hypoallergenic dogs.
What is the Cause of an Allergic Reaction?
Allergic reactions are usually caused by proteins. This is true with dog allergies. All dogs create a protein that causes allergic reactions.
This protein is known as Can f 1. This protein is found in high concentrations in a dog’s saliva and urine. Can f 1 is also found in a dog’s dander.
The dander can stick to a dog’s fur and give the fur the ability to cause allergic reactions too. This is why low-no shed breeds are considered hypoallergenic.
Basset Hounds may be hypoallergenic enough for some people. This is because they don’t shed as much as some breed and they are smaller than some breeds. So, a Basset Hound will shed much less than, say a Newfoundland.
How to Reduce Dander
Thankfully there are several things that you can do to reduce your contact with dander. Here are a few ideas for you:
- Brush your dog outside, daily
- Vacuum daily with a vacuum equipt with a HEPA filter
- Use a HEPA air filter in your home
- Have dog-free rooms so that you can escape if needed
- Keep the dog off your bed and furniture
- Do not touch your eyes or mouth after petting a dog
- Swap your carpet for hard floors
Conclusion
So, are Basset Hounds hypoallergenic? No but they can be better for those with allergies.
This is because they are smaller and shed less than some breeds. However, it is best, if you are able, to hang out with a Basset Hound to check first.
Each individual dog and person are different. So, one Basset Hound may cause an allergic reaction while another may not.
Either way, you can take steps to reduce the number of allergins you come into contact with.
Resources:
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/basset-hound/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321420.php#medical-treatment
https://www.archviewlabradoodles.com/2018/09/06/the-truth-about-hypoallergenic-dogs/
https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/132/supplement_1/s12.1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1364166/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/hypoallergenic-dogs-dog-myths-debunked/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/hypoallergenic-dog-breeds/
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/dog#treatment