Finding the right dog for you if you have allergies can be difficult. A lot of people have been drawn to Poodle-hybrids, just like the Goldendoodle, in the past few years. But are Goldendoodles actually hypoallergenic? And what about their shedding? And are the two at all connected? Read on to find out.
Goldendoodles are one of the best options out there if you have allergies, but they are not truly hypoallergenic. They still shed and let off pet dander, which is what causes allergies in the first place. Keeping your home clean and grooming your Goldendoodle will further minimize allergic reactions.
Do Hypoallergenic Dogs Exist?
Let’s address the elephant in the room. There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog!
A lot of people advertise their dogs as hypoallergenic, but that is impossible. This is because pet allergies are usually reactions to the dead skin cells of the animal, called dander. Unless you somehow manage to find a dog that does not give off any dead skin cells, it is not hypoallergenic.
Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic: Do They Shed?
There are some things that make certain dogs better than others, at least in terms of allergies. A Goldendoodle is more hypoallergenic than some other dogs because the curly hair of the Poodle does not shed as much.
Shedding is often linked to an increase in dander, so this makes Goldendoodles a good option compared to other dogs.
Goldendoodles are not perfect for allergies, though. And all Goldendoodles are different, so some might let off more dander than others.
The Most Hypoallergenic Goldendoodle Generation
If you are considering a Goldendoodle, you might wonder which generation is the best for those with allergies.
It is important to look at their parents to answer that question.
Poodles, as mentioned above, are one of the most hypoallergenic dogs out there. Their curly hair does not shed much, which means they let off very little dander compared to some other dogs. Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, shed a great deal and are terrible for allergies.
The most hypoallergenic Goldendoodles will be those with the most Poodle genetics in them.
Generally, F1bb Goldendoodles are the best, although they can be quite expensive due to the time required to breed them.
F1bb Goldendoodles are roughly 87.5% Poodle. This means the chances of them having a Poole-like coat are very high.
The Most Hypoallergenic Goldendoodle Coat
Goldendoodles can have a variety of different coats depending on their parents. This is because Poodles can have different kinds of coats.
Some of these coats are obviously better for those with allergies than others.
When Poodles with wavy hair are used, the Goldendoodle offspring will probably also have wavy hair. Wavy hair tends to shed a little bit more. It is also softer, rather than wiry, and holds more dirt and dander in it.
Poodles with very curly and coarse hair do not shed as often, and the same can be said for their offspring.
Some people do not like the look of Goldendoodles with very tight curls as much as those with looser curls or waves. But they are the best option for those with allergies.
Can You Get a Goldendoodle if You Have Allergies?
Yes, you can get a Goldendoodle if you have allergies. A lot of pet dander allergies are not life-threatening. This means that, even though Goldendoodles are not hypoallergenic, if you get the most hypoallergenic one possible, you should be relatively fine.
Best Goldendoodle for Allergies
I recommend getting a miniature Goldendoodle. Less dog means less skin, which means less dander.
Additionally, look for one with a very curly coat. As a puppy, the curls may still be very soft, but they will be there. By the time they are about a year old, the curls should be quite wiry or wool-like.
This wiry feeling can also be used to select an older dog.
You need to be prepared for the intense grooming that these Goldendoodles may need though. Grooming frequently is also very important for removing dust and pollen from the Goldendoodle’s coat. These may also trigger certain allergies.
If you do not think you can groom your Goldendoodle almost daily, or you cannot find one with a tight, curly coat, trimming their fur very short may help too. Be prepared to pay the price for this, though. If trimming is the solution you decide on, it may need to be done as often as four to six times a year. This is especially true if your allergies are severe.
Worst Goldendoodle for Allergies
The worst Goldendoodle that you can get if you have allergies is a large, straight-haired Goldendoodle.
Although it is very rare, some Goldendoodles may also inherit the thick undercoat of the Golden Retriever. These are even worse than straight-haired Goldendoodles. The thick, short fur grabs onto dust and dander and sheds all year round.
If you are unsure if the Goldendoodle you are looking at has an undercoat, ask your breeder about previous litters. It can be almost impossible to tell in puppies, although they may appear slightly fluffier than their siblings.
If you are adopting an adult Goldendoodle, identification is easy. You may be able to feel the undercoat, which is a slightly different texture than the top coat. Alternately, use an undercoat rake and see if it pulls anything out.
Other Things that Minimize Dander Allergies
Clean Often
Pet dander looks and acts like dust. So make sure that you clean your home often to get rid of it. Getting a robot vacuum that you can run multiple times a day will ensure that nothing settles on the floor.
Make sure that you dust any surfaces as well.
No-Pet Zones
It is sometimes unpleasant to have to keep your Goldendoodle out of certain rooms in your house. But, it is the best option for those with allergies.
In my experience, bedrooms should be off-limits to your Goldendoodle if you struggle. This means that, while you sleep, you will be less likely to struggle with symptoms such as a blocked nose.
Consult your Doctor
Many people with pet dander allergies come across animals at some point during their lives anyways.
It may be worthwhile getting some medication that minimizes the body’s reaction to allergens. These may be no stronger than over-the-counter hayfever medications. Or, you may need a stronger prescription. It is best to consult your doctor.
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