Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic?

Do you love dogs but struggle with allergies? Finding a pet that doesn’t cause discomfort can be tricky. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds produce less dander and are more manageable for those with sensitivities.

What if you're drawn to the gentle, loyal nature of Golden Retrievers, but worry about allergies due to their shedding? Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and loyal nature, but their shedding may pose challenges for allergy sufferers. Here’s what you need to know.

Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic?

Golden Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic. They have a thick double coat and shed a lot throughout the year. This means they release not only hair but also dander — tiny flakes of skin that can trigger allergic reactions in some people.

Dander can cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or a runny nose. Note that these symptoms are consistent with hay fever [*]. Because of this, Golden Retrievers are not the best choice for people seeking a hypoallergenic pet.

Related: Are French Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?

What are the Symptoms of Golden Retriever Allergies?

Symptoms of Golden Retriever allergies are similar to other pet allergies including:

• Sneezing (due to irritation in the nasal passages)
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Coughing
• Skin rashes (can happen in some individuals)

Some people may also experience asthma-like symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest tightness. This is especially true if they have pre-existing asthma conditions [*].

Tips for Living with a Golden Retriever If You Have Allergies

If you're determined to keep a Golden Retriever despite allergies, there are several steps you can take to minimize allergens and make life with your dog more comfortable.

Follow these tips to manage dander and reduce your allergy symptoms:

• Groom your dog regularly. Brush your Golden Retriever frequently to remove loose hair and dander. Regular baths every 2 weeks can also help reduce allergens in their coat.
• Keep your home clean. Vacuum your home often, especially areas where your Golden Retriever spends time. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture allergens. Wash bedding, rugs, and upholstery regularly.
• Use air purifiers. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in rooms where you and your Golden Retriever spend the most time. This can help remove allergens from the air.
• Designate dog-free zones. Create allergy-free areas, like the bedroom, where your Golden Retriever is not allowed. This allows you to create spaces where allergens from dander and saliva are less likely to accumulate, which is beneficial for allergy management.
• Take allergy medications. Consult with your doctor about using antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other allergy treatments to help control symptoms. Consider Allermi, a custom nasal spray developed by allergists. It combines FDA-approved antihistamines, decongestants, anticholinergics, and anti-inflammatory agents to target multiple allergy symptoms in one formula.
• Wash your hands and change clothes. After interacting with your dog, wash your hands and change clothes to reduce allergens that might be transferred to your skin or clothing.

With these adjustments, you can create a more allergy-friendly environment and continue sharing your home with your beloved pet.

Are There Breeds Similar to Golden Retrievers But Hypoallergenic?

There are a few breeds similar to Golden Retrievers that are considered “hypoallergenic.” These breeds tend to produce fewer allergens which would make them better options for allergy sufferers:

• Goldendoodle. A cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, the Goldendoodle often has a curly coat that sheds less dander than Golden Retrievers. However, note that they still require regular grooming to prevent matting.
• Poodle. Poodles have a distinctive curly coat that is dense and can trap loose hair and dander within the coat itself. This characteristic reduces the amount of hair and dander that is shed into the environment.
• Portuguese Water Dog. This breed has a curly coat that sheds minimally, similar to a Poodle and is less likely to trigger allergies.
• Giant Schnauzer. While Giant Schnauzers do shed, their shedding is less frequent compared to many other breeds. They typically lose some hair year-round and will "blow" their coat once or twice a year.
• Bichon Frisé. Bichon Frisés are known for shedding very little compared to many other breeds. Their curly coat tends to trap loose hair and dander, which means that while they do shed, it is less noticeable. The hair that is shed often becomes stuck in the undercoat rather than falling out freely into the environment.
• Maltese. Maltese dogs have long, silky hair that sheds very little, which helps limit dander and makes them suitable for allergy sufferers.
• Bedlington Terrier. They are generally considered suitable for people with allergies due to their unique coat, which is similar to wool and sheds minimally.
• Afghan Hound. Despite their long coat, they shed minimally, which helps reduce the spread of dander. Their silky, flowing hair tends to stay attached rather than dispersing into the environment.

Remember that no dog is completely hypoallergenic; however, these breeds are often better suited for people with allergies compared to Golden Retrievers. Still, prioritize regular grooming for your dog, clean frequently, and consider using air purifiers.

The Bottom Line

If you love Golden Retrievers but struggle with allergies, there are ways to manage your symptoms and still enjoy your dog’s companionship. Regular grooming, using air purifiers, and considering allergy treatments like Allermi can help. Moreover, breeds such as Goldendoodles, Poodles, and Bichon Frisés are hypoallergenic alternatives that may be better suited for those with allergies. Learn more about Allermi here.

References:

1. American Lung Association. (n.d.-b). Pet Dander. https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander
2. Gergen, P. J., Mitchell, H. E., Calatroni, A., Sever, M. L., Cohn, R. D., Salo, P. M., Thorne, P. S., & Zeldin, D. C. (2017). Sensitization and exposure to pets: The effect on asthma morbidity in the United States population. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. In Practice, 6(1), 101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2017.05.019