Allergies and Shiba Inu?

Question

I've had my heart set on a Shiba Inu for a couple of months now. I've done an enormous amount of research on them. I found a trustworthy breeder too! The only problem is that someone in my family has an asthmatic allergy to dander and hair. I thought about keeping the dog outside when it blows out its coat but I don't think that while do enough. We already have a toy poodle. Is there anything I can do to get a Shiba Inu? Is there a breed like it that doesn't have so many allergens? Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Since allergies have to do with the dander and not the shedding of the dog, it's hard to say which breed would be best since the dander is so different in dogs. A way to cut back on the allergens is to regularly brush your dog outside, I recommend a soft slicker brush, so it will get some of the dander off and will cause less to be in the air. Another brush that works well for this is called a "Zoom Groom" which is a rubber brush that looks like a scrubber. Dogs seem to love them too. There are dog shampoos that cut back the amount of dander dogs give off, but don't bathe the dog too often or it will dry out its skin and make the problem worse. Once a month should be good, but I would be careful doing it more frequently than that.

Initially I would take the person with the allergy out to the breeder with you to browse, making sure you can see a dog outside and only one at a time. This will show how much of an allergy the person will have to this breed. If it's severe, I would reconsider the breed. Maybe see if you can visit a local shelter where there are always wonderful dogs sitting, waiting for the perfect home. Even if you are not looking to adopt, this will help you get a better understanding for what types of dogs the person with the allergies could possibly live with. I hope that helps.