Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Are Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic? With a double coat that sheds all year round, plus biannual blowouts — the Australian Shepherd is not good for allergies. Hence, it’s a no. 

And, if you’re wondering whether Mini Australian Shepherds are Hypoallergenic? It’s also a no. Unfortunately, these mini dogs shed just as much as their full-size cousins. So they aren’t considered to be hypoallergenic either.

Australian Shepherds Quick Facts

Hypoallergenic Dog:
Shedding:
Drooling:
Size:
Breed Group:
Lifespan:
Energy Level:
Trainability:
Family Dog:
No
Moderate
Low
Medium
Herding
12-15 Years
High
Easy for experienced owners
Yes

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds — Real or Fake?

The truth is — there isn’t a completely hypoallergenic dog on the planet.

But, there are breeds less prone to causing allergy symptoms. These canines are ‘allergy friendly’ primarily because of their coat type and how much they shed.

To find out more about these dogs, head over to our guide on What Is a Hypoallergenic Dog?

The Australian Shepherd’s Coat

The Australian Shepherd has a medium-length thick double coat. 

Traditionally working dogs, their weather-resistant top coat keeps them dry when they’re out herding in all weathers. The soft undercoat regulates their temperature, keeping them warm or cool depending on the conditions.

The Aussie comes in a variety of colors, such as black, blue merle, red, and red merle.

How Much Do Australian Shepherds Shed?

On the whole, Aussies are moderate shedders. 

They shed all year, yet as these dogs have a double coat, they will also blow their coats twice a year — once in the fall and again in the springtime.

When they’re blowing their coats, you’ll find large tufts of fur all over your home, a little bit like tumbleweed.

are mini australian shepherds hypoallergenic.

How To Stop Australian Shepherds From Shedding To Reduce Allergens?

As we’ve said, the Australian Shepherd has an amazing double coat that sheds moderately on a daily basis. But there are ways you can help to lessen the effects of that constant year-round shedding.

1. Keep on Top of That Grooming

Almost every dog in the world needs some kind of coat maintenance, whether that be once a week or once a month. 

The Australian Shepherd’s thick coat requires weekly attention to keep on top of it. This is particularly essential during those months when they blow their coat. You may have to increase the frequency to every few days to prevent your home from turning into a fur-filled fiasco!

2. Use De-shedding Tools

Australian Shepherds go through two intense shedding periods. This loss of fur can feel like too much to deal with, but de-shedding tools can help you take control of the situation. 

Use a de-shedding rake to carefully pull fur from a dog’s undercoat, speeding up the natural shedding process. These tools allow you to efficiently remove large amounts of their undercoat in one go. 

3. Feed a Balanced Healthy Diet 

Looking after your dog’s fur all starts from the inside. If you’re feeding your dog food that’s not a complete meal, or full of non-nutritional fillers, it’s unlikely to meet their needs for a healthy coat and skin. 

Make sure your dog’s diet includes plenty of protein and the correct vitamins and nutrients for their weight and age. A vet can provide professional nutritional advice if you’re unsure what to feed your Australian Shepherd. 

4. Consider Supplements 

As well as healthy diets, omega fatty acids can also help your dog maintain a shiny coat and minimize shedding. Omega 3 and 6 supplements keep your dog’s skin well moisturized and help to support strong hair growth. You can give your dog omega fatty acids in the form of a chewy gummy or fish oil capsules.

are australian shepherd hypoallergenic.

Australian Shepherd Hypoallergenic Alternatives

Australian Shepherds are energetic and intelligent dogs with a playful and affectionate nature. However, their shedding double coat makes them a poor choice for people with allergies. 

While there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic Australian Shepherd, there are several breeds of a similar size and temperament. The Aussie may trigger your allergy symptoms, but the following breeds are far less likely to follow suit:

dog similar to australian shepherd.

The Portuguese Water Dog is from the working group, so is of comparable energy to that of the Australian Shepherd. These dogs are eager to please, thus easy to train, they also make amazing family dogs. 

Weighing up to 60 pounds and reaching around 23 inches tall, the Portie is comparable to the Shepherd’s size — max weight of 70 pounds and height of 23 inches.

In fact, these two dogs are extremely similar in many ways, except for shedding levels and grooming requirements. In that, although the Portuguese Water Dog sheds slightly less than the Shepherd, they require considerably more grooming.

dogs similar to australian shepherds.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is another energetic and playful pooch. As a Terrier, a Wheaten will have a stubborn side, but they’re also affectionate and loyal, like the Aussie. 

This breed is smaller than the Australian Shepherd, but not by much. An adult Wheaten grows to approximately 19 inches and weighs around 40 pounds. 

When it comes to shedding, this breed has a wavy medium-length coat and sheds mildly throughout the year. Unlike Aussies, you won’t need to deal with seasonal shedding and lots of hair loss with this fun-loving breed.

dog like australian shepherd.

When looking for the best hypoallergenic dog, you really can’t go wrong with the Standard Poodle. If you don’t want to deal with dog hair, this breed will be your perfect pet — the small amount of fur they lose just becomes trapped in their tight curls. 

Like the Australian Shepherd, Poodles are super smart dogs and are known to have a gentle temperament. They can be a touch on the nervous side, but when well-socialized, Poodles have an adaptable and calm nature. 

A similar weight to the Aussie, Poodles weigh around 70 pounds. However, these athletic dogs stand slightly shorter at around 15 inches tall.

australian shepherd allergies.

Conclusion

If the heavy shedding Aussie isn’t for you, the Portuguese Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and Standard Poodle are similar allergy-friendly breeds. 

The loyal Aussie has a double coat and sheds consistently all year round. Hence, if you’re considering this breed, be prepared for intense periods of heavy shedding twice a year. 

Are Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic? If you’re a fan of this energetic herding dog, but you have allergies, we’re sorry to say, these dogs aren’t a good match for you.

Is an Australian Shepherd Hypoallergenic? FAQs

Do Australian Shepherds Need Haircuts?

Regular haircuts are not an important part of an Australian Shepherd grooming regime. But, you will need to trim around your Aussie’s feet and ears when it becomes too long to avoid matting and tangles.

Are Australian Shepherds Shedders?

In terms of everyday shedding, Australian Shepherd dogs are moderate on the fur fallout scale. But, these double-coated dogs also shed heavily during the change of seasons. 

Do Aussies Bark a Lot?

Yes. These dogs will bark at the door, at strangers, and loud noises too. Effective behavioral training during puppyhood can help keep your Aussies barking under control. 

Is an Australian Shepherd a Good Family Dog?

The smart and exuberant Australian Shepherd is an excellent family dog. These herding dogs love to play with children and get on with other pets. As an active dog, the Australian Shepherd will fit in best with a family who loves to get outdoors for long walks.

What’s the Lifespan of an Australian Shepherd?

An Australian Shepherd will live up to between 12 to 15 years. 

Are Mini Aussies Hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, the mini version of the Aussie Shepherd is not hypoallergenic and sheds at the same levels as their full-size counterpart.

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are soft coated wheaten terriers hypoallergenic.