Are Dalmatians hypoallergenic dogs? These spotty pups aren’t hypoallergenic. Although their coat is short and produces less dander, they still constantly shed. This means if you suffer from allergies, they may not be suited for you.
Dalmatian Quick Facts
Let’s be completely honest and start by saying — there is not a single breed of dog that will be 100% allergen-free.
However, don’t panic, your dreams of being a pet parent are not over. Quite a few breeds are considered hypoallergenic, meaning they’re less likely to irritate the symptoms of allergies.
To find out more, read our article What Is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
Dalmatians shed on an above-average scale — borderline ‘hair everywhere’ — making this an issue for owners with allergies. And, unlike other breeds with a thick double coat that have one or two ‘blowouts’ at certain times of the year. Dalmatians simply shed all year round!
What’s more, although their coat is short, Dalmatian parents have stated that their fur is stiff, meaning it isn’t the easiest to get rid of. This means that traces of fur from your Dalmatian will end up almost anywhere. Hence, those with allergies are at a greater risk with this particular breed.
You can’t stop a Dalmatian from shedding — it’s a natural process. But there are a few steps you can take to improve their health and coat quality to manage shedding and keep allergies under control.
1. Groom Your Dalmatian
Your Dalmatian will need to be brushed a few times a week to keep their coats in good condition.
Using the right tools is a must for your dog to ensure you’re grooming properly. The rubber-toothed comb is especially handy for short-haired breeds as it pulls the dead hair straight out of the coat. And, a bristle brush cleans up your dog’s coat after using the former perfectly!
2. Bathing Your Bow-Wow
Bathing your Dalmatian is a breeze because you really don’t have to do it often at all!
Overbathing your dog can lead to many consequences, such as dry skin, and a fragile coat. On top of this, constantly shampooing your dog’s fur will lead to the removal of natural oils, which will, in turn, cause your Dalmatian to shed even more.
The key to maintaining your Dal’s awesome spotted coat is to bathe them only when absolutely necessary, but no more than a few times a year.
3. Allergy-Related Shedding
If your Dalmatian is suffering from allergies, they may show symptoms such as flaking, bumps, and/or redness on their skin. Allergies are usually caused by switching shampoos or food, new bedding, or environmental changes such as pollen and mildew.
To combat allergy-related shedding, when trying new foods and shampoos, do so with caution. In addition to this, allergy pills can be prescribed at your vet’s. Also, keep on top of flea treatments.
4. Feed High-Quality Food
While it may be better for your pocket, low-quality food can elevate your Dal’s chances of shedding excessively. Plus, it contributes to many health issues.
Opt for complete meal kibble, high-quality protein, and fats. This will help to provide your pooch with all the essential nutrients they need from their diet.
5. Consider Nutritional Supplements for Your Dalmatian
If you feel your dog needs a little help in the nutrition department, you could introduce a supplement.
You can also find supplements formulated to help reduce shedding in dogs. They often contain omega 3 and omega 6, a range of vitamins, and flaxseed oil.
Regarding Dalmatians, owners like to make vitamins A and B an essential supplement for their dogs, as both fight dryness in the skin, hair, and coat.
For pet parents who have their hearts set on these spotty softies — but their allergies are saying otherwise — there are Dalmatian hypoallergenic alternatives. Many breeds share similar qualities and characteristics to the canine that conquered Cruella De Vil.
So, if you’re set on owning a Dal but your allergies are getting in the way, here are some similar dog breeds that could be compatible with your needs.
If you’re looking for a breed that shares the Dalmatian’s playful and energetic qualities, consider the Aussiedoodle.
This pooch is extremely active and requires a lot of mental stimulation and attention. Yet, they’re incredibly easy to train, making them a wonderful alternative for owners whose allergies are restricting what breeds to bring home.
The Labradoodle is also a great alternative breed for owners with allergies. This large crossbreed is friendly and playful (like the Dalmatian) and extremely fuss-free to train — so, ideal for first-timer doggy parents.
Another similarity to Dalmatians is that Labradoodles are highly intelligent, and like the Aussiedoodle, will require a lot of attention.
Like the Poodle, the Xolo comes in toy, miniature, and standard, yet you can find this pooch with or without hair, and both are allergy-friendly. The Xoloitzcuintli is a very intelligent non-sporting breed — they’re also family and apartment friendly.
One downside is that they aren’t as easy to train as the others above. What’s more, Xolos don’t cope very well with strangers or being on their own for long periods of time. This may be something that possible owners should look into before choosing this breed.
The Samoyed is an extremely friendly breed that would make the perfect family dog for an active household! They’re playful, sociable, and fairly easy to train.
While these dogs are hypoallergenic, they do tend to shed a great deal during certain times of the year — so owners with allergies beware of this! However, they’re low-dander producing, which may help. And, their long, fluffy double coat also demands more maintenance than the smooth-coated Dalmatian.
Conclusion
The Dalmatian is a family-friendly, loving dog, yet, despite their short fur, they’re not ideal if you’re sensitive to pets.
However, several breeds are similar in behavior to the Dalmatian, without the need to aggravate your allergies — the Samoyed, Aussiedoodle, Labradoodle, and Xoloitzcuintli.
So, to answer the burning question — are Dalmatians hypoallergenic? Unfortunately not, but there are other allergy-friendly breeds sporting the same loyalty and family-friendly appeal.
Are Dalmatians Ok for People With Allergies?
These dogs are fun-loving and make great family pets. However, due to the amount of fur they shed — all year round — they’re not considered a good option for those with allergies.
Do Dalmatians Shed a Lot?
Dalmatians shed continually, and the amount of fur they lose is now an identification of the breed.
Can Dalmatians Be Left Alone?
Dalmatians are a people-oriented dog breed. This means they aren’t great if they’re left alone for long periods of time. Separation anxiety is prevalent in this breed.
What Are Some Large Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Some large hypoallergenic breeds are:
