Pomeranian dogs have earned their spot as attractive pet dogs appropriate for apartments due to their small size and minimal exercise requirements.
But are Pomeranians hypoallergenic? No, Pomeranian dogs are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat and they do shed moderately.
Still they are quite popular dogs as they find a place in the 10 child-friendly dog breeds.
To claim that any dog is naturally hypoallergenic is wrong. This is true since all living creatures, dogs included shed hairs with dander. The amount of shedding may depend on the genes or health of the dog and is relative. Some shed very little like a Poodle whereas some shed a lot like Corgis.
Even saliva from dogs can be the cause of allergy and hypoallergenic folks should stay away from dogs that drool a lot.
This dander or Saliva is natural to a dog’s body but for few folks when they come in contact with them, the immune system thinks of them as an intruder and mounts an unnatural response causing an allergic reaction.
Why are Pomeranians not hypoallergenic?
Pomeranians do shed and emit dander.
They can be best described as a moderate shedding dog breed. This automatically eliminates any chances of the Pom being the safe pet for allergy sufferers.
Since this dog sheds hair, the chance of dander being circulated is inevitable. Dander is the accumulation of dead skin cells. It is lightweight and can float in the air or get attached to furniture.
Dander is the most frequent cause of an allergic reaction to dogs.
Another reason that Pom is not the best dog for allergy-prone people is the intensive grooming requirements. Although they are moderate shedders, they must be groomed regularly to maintain their coat.
Pomeranian Coat
The Pomeranian features a double-coat, which means there are two different layers of hair. Both layers are of different hair lengths with different functions. The topcoat is long while the undercoat is short.
The under coat is still visible in some cases and is distinguished by the color difference.
- Topcoats are rough to the hand and act as protective gear from injury. This layer features an array of colors.
- Undercoats are soft, fluffy, and thick. They are supposed to keep the dog warm and protected.
Types of Pomeranian shedding
The Pomeranian exhibits two types of shedding.
Natural, year-round shedding
This Pomeranian shedding type occurs throughout the year at a gradual steady pace. Damaged hair, old hair, low-quality hair is all removed via this type of shedding.
This is the main reason for constant grooming efforts displayed by Pomeranian owners. When it comes to this type of shedding, both the top coat and the under coat are affected.
Hair of either layer is bound to break or become old. Hair that falls out is replaced with new hair to ensure two full coats.
Seasonal shedding
In addition to the year-round shedding, a Pomeranian will also exhibit seasonal shedding. Seasonal shedding happens around spring and fall.
When winter is about to come, Poms will lose their lighter hairs to have a thicker winter coat aiding them to manage winter.
Similarly when Summer is in the offing, they will shed their thicker coat to have a lighter coat suitable for summer.
This seasonal shedding is called the ‘blowing of the coat’. The amount of hair shedding can be messy. Hair usually comes off in clumps. During this time, you will need to groom your Pom more often.
It is important to let this process be as natural as possible. This means you should not run to a dog groomer for a Pomeranian haircut before summer. Better to just let nature run its course and allow the fur to come off itself.
Other shedding reasons
In addition to the above types of shedding, any dog may start shedding a bit more due to the below factors.
Disease
When a Pom develops a disease, expect profuse unexplainable shedding to be the first representation. This is true in the case of skin infections and cancer. If you notice your dog shedding even when he is well-fed and happy, consult a vet immediately.
Nutrition
Dog hair, like human hair, requires nourishment. A diet that contains a balanced array of nutrients is the best option for your Pooch. Lack of this will result in brittle hair that can easily be damaged.
Low-quality dog food will lead to hair that is weak and lacks that thick and glossy appearance. People usually notice lackluster dog hair coats in an underfed Dog.
Stress
Sudden shedding could be a sign of unhappiness. A dog that is mistreated or neglected could start to shed as a sign of stress. Apart from providing food and health check-ups, owners should be loving and caring towards their Pomeranian.
The environment should also be satisfactory. A large dog can also bully a smaller dog. A loved dog would be happier and grow better than an unloved one!
Dog allergy symptoms: How to know if you have them
Have you got dog allergies but have not diagnosed them yet? Dog allergies usually present themselves as typical flu symptoms. They affect the skin, throat, and sinuses.
Skin: It usually appears as redness accompanied by itchiness. Scratching the skin could lead to more pimples or bleeding skin. It is best to not scratch at all. Some people even state swelling as a symptom.
Throat: Difficulty in breathing or swallowing could be a sign of an allergy. This is because inhaled Pomeranian dander could find its way down the throat. When it settles in the throat, it causes breathing and swallowing issues.
Sinuses: Dog allergies can also cause a runny or irritated nose. This is especially true for people who begin to feel this sensation immediately after touching a Pom. The allergens such as dander can probably be transferred through air or from the hands to the nose.
Will grooming reduce Pomeranian allergic nature?
Can constant grooming and bathing make Pomeranians hypoallergenic? Yes, a well-groomed and clean Pomeranian will be less prone to excessive shedding and dander dispersal.
Together, these actions will also greatly reduce allergens in the house.
Daily brushing would be excellent for owners who have the time. This will remove broken and dislodged hair. Any loose hair, if not brushed out, can get attached to clothing or furniture! Brushing also helps to keep the Pom looking presentable.
Bathing a Pomeranian has no strict regularity. Bathing him once in four to six weeks is recommended. Bathing will remove dander, hair, and skin oil.
Make sure not to bathe him often as this would leach out all the oils. They are needed to maintain skin health.
Bathing and brushing will help to ensure your Pom does not have a “doggy” smell.
How to reduce allergens in the house?
Reducing allergens around the house is essential. This is essential if you have someone who has mild to severe allergy to dogs.
Cleaning is essential to make your home less prone for people to get an allergic reaction. This will remove Pomeranian hair and dander that is the main culprit of allergic responses. Here are some ways to clean and de-hair the house!
Vacuum Cleaner- This machine will suck up all the hair and dander from the carpet. Every pet occupied household should have a vacuum cleaner.
HEPA Air Filters- These machines can be placed in the most contaminated parts of the house. They filter the air in the area and eliminate the dander and hair suspended in the air.
As dander is removed, there are no chances of it to settle down on furniture.
Microfiber Cloths- For wood, glass furniture, and even soft furnishings, a damp microfiber cloth is best. Shed Pomeranian hair will get attached to the microfiber cloth-like ‘metal to a magnet’.
Lint Roller: For Pomeranian parents who work, the hair on your office dress may not be desirable! Luckily, a lint roller brush can combat this last-minute situation. This brush has pamphlets with a sticky surface that attracts Pom’s hair.
Dog Bed- You can limit allergens around the house by buying your dog a bed. You will also have to stop him from sleeping on your couch. This will have a visible effect on hair visibility around the home.
Personal Hygiene- Additionally, washing hands every time after touching or playing with a Pomeranian can protect people from allergies. This is because our hands act as the perfect carrier of allergens like dog hair, dander, saliva, or urine.
Hypoallergenic Pomeranian mix breeds
It is quite established at this point that the Pomeranian does not make the best pet for people with dog allergies. The long hair and dander of the Pom can create a medical situation for anyone with a history of allergies.
And for those having allergies to dogs but love Pomeranian can opt for his crossbreeds that include a hypoallergenic dog breed. The Pomapoo (Pomeranian Poodle mix) or Pomeranian Maltese mix can be a good option.
They will exhibit less shedding than the pure breed Pomeranian.
Conclusion
The Pomeranian is indeed an attractive dog. They have a friendly yet bold nature and fit into apartments due to their small size.
While Pomeranians do shed, yet with some extra care, you can manage to live with him and be cuddled and humored by this intelligent dog.