Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Hypoallergenic? What You Didn’t Know

According to pinterest.com, Bernese Mountain Dogs are not hypoallergenic. They have a thick, double coat that sheds seasonally, which can trigger allergies in some people. Additionally, they produce dander, which is the primary allergen in dogs. 

While there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, some breeds are considered more suitable for people with allergies because they shed less and produce less dander. However, Bernese Mountain Dogs are not one of these breeds.

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, long, double coat that protects them from cold and harsh weather. They shed heavily twice a year, during the spring and fall seasons, which can cause problems for people with allergies. The shedding process can release a significant amount of dander and hair into the environment, triggering allergic reactions in some people.

Moreover, Bernese Mountain Dogs are also known for drooling, which can further exacerbate allergic reactions in people. Saliva contains proteins that can cause allergic reactions in some people. This, combined with the shedding and dander, can make a living with a Bernese Mountain Dog challenging for people with allergies.

It’s important to note that every person’s allergies are different, and some may be more sensitive to certain breeds or individual dogs than others. Therefore, spending time with a Bernese Mountain Dog before bringing one home is crucial to see if you or any family members are allergic to them.

What Is The Bernese Mountain Dog?

The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the Berner Sennenhund or Bernese Cattle Dog, is a large breed of dog that originated in the Swiss Alps. They were originally bred as working dogs on farms, where they helped with tasks such as herding livestock, pulling carts, and guarding the property.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their distinctive black, white, and rust-colored coat, which is thick and weather-resistant. They have a strong and muscular build, with males typically weighing between 85-110 pounds and females weighing between 70-95 pounds.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, friendly, and calm in temperament. They are also brilliant and trainable, making them good family pets. They are loyal and protective of their families and are known for being good with children and pets.

Like all breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to certain health issues. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and bloat, among other conditions. Working with a reputable breeder who performs health screenings on their dogs is important to minimize the risk of these issues.

Bernese Mountain Dogs make wonderful family pets for those with the space, time, and energy to care for a large dog. They are loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families and will bring joy and companionship to any household.

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Characteristics of Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large breed of dog originally bred for working on farms in the Swiss Alps. They have several distinctive characteristics, including:

• Size: Bernese Mountain Dogs are large and powerful dogs, with males typically weighing between 85-110 pounds and females weighing between 70-95 pounds.

• Coat: They have a thick, long, double coat, typically black with white and rust markings. The coat is weather-resistant and helps protect them from cold temperatures.

• Temperament: Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being gentle, friendly, and calm. They are also brilliant and trainable, making them good family pets.

• Energy level: While calm, Bernese Mountain Dogs still require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. They enjoy daily walks and outdoor playtime.

• Health: Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to certain health issues like all breeds. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and bloat, among other conditions. Responsible breeders will perform health screenings on their dogs to minimize the risk of these issues.

• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is between 7-10 years.

Bernese Mountain Dogs make wonderful family pets for those with the space, time, and energy to care for a large dog. They are loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families.

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What does it mean for a Dog to be Hypoallergenic?

When we say that a dog is hypoallergenic, it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to allergens. However, it is important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic.

Dog allergies are typically caused by the proteins in a dog’s dander, saliva, and urine. Dander refers to the small flakes of skin that are shed by dogs and can float in the air, triggering an allergic reaction in some people. Hypoallergenic dogs produce fewer allergens and shed less dander than other breeds, making them more suitable for people with allergies.

Hypoallergenic dog breeds are often recommended for people with allergies or asthma. However, it’s essential to remember that even hypoallergenic dogs can still produce allergens, so it’s important to spend time with the dog before bringing them home to see if any allergic reactions occur. Additionally, regular grooming, bathing, and vacuuming can help reduce the number of allergens in the environment.

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Why are Bernese Mountain Dogs not considered Hypoallergenic

Bernese Mountain Dogs are not considered hypoallergenic because they produce moderate dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. While they have a thick, hypoallergenic coat that doesn’t shed much, they still produce allergens in their saliva, urine, and skin cells that can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies.

It’s important to note that no dog breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic. While some breeds are less likely to cause allergies than others, it ultimately depends on the individual dog and the person’s sensitivity to allergens.

If you have allergies but are still interested in adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s important to spend time with the breed before committing to see if you have any allergic reactions. Regular grooming and cleaning can help reduce allergens in your home and make a living with a dog more comfortable for those with allergies.

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What dog is 100% hypoallergenic?

No dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens, including dander, saliva, and urine, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. However, some breeds are more suitable for people with allergies because they produce fewer allergens or shed less dander than others. These breeds may not cause as severe of an allergic reaction in some people, but they cannot be guaranteed to be completely hypoallergenic.

Some examples of breeds that are often considered to be more suitable for people with allergies include:

• Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
• Bichon Frise
• Maltese
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Chinese Crested
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)
• Afghan Hound

It’s important to note that every person’s allergies are different, and some people may still have an allergic reaction to these breeds. Additionally, individual dogs within a breed can vary in the number of allergens they produce. Therefore, spending time with a dog before bringing them home is important to ensure they are a good match for you and your family.

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Why should I adopt Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a great choice if you are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog:

• Friendly and Gentle: Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their friendly and gentle nature. They get along well with children and other pets and are loyal to their families.

• Great Family Dogs: Bernese Mountain Dogs make great family pets due to their calm temperament and love of human companionship. They are known for being good with children and can make excellent playmates.

• Intelligent and Trainable: Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, making them excellent candidates for obedience training and other types of dog sports.

• Good Watchdogs: While not known for being aggressive, Bernese Mountain Dogs protect their families and can make excellent watchdogs. They are quick to alert their owners to any potential danger.

• Beautiful and Unique: Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, beautiful dogs with a distinctive black, white, and rust-colored coats. They are sure to turn heads and attract attention wherever they go.

• Make Great Outdoor Companions: Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy outdoor activities and can make great companions for hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures.

It’s important to remember that Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular exercise, grooming, and training. They are a large breed, so they need plenty of space to move around and should have access to a yard or other outdoor space. If you are willing to provide the necessary care and attention, adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a rewarding experience.

Tips you should consider before adopting a Hypoallergenic Dog

If you’re considering adopting a hypoallergenic dog, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Consider the breed: While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, certain breeds are known to produce fewer allergens than others. Research hypoallergenic dog breeds and consider which ones might be a good fit for your lifestyle and preferences.

• Spend time with the dog: Before adopting a hypoallergenic dog, spend some time with them to see if you have any allergic reactions. This can involve visiting a breeder, attending an adoption event, or spending time with a friend or family member’s dog.

• Grooming: Even hypoallergenic dogs require grooming to prevent matting and remove loose hair and dander. Regular brushing, bathing, and trimming can help reduce allergens in your home.

• Allergy medication: If you have allergies, talk to your doctor about allergy medication or other treatments that can help you manage your symptoms.

• Consider other allergens: Dogs are not the only source of allergens in the home. Other allergens, such as dust, mold, and pollen, can trigger allergies. Be sure to keep your home clean and well-ventilated, and consider investing in an air purifier to reduce allergens.

• Be prepared for the commitment: Adopting any dog, hypoallergenic or not, is a commitment. Be sure you have the time, resources, and energy to care for a dog and give them the love and attention they need.

• Adopt from a reputable source: Whether you’re adopting from a breeder or a rescue organization, be sure to choose a reputable source that prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Considering these tips, you can help ensure that adopting a hypoallergenic dog is a positive experience for you and your new furry companion.

What are the Dangers of Owning a Hypoallergenic Dog

There are no inherent dangers in owning a hypoallergenic dog. However, as with any pet, there are some risks and considerations to keep in mind:

• Allergies: While hypoallergenic dogs are less likely to cause allergies than other breeds, they can still produce allergens that trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. It’s important to spend time with the dog before adopting to see if you have any allergic reactions.

• Health Issues: Hypoallergenic dogs may be more susceptible to certain health issues than other breeds. For example, some breeds are prone to skin conditions or respiratory issues. It’s important to do your research and work with a reputable breeder or rescue organization that prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

• Grooming Requirements: Many hypoallergenic dog breeds require regular grooming to prevent matting and remove loose hair and dander. This can be time-consuming and expensive.

• Exercise Needs: Some hypoallergenic breeds are high-energy and require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. The dog may develop behavioral issues if you cannot provide sufficient exercise and stimulation.

• Commitment: Owning any dog is a commitment that requires time, energy, and resources. Be sure you are ready and willing to make the necessary sacrifices to care for a dog before adopting.

Overall, owning a hypoallergenic dog can be a wonderful experience for those willing and able to provide the necessary care and attention. Considering the risks and challenges before committing to ensure you and your new furry companion have a happy and healthy life together is important.

Bottom Line

Bernese Mountain Dogs are not considered hypoallergenic because they produce moderate dander that can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. 

While they have a thick, hypoallergenic coat that doesn’t shed much, they still produce allergens in their saliva, urine, and skin cells that can cause allergic reactions. 

It’s important to note that no dog breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic. Individuals with allergies should spend time with the breed before committing and take steps such as regular grooming and cleaning to reduce allergens in their homes.

FAQs

References

Hypoallergenic Dogs: The Facts About Non-Shedding Breeds. Akc.org

Dog Time. Bernese Mountain Dog. dogtime.com

Pet allergy. Mayoclinic.org

10 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for People with Allergies. www.petmd.com

Are Mixed Breed Dogs Healthier? vetstreet.com