There are many people that want to welcome a dog into their home but suffer from unwanted allergies. Hypoallergenic dog breeds are the perfect pets for allergy sufferers, as they shed very little or don’t shed at all, making them less likely to cause a serious allergy flare up in their owners.
It’s critical to note that there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic breed. A dog’s saliva or skin can still trigger an allergy attack in sensitive people. If you suffer from allergies, it’s important to talk to your doctor before selecting a breed.
French Bulldogs may be small, but they unfortunately do not fit the bill to be considered a hypoallergenic breed. Frenchies don’t shed as much as some other dogs do, but since their hair is short and tough, it is easier for dander to get caught in it. If your family has severe allergies, the French Bulldog is probably not the best choice for you.
The French Bulldog Appearance
French Bulldogs make great companions as they are small, well behaved, and easy to handle. Nicknamed “Frenchies,” the breed has a reputation for being clownish and mischievous, stealing attention whenever and however they can.
This little pooch loves people and craves attention. While they don’t need a lot of exercise, they’re more than happy to play fetch with their owners or play tug-of-war indoors. They may have a face only a mother could love, but to know a French Bulldog is to love one.
They are small, sturdy dogs with bat-like ears and pug-like noses. Their coats come in a variety of creamy colors, including white, fawn, and brindle. Frenchies have soft, loose skin, an under bite, and large, round eyes. They stand 12-inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between 25 and 28 pounds.
French Bulldog Grooming
In general, French Bulldogs don’t shed a ton, but during the Spring and Fall, they lose their undercoat and usually tend to shed more during these times. During the heavy shedding season, it is important to brush your pup regularly to remove the excess hair and prevent matting.
Overall, grooming a French Bulldog is an easy task. Their short hair is simple to maintain and keep clean. Weekly brushing is necessary and bathing your dog on a monthly basis will keep his coat healthy and fresh.
Ear cleaning, tooth brushing, and nail trimming are also necessary to maintain your dog’s hygiene. If you do not feel comfortable doing the above tasks, you can always take your furry friend to a professional groomer.
Living With A French Bulldog
If you can’t resist adopting a French Bulldog, but you suffer from allergies, don’t worry! There are steps you can take to help lessen your allergies. For starters, regular grooming is necessary to remove dander and other irritants that may be on your dog’s skin. The close management of your pet’s hygiene can drastically reduce allergic reactions and help keep them to a minimum.
Make sure you don’t allow your pup on your bed or on any of the furniture in the house. And remember to regularly wash your sheets, your dog’s bed, and other washable items that your dog comes into contact with.
If your dog will allow it, put a t-shirt or other dog clothing on him. This may sound weird, but it will in fact help decrease the amount of dander his coat will accumulate and, in turn, help mitigate your allergies.
Lastly, always visit with a French Bulldog before taking him home to gage any potential allergic reactions you may have. You don’t want to spend all of your time and money on adopting a Frenchie just to bring him home and realize you cannot live with the allergy symptoms.
French Bulldogs are great little pups to have in your household. Their funny personality is a joy to be around and they require minimal effort in terms of exercise and grooming. They can thrive in an apartment as they don’t need a lot of space to run around.
In addition, they are great family dogs because they are small and friendly. But, if you suffer from allergies, a Frenchie isn’t the best option. There are 19 other dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and would be a better choice for families with allergies.
