Basenji Hypoallergenic Guide for Pet Owners with Allergies

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Posted Nov 5, 2024

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Dog breed Basenji sitting in front of a brick wall.
Credit: pexels.com, Dog breed Basenji sitting in front of a brick wall.

If you're a pet owner with allergies, you're probably wondering if a Basenji is a good fit for you. The good news is that Basenjis are considered a hypoallergenic breed.

They shed very little, which means they release fewer allergens into the air. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

Related reading: Basenjis Good

Basenji Breed

The Basenji breed is a unique and fascinating dog that originated as African hunting dogs. They are known for their short, fine hair that sheds minimally.

Basenjis are often described as having a catlike demeanor, which is reflected in their fastidious nature and tendency to groom themselves. They are quiet dogs that rarely bark.

A major reason why Basenjis are considered hypoallergenic is their minimal shedding. However, it's essential to note that some people with allergies may still react to Basenjis.

Dog Allergies

Dog allergies can be a challenge for some people, but there are ways to combat them. You can get special shampoos that reduce hair shedding, and regular grooming can also help.

Credit: youtube.com, Allergist: Hypoallergenic dog breeds are a myth

Brushing your dog once a week can make a big difference. It's also essential to vacuum your carpets or rugs daily, use an air purifier, and try using baking soda on your furniture, rugs, carpets, and hardwood floors.

Certain breeds are better suited for those with allergies, as they produce less dander. The less fur shed, the less dander produced in the home. Some adorable hypoallergenic breeds you might consider are:

  • Some hypoallergenic breeds

It's worth noting that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, and individuals with severe allergies should consult with a doctor before bringing a Basenji or any other dog breed into their home.

If your Basenji is allergic to something, they may exhibit symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, and respiratory problems. In severe cases, an allergic reaction can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition. If you suspect that your Basenji is having an allergic reaction, seek veterinary care immediately.

Basenji and Allergies

Credit: youtube.com, Basnjis are hypoallergenic, right

Basenjis are often considered a good option for people with allergies due to their minimal shedding.

Their short, fine coat sheds minimally, which may be beneficial for those with allergies.

However, it's essential to note that Basenji owners who have allergies may still react to their dogs, but some may build resistance after a few weeks.

In fact, most Basenji owners with allergies report reacting to their dogs initially, but developing a tolerance after 10 days to 2 weeks.

If you're considering getting a Basenji, it's crucial to spend time with one before bringing it home to determine if you'll have a reaction.

Building Immunity to Dog Allergies

Some people may be able to overcome their dog allergies through repeated exposure to pets.

It's possible to build immunity to dog allergies, and there are reported cases of people who have overcome their allergies.

Your immune system may eventually overcome the allergy and stop reacting to pets, allowing you to be 100% free of allergies.

Credit: youtube.com, Is it Really Allergies? with Dr. Peter Dobias

However, it's worth noting that this process can take time, and it's not a guarantee that you'll be able to overcome your allergies.

If you're allergic to other dog breeds, you may find that you react less to Basenjis due to their low shedding.

But don't expect to be completely immune to allergic reactions right away – most Basenji owners who have allergies react to Basenjis at first, but build resistance after about 10 days to 2 weeks.

It's essential to consult with your physician before embarking on this journey to ensure it's safe for you.

Are Basenjis Really?

Basenjis originated as African hunting dogs, but they don't howl and yap like a lot of hounds tend to do. They have short, fine hair that sheds minimally, so you'll barely know they live with you.

Basenjis are known for their catlike demeanor, and these fastidious little creatures will even groom themselves. However, they do shed, contrary to popular opinion.

Adorable Basenji resting on soft blanket on bed
Credit: pexels.com, Adorable Basenji resting on soft blanket on bed

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, pet allergies are caused by a reaction to proteins in urine, dead skin cells, and saliva. This means that even if a dog sheds minimally, it can still trigger allergies.

Basenjis may have a shorter undercoat than other breeds, but they still shed, especially in colder climates where they grow thicker undercoats.

To combat dog allergies, you can use special shampoos to reduce hair shedding, vacuum carpets daily, and use an air purifier. You can also try using baking soda on furniture, rugs, carpets, and hardwood floors.

Here are some tips to help reduce pet dander in the home:

  • Vacuum your carpets or rugs daily
  • Use an air purifier (with no chemicals)
  • Try using baking soda on your furniture, rugs, carpets, and hardwood floors
  • Brush your dog once a week
  • Cover vents with cheesecloth
  • Clean your dog’s houses and beds often

Even with these precautions, Basenjis may not be the best choice for those with allergies, as they do shed, albeit minimally.

Grooming and Care

Basenjis are a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Their short, fine coat requires minimal brushing, usually once a week to remove loose hair and dirt.

Credit: youtube.com, Basenji–Barkless dog breed, Temperament, Bathing, Grooming and shedding | #basenji

During shedding season, which occurs twice a year, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Basenjis are known for their clean habits and will often groom themselves like cats.

This breed is considered to be a low-shedding dog, which may be beneficial for allergy sufferers. However, it is necessary to note that all dogs shed to some extent, and individual dogs may vary in their shedding frequency and amount.

Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and dander.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.

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