Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?

Pomeranians are one of the most popular small dog breeds, known for their spunky personalities and soft, fluffy coats. However, their adorable fur can cause some problems for allergy sufferers. So an important question for many pet owners is: are Pomeranians hypoallergenic?

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

Hypoallergenic refers to something that causes fewer allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic dog breeds produce less dander and shed less fur, making them less likely to trigger allergies.

Dander is the main culprit behind pet allergies. It contains proteins that cause an immune response in people who are allergic. When a dog sheds, the dander from their skin, hair, and fur gets released into the environment.

Some dog breeds are marketed as “hypoallergenic” because they tend to produce less dander than others. However, no dog is completely non-allergenic.

People with allergies still need to take precautions around hypoallergenic dogs. But these breeds cause fewer problems for most allergy sufferers.

Pomeranian Breed Profile

To understand Pomeranian allergies, it helps to learn more about the breed itself. Here’s an in-depth overview of these petite puffballs:

History

• Originated as larger sled dogs in the Pomerania region of Germany and Poland.
• Were bred down to a smaller size in the 19th century.
• Rose to popularity as companion dogs for nobles and royals like Queen Victoria.
• Are classified as a toy breed today, weighing just 3-7 pounds.

Physical Appearance

• Have a thick, double coat of fur.
• The undercoat is soft and dense. The outer coat is long and harsh.
• Coat can come in all colors and patterns, including black, white, brown, red, orange, cream, blue, sable, brindle, and merle.
• Have pointed, alert ears that stand erect.
• Have a fox-like facial appearance with a wedged shaped head.
• Have a curled, plumed tail that lies flat across the back.
• Show dogs should be 7-12 inches tall at the highest point of the shoulder.

Temperament

• Lively, energetic, and outgoing.
• Make bold watchdogs with their loud, enthusiastic barking.
• Can be aloof and wary of strangers at first but are devoted to family.
• Highly intelligent and respond well to training.
• Require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent problem behaviors.
• Their small size makes them adaptable to apartment living.

Activity Level

• Have a moderately high energy level.
• Need 30-60 minutes of exercise daily.
• Enjoy brisk walks and play time.
• Can meet exercise needs with indoor activity due to small size.

Care

• Require daily brushing and regular bathing to control heavy shedding.
• Prone to dental problems – need teeth brushing 2-3 times per week.
• Naturally neat and clean, housetraining is not difficult.
• Need a daily walk but can meet other exercise needs indoors.
• Make good pets for senior citizens who can meet their grooming requirements.

Why Shedding Matters for Allergies

To understand if Pomeranians are hypoallergenic, we need to explore the relationship between shedding and allergies.

A dog’s dander contains proteins that cause an allergic reaction. When dogs shed, the dander gets released into the environment and can cause issues for allergy sufferers.

Some factors that influence how much dander is released:

• How much a dog sheds: Heavy shedders release more dander.
• Length of coat: Long-coated dogs release more dander than short-haired breeds.
• Frequency of shedding: Frequent shedders circulate more dander than occasional shedders.

So breeds that don’t shed much, have short fur, and only shed seasonally tend to be better for allergies.

The Allergy-Dander Connection

To understand why some dogs aggravate allergies more than others, it helps to understand dander:

• Dander consists of microscopic flecks of skin shed by dogs.
• These skin cells contain proteins that trigger immune reactions in allergy sufferers.
• Dander gets released into the air and settles on surfaces when dogs shed their fur.
• When people inhale airborne dander or touch contaminated surfaces, allergies can flare up.

Dander production is influenced by:

• Length and density of the coat.
• Texture of the coat – harsher coats produce more dander.
• Amount of oil in the skin and coat.
• Frequency of shedding.

Dogs release more dander when:

• They shed heavily.
• Their coat is frequently brushed.
• Their skin is dry or irritated.
• They have skin disorders.

So dogs with heavy shedding, frequent grooming needs, long fur, or irritated skin will circulate more allergy-causing dander.

Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?

Now that we’ve covered shedding and dander, let’s get to the main question: are Pomeranians hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, Pomeranians are generally not considered a hypoallergenic breed.

While individuals vary in allergy sensitivity, most experts do not recommend Pomeranians for allergy sufferers due to their heavy shedding and frequent grooming needs.

Evidence That Pomeranians Are Not Hypoallergenic

Here’s what sources have to say about Pomeranians and allergies:

• The American Kennel Club does not list Pomeranians under their hypoallergenic dogs category.
• Petfinder says Pomeranians have a “high shedding potential and are not ideal for allergy sufferers.”
• Dogtime lists Pomeranians under “Not Usually Hypoallergenic” because of their consistent shedding.
• Rover’s dog allergy guide names Pomeranians as one of the “worst dog breeds for allergy sufferers.”
• Good Housekeeping’s vet-approved list of the best dogs for allergies does not include Pomeranians due to their shedding.

Why Aren’t Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?

Pomeranians possess certain traits that make them ill-suited for people with allergies:

• Heavy shedding: Pomeranians shed heavily year-round.
• Frequent grooming: Their thick coat needs daily brushing, increasing dander release.
• Long fur: The long coat holds more dander and takes longer to shed out.
• Dander-rich coat: Their harsh outer coat produces more dander than a soft coat.
• Active nature: Their lively temperament shakes loose excess dander.

These characteristics mean that Pomeranian dander tends to get dispersed frequently into the surroundings. For allergy sufferers, that creates a problematic situation.

Factors That Contribute to Pomeranian Allergies

Let’s examine the specifics of Pomeranians that can aggravate allergies in more detail:

Heavy Year-Round Shedding

• Pomeranians shed consistently all year, not just seasonally.
• They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily.
• Without daily brushing, their undercoat will mat and shed excessively inside the home.
• Excessive shedding spreads more dander into the environment.

High Grooming Requirements

• Their long, thick double coat requires daily brushing.
• Frequent brushing removes dead hair before it mats but also releases dander into the air.
• Bathing 1-2 times per month is needed to control shedding and dander.
• Professional trimming every 1-2 months removes excessive coat growth.
• All this hands-on grooming inevitably disperses dander.

Abundant Dander Production

• Pomeranians have a harsh, wooly outer coat that produces more dander than a soft, silky coat.
• Normal shedding and the seasonal “blowing coat” process circulate high amounts of dander.
• The dense undercoat also harbors dander that gets released with shedding.
• Dry skin or skin allergies can increase dander production.

Lively Nature

• Pomeranians are highly energetic, vigorous little dogs.
• Their active nature and movement shakes dander loose from their abundant coat.
• The more time spent running and playing, the more dander circulates into the home environment.

Difficulty Controlling Shedding Indoors

• Pomeranians want to be close to their owners as often as possible. Keeping them isolated from the home can be challenging.
• Their small size allows them to follow their owners from room to room, dispersing dander everywhere they go.
• Their light, airborne fur can travel far distances through ventilation systems.
• Allergy sufferers will likely inhale Pomeranian dander in almost every room of the house.

Impacts of Pomeranian Dander on Allergy Sufferers

To understand why Pomeranians are ill-advised for allergy-prone individuals, it helps to examine the effects of exposure:

Respiratory Effects

Inhaling airborne Pomeranian dander can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, causing:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Worsened asthma

With chronic exposure, permanent airway changes may occur, leading to chronic respiratory troubles.

Skin Reactions

Touching surfaces contaminated with Pomeranian dander can provoke skin reactions like:

• Hives
• Itchy rashes
• Eczema flares
• Swelling around the eyes

Rubbing a Pomeranian can directly deposit dander oils onto the skin, also causing flare ups.

Eye Irritation

Airborne dander may cause red, itchy, watery eyes in allergy sufferers. Rubbing the eyes after contact with contaminated surfaces can further aggravate symptoms.

Other Symptoms

Pomeranian dander exposure can additionally lead to:

• Headaches
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Runny nose
• Postnasal drip
• Facial pain and pressure

Recurring exposure often worsens these effects over time.

Tips for Pomeranian Owners with Allergies

For those determined to own a Pomeranian despite allergies, here are some tips to reduce reactions:

• Brush outdoors: Brush your Pomeranian daily outside the home to control shedding.
• Bathe regularly: Bathe your dog every 2-4 weeks using an allergen-reducing shampoo. Bathing removes dander, sweat, and other allergens from the skin and coat.
• HEPA vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove dander from carpets, upholstery, drapes, and other home surfaces.
• Air purification: Use high-quality air purifiers, especially in the main rooms your Pomeranian frequents. Replace filters regularly.
• Wash bedding: Frequently wash your Pomeranian’s bedding in hot water to eliminate attached dander. Consider non-fabric crate liners and blankets.
• Groom lightly: Limit petting and cuddling that rubs dander loose from your Pomeranian’s coat.
• Restrict access: Keep your Pomeranian out of your bedroom as much as possible to prevent nighttime allergy issues. Restrict access to upholstered furniture as well.
• Clean often: Dust and wet mop floors frequently. Disinfect doorknobs, tables, counters, and other surfaces weekly.
• Allergy medication: Take allergy medication as needed to control symptoms. Keep airways clear with a daily allergy medication during high shedding seasons.
• Visit an allergist: See an allergist to undergo testing and customize a treatment plan for your severity of symptoms.

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Allergy Sufferers

While Pomeranians are not recommended for people with dog allergies, some breeds are considered better hypoallergenic options:

Poodle

• Single, non-shedding coat.
• Come in standard, miniature and toy sizes.
• Require regular grooming to prevent matting.

Schnauzer

• Has a non-shedding, wiry coat.
• Comes in standard, miniature and giant sizes.
• Minimal doggy odor.

Bichon Frise

• Thick, curled, non-shedding coat.
• Hypoallergenic but requires frequent grooming.
• Playful and affectionate.

Portuguese Water Dog

• Single coat sheds minimally.
• Lively and intelligent family dogs.
• Need regular brushing and clipping.

Xoloitzcuintli

• Hairless breed produces no dander.
• Coatless skin requires sunscreen and coats in cold weather.
• Come in miniature, standard and toy sizes.

Basenji

• Short, fine coat produces little dander.
• Groom themselves like cats.
• Quiet dogs that don’t bark much.

Irish Water Spaniel

• Low-shedding, curly coat.
• Active, high-energy breed.
• Need significant exercise.

Chinese Crested

• Mostly hairless body.
• Puffs of fur on the head, tail, and feet.
• Minimal bathing and grooming needed.

Afghan Hound

• Long silky coat sheds infrequently.
• Require daily grooming to prevent matting.
• Aloof, independent nature.

Wheaten Terrier

• Long, soft, curly coat.
• Need weekly brushing and clipping.
• Playful, friendly family dogs.

Keep in mind that no dog is 100% non-allergenic. But these breeds are less likely to aggravate allergies for most people. Consult with your allergist when choosing a hypoallergenic dog.

Key Considerations in Choosing a “Hypoallergenic” Breed

No dog is completely allergen-free, but some key factors make certain breeds better suited for allergy sufferers:

• Shedding level – Minimal shedding breeds like Poodles are better than heavy shedders.
• Coat type – Short, fine, or curly coats trap less dander. Single coats shed less than double coats.
• Grooming needs – Breeds that don’t require frequent brushing or clipping are optimal to reduce airborne dander.
• Activity level – Mild-mannered lapdogs circulate less dander than energetic, vigorous breeds.
• Skin health – Breeds prone to dry, itchy skin produce more dander.
• Saliva chemistry – Some research shows protein differences in saliva may affect allergy responses.

While no perfect solutions exist, choosing breeds that align with these factors can ease difficulties for allergy sufferers.

The Bottom Line: Pomeranians and Allergies Don’t Mix

While Pomeranians have many endearing qualities, their heavy shedding makes them a poor choice for allergy sufferers. They circulate large amounts of allergy-causing dander into the home environment on a frequent basis.

Some people may mistakenly believe Pomeranians are hypoallergenic because of their small size. But despite their diminutive stature, they still produce copious amounts of dander. Their long, thick coats also need extensive grooming that further releases allergens.

Pomeranians want to be close to their owners as much as possible. Yet this tendency traps allergy sufferers in constant close-range proximity with dander. Their energetic nature also shakes loose and airborne even more allergens.

While no dog is completely non-allergenic, Pomeranians are especially problematic for people predisposed to pet allergies. Their zestful temperament produces a “flurry” of allergens with all their activity.

Allergy sufferers who wish to own a Pomeranian should consult an allergist first and be prepared to manage symptoms diligently. Various measures can help reduce dander levels, but they require daily effort. For most individuals with significant dog allergies, avoidance of Pomeranians is the wisest choice.

Instead, hypoallergenic dogs like Poodles, Schnauzers, Bichons, and hairless breeds make better companions for allergy-prone dog lovers. While no perfect solutions exist, other breeds offer more allergy-friendly alternatives to the fluffy but troublesome Pomeranian.

The Allergy Sufferer’s Guide to Living With a Pomeranian

For allergy sufferers dead-set on owning a Pomeranian, smart strategies can reduce dander levels for a less sneezy existence. Here is a practical guide to minimizing allergens while sharing life with a Pom:

Keep Dander Down With Diligent Grooming

• Brush your Pomeranian daily outdoors. Regular brushing clears out dead hair before it sheds inside.
• Bathe your Pomeranian every 3-4 weeks or as needed when they start feeling greasy. Use a vet-approved hypoallergenic shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.
• Trim the coat every 6-8 weeks to remove overgrown sections prone to shedding.
• Let a professional groomer handle bathing, brushing, and trimming whenever possible. Many groomers offer special hypoallergenic services.
• Avoid fur clipping methods that irritate the skin and increase dander production.
• Check for skin allergies or irritation that can raise dander levels. Treat any skin issues promptly.
• Feed a high-quality diet rich in omega fatty acids for healthy, dander-free skin and coat. Consider adding a fish oil supplement.

Keep Allergens Out of Your Home

• Use high-efficiency HEPA air filters in your central heating/cooling system. Change filters every 1-2 months.
• Run HEPA stand-alone air purifiers continuously in rooms where your Pomeranian spends time. Replace filters every 6 months.
• Install hard floor surfaces like wood, tile, or vinyl where possible. Hard floors are easier to keep dander-free than carpets.
• Vacuum carpets and upholstery with a vacuum containing a HEPA filter. Use vacuum attachments to remove pet hair from drapes and corners.
• Dust hard surfaces frequently with a microfiber cloth to trap allergens. Avoid feather dusters that just redistribute particles into the air.
• Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow encasings. Wash your own bedding weekly in hot water to kill dust mites.

Create Dander-Free Zones

• Keep your Pomeranian off furniture and beds. This includes dog beds – use crate mats and washable bedding instead.
• Designate rooms like your bedroom to be “no Pom zones.” Use baby gates, playpens, or closed doors to enforce.
• Don’t allow carpeted rooms to become dog hangouts. Restrict access to rooms with hard, non-porous floors.
• If possible, install in-duct central air cleaning systems or standalone air purifiers in your bedroom for clean nighttime breathing.

Bathe and Groom Yourself Frequently

• Shower before bed to remove any dander on your skin and hair before sleeping.
• Wash your own bed linens in very hot water once or twice a week to kill dust mites.
• Remove clothes worn around your Pomeranian immediately and launder. Don’t store on closet floors where dander collects.
• Wet dust and wet mop tile, vinyl, and wood floors weekly to eliminate dander and pollen buildup.

Consider Allergy Shots or Medication

• See an allergist/immunologist for allergy testing to identify your precise dog allergy triggers.
• Consider allergy shots to build long-term tolerance to dander. Symptoms may start improving in 6-12 months.
• Take over-the-counter and prescription allergy medication on a schedule for continuous symptom relief.
• Keep fast-acting allergy medicine on hand to treat sudden reactions from dander exposure.
• Use a nasal steroid spray daily to reduce inflammation in the nose and sinuses.

Weigh the Pros and Cons of Pom Ownership

• Consider if constant allergy management is feasible long-term in having a Pomeranian.
• Be prepared to rehome your Pomeranian if allergy treatments don’t provide adequate relief. Their care shouldn’t come at the expense of your health.
• Compare projected costs of allergy treatments versus choosing a more suitable hypoallergenic breed.

With diligence and Adaptability, living with a Pomeranian is possible for some allergy sufferers. But for most people, opting for an alternate low-dander breed is the wisest decision.