Are Shih Tzus Hypoallergenic? The Truth Every Dog Lover Should Know 

Of all the toy breeds, perhaps Shih Tzus are the most popular simply because they are such sweethearts, have such a sweet face, and have one of the prettiest coats that any dog could ever be born with.

But to an allergy sufferer or a family member with an allergy, there’s a very real question floating in many people’s minds: Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?

As much as one would wish, the notion of having a hypoallergenic dog, it is simply not a fact. The text that follows serves as a complete definition of being a hypoallergenic dog- from the answer as to whether or why Shih Tzus are to management by a patient with a confirmed allergy during these occurrences.

What is the “Hypoallergenic Dog” All About?

Firstly, there isn’t no such animal as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. “Hypoallergenic” is a word that was invented to describe dogs who are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, but not 100% not-allergic animals.

Allergens in Dogs Typically Come From:

• Dander (shedding of skin flakes) 
• Saliva
• Urine
• Sweat
• Fur and skin oils

When they lose their hair, dander and other allergens find their way into the air-on carpets, couches, and even in the air. Some lose fewer allergens or lose less hair, and are thus better for the allergy sufferer.

So, Are Shih Tzus Hypoallergenic?

The Short Answer: No, Shih Tzus are not technically hypoallergenic, but occasionally also referred to as low-allergen or more tolerable by some allergy sufferers.

1. Low Shedding

Shih Tzus have hair-like coats but no fur. Unlike the furred breeds, which shed enormous amounts and allergens more easily, Shih Tzus shed hair that grows only long and gets sparse as one ages, much like human beings.

Which results in:

• Less allergens that get sprayed into the air.
• More likely to become airborne once more before it gets cleaned up.

2. Less Dander Emission

Shih Tzus have fewer chances to emit so much dander-particulates-the real culprit behind the allergy attack.

But little is not nothing. Shih Tzus do shed dander-but less because of the low-shedding coat.

3. Non-shedding Coat that Accommodates an Owner’s Needs

A well-brushed coat results from regular brushing that maintains the Shih Tzu coat in trim nice and short enough to be quickly clipped so the allergens never get a chance to build up. A “puppy cut” also makes your dog simpler to bathe and brush and shed airborne allergens.

Why Shih Tzus Are Not Really Hypoallergenic

 There are a couple of reasons as to why not are shih tzus hypoallergenic, since they don’t tend to shed as much as other dog breeds. So here are a few reasons:

1. Saliva Allergens

Like all dogs, Shih Tzus also emit allergens from their saliva and deposit them on their coat when lick. They are an extremely allergenically strong stimulus; the proteins are primarily Can f 1.

2. Eye and Skin Issues

Shih Tzus are also experiencing tear staining and skin fold dermatitis, which, if not cleaned frequently, leads to the buildup of allergens and bacteria.

3. Equal To Allergen Trap

Because of their shaggy flowing coat, Shih Tzus will accumulate mold, dust, and pollen on and off their coat. These air-borne allergens cling to your dog’s coat and infest your environment, indirectly causing allergies.

Living with a Shih Tzu as an Allergy Victim

If you’re even a bit allergic or simply wish to be a considerate neighbor to an allergy victim, don’t fret-there are some things you can do to reduce your reaction and peacefully coexist with a Shih Tzu.

1. Regular Brushing

• Loose hair and dander: regular brushing
• Bathe 2-4 weeks with mild, hypoallergenic dog shampoo 
• Clipping coat, i.e., a “puppy cut” for low-maintenance upkeep grooming

2. Regular Home Cleaning

• Use a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner to trap allergens.
• Use an air purifier to eliminate airborne allergens. 
• Clean the dog’s bed and toys.

3. Don’t Spread Allergens

• Off-limit areas where your dogs, especially the bedrooms.
• Utilize allergy-proof pillow and mattress covers.
• You must never put your Shih Tzu onto the sofa beds.

4. Bathe Your Dog’s Face and Paws

• Wash your Shih Tzu’s face and paws every time you take him out for a walk so they don’t accumulate dirt and dust.
• Clean tear stains away gently so there is no microbial accumulation.

5. Visit an Allergist

• The doctor will provide you with a skin or blood test to determine whether you are allergic to the dander or saliva of the specific dog.
• Take allergy medication, antihistamines, or allergy shots (immunotherapy) for mild attacks.

Shih Tzus and Other Breeds

If you’d like other breeds as an alternative to the allergy issue, here is a summary below:

Breed	Hypoallergenic?	Shedding	Dander Production	Grooming Needs
Shih Tzu	Low-allergen	Low	Moderate	High
Poodle	Hypoallergenic	Very low	Low	High
Bichon Frise	Hypoallergenic	Very low	Low	High
Maltese	Hypoallergenic	Low	Low	High
Yorkshire Terrier	Low-allergen	Low	Moderate	Medium
Labrador Retriever	Not hypoallergenic	High	High	Low

Are shih tzus hypoallergenic? Not Really, but to the almost-allergic dog enthusiast, they are slightly less evil than the majority of so-called shoddy breeds.

Warning Signs: You’re Most Likely Allergic to Your Shih Tzu

Two of the most prevalent signs of allergy are:

• Sneezing 
• Runny/congested nose 
• Itchy/runny eyes 
• Hives/rash on skin
• Wheezing/trouble breathing
• Asthma attack

If you ever happen to, in fact, experience any of those said symptoms due to having your Shih Tzu around, you would then proceed to ensure that you do go out and seek a medical doctor to figure out why you are feeling these symptoms. 

This will all depend on the severity of your allergies and your compliance with cleanliness and grooming regulations.

• Your allergies are not worse. 
• You have no issues grooming your dog daily.
• If you can maintain your home environment as clean as it would reasonably be.
• You have no issues with medical allergy control.

You might want to rethink if:

• Your allergies are worse than ever.
• Your allergies trigger asthma.
• You do not possess the high-maintenance grooming tolerance.

Buying the Shih Tzu before buying one or taking him in as an adoption will definitely be a positive and not a negative to attempt first.

Trial periods occasionally may be offered, or even brief periods of foster care, which is an excellent way to make an educated choice.

Is a Shih Tzu for You!

To the question of whether shih tzus are hypoallergenic, they are not truly hypoallergenic but shed less allergen than any other dog breed.

Because they are low shedders with moderate dander production, they would make a wonderful pet for someone with mild allergies if they keep them well groomed.

They do still need some normal grooming, bathing, and upkeep to deal with the allergens, though. Even allergy victims can have a wonderful, allergen-free relationship with this wonderful breed with good care.

Final Tip –

Before bringing your Shih Tzu home, talk with your physician and a professional groomer. They can provide individualized advice on managing allergies and ensuring that your dog remains healthy and clean.

Do you have any other questions that you would like me to assist you in answering in a manner to overcome an allergy and owning a Shih Tzu?

Simply leave a message in the comment box below, and I will personally send you a copy of a quick allergy control or grooming regimen download.