Are Lhasa Apsos Hypoallergenic? (Find Out Now!)

Lhasa Apsos are absolutely stunning dogs with long, silky fur that seems to float as they walk. This little dog has a big personality and is affectionate and loyal.

Plus, its small size and relatively low energy make it perfect for small homes or apartments.

The Lhasa Apso is a hypoallergenic dog. Consider that all dogs, even hypoallergenic, still produce urine and dander that can trigger an allergy.

If you genuinely require an entirely hypoallergenic dog due to allergies, you’ll be sad to find there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs.

Those who suffer from moderate to severe allergies will find the Lhasa Apso is a great fit. Not only does this dog only shed minimally, but its small size makes the little bit of hair it does shed easy to contain.

Remember, while most pet allergies are triggered by fur and dander, people can also be allergic to a dog’s urine or saliva. Maintaining a clean home that is fur and dust-free can help mitigate allergy symptoms.

What Makes A Dog Hypoallergenic?

Many people around the world suffer from pet allergies. Most commonly, although not always, pet allergies stem from dog fur and dander. Usually, a hypoallergenic dog only sheds very lightly and produces very little dander.

It is important to remember that you will still see your dog shed, albeit minimally, even with hypoallergenic breeds. There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, but simply dogs that are less likely than others to produce an allergic reaction.

Another important note is that not everyone is allergic to pet fur and dander. While most pet allergies stem from dander, some people are allergic to dog saliva or urine. In these cases, even finding a hypoallergenic pet will not help with pet allergies.

It is important to understand exactly what you are allergic to before choosing to adopt a dog. Allergy tests performed by a medical doctor can help give you a better insight into the specific types of allergies you suffer from.

But, Lhasa Apsos Have Long Fur?

Many people believe that short fur dogs are better at mitigating allergies, which is incorrect. While some short-fur dogs are certainly considered hypoallergenic, the length of the hair does not dictate how much fur and dander the dog produces.

A more accurate indicator for declaring a dog hypoallergenic is how much the dog sheds. Ultimately shedding is what will create excessive allergens in your house.

While the Lhasa Apso has long hair, it is also considered a hypoallergenic dog. This little dog rarely sheds, making it suitable for people suffering from mild to moderate allergies.

Long hair dogs that rarely shed can still be hypoallergenic.

How Much Grooming Does A Lhasa Apso Need?

The long beautiful locks on this dog rarely shed, but that doesn’t mean they are low maintenance. It takes time, patience, and dedication to keep the Lhasa Apso well-groomed. This dog must be brushed every day to keep its silky coat tangle-free.

When you brush your dog, you help transfer natural oils from the skin through the coat, further preventing excessive shedding. Brushing your dog daily will also help remove any loose or dead hairs.

If your schedule doesn’t allow you to groom and brush your dog daily, you may want to opt for a shorter haircut. This dog is commonly clipped short to prevent tangles and mats in the long fur.

Clipping your dog’s fur short will not impact the amount your dog sheds. With some breeds, a short haircut is referred to as a “puppy cut.”

Luckily, the Lhasa Apso rarely sheds, so clipping the fur short will only make brushing the fur easier with less of a time commitment.

Is It Still Possible To Be Allergic To A Lhasa Apso?

Selecting a Lhasa Apso as an allergy sufferer is a great option due to its small size and relatively little shedding. However, just because the dog is a hypoallergenic breed, it is still possible to be allergic.

The dog will minimally shed and produce dander, which may be too much for people suffering from severe pet allergies.

Further, the Lhasa Apso produces urine, feces, and saliva containing proteins that can trigger allergies. Luckily, this small, hypoallergenic dog isn’t large enough to cause severe reactions in most people.

Allergy symptoms can usually be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines or allergy medication.

How Can I Reduce Allergies at Home?

Even though the Lhasa Apso is a hypoallergenic dog, you should still expect some level of fur and dander in your home. No dog will ever be completely hypoallergenic, and shedding is just a natural part of being a dog.

If you suffer from allergies, it is possible to reduce the number of allergens in your home. Some great ideas to remove allergens inside your home include:

• Vacuum – Make vacuuming daily a part of your routine. Being able to collect any errant hairs or dander will significantly reduce your allergy symptoms.
• Dust – Dander and pet hair can collect on surfaces like shelves, baseboards, the television stand, and tables. Dust at least once per week to remove dander.
• Launder – Pet fur and dander tends to stick to soft textiles and fabrics. Regularly wash your couch cushions, drapes, and pillows. You’ll want to routinely clean your dog’s bed and toys too to prevent allergens from building up.
• Eliminate – As much as possible, try to remove soft surfaces like carpeting and area rugs. Delicate fabrics will trap and hold hair and dander, which can worsen pet allergy symptoms.
• Protect – Keep a space in your home that is off-limits to your dog. People usually choose to make their bedroom a safe haven, free from any allergens and pet hair. Having an area of the house where you can get away from allergies can help you recover from symptoms more quickly.

What Are Other Hypoallergenic Small Dogs?

If you suffer from pet allergies, choosing a small, hypoallergenic dog is the best way to mitigate your symptoms. Not only do hypoallergenic dogs shed less, but small dogs, in general, produce less fur and dander that could potentially trigger an allergic reaction.

Some wonderful small, hypoallergenic dog breeds include:

• Miniature Schnauzer – This pint-sized pup makes a wonderful choice for allergy sufferers. The dog rarely sheds and is incredibly intelligent, trainable, and affectionate. Plus, Schnauzers are incredibly athletic and will join in a fun game of tug-of-war or a jog.
• Scottish Terrier – Although this dog has extremely long fur, it is more closely related to human hair than animal fur. The little dog rarely sheds but does require intensive grooming and brushing to minimize matting and tangles.
• Shih Tzu – This little dog believes that he is a big dog trapped in a little body. The Shih Tzu is loyal and will go out of its way to alert or protect its owner. The long fur must be trimmed and groomed to prevent matting, but it rarely sheds, making it an ideal choice for people with pet allergies.
• Toy Poodle – The compact size of the Toy Poodle features all the same lovable qualities as a Standard Poodle, albeit in a smaller package. The Toy Poodle is loving, intelligent, and affectionate. The tightly curled coat rarely sheds and produces minimal dander.
• Griffon Bruxellois – Although this dog is not one of the common choices for pet owners, it is a wonderful hypoallergenic dog. The gruff appearance created by the long fur is hard to pass up. Plus, the Griffon is an athletic dog that is highly trainable.

Related Questions

Are Lhasa Apsos barkers?

The Lhasa Apso is a loving and affectionate dog that makes a great companion for singles and families. This little dog was bred to be a guard dog and can sometimes be aloof toward strangers.

This dog breed was also developed to be wary of strangers and bark to alert their owners.

Lhasa Apsos have a loud, sharp, and piercing bark to warn their owners of intruders. If not properly trained and exercised, this little dog can be a nuisance barker.

Keep this personality trait in mind when considering adopting a Lhaso Apso if you live in an apartment or condo typesetting.

Can Lhasa Apsos be obedient?

Little dogs have a bad reputation for being disobedient and difficult to train. While certain breeds may be more stubborn or hard-headed than others, this surely is not reserved for little dogs alone.

The Lhasa Apso can be stubborn at times, which can make training challenging. But, with the right attitude and plenty of praise and patience, it is possible to teach this little dog the basic commands like sit, stay, and come.

Remember to start training early and stay consistent. Not only does training help teach your dog to have good manners, but it socializes your dog so that it gets along well with other people and dogs.