Are Akita dogs hypoallergenic? This is a widely popular question floating around on Google because of the rising number of dog allergies among pet owners.
With its majestic and fluffy coats, Akita is a breed many people adore! (Such as myself! We have an American Akita named Kenzo!)
But does this large dog breed trigger allergic reactions? Short answer, yes, the Akita is not considered hypoallergenic.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether Akitas are considered one of those hypoallergenic dog breeds.
You’ll learn about the nature of an Akita’s fur and how it impacts allergies for owners. We will also discuss the differences in shedding between American Akitas and Japanese Akitas!
Table Of Contents:
- Understanding Akita Dogs and Allergies
- What Dogs Are Considered Hypoallergenic?
- Managing Shedding in Akitas
- Keeping Your Home Allergy-Free With An Akita Dog
- Considering Crossbreeds For Hypoallergenic Needs
- Why do dogs shed?
- FAQs About Are Akita Dogs Hypoallergenic
- Conclusion
Understanding Akita Dogs and Allergies
Akitas are stunning, but their constant shedding makes them non-hypoallergenic and triggers allergies due to the dander spread around from their fur.
The thick double coat of an Akita traps dander, causing allergic reactions in some people. So to answer the main question, Akitas are not hypoallergenic dogs.
Japanese and American Akitas share this trait of daily hair loss which increases during “shedding seasons.”
We call this a “blowout” because the coat literally falls out in huge clumps over a few days. We increase our vacuuming to two times a day vs. once a day during a “blowout.”
Japanese Akitas have straighter outer coats, while American ones tend to have long hairs with more volume, but both types shed heavily.
Expect lots of loose hairs floating around your home if you adopt an Akita!
What Dogs Are Considered Hypoallergenic?
There are some great breeds if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog. Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Schnauzers have been known to produce less dander than other breeds and require minimal grooming. These dogs typically shed very little or not, so they are classified as hypoallergenic.
There are also hairless dogs like Chinese Crested that won’t aggravate allergies, either.
The Akita breed is not considered hypoallergenic due to its thick double coat that traps dander and causes allergic reactions in some people.
Managing Shedding in Akitas
Akitas shed a lot! As an Akita owner, shedding is your constant companion – but don’t worry, this challenge can be managed effectively with regular grooming and owning a quality vacuum specifically for pet hair.
Brushing your Akita once a week or daily during heavy shedding periods can significantly reduce loose hairs and the pet hair tumbleweeds in your home!
The Importance of Regular Brushing for an Akita
Akita’s thick coat must be maintained regularly to keep it healthy and manageable.
Using de-shedding brushes helps remove dead hair and stimulates the skin, promoting healthier fur growth. I use SleekEZ brush for Kenzo, and it works so well!
Bathing should be limited to four or five times annually with products that moisturize their skin while reducing dryness, exacerbating shedding problems further.
Choosing the Right Bathing Routine
Bathing too frequently can strip natural oils from your dog’s skin, causing dryness and itching – leading to more dander and hence more allergens around your home.
Pick shampoos specifically designed for dogs as they are pH-balanced for canine skin.
Look for elements like oatmeal and aloe vera that can soothe the skin while providing moisture.
In short: groom regularly and bathe sparingly but wisely – all part of being a responsible Akita parent.
Dietary Influence on an Akita’s Coat Health
Feeding your Akita a balanced diet is the first step towards maintaining skin health and managing shedding.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, found in sources such as fish oils, flaxseed, and other food items, can benefit a pet’s coat sheen while helping to reduce inflammation that could cause excessive shedding.
You can find these beneficial fats in high-quality dog foods or supplements like fish oil capsules.
Conversely, not all dog food is nutritionally adequate.
Highly processed kibble packed with fillers should be avoided at all costs.
This low-grade food doesn’t provide the nutrients your Akita needs to maintain good skin health and may lead to increased shedding due to poor overall well-being.
Akita dogs require a well-balanced diet rich in protein for optimal health. Still, unfortunately, many commercial brands fall short of delivering the necessary nutrition, leading to increased levels of allergy-triggering particles in the environment where they reside.
Keeping Your Home Allergy-Free With An Akita Dog
Living with an Akita means keeping your home clean and allergen-free.
Invest in a powerful vacuum cleaner to manage heavy shedding and prevent loose hairs from lingering on furniture and floors.
Clean surfaces regularly to minimize the presence of allergens in your home.
Benefits of Investing in a Powerful Vacuum Cleaner During Heavy Shedding Periods
A vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair removal can make all the difference when dealing with a heavily shedding dog like an Akita.
Look for models with specialized brushes and filters that trap more dander and fur than regular vacuums.
Use Air Purifiers to Remove Airborne Particulates Caused By Pet Dander
Pet dander becomes airborne, too, so consider using air purifiers to remove these particulates from the air.
An air purifier can help alleviate allergy symptoms for sensitive individuals in your household.
Check out this EPA guide for more information on air purifiers.
Considering Crossbreeds For Hypoallergenic Needs
Love Akitas but hate allergies? Meet the Akipoo – an Akita Poodle mix that could be your new best friend.
With the Poodle’s hypoallergenic reputation and the Akita’s loyalty, this crossbreed sheds less and produces fewer allergens.
But before you adopt an Akipoo, make sure to spend some time with one to ensure compatibility.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting covered in fur – just in case.
And if the Akipoo isn’t for you, consider other Akita mixes with hypoallergenic breeds.
Don’t let allergies keep you from the perfect furry companion.
Why do dogs shed?
Dogs shed their fur as a natural and normal process. Shedding is primarily influenced by their breed, seasonal changes, and overall health. Here are a few reasons why dogs shed:
- Seasonal Changes: Many dogs have a seasonal shedding pattern, where they shed more heavily during certain times of the year. This is particularly true for dogs with double coats like Akitas. During spring, dogs often shed their winter coat to make way for a lighter summer coats. Similarly, they shed their summer coat in the fall to prepare for a thicker winter coat.
- Regulation of Body Temperature: Dogs can remarkably regulate their body temperature, and shedding plays a role in this process. In warmer months, they shed excess fur to help them stay cool. The shedding process allows for better airflow against their skin, preventing overheating.
- Hair Growth Cycles: Like humans, dogs have hair growth cycles that include a growth phase (anagen), a rest phase (telogen), and a shedding phase (exogen). This cycle varies among breeds, but shedding occurs when older hairs end their growth cycle and fall out to make way for new hair.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormones also influence shedding. Changes in hormone levels due to factors such as pregnancy, nursing, or reaching sexual maturity can trigger increased shedding in female dogs. Male dogs may experience shedding due to changes in testosterone levels.
- Stress and Health Conditions: Dogs may shed more than usual if they are experiencing stress, anxiety, or certain health conditions. Poor nutrition, allergies, skin infections, hormonal imbalances, and parasites can contribute to excessive shedding. If you notice sudden or excessive shedding accompanied by other symptoms like hair loss, itching, or skin irritation, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian.
FAQs About Are Akita Dogs Hypoallergenic
What Dog is 100% Hypoallergenic?
No dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but some breeds, like the Poodle, produce fewer allergens than others.
What is the Most Hypoallergenic Dog?
The Portuguese Water Dogs and Poodles are often considered among the most hypoallergenic dogs.
Do Akitas Have Dander?
Yes, all dogs, including Akitas, produce dander, which is a common source of pet-related allergies.
So, if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog, consider breeds like the Poodle or Portuguese Water Dog, but don’t rule out Akitas if you’re willing to manage their allergies.
Conclusion
Are Akitas shedding machines or allergy-friendly companions?
Sorry to break it to you. Akita dogs are not hypoallergenic – their thick double coat and shedding tendencies make them a nightmare for allergy sufferers. They are shedding machines!
But don’t worry; there are ways to manage allergies if you own one of these fluffy beasts!
Regular brushing and bathing can help reduce shedding, while a diet rich in Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids can promote healthy skin and fur.
Investing in powerful vacuum cleaners and air purifiers can also keep your home allergy-free, and considering crossbreeds such as the “akipoo” may be an option for those with severe allergies.
Don’t let allergies stop you from enjoying the company of an Akita – just be prepared to put in a little extra effort to keep your home and furry friend clean and healthy!